1. Introduction
The IMOU Ranger Mini is a versatile indoor Wi-Fi IP security camera designed for comprehensive surveillance. Featuring AI-powered human and pet detection, smart full-color night vision, and selectable 2K/3K image resolution, it offers advanced monitoring capabilities. With 360° auto-cruise, two-way audio, and flexible mounting options, it's ideal for baby monitoring and general home security.
Figure 1: IMOU Ranger Mini with highlighted features.
2. What's in the Box
Figure 2: Package Contents.
- IMOU Ranger Mini Camera x1
- Mounting Plate x1
- Power Cable x1
- Screw and Anchor Pack x1
- Power Adapter x1
- Quick Start Guide (QSG) x1
3. Product Details & Specifications
Figure 3: Front View of Ranger Mini.
Figure 4: Back View of Ranger Mini.
3.1. Technical Specifications
Figure 5: Technical Specifications.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model Number | Ranger Dual |
| Megapixels | 5 MP (2688x1664) / 3 MP (2304x1296) |
| Sensor | CMOS (1/2.8'' for 5MP, 1/4'' for 3MP) |
| Lens (mm) | 3.6mm Fixed Lens |
| Zoom Type | Digital zoom (8x) |
| Night Vision | 10m (33ft) Distance, Color Night Vision (Yes) |
| Pan & Tilt | 355° Pan & -5°~50° Tilt |
| Connectivity | WIFI (IEEE802.11b/g/n/ax, 2.4GHz, Wi-Fi 6, 50m Open Field), 1x100Mbps Ethernet Port |
| Video Compression | H.264, H.265 |
| Frame Rate | Up to 15 fps (5MP) / Up to 20 fps (3MP) |
| Audio | Two Way Audio, Built-in Mic & Speaker |
| Storage | Micro SD Card Slot (up to 512GB), Cloud Storage (Imou Subscription Plan), NVR Storage |
| AI Functions | Pet Detection, Human Detection, Motion Detection, Configurable Region, Abnormal Sound Alarm |
| Power Supply | 5V1A (Mains Electricity) |
| Power Consumption | <5.7 W (5MP) / <4.2 W (3MP) |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C~+45°C |
| IP Rating | IP66 (Note: This is an indoor camera, IP66 rating might be a general spec, confirm for indoor use only) |
| Dimensions (L x W x D) | 82.2x82.2x115.4mm (5MP) / 95.0mm x 96.0mm x 109.2mm (3MP) |
| Weight | 360g (5MP) / 200g (3MP) |
| Supported Mobile Systems | Android, iOS (Imou Life App) |
| Smart Home Platform | Alexa |
4. Setup Guide
4.1. Choosing a Location and Mounting
The Ranger Mini offers flexible installation options:
- Wall Mounting: Secure the mounting plate to a wall.
- Ceiling Mounting: Secure the mounting plate to the ceiling.
- Tabletop Mounting: Place the camera on a flat surface like a table or shelf.
Figure 6: Mounting Options.
4.2. Powering the Device
Connect the provided power adapter to the camera's power input (USB-C) and plug it into a wall outlet. Ensure you use the correct plug type for your region.
Figure 7: Plug Type Selection.
4.3. Network Connection
The Ranger Mini supports both Wi-Fi 6 and Ethernet connections.
- Wi-Fi Connection: Download the Imou Life app (available on Android and iOS). Follow the in-app instructions to add your device and connect it to your 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network.
- Ethernet Connection: Connect an Ethernet cable from your router to the camera's network port.
4.4. Initial Device Setup (via Imou Life App)
- Download and install the Imou Life App from your device's app store.
- Create an account or log in.
- Tap the '+' icon in the top right corner of the app to add a new device.
- Scan the QR code on the camera or its packaging.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup, including connecting to your Wi-Fi network if using wireless.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Pan & Tilt Control
Use the Imou Life app to remotely control the camera's pan (0°-355°) and tilt (-5°-50°) movements, allowing you to view any corner of your room.
Figure 8: Remote Pan & Tilt Control.
5.2. Night Vision Modes
The Ranger Mini offers four night vision modes:
- Smart Mode: Automatically switches between infrared and full-color based on detected human figures.
- Full-color Mode: Provides full-color images even in low light when a human figure is detected.
- Infrared Mode: Standard black and white infrared vision.
- Off Mode: Disables night vision.
Figure 9: Night Vision Modes.
5.3. Detection Features
- Human & Pet Detection: Advanced image processing identifies human figures and pets, reducing false alarms.
- Smart Tracking: The camera can detect movement and automatically follow the target, keeping it in view.
- Abnormal Sound Alarm: Detects high-decibel sounds (e.g., falls, broken glass, crying) and sends alerts.
- Customizable Detection Zone & Schedule: Set specific areas for detection and define active times.
Figure 10: Human Detection.
Figure 11: Smart Tracking in action.
Figure 12: Abnormal Sound Detection.
5.4. Two-Way Audio
The built-in microphone and speaker with echo cancellation allow for clear two-way communication through the camera via the Imou Life app.
Figure 13: Two-Way Audio Communication.
5.5. Privacy Mode
Activate Privacy Mode via the Imou Life app to physically cover the camera lens, ensuring your privacy when needed.
Figure 14: Privacy Mode Activated.
5.6. Smart Tour Modes
Customize patrol plans for a 360° panoramic tour or set specific 'favorite' areas for focused monitoring.
Figure 15: Smart Tour Modes.
5.7. Storage Options
Record and save events using:
- Micro SD Card: Supports up to 512GB for local storage.
- Imou Cloud Storage: Subscription-based cloud service with a 31-day trial.
- NVR Storage: Compatible with Network Video Recorders.
Figure 16: Storage and Connectivity Options.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the camera lens and body. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
- Firmware Updates: Regularly check the Imou Life app for firmware updates to ensure optimal performance and security.
- Placement: Ensure the camera is placed in a stable location, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, and moisture.
7. Troubleshooting
Figure 17: Troubleshooting Part 1.
Figure 18: Troubleshooting Part 2.
7.1. Common Issues & Solutions
- Difference between SD memory card and cloud storage:
1. Using an SD card requires you to manually manage recordings (e.g., transfer to computer). When the card is full, it will automatically delete old recordings to make space for new ones.
2. Cloud storage is a value-added service, often with a free trial. It allows direct viewing of history monitoring in the app. There might be a time limit for free usage (e.g., 3 or 7 days), after which records are deleted unless you subscribe. - How to modify device's photo/name/channel name/password in mobile app:
Method 1: Go to the preview page, click the gear icon (top right), navigate to device settings, then click the device image bar to Device Info page, and select the corresponding option to modify.
Method 2: Click 'Me' -> 'My Device' -> select corresponding device -> click device image bar to Device Info page -> click corresponding option to modify. - The app says "Failed to bind"?
If your device is already successfully connected to Wi-Fi but failed to add to your Imou account, double-check your router's internet connection. A common reason is an unstable internet connection. - How to add my camera to a new Imou account?
For security reasons, a camera can only be bound to one Imou account at a time. To add it to a new account, you must first delete it from the previous account. - I changed my Wi-Fi, I want to put the camera at a new location, how to connect my camera to my new Wi-Fi?
1. First, check if your camera has an Ethernet port and if you have an Ethernet cable. If yes, power on your camera and connect it to your router with the Ethernet cable. Wait until the LED turns solid blue, then log into your Imou account, find your IPC on the "Device" page, go to its settings page, tap "Wi-Fi Config" and you can connect it to your new Wi-Fi.
2. If your camera has no Ethernet port or you don't have a cable, you may need to reset your camera to factory default, then set up your camera with the new Wi-Fi. - How can I receive the alarm message?
1. First, enable the alarm button in the upper right corner of the main page in the app.
2. If it says "Failed to subscribe", ensure the following: Enable Imou Notifications via "Settings" -> "Notifications" on your iPhone and "Me" -> "Settings" -> "Notice" on Imou App.
3. Enable Event in the device. For example, motion detection should be enabled and a time schedule should be valid.
4. Make sure the device is connected to the Internet.
5. After successfully subscribing, you will receive the message. - Working at night, the image is all black?
Reason: 1) IR LED didn't light up; 2) ICR didn't switch to night mode; 3) Objects are too far from the camera.
Solution: 1) If the IR LED did light up, but you cannot hear "KA" and the image is still all black, there might be something wrong with the ICR. 2) For consumer cameras, the IR distance is less than 10m (differs between different models), so you cannot see too far away at night.
8. User Tips
- Optimize Wi-Fi Signal: Place the camera within good range of your Wi-Fi router for stable connection, especially if using Wi-Fi 6.
- Regularly Check Recordings: Whether using an SD card or cloud storage, periodically review recordings to ensure the camera is capturing events as expected.
- Customize Alerts: Fine-tune detection zones and sensitivity settings in the app to minimize unnecessary notifications and focus on critical areas.
- Utilize Privacy Mode: For enhanced privacy, remember to activate the physical privacy shield when you are home and do not require surveillance.
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the official IMOU website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase.
10. About IMOU
IMOU is dedicated to providing full-scene home intelligent solutions, including home security, smart lighting, and robotics. They focus on continuous innovation and aim to create a more convenient and safe intelligent life for every family.
Video 1: IMOU Brand Introduction. This video provides an overview of IMOU's vision and product ecosystem.
