Reolink Security Camera System Review
The Reolink is a security company that launched in 2009, and is concentrated on delivering high-quality security cameras at a coffee price point. Reolink says its mission is to form your home or office safer and cozy . In this blog post I will show you how to install a reolink security camera system and how does he work properly.
These Reolink camera options offer customers reliable and affordable cameras with decent features like night-sight and multiple power options.
While Reolink doesn’t quite offer the features which will excite the hardcore techies out there, there are many options for many homeowners to settle on from which will provide great value and a simple thanks to make your home safer.
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As the popularity of digital home CCTV increases and becomes cheaper , its only natural that more companies attempt to get a bit of the action. That’s why it’s so important to settle on your CCTV system carefully. There are tons of companies selling white-labelled Chinese junk and its tough to understand whether you’re getting a reliable product.
Why we choose Reolink security camera for our home
Reolink Digital Technology Co. Ltd. has been around since 2007 and from our research seems to be one among the more reputable 2nd tier security products companies. This manufacturer from Shenzen, China might not be as well-known as Hikvision, Dahua, Axis, or Mobotix, but this fact is reflected in their distinctly budget oriented pricing.
The Reolink Argus 2 camera and therefore the add-on solar array are easy enough to put in that anyone can do it — even me. (I said I’d seen my justifiable share of security cameras, not installed any of them.) We have a comparison between Reolink Argus 2 vs Argus Pro.
Both the printed and in-app instructions were easy to follow and included troubleshooting tips for when the camera didn’t play nice. the sole installation problems we encountered were connecting the camera to our Wi-Fi network and getting the camera to acknowledge the QR code on my phone. Fortunately, we were ready to mapped out both issues with a touch trial and error and it only took about an hour to line up the camera from start to end .
With a maximum video speed of only 15 fps (frames per second) we noticed that the Reolink Argus 2 video feed is far choppier than our other security cameras. There’s also a few 2.5-second delay before the camera triggers a motion alert. This won’t appear to be much, but since the camera starts recording only triggered by motion detection, we found that even someone walking across the farthest point of the sector of vision doesn’t show up during a recording until they’re almost out of frame.
Here are some comparison with reolink security camera
We tested the motion detection range of the Argus 2 by walking across our backyard at various distances from the camera. The motion sensor began to detect motion at about 15 feet away, and once you combine that relatively short distance with the delay on recording, it’s a serious flaw for a surveillance camera. We easily covered the 15 feet in only over 2.5 seconds and therefore the Reolink recording only captured the previous couple of feet.
Reolink Installation
Depending on the Reolink camera you select , installation are often as simple as employing a QR code. Some cameras require simple mounting to put in , but users report a simple process with no need for professional installation. Because these battery powered cameras are wire-free, there’s no got to worry about drilling any holes or any messy installation. If you run into any issues, Reolink features a vast FAQ section, also as customer service to assist .
The Reolink kit comes with a really good quick setup guide that shows you ways to line up the NVR and connect the IP cameras. this is often how setup goes:
Connect the NVR
First connect the NVR to a computer monitor or LCD via a VGA cable (the default resolution of the HDMI port is just too low then your TV won’t show an image , you’ll change it later).
Then connect each of the IP cameras to the network ports on the NVR with the included 18 metre network cables. this is often where the facility over Ethernet (PoE) feature comes in. rather than having to use separate cables for power and data, PoE allows you to use just the network cable.
Connect the NVR to your router using the short coaxial cable provided.
Connect the supplied USB mouse to at least one of the USB ports of the NVR.
Finally connect the facility adaptor of the NVR.
Mount the IP cameras
Use the supplied mounting template to drill the holes correctly. It needs 3 mounting screws, and an allen key’s provided.
Take care that you simply don’t point the camera against the sun.
Also remember that in the dark , the infrared from the cameras can reflect off windows and cause glare.
Take care that the bulk of a camera’s scene isn’t the wall it’s attached to. Excess IR reflection off the walls are often a problem in the dark . The camera will then reduce the scene brightness to compensate leaving you with darkness within the remainder of the scene.
Power up the NVR
There is a helpful setup wizard which will guide you thru the initial setup.
The default username is admin with no password — remember to vary this!
Make sure you’ll see the video streams of all 4 cameras within the live view section.
Now change the output resolution to 1080p and connect the NVR to your TV using the HDMI cable.
Install the Reolink mobile P2P app (optional)
The Reolink mobile app is out there from both the Play Store for Android and therefore the Apple store for iPhones.
When you begin the app, it should find your NVR.
Next, found out a password. this could bring you to the live view screen.
The initial setup process through the NVR’s own interface is sort of simple and will get you up and running quickly. any longer setup (such as initializing the hard drive) and customization are often done via the NVR interface using the USB mouse and virtual keyboard. But using the Reolink PC client software is far easier. The Reolink PC client software connects to the NVR and allows you to configure all the choices .
The Bottom Line
When it involves affordable battery-powered cameras requiring only simple installation and including basic features, Reolink may be a safe bet. You’ll enjoy features like two-way communication, sirens, night-sight and even the choice of charging batteries via a solar array .
Although Reolink lacks high-tech options like person-detection and geofencing, the worth makes up for it. you’ll easily outfit your home with Reolink products for under $500, which may be a steal within the DIY camera arena. If you’re trying to find something with a good array of smart home integration options, you’ll want to seem elsewhere.
