TP-Link Tapo C500 Outdoor Pan/Tilt Security Wi-Fi Camera User Guide

About This Guide

This guide provides a brief introduction to the Outdoor Pan/Tilt Security Wi-Fi Camera and the Tapo app, as well as regulatory information. Features available in Tapo may vary by model and software version, and availability may also vary by region. All images, steps, and descriptions are examples and may not reflect your actual Tapo Camera experience.

Conventions Used:

• Blue Text: Key information, including management page text, menus, items, and buttons.
• Underlined Text: Hyperlinks that can be clicked to redirect to a website.
• [Note]: Ignoring this type of note might result in a malfunction or damage to the device.

More Info:

• Specifications: https://www.tapo.com
• Technical Support and Troubleshooting: https://www.tapo.com/support/
• Setup Videos: https://www.tp-link.com/support/setup-video/#cloud-cameras

Introduction

The Outdoor Pan/Tilt Security Wi-Fi Camera is a full-featured weatherproof security camera accessible from anywhere. It provides instant notifications and live feeds upon motion detection. An automatic siren system can trigger light and sound to deter unwanted visitors. The Tapo camera protects what you love, day or night, rain or shine.

Key Features:

• Smart Motion Tracking: Tracks and follows subjects within the camera's field of view.
• 1080p Full HD Live View: Delivers sharp images and vivid details.
• Patrol Mode: Allows the camera to cruise between two customized points for dynamic monitoring.
• Person Detection: Notifies you when a person is detected.
• Local* and Cloud** Storage: Saves recorded videos to an installed microSD card (up to 512 GB) or via Tapo Care cloud storage service. (*microSD card sold separately. **Subscribe for cloud storage at https://www.tapo.com/tapocare/)
• IP65 Weatherproof: Offers excellent waterproof and dustproof performance for outdoor use.
• Customizable Sound Alarm: Allows recording your own audio as an alarm.
• Color Night Vision: Enhances security by revealing vivid colors with built-in spotlights.
• Two-Way Audio: Enables remote communication.
• Multiple Installation Options: Supports wall, ceiling, or pole mounting using provided screws, template, and optional mounting loops.

Appearance

The camera features the following components:

• 1. White Light LEDs
• 2. IR LEDs
• 3. Lens
• 4. System LED: Indicates the camera's status.
• 5. Microphone
• 6. Reset Button: Located under a silicone cover. Use a pin to press and hold. Press for 5s to reset Wi-Fi settings, or 10s to reset to factory settings.
• 7. microSD Card Slot: Located under the silicone cover. Insert a microSD card for local recording (card not included). Initialize it via the Tapo app.
• 8. Speaker
• 9. DC Power Connector: Connects to the provided DC power adapter.

System LED Indication

Set Up Your Camera

Follow these steps to get started:

1. Step 1: Download Tapo App
   Get the Tapo app from the App Store or Google Play, or by scanning the QR code.
2. Step 2: Log In
   Open the app and log in with your TP-Link ID. Create an account if you don't have one.
3. Step 3: Add Your Camera
   Tap the '+' button, then 'Add Device' in the app, search for your model, and follow the app instructions to complete the setup.

Set Up Using Amazon Frustration-Free Setup

Amazon Frustration-Free Setup (FFS) simplifies connecting and setting up Tapo smart devices without re-entering Wi-Fi passwords.

Requirements for FFS:

• The Tapo device supports Amazon FFS.
• The Tapo device was purchased from Amazon.
• You have an Amazon FFS-enabled Alexa device or router.
• Your Wi-Fi information is saved to Amazon via Alexa echo.
• Your Tapo device and router are on the same network as your Alexa echo.

LED Indications during Amazon Frustration-Free Setup:

[Note] If the LED does not turn solid green after a long time, you can try manual setup: Press the Reset button on the Tapo device once, then open the Tapo app, tap the '+' button, select your device model, and follow the app instructions.

How to use Amazon Frustration-Free Setup with Tapo devices

1. Open the Amazon Alexa app. Tap 'More', then select 'Skills & Games'.
2. Enter 'Tapo' in the search bar and choose Tapo.
3. Tap the 'ENABLE TO USE' button.
4. Log in with your TP-Link ID that is bound to your Tapo device, and tap 'Authorize'. A confirmation message will appear upon successful linking.
5. Plug in your Tapo device; setup completes automatically within two minutes. For additional Tapo devices, simply plug them in.

Setup Complete: If the device appears on the Tapo app's Home page, it's successfully associated with your Amazon account and joined your Wi-Fi network. If not, perform manual setup as described in the note above.

Install a microSD Card

Follow these steps to install a microSD card for local recording. You can check the card status or format it in the Tapo app under Camera Settings > microSD Card.

1. Manually rotate the camera downwards. Open the silicone cover to find the microSD card slot.
2. Identify the correct direction of the microSD card and carefully insert it into the slot until you hear a clicking sound.

Mount Your Camera

After adding your camera in the Tapo app, you can mount it on a wall or ceiling using the provided mounting template and screws. Pole mounting is also possible with mounting loops.

[Note] The camera is not waterproof when placed on a table or shelf. For outdoor installations, use mounting options 1-3.

Option 1: Wall Mount

1. Affix the Camera and Bracket: Route the power cord through the bracket opening. Use two bracket screws to attach the bracket and camera.
2. Drill Holes: Stick the mounting template to the desired location and drill four screw holes according to the template (hole size: 6 mm / 15/64 in.).
3. Mount the Camera: Insert four mounting anchors into the drilled holes, then use the mounting screws to secure the camera and bracket.
4. Power Up the Camera: Connect the camera to a power outlet using the provided adapter. Install the waterproof seal for the power connectors. (Visual description: Male Power Connector -> Waterproof Seal -> Female Power Connector)

Option 2: Overhang Mount

1. Affix the Camera and Bracket: Route the power cord through the bracket opening. Use two bracket screws to attach the bracket and camera.
2. Drill Holes: Stick the mounting template to the desired location and drill four screw holes according to the template (hole size: 6 mm / 15/64 in.).
3. Mount the Camera: Insert four mounting anchors into the drilled holes, then use the mounting screws to secure the camera and bracket.
4. Power Up the Camera: Connect the camera to a power outlet using the provided adapter. Install the waterproof seal for the power connectors. (Visual description: Male Power Connector -> Waterproof Seal -> Female Power Connector)

Option 3: Pole Mount

1. Affix the Camera and Bracket: Route the power cord through the bracket opening. Use two bracket screws to attach the bracket and camera.
2. Mount the Camera: Mount the camera on a pole using two pole-mounting loops (loop width ≤ 12mm). Pole-mounting loops are not included.
3. Power Up the Camera: Connect the camera to a power outlet using the provided adapter. Install the waterproof seal for the power connectors. (Visual description: Male Power Connector -> Waterproof Seal -> Female Power Connector)

Install Waterproof Items

When installing the camera outdoors, attach waterproof items to ensure water resistance. Ensure all parts are securely attached and water-proofing rings are flush.

Install Waterproof Seal for Power Connectors:

Connect the camera to a power outlet using the provided power adapter. Install the waterproof seal for the power connectors when the camera is installed outdoors. (Visual description: Male Power Connector -> Waterproof Seal -> Female Power Connector)

Authentication and Compliance

This section details the regulatory compliance information for the TP-Link Tapo C500.

FCC Compliance Information Statement

Product Name: Outdoor Pan/Tilt Security Wi-Fi Camera
Model Number: Tapo C500
I.T.E. Power Supply Model: T090085-2B1
Responsible Party: TP-Link Systems Inc.
Address: 10 Mauchly, Irvine, CA 92618
Website: http://www.tp-link.com/us/
Tel: +1 626 333 0234
Fax: +1 909 527 6804
E-mail: sales.usa@tp-link.com

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: 1. This device may not cause harmful interference. 2. This device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation. Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.

FCC RF Radiation Exposure Statement: This equipment complies with FCC RF radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This device and its antenna must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter. To comply with FCC RF exposure compliance requirements, this grant is applicable to only Mobile Configurations. The antennas used for this transmitter must be installed to provide a separation distance of at least 20 cm from all persons and must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

TP-Link Systems Inc. has determined that the equipment shown complies with applicable technical standards, FCC part 15. No unauthorized changes have been made to the equipment, and it is properly maintained and operated. Issue Date: 2024-08-16

CE Mark Warning

This is a Class B product. In a domestic environment, this product may cause radio interference, in which case the user may be required to take adequate measures.

OPERATING FREQUENCY (maximum transmitted power): 2412MHz–2472MHz (20dBm)

EU Declaration of Conformity

TP-Link declares that the device complies with essential requirements and other provisions of directives 2014/53/EU, 2009/125/EC, 2011/65/EU, and (EU)2015/863. The original EU Declaration of Conformity may be found at https://www.tapo.com/en/support/ce/.

RF Exposure Information: This device meets EU requirements (2014/53/EU Article 3.1a) regarding public exposure to electromagnetic fields for health protection. The device complies with RF specifications when used at 20 cm from your body.

UKCA Mark

UK Declaration of Conformity

TP-Link declares that the device complies with essential requirements and other provisions of the Radio Equipment Regulations 2017. The original UK Declaration of Conformity may be found at https://www.tapo.com/support/ukca/.

Canadian Compliance Statement

This device contains licence-exempt transmitter(s)/receiver(s) that comply with Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada's licence-exempt RSS(s). Operation is subject to two conditions: 1. This device may not cause interference. 2. This device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Radiation Exposure Statement: This equipment complies with IC radiation exposure limits for an uncontrolled environment. It should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20 cm between the radiator and your body.

Industry Canada Statement

CAN ICES-3 (B)/NMB-3(B)

[Recycling Symbol Description: This product bears the selective sorting symbol for Waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE). It must be handled pursuant to European directive 2012/19/EU for recycling or dismantling to minimize environmental impact. Users can return the product to a competent recycling organization or retailer.]

NCC Notice & BSMI Notice

Notice: Unauthorized frequency changes, power increases, or modifications to the original design of low-power radio frequency devices are prohibited. Use of such devices must not affect flight safety or interfere with lawful communication. If interference occurs, the device must be immediately suspended and improved until no interference is present. Lawful communication refers to radio communication operations according to the Telecommunications Management Act. Low-power radio frequency devices must tolerate interference from lawful communication or industrial, scientific, and medical radio frequency equipment. To prevent image snooping or capture, users should change default passwords and update them regularly.

Safety Consultations and Precautions:

• Use only the original power adapter or one specified for this product.
• Unplug the power cord before cleaning. Do not use liquid, spray cleaners, or damp cloths.
• Avoid moisture; do not splash water or other liquids onto the product.
• Do not block or cover ventilation slots to ensure reliable operation and prevent overheating.
• Do not place the product near heat sources. Ensure adequate ventilation; do not place in enclosed spaces without normal ventilation.
• Do not disassemble or repair the product yourself. Contact the manufacturer or agent for any malfunctions.
• The power adapter should be used indoors where the ambient temperature is 40°C or lower.

Restricted Substances Information

Equipment Name: Outdoor Pan/Tilt Security Wi-Fi Camera
Type Designation: Tapo C500

Restricted Substances and their Chemical Symbols:

Notes:

• Note 1: "Exceeding 0.1 wt %" and "exceeding 0.01 wt %" indicate that the percentage content of the restricted substance exceeds the reference percentage value of presence condition.
• Note 2: "○" indicates that the percentage content of the restricted substance does not exceed the percentage of reference value of presence.
• Note 3: The "-" indicates that the restricted substance corresponds to the exemption.

[Ukraine Certification: Product certified according to the rules of the UkrSEPRO system for compliance with the requirements of regulatory documents and requirements stipulated by current Ukrainian legislation.]

Safety Information

• Keep the device away from fire or hot environments. DO NOT immerse in water or any other liquid.
• Do not attempt to disassemble, repair, or modify the device. For service, please contact TP-Link.
• Do not use a damaged charger or USB cable to charge the device.
• Do not use chargers other than those recommended.
• Do not use the device where wireless devices are not allowed.
• Ensure the adapter is easily accessible.
• Use only power supplies provided by the manufacturer in the original packaging. Contact TP-Link for any questions.
• The adapter should be used indoors where the ambient temperature is 40°C or lower.
• This product uses radios and components that emit electromagnetic fields. These fields and magnets may interfere with pacemakers and other implanted medical devices. Keep the product and its power adapter more than 15 cm (6 inches) away from pacemakers or other implanted medical devices. If you suspect interference, turn off the product and consult your physician.
• Operating Temperature: -30 °C to 60 °C (-22°F to 140°F).
• The adapter should be used indoors where the ambient temperature is 40°C or lower.

Please read and follow the safety information. TP-Link cannot guarantee that accidents or damage will not occur due to improper use. Use this product with care and at your own risk.

Explanation of the Symbols on the Product Label

Symbols may vary from products.

Electrical Symbols:

Other Symbols:

Semiconductor Switching Device Symbols: