SwannBuddy™ Video Doorbell
This document provides a quick start guide for the SwannBuddy™ Video Doorbell, covering its overview, setup, installation, and basic operation.
SwannBuddy Overview
The SwannBuddy is a video doorbell system. The main unit and its companion chime are described below.
SwannBuddy (Front and Back)
Front View: Features a microphone, night detection sensor, light ring, infrared LEDs for night vision, and the doorbell button.
Back View: Includes a rubber flap for access to internal components. Beneath the flap are the SET (pair) button, RST (power off) button, microSD card slot, and micro USB charging port. Mounting bracket slots are also visible.
External Power: Wire terminals are available for an optional external power source (12-24V AC transformer). Further information can be found at support.swann.com/s/article/Z9HN58u3Hf or via a YouTube video.
Chime Overview
The chime unit works wirelessly with the SwannBuddy.
Chime (Front and Back)
Front View: Displays an LED indicator and the speaker grille. A SET button is also present.
Back View: Features a double-sided mounting tape area and the battery compartment.
Installing Batteries
- Slide the battery compartment cover down to remove it.
- Insert two new, high-quality "AA" alkaline batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+ and -) as indicated inside the compartment.
- Replace the battery compartment cover.
Battery Safety Information:
- Replace batteries simultaneously. Do not mix new and old batteries or different battery types (e.g., alkaline and lithium).
- Keep batteries out of reach of children.
- Dispose of used batteries promptly according to local regulations.
Getting Started
Charging the SwannBuddy
Before first use, fully charge the SwannBuddy using the included micro USB charging cable.
- Open the rubber flap on the back of the SwannBuddy.
- Insert the smaller end of the USB charging cable into the micro USB port and the larger end into a USB wall charger (like the one supplied with your smartphone).
- The light ring around the doorbell button will glow solid blue while charging. It turns off when fully charged.
- Charging time can vary based on the USB power supply (DC5V 2.1A or higher is recommended for faster charging) and battery level. A full charge may take up to six hours.
MicroSD Card
The SwannBuddy includes a pre-installed 32GB microSD card for recording events and firmware updates. It can be replaced with a new card up to 128GB (Class 10 recommended). To replace, lift the rubber flap on the back, eject the current card (push until it clicks), and insert the new card with gold contacts facing up. Formatting the microSD card via the app's advanced settings is recommended for first-time use.
Pairing the Chime with the SwannBuddy
Follow these steps to pair the chime:
- Press and hold the SET button on the Chime for about 3 seconds until the LED indicator blinks blue and a voice prompt announces "Setup is in progress. Press the Doorbell to connect."
- Press and hold the Doorbell button on the SwannBuddy for 3 seconds. The Chime's LED indicator will turn off, confirming successful pairing.
- If pairing fails within 90 seconds, the LED indicator will turn off. Repeat steps 1-2.
- To test the chime, press the Doorbell button on the SwannBuddy. You will hear the "Ding Dong" melody.
Changing the Chime Melody
After pairing, you can change the default "Ding Dong" melody. There are six melodies available.
- Briefly press the SET button on the Chime to select the next melody in sequence.
- Press the Doorbell button on the SwannBuddy to test the new melody.
- Repeat steps 1-2 until you find a melody you like.
Download the Swann Security App
- Download the latest Swann Security app from the Apple App Store® or Google Play™™ Store for your iOS or Android device by searching for "Swann Security".
- Open the app and create your Swann Security account by tapping "Not yet registered? Sign Up". Activate your account by confirming the verification email sent to your registered address.
Set Up the SwannBuddy
Open the Swann Security app and tap "Pair Device". If you have already paired a device, tap the menu icon (☰) and select "Pair Device". The app will guide you through the pairing and setup process.
Before you begin: Ensure the SwannBuddy is with you and near your router. The SwannBuddy connects only to a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network.
Pre-pairing Checklist:
- Set modes to Home.
- Power the device.
- Know your Wi-Fi network name and password.
- Ensure the device is within Wi-Fi range or plugged into your router.
- Connect your smartphone to the Wi-Fi network you wish to pair your device to.
Mount the SwannBuddy
The SwannBuddy can be surface-mounted using the provided mounting bracket.
Before mounting: Ensure the installation location has good, reliable Wi-Fi reception. Use the app to stream live video from the SwannBuddy to test the location. If there are no streaming issues, it's a good spot. Wi-Fi range extenders can improve coverage.
Ideal Installation Height
Approximately chest height, 1.6-1.7m (5.2-5.6ft) from the ground.
Attaching the SwannBuddy
Align the mounting bracket slots on the back of the SwannBuddy with the mounted bracket and slide it down. Tighten the anti-tamper screw with a small Philips® screwdriver to secure it.
Installing the Bracket
- Wooden Surface: Screw the bracket directly to the surface.
- Masonry or Drywall: Insert wall plugs before screwing the bracket.
- Window Panel: Use the supplied double-sided tape. Apply to the back of the bracket, peel the liner, press firmly against the window for 60 seconds. Allow 24 hours for adhesive to cure before attaching the SwannBuddy.
- Screw Installation Gaps: If there's a gap between the wall and bracket, use the supplied foam tape to fill it.
Help and Resources
Answering the SwannBuddy
When the doorbell is pressed, the chime sounds, and you receive a Swann Security push notification on your phone. Open the notification to see and speak to the visitor.
Light Ring Status Guide
The light ring indicates the device's status:
Light Ring Status | Action | Indicator | Mode |
---|---|---|---|
Solid Blue | USB Charging | Blinking then Solid Blue (few seconds) | Booting up / Connecting to Wi-Fi |
Slow Blinking Blue | Wi-Fi Pairing mode | Blinking Purple | Low battery state |
Solid Red | Live streaming / Motion recording | Infrared LEDs Blinking | Firmware update in progress |
Rebooting the SwannBuddy
If the SwannBuddy becomes unresponsive, a simple reboot can often resolve connectivity issues. Use a paper clip to briefly press the RST button on the back to power it off. Then, briefly press the SET button to restart it.
Swann Security App Manual
Access the app manual via Menu > User Manual for detailed guidance on navigating the app, viewing live streams, playback, and configuring settings like motion detection sensitivity and microphone volume.
Questions?
Visit the Support Center at support.swann.com for technical support and FAQs. You can also email tech@swann.com.
Regulatory Information
This equipment complies with FCC Rules Part 15 and Industry Canada license-exempt RSS standards. It generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. Modifications not approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. The device operates on the 2412MHz-2472MHz frequency band with a maximum radio-frequency power of <=20dBm. It must be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator and your body.
The product also complies with EU Directive 2014/53/EU, as detailed in the EU declaration of conformity available at www.swann.com/uk/compliance. Manufacturer: Swann Communications Ltd., 2 Canon Harnett Court, Wolverton Mill, Milton Keynes, MK12 5NF, UK.
The product bears the WEEE symbol, indicating it must be handled for recycling or dismantling according to European directive 2012/19/EU. Users can return the product to a recycling organization or retailer.
Built-in Battery Caution: Do not expose to extreme pressure or temperature. Do not attempt to replace the battery or disassemble the product, as this voids the warranty and can be hazardous.