Arlo Essential Outdoor Camera 2nd Generation User Manual
This manual provides instructions for the Arlo Essential Outdoor Camera 2nd Generation and the Arlo Essential XL Outdoor Camera 2nd Generation.
1. Get to Know Your Essential Camera 2nd Generation
There are four Arlo Essential Outdoor cameras (2nd Generation):
- Essential Outdoor Camera 2K (VMC3050)
- Essential XL Outdoor Camera 2K (VMC3052)
- Essential Outdoor Camera HD (VMC2050)
- Essential XL Outdoor Camera HD (VMC2052)
Get the Arlo Secure App
Download the Arlo Secure App to create an Arlo account and manage your devices. You can find it in your phone's app store or by scanning a QR code. If you already use the app, ensure it is updated to the latest version.
Meet your Essential Outdoor Camera
Your camera features an integrated, non-removable battery.
Front view: Includes Microphone, Camera Spotlight, Status LED, Speaker, Ambient Light, Sensor Camera, Lens, and is Weather resistant.
Top view: Features the Pairing button.
Bottom view: Shows the Charging Port.
Meet your Essential XL Outdoor Camera
Your camera features an integrated, non-removable battery.
Front view: Includes Microphone, Camera Spotlight, Status LED, Speaker, Ambient Light, Sensor Camera, Lens, and is Weather resistant.
Top view: Features the Pairing button.
Bottom view: Shows the Charging Port.
Features
- High-Definition Capture: Records video in 2K or HD for clear imagery.
- Durability: Designed to withstand heat, cold, rain, or sun, suitable for indoor or outdoor use.
- Motion Alerts: Receive notifications on your phone when motion is detected.
- Night Vision: Infrared night vision and an integrated spotlight for color night vision.
- 2-Way Audio: Hear and speak with visitors via the app.
- Rechargeable Battery: Easily recharge the camera using the included power cable.
- Built-in Siren: Deter unwanted guests; can be triggered remotely or automatically.
- Wide Field of View: 130° viewing angle.
- Mobile Access: Watch live streams or recorded video from your smartphone or tablet using the Arlo app.
- Fast Action: Receive notifications for people, packages, vehicles, or animals with Arlo Secure.
Do more with Arlo
Expand your system by adding more Arlo cameras and devices, or upgrade your Arlo subscription for enhanced features. For subscription details, visit www.arlo.com/ArloSecure.
2. Get Started
Charge your camera indoors
Use the included USB-C charging cable for indoor charging. The camera comes partially charged.
- Open the cover for the USB-C charging port on your camera.
- Connect the USB-C charging cable to your camera.
- Connect the other end of the cable to a USB charging source (e.g., USB port or AC adapter). The camera LED will turn solid blue when fully charged.
Download the Arlo Secure App for installation and setup
The Arlo Secure App guides you through the setup process. Download it from your app store or scan the QR code. Access your account via the app or at https://my.arlo.com/#/login.
Onboarding your camera with the Arlo Secure App
- Ensure your phone is connected to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is enabled.
- Open the Arlo Secure App.
- Select 'Device', tap the [+] icon, then navigate to 'Cameras', 'Essential Series', 'Essential Cameras 2nd Generation'.
- Press the pairing button for 3 seconds until the LED flashes blue.
- Follow the app prompts to connect to a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network, enter the password, and name your camera.
- The app will check for firmware updates and guide you through placement and mounting.
Use the pairing button to wake up the camera
The pairing button is used for various functions. When the camera is shut down, pressing and holding the pairing button for 3 seconds wakes it up. A quick press does nothing. If the LED does not flash, the battery may be depleted and needs charging.
LED Status Indicators:
- Slow blinking blue: Pairing to Wi-Fi.
- Fast blinking blue: Connected to Wi-Fi.
- Blinking amber: Out of range, connection error, or low battery (≤15%).
- Alternating blue and amber: Firmware update in progress.
Find a good location for your camera
Choose a location with a clear vantage point and a strong Wi-Fi signal. Check signal strength in the Arlo Secure App. For Wi-Fi connection details, see Section 3.
Wall mount your camera
Your camera includes a mount, wall plate, and screw kit.
- Place and secure the mount with screws. Use drywall anchors if mounting on drywall.
- Attach the camera to the mount using a Phillips screwdriver, aligning the mount's arrow to the 12 o'clock position.
- Tilt and swivel to adjust the camera angle.
Note: The camera has one mounting hole near the charging port.
Test motion detection
Use the Arlo Secure App to test motion detection sensitivity:
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', and select your camera.
- Tap the [Settings] icon, then 'Default Mode Settings' > 'Motion Detection Test'.
- Move in front of the camera; the LED will blink amber when motion is detected.
- Adjust the sensitivity slider as needed. Note the setting for use in your rules.
- Edit your camera's rule to apply the desired motion sensitivity level.
Position your camera to detect motion in specific areas
Mount and aim your camera to optimize motion detection. The lower two-thirds of the field of view is most sensitive to motion.
- For close-up monitoring (e.g., doorways): Mount at least 6.5 feet (1.9m) high and aim so subjects appear in the lower two-thirds of the view. This helps avoid alerts from distant movement.
- For farther monitoring (e.g., lawns): Aim the camera higher to capture the area within the lower two-thirds.
Position the camera so motion is side-to-side across its view. While the camera detects motion up to 23 feet (7 meters), the optimal range is 5 to 20 feet (1.5 to 6 meters).
3. Wi-Fi Setup and Connections
The Arlo Secure App guides you through connecting your camera to your router's 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.
Tips for optimal Wi-Fi performance
Distance and obstructions affect Wi-Fi signal:
- Recommended Distance: Place the camera within 300 feet (90 meters) of your Wi-Fi router. Walls, ceilings, and other obstructions reduce this range.
- Minimum Separation: Maintain at least 6.5 feet (2 meters) between your camera and other Arlo cameras to reduce interference.
Materials that can reduce Wi-Fi signal strength include:
- Thick walls and ceilings
- Brick, Concrete, Stone, Ceramic
- Glass (especially mirrors)
- Metal
- Large quantities of water (e.g., fish tanks, water heaters)
Connect your mobile device to a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network during setup
Find your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network name and password:
- Check your Wi-Fi router label for the SSID (network name). 2.4 GHz networks often end with '2' or '2.4'.
- If unsure, consult your Internet Service Provider (ISP) or router setup guide.
- Mesh Wi-Fi networks use a single name for multiple bands; ensure your phone connects to the same mesh network as the camera.
Move your camera's Wi-Fi connection to a direct router connection
To connect your camera directly to your router:
- Open the Arlo Secure App and log in.
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile device.
- Connect your mobile device to your router's 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.
- In the app, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...] in the upper right corner.
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera.
- Tap 'Connected to', then 'Change Network', and follow the on-screen instructions.
4. Use Your Essential Series Camera
Upon opening the Arlo Secure App, you'll see your dashboard, which displays your camera's status and allows access to modes like Arm Away, Arm Home, and Standby.
Use the navigation buttons at the bottom to access Dashboard, Feed, Emergency, Devices, or Routines.
Camera Feed Icons:
- Battery Charge: Displays battery status.
- Wi-Fi Signal: Shows Wi-Fi signal strength.
- Audio Detection: Indicates if audio detection is active.
- Motion Detection: Indicates if motion detection is active.
- View/Change Settings: Access camera settings.
- [Play] icon: Stream camera feed.
- Mute Audio: Mute or unmute audio.
- [Microphone] icon: Activate 2-Way Audio.
- Record video manually: Start/stop manual recording.
- [Spotlight] icon: Turn the camera spotlight on/off.
Turn the camera spotlight on and off manually
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera.
- Tap 'Spotlight' [Spotlight icon] to toggle it on or off. Adjust brightness by tapping and holding the icon.
View your camera feeds
- Open the Arlo Secure App and tap 'Devices'.
- Tap [Play] on the camera feed to view live streaming.
- Tap 'Stop' to end the live feed.
Pan and zoom your video feed
On mobile, use pinch gestures to zoom and drag to pan. On a computer, double-click to zoom and click-drag to pan. The video may buffer briefly after zooming for improved quality.
Foresight
When plugged in, the camera records continuously but discards video if no motion is detected within three seconds. Foresight ensures recordings start before motion occurs.
To use Foresight:
- Plug in your camera.
- Ensure the camera is in a motion-detection mode (e.g., 'Armed away').
Record clips from live video
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', select your camera, and tap the feed image.
- Tap the [Record] icon to start recording (it turns red).
- Tap [Record] again to stop. Note: Manual recording is not available with Local Live Streaming.
Take a snapshot from live video
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', and select your camera.
- Tap the [Snapshot] icon. The snapshot is saved to your library.
Customize your camera feed image
You can reorder camera feeds on the Devices page and rotate the feed image 180 degrees.
Change the camera order
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap and drag devices to reorder them.
- Tap 'Done'.
Motion detection activity zones
Designate specific zones within the camera view for motion detection and recording.
Add an activity zone
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera, then 'Activity Zones'.
- Tap the [+] icon. An activity zone box appears.
- Move and reposition the zone as needed.
- Tap the [Edit] icon to name the zone and click 'Rename' (or '>' on web).
- Tap 'Save'.
Change an activity zone
- Follow steps 1-5 from 'Add an activity zone'.
- Move the zone to the desired position.
- Tap the [Edit] icon to rename it and click 'Rename' (or '>' on web).
- Tap 'Save'.
Delete an activity zone
- Follow steps 1-5 from 'Add an activity zone'.
- On iOS or Android, slide the zone to the left and tap 'Delete'.
2-Way Audio
The camera supports 2-Way Audio.
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', and select your camera.
- Tap the [Microphone] icon.
- Allow Arlo to use your phone's microphone. The microphone button toggles mute on/off.
- To turn off 2-Way Audio, tap the 'x' in the upper-left corner.
Turn the camera siren on and off manually
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Emergency', then 'Activate Siren'.
- If you have multiple cameras, select one.
- Swipe the siren icon to the right to turn it on.
- Tap the slider on the Devices page to turn it off.
View recordings and snapshots
Recordings and snapshots are stored in your library. Use filters and the calendar to find specific items.
Access cloud recordings
Recordings are made when the camera is armed and detects motion or sound. They are sent to your Arlo account in the cloud and encrypted with your username and password. Access them via the Arlo Secure App or at https://my.arlo.com/#/login.
Use the Feed
Navigate to 'Feed' > 'Calendar' in the app to view recordings by date.
Use the filter
In the 'Feed' section, tap the [Menu] icon [...], then 'Filter Type' to select criteria. Tap 'Done' to apply.
Turn off the filter
In the 'Feed' section, tap the [Menu] icon [...], then 'Reset', and 'Done'.
Download recordings
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Feed'.
- Tap a recording, then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap 'Download' and 'OK' to confirm.
Make a recording a favorite
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Feed', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap 'Favorite'.
Share recordings
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Feed', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap 'Share' to share the file.
Delete recordings
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Feed'.
- Tap a recording, then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap 'Delete' and 'OK' to confirm.
5. Routines, Modes, Automations, and Alerts
Arm or disarm your Arlo devices. Modes and automations allow your system to react automatically to events like motion or sound detection.
Arm or disarm all your Arlo devices
- Open the Arlo Secure App.
- Tap 'Routines', then 'Modes'.
- Tap 'Arm Away', 'Standby', or 'Arm Home'.
Modes
Arlo modes control how cameras respond to motion or sound. Default modes include:
- Arm away: Protects your home inside and out when you are away.
- Arm Home: Keeps certain devices armed while you are home.
- Standby: Disarms devices, keeping specific ones armed.
You can customize which devices are active in each mode.
Select a mode
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Routines', then 'Modes'.
- Select your camera; a list of modes will display.
- Tap a mode to activate it immediately. The mode remains active until changed.
Mute Notifications
Temporarily silence push notifications while videos continue recording. This is useful for events like parties.
To mute notifications:
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Profile' > 'Notifications'.
- Select the duration to mute notifications. A confirmation message will appear.
To unmute notifications:
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Profile' > 'Notifications' > 'Unmute'.
Rules for modes
Each mode uses rules to control your Arlo system. Rules involve:
- Trigger device: The device detecting motion or sound; sensitivity can be adjusted.
- Action device: The device that responds to the trigger (e.g., starts recording).
- Notifications: Push notifications, email alerts, or both, sent upon detection. Email alerts can be sent to others.
Change motion sensitivity
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera, then 'Default Mode Settings'.
- Under 'Motion Detection', adjust the sensitivity slider.
- If using a browser, click 'Save'.
Change audio detection sensitivity
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera, then 'Default Mode Settings'.
- Under 'Audio Detection', adjust the sensitivity slider.
- If using a browser, click 'Save'.
Control whether the spotlight turns on when motion is detected at night
The spotlight automatically turns on at night when motion is detected in 'Armed' mode or other motion-detecting modes, enabling color video recording. You can manually control the spotlight via the camera feed or adjust its behavior and brightness in 'Video Settings' > 'Light Settings'.
Use a routine to activate the camera's siren
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Routines', select 'Automations'.
- Tap 'Add an Automation' or the [+] icon.
- Add 'Schedule' > 'Action'.
- Tap 'Activate Siren', then 'Next'.
Manage alerts
Arlo can send push notifications and email alerts to your smartphone. Ensure the Arlo Secure App is installed. Logging out of the app will stop push notifications.
Schedule when your camera is armed
Set schedules to automatically arm and disarm cameras weekly.
To schedule arming:
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Routines'.
- Tap the [+] icon, then 'Add Schedule'.
- Specify the time, select your device, and tap 'Save'.
- Tap 'Add Action', then 'Change Mode', and select 'Arm Away', 'Arm Home', or 'Standby'.
- Tap 'Save'.
Edit a schedule
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Routines', select 'Automations'.
- Tap the schedule you wish to modify.
6. Change Your Settings
Use the Arlo Secure App to view and change settings for your Arlo devices.
Camera settings
Access camera settings by tapping 'Devices', selecting the camera feed, and tapping the [Settings] icon, or by tapping the [Menu] icon [...] below the feed.
Change the camera name
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera, then tap your camera.
- Tap 'Edit' next to 'Camera', enter a new name (max 32 characters), and tap 'Save'.
Change the time zone
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Profile'.
- Select 'Home' > 'Time Zone', then tap your desired time zone. Click 'Save' if using a computer.
Power Management
Change the video quality and battery usage
Set video resolution to 'Best Video', 'Optimized', or 'Best Battery Life' (reduces WiFi bandwidth). You can also toggle 'Auto Low Power Mode' and set a threshold for automatic switching to low power.
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera, then 'Power Management'.
- Select your desired video quality setting.
Video Settings
Adjust video brightness
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera, then 'Video Settings'.
- Adjust the 'Video Brightness' slider.
Adjust flicker settings
Adjust flicker settings to reduce flickering caused by artificial light sources. The default is 'Auto'.
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera.
- Tap 'Video Settings' > 'Flicker Adjustment', then select a setting.
Turn night vision on and off
Night vision (IR LEDs) activates automatically in low-light conditions. Turn it off if facing reflective surfaces like windows. Access this via 'Device Settings' > 'Night Vision'.
Turn enhanced color night vision off and on
Ensure 'Night Vision' is on, then select 'Color' in 'Night Vision' settings for color night vision.
Change the Light settings for your camera
The spotlight can be set to turn on automatically with motion at night for color video. You can manually control it via the camera feed or adjust its behavior (Constant/Pulsate) and brightness in 'Light Settings'.
Change the audio settings
Adjust settings to reduce wind noise, control the microphone (on/off), and adjust the speaker volume.
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera, then 'Audio Settings'.
- Adjust 'Microphone' and 'Speaker' settings.
Adjust recording length
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera, then 'Default Mode Settings'.
- Under 'Recording Length', select 'Record until activity stops' (up to 5 min) or 'Record for a fixed length' (10 seconds to 2 minutes).
Restart the camera from the Arlo Secure App
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera, then your camera.
- Scroll down and tap 'Restart'.
View device information
View firmware version, hardware version, and serial number by navigating to 'Devices', selecting your camera, and tapping the [Settings] icon.
Remove a device from your account
- Open the Arlo Secure App, tap 'Devices', then the [Menu] icon [...].
- Tap the [Settings] icon next to your camera, then your camera.
- Select 'Remove Device'.
7. Troubleshooting
Arlo doesn't discover your camera during setup
Ensure the following:
- The correct camera model is selected in the Arlo Secure App.
- Your mobile device and camera are connected to the same 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network.
- The Wi-Fi network SSID and password are entered correctly (case-sensitive).
- Your mobile device and camera are within the Wi-Fi router's signal range (recommend 10-15 feet during setup).
- Check the camera LED during setup; it should blink blue. If it times out, press the pairing button again. Refer to 'Check the LED' on page 10.
Can't see video streams in a browser
Ensure ports 443 and 80 are open on your router.
Wi-Fi signal interference
Minimize Wi-Fi devices and frequencies in the camera's area. Consult your router's instructions or ISP for help with Wi-Fi settings.
Out of range
Ensure the camera has a strong Wi-Fi signal (three or four bars). Signal strength may fluctuate.
Low battery
A low battery can cause intermittent streaming. You'll receive notifications at 25% and 15% battery charge.
Not receiving push notifications
You must be logged into the Arlo Secure App to receive alerts. Log back in if you logged out. Ensure push notifications are enabled in your device's settings for the Arlo Secure App.
Check the Arlo Secure App notification settings on an iOS device
- Tap the [Settings] icon on your iOS device.
- Tap 'Notifications' > 'Arlo'.
- Ensure 'Allow Notification' is selected.
Check the Arlo Secure App notification settings on an Android device
- Tap the [Settings] icon on your Android device.
- Tap 'Application Manager' > 'Arlo'.
- Ensure 'Show Notifications' is selected.
If you said no to push notifications at installation
Reinstall the app and allow notifications. For iOS, if you previously denied notifications, uninstall the app, wait a day, then reinstall and allow them. Alternatively, temporarily change your device's system clock forward by a day, then turn the device off and on again before reinstalling.
Use the pairing button to reset the camera
The pairing button can be used for factory resets.
- Reset to factory settings: Press and hold the pairing button for about 15 seconds until the LED blinks amber. Ensure the LED blinks amber three times after releasing the button. The camera will appear disabled in the app; remove it via 'Settings' > 'Remove Device'. Add it back via the [+] icon.
- Power cycle and reset: Disconnect the charging cable. Press and hold the pairing button for 20-30 seconds until the LED shows specific patterns. The camera resets and shuts down. Wake it up as described previously.
Support
For product updates and web support, visit https://www.arlo.com/en_eu/support.
Arlo Technologies, Inc.
2200 Faraday Ave. Suite 150
Carlsbad, CA 92008 USA
Document publication date: September 2023
PN 202-50046-01
Trademarks
Arlo, Arlo logo, and Every Angle Covered are trademarks of Arlo Technologies, Inc. Apple and App Store are trademarks of Apple Inc. Google Play and its logo are trademarks of Google LLC. Other trademarks are for reference.
Environmental Information
Operating temperature: -20°C to +45°C. IP65 water intrusion protection.
Compliance
For additional regulatory compliance information, including EU Declaration of Conformity, visit the Arlo app or web portal. Some products have a regulatory e-label.
To find the regulatory e-label:
- Launch the Arlo app or log in to my.arlo.com.
- On the Devices screen, open the Device Settings page for your Arlo product.
- On iOS/web, tap the [Settings] icon. On Android, tap the menu icon [...] then 'Device Settings'.
- Tap or click 'Device Info' > 'Regulatory'.
FCC ID: 2APLE18300425 IC: 23815-18300425 CAN ICES-003(B)/ NMB-003(B)
Note: If the 'Regulatory' sub-menu is not visible, regulatory information is on the physical label of the product.
Federal Communication Commission Interference Statement
This equipment complies with FCC Part 15 limits for Class B digital devices, designed for reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. It may generate, use, or radiate radio frequency energy. If interference occurs, try reorienting the antenna, increasing separation, connecting to a different circuit, or consulting a technician. Operation is subject to two conditions: no harmful interference, and acceptance of any received interference. Unauthorized modifications may void operating authority.
RF exposure statements
This transmitter must not be co-located with any other antenna or transmitter. Equipment complies with FCC RF radiation exposure limits for uncontrolled environments, requiring a minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and persons.
Déclaration d'exposition aux radiations: Cet équipement est conforme aux limites d'exposition aux rayonnements IC établies pour un environnement non contrôlé. Il doit être installé et utilisé avec un minimum de 20 cm de distance entre la source de rayonnement et votre corps.
Industry Canada statement
This device complies with Industry Canada license-exempt RSSs, subject to two conditions: no interference, and acceptance of any interference. Le présent appareil est conforme aux CNR d'Industrie Canada. Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada Statement: This digital apparatus complies with CAN ICES-003(B).