"Camera(s) failed to Arm" - this is what I got on the Blink App a couple of days back when I tried to arm my Blink Cams.
Blink has always been reliable with rudimentary actions like arming the Cam or enabling motion detection.
And when the dreaded message popped up on the Blink app, I kicked myself into action to find a fix. And it was indeed a fruitful endeavor.
If Blink Cameras fail to arm, check the network status and power cycle the Camera and the Sync Module. As the next step, check and enable Motion detection. If you have enabled Schedules on Blink, disable them and then try to Arm the Cam.
Here's a more detailed guide on the various troubleshooting steps to try out if your Blink camera fails to arm.
Check the Status of the Network
A proper and stable network connection is essential for operating Blink systems efficiently.
Unstable network connections can render the Camera extremely spotty with command registration and execution. The Sync Module flashing Green LED is a good indicator of network issues.
And Blink Cams do not require a lot of bandwidth or speed to work. A stable network with a data transfer speed of about 2 Mbps is all that a Blink Cam demands.
Blink Cams do not connect directly to the network. It establishes a connection to the network via the Sync Module.
You can check the status of the connection of your Cam and Sync Module through the Blink App. Here's how to do so:
1. Open the Blink app and select the Settings icon of your Camera (3 horizontal bars).
2. Scroll down to the Status tab.
3. Tap on the Update tile to pull a real-time reading of the connection status.
![Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (1)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/asdcacq-480x1024.png "Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (1)")
The Cam and Sync module must have 3 bars of signal strength to operate efficiently.
If the signal strength falls below 3 bars, it is better to run a speed test to further analyze the status of the network.
Perform a speed test through a mobile application or a browser site like ookla or fast.com.
If you find a disparity in values on any network parameter like speed or latency, try refreshing the network to make it stable again.
Here's how you do so:
Power Cycle the Router/Modem
![Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (2)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/3-22.png "Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (2)")
One of the most effective methods of refreshing the network is to power cycle the Router/Modem.
Power cycling the Router is also an effective fix for Blink not connecting to the WiFi issue.
Follow these steps to do so:
1. Unplug the power cable from the Router/Modem. Leave it idle for a few seconds.
2. Hold the power button on the Router for a couple of seconds. Repeat this step a few times.
3. Plug back in the power cable and turn ON the Router.
Run the Speed test on the Router, and check if the network has become stable. If so, connect back the Blink Cam and Sync Module, and check for the issue.
Blink systems require a network connection to the 2 GHz band. If the traffic on this band is too high, you can expect connection-based disruptions on the Blink Cam.
To reduce the traffic on the network, switch the connection on other devices to the 5 GHz band.
Move Blink Cam Closer to the Sync Module
![Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (3)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/5-16.png "Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (3)")
As discussed earlier, the Blink Camera connects to the network through the Sync Module.
And so, if the Cam is placed far beyond the range of the Sync Module, things could get complicated.
If you can't arm the Blink Cam, try moving it closer to the Sync Module. The shorter the proximity, the better.
The Sync Module can accommodate Blink Cams located within a 100 ft radius. Only remember that opaque objects and solid structures can affect the effective range.
Avoid placing the Cam near a wirelessly-communicating device like a Smart Fridge or a Gaming console. Doing so can induce interference in the connection.
You can check the status of the connection by going to Settings>Status>Update.
A signal strength of 3 bars indicates a proper connection between the Sync Module and the Camera.
Power Cycle Blink Cam and Sync Module
![Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (4)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/2-22.png "Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (4)")
One reason for Blink Cam to become unresponsive to your Arming command is because of bugs and errors taking refuge in the system.
Whether from overuse or faulty updates, errors can creep into the system and cause all sorts of trouble.
Even if you can resolve this inconsistency in several ways, a power cycle test would be the most imperative of choices.
A power cycle test is, essentially, a system refresh with the added advantage of removing all pent-up static charges from the system internals.
As a result, the system becomes much more efficient and faster.
Power cycling is an effective method of resolving thumbnail issues on Blink Cam.
Now, with Blink, you'll have to power cycle two devices to fix this issue - the Cam and the Sync Module.
Follow these steps to do so:
With Blink Cam:
1. Remove the Blink camera from its holder and remove the Black plate. (Use the supplied tool to do so with select models like Blink Doorbell or Outdoor)
2. Remove the two AA batteries and leave the Cam idle for a few seconds; a minute will also do.
3. Reinsert the batteries and power ON the Camera.
With Sync Module:
1. Unplug the power cable from the Module.
2. Leave it to rest for about a minute.
3. Plug back in the cable and power ON the Sync Module.
Sync the devices back to the app and try arming the Camera now.
With some Blink models, like the Blink Mini, you can use it as a standalone device without a Sync module.
Replace the Batteries on Blink Camera
Run-down batteries can also render the Cam all janky.
If and when met with issues that pertain to the Camera being unresponsive to your commands, better check the status of the battery.
Even if you have a well-and-running Sync Module at your disposal, if the Cam runs out of juice, it will render your commands void.
Here's how to replace the batteries on your Blink Camera:
1. After you remove the Camera from its holster/holder, remove the silicon patch covering the back plate latch.
2. Using the proprietary Removal Tool, unscrew the latch to remove the back plate.
![Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (5)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/catalina-back-cover-off.png "Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (5)")
On the Blink Indoor Gen 1, XT, and XT2, slide the latch toward the direction indicated to remove the back plate.
3. Remove the worn-out batteries and replace them with fresh ones.
![Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (6)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/1641262698543-1641262698543.png "Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (6)")
For better battery longevity, use 1.5V Lithium batteries instead of other generic AA batteries.
4. Reapply the Back Plate and secure it tightly.
Power ON the Camera and check for the issue now.
Check and Enable Motion Detection on Blink Camera
Motion Detection is a crucial aspect of Blink Cameras. And if you have it disabled on your Blink Cam, there is a chance that you won't be able to arm your Blink Cam.
Usually, you would enable motion detection on your Cam once it is armed. You would do so by tapping on the Running Man icon next to your Cam tile on the Live View tab.
But since we cannot arm the Blink Cam, we'll have to try the other way.
Follow these steps to do so:
1. Open the Settings tab of the Camera.
2. Scroll down to the Motion Detection tab.
3. Toggle ON the Enable tile.
![Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (7)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/sacdw.jpg "Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (7)")
Exit the tab and check for the issue now.
You could also adjust the Motion Detection sensitivity from the Settings tab if you have trouble detecting motion on your Blink Cam.
Disable Schedules on Blink Camera
Schedules are a great way of arming and disarming your Blink Cams if you're too busy to do it yourself regularly.
But Schedules come with a distinct feature. It so happens that once they are enabled, they override every other mode of arming/disarming the Cam.
And this may be the prime reason you can't arm the Cam yourself.
Blink recommended that, when met with arming issues, disable or delete Schedules and then try arming the Cam again.
Follow these steps to disable Schedules on your Blink Camera:
1. Open the Settings tab on the Blink App by tapping on the Settings icon from the bottom of the screen.
2. Tap open Devices and System settings.
3. Select the System you want to arm.
4. Toggle ON Disabled next to the Scheduling tile.
![Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (8)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/ascascqw-510x1024.png "Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (8)")
5. Alternatively, you can delete the Schedule by opening the Scheduling tile and selecting the Delete (Dust bin) icon.
![Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (9)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/cascqwcasc-1-594x1024.png "Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (9)")
Exit the Settings tab and check for the issue now.
Factory Reset Blink Camera and Sync Module
![Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (10)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/4-21.png "Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (10)")
If none of the fixes I mentioned above seems to work for you, as a last-ditch effort, hard reset the Blink cam and Sync Module.
Factory resetting your Blink Cam will remove all personal preferences and data forever.
Gone, too, are all the system inconsistencies like bugs and errors.
Now, with most Blink Cams, you only have to reset the Sync Module to refresh the system.
Only with select models, like the Blink Mini, do you have to reset the Camera.
Let's first reset the Sync Module:
![Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (11)](https://i0.wp.com/blinqblinq.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/smdiagram_new.png "Blink Cameras Failed To Arm: How To Fix [2023] - BlinqBlinq (11)")
1. Locate the Reset Button on the Sync Module next to the USB port.
2. Press and hold the Reset button until the LED flashes RED.
3. Once the Reset completes, the LED will flash Blue and Solid Green.
To reset Blink Cams, follow these steps:
1. Find the Reset Button on the bottom of the Cam.
2. Press and hold the Reset Button till the LED blinks RED and BLUE.
3. The Reset is complete when the LED shines BLUE.
You can now reconfigure the devices and check for the issue.
Uninstalling the Blink Home Monitor app is also a potent fix. Do so by tapping and holding the Blink app tile from the home screen of your device> Remove/Uninstall.
Reinstall the app after refreshing your device and check for the issue now.
Final Thoughts
Blink is many things - one of the best when it comes to Motion detection - but that doesn't make it immune to the most basic of issues, like not being able to arm the Cam.
Fortunately, fixing this issue is as simple as fixing Live View problems on Blink Cam.
With this article, you have all the steps to fix arming issues on Blink Cam.
If you have any further tribulations about this or any other issue, feel free to contact the customer services of Blink for further assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I make my arm Blink automatically?
To automatically arm your Blink Cam, make use of the Scheduling feature. You can access this feature by going to Settings> Devices and System Settings> your System> Scheduling.
Does Blink work if Wi-Fi goes out?
No, Blink Cameras require an active network connection to work. Blink Cams operate on the 2.4 GHz band for communications and saving clips.
How do you fix a Blink camera mount?
Blink Cams come paired with a right-angled adapter and mount with additional screws. If you're mounting the Cam in a vertical position, use the right-angle Adapter to attach the Cam to the Mount. For horizontal mounting, attach the Mount directly to the Camera.
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FAQs
Why is my Blink camera unable to arm? ›
If Blink Cameras fail to arm, check the network status and power cycle the Camera and the Sync Module. As the next step, check and enable Motion detection. If you have enabled Schedules on Blink, disable them and then try to Arm the Cam.
Why does my Blink camera keep failing? ›Move your camera closer to your Sync Module. Also make certain that you have 3 bars of signal strength for Camera to Wi-Fi and Camera to Sync Module. Power cycle both your modem and router by unplugging them for 30 seconds and plugging them back in.
Why won t my Blink cameras connect? ›Restart your device, or try switching the Wi-Fi setting off and on again to establish a connection. Make sure your mobile device is within range of your router or access point. Check that your router and any access points are powered on. Restarting your Wi-Fi router may also resolve this issue.
How do I set my Blink camera to armed? ›When you first set up your Blink system, your system is Disarmed by default. Arm your system by tapping Armed at the bottom of the Home screen. A message will display confirming that your system has been Armed or Disarmed.
Can you set Blink to arm automatically? ›Your Blink system can automatically Arm and Disarm on a set schedule. To get started, open up the Blink app and tap the settings gear icon in the bottom right of the home screen and select Device and System Settings. Then select the system you want to schedule under Systems at the top of the screen.
How do I get my blink camera back online? ›- Power cycle your camera. ...
- If your camera is powered with batteries, replace them with new 1.5v Lithium AA batteries.
- Move the camera closer to your Sync Module.
Instead, there's a small reset button on the bottom side of the camera. You can use this button if your camera isn't connecting to the internet or has other issues. Step 1: Press and hold the reset button for 30 seconds. Step 2: The camera should now be back at its factory defaults mode.
How do I reset my blink camera system? ›Use a small object or fingernail to press the reset button for 5 seconds. You will see a flash of red and then after 15 seconds a blinking blue light and solid green light appear at the front of the Sync Module. The Sync Module is ready to be added through the Blink app.
Is Blink having issues? ›Our service is currently operating as expected at the location you provided. If that changes, we will tell you about it here.
Where is the blink sync module reset button? ›A physical reset button is included on the rear of the Sync Module. Only after trying a power cycle should you use this button to put your Sync Module into setup mode (unplug and plug-in the power cord).
How far can a blink camera be from the module? ›
How far away can camera units be placed? Under normal circumstances, the Sync Module is capable of communicating with Blink cameras up to 100 ft. away in any direction.
Does Blink have to be armed to detect motion? ›Note: Before you Enable Motion Detection on your camera, you must first arm your Blink system. Once you arm your Blink system and Enable Motion Detection, you will then receive motion notifications on your mobile device.
Can someone disable my Blink camera? ›Well, the answer is a Yes! According to Tenable Inc, one of the leading Cyber security firms, these cameras are vulnerable to hacking.
How do I set my Blink camera to record all day? ›Blink cameras do not offer continuous recording, though you can leave the system armed for any interval of time.
What is the difference between arm away and arm stay on Blink? ›Armed Away is the arming mode you should use when leaving the home. The difference between the two modes is that “Armed Away” activates all the sensors in your system, whereas “Armed Stay” activates everything except motion sensors.
How do I make my Blink camera motion activated? ›You can also enable or disable Motion Detection within Device Settings. Go to Device Settings and then tap Motion Settings. The first setting is Enable Motion Detection. The Enable Motion Detection setting allows you to change your camera's motion detection without having to Arm your system.
Can you continuously watch a Blink camera? ›This feature provides images and sound directly from a camera to the Blink app, up to 90 minutes at a time without user intervention. In addition, you can view regular Live View sessions up to five minutes without tapping on Continue.
Will Blink record motion if disarmed? ›Generally, Blink cameras shouldn't record when disarmed. They should only do so when armed. So, if your camera is recording when disarmed, it could be that Motion Detection is enabled. Remember that Motion Detection automatically becomes active when the camera is armed.
What does the blue light mean on the Blink camera? ›Blink Mini blue recording status LED setting
Always On - Displays a green light on the front of the Mini camera when it is active and ready to use, then shows a blue light while recording. Always Off - Never display the Status LED. When Recording - Displays a blue light while recording.
The Sync Module manages communications between your Blink devices and our secure servers; therefore your camera needs to connect to its local Wi-Fi. The Blink Mini, Video Doorbell, and Wired Floodlight do not require Sync Modules for those communications, which is why they broadcast their own local Wi-Fi connections.
What does the red light mean on a Blink camera? ›
A red light on the Blink Mini shows when the camera is not connected to the internet. As a first step, unplug and plug-in the Mini camera. If the Mini was already connected to your network, the red LED changes to solid blue and blinking green lights as the Mini reconnects.
Why is one of my Blink cameras not working? ›Why is my second Blink camera not working? Due to a weak signal, your second Blink camera might not be functional. This makes it unable to communicate with the Sync Module. Move the camera closer to the Sync Module to fix it.
Can I delete my Blink account and start over? ›If you delete your Blink account, you lose access to clips that are stored on our systems, and you lose access to any Blink devices through the Blink app. When you create a new Blink account, there is no way to access the clips or settings from any other account, past or present.
What happens if I delete sync module on Blink? ›Note: If the Sync Module is deleted from your account, the system remains there along with any associated cameras or other devices. If you have cameras that rely on a Sync Module to work, they will cease function until a Sync Module is added back onto the system.
Why can't i reset my Blink camera? ›Resetting A Blink Camera Back To Factory Settings
This is done simply by unplugging your internet modem, waiting a few minutes, and plugging it back in. This is usually enough to resolve any issues with your Sync Module or cameras not working.
- From the Home screen, tap on the settings icon. ...
- Then tap Delete Device and you will be prompted to verify that you want to remove the camera.
- Tap the Delete Device button to remove the camera and be brought back to the home screen.
Battery life of up to two years is expected based on default settings. Battery life will vary based on device settings, use, and environmental factors.
Why is my Blink disconnected? ›This can happen if there is a change to your wireless network, or the loss of power or Internet to your system. If you've recently made changes to the Wi-Fi network, such as a new router or change of password, tap the Change Wi-Fi button to reconfigure your Sync Module or Mini camera on the new network.
Why is Blink crashing? ›If the app continues to load and load, crashes, or displays weird behavior, please follow these tips: Make sure that your device software is up-to-date and that you've got the latest version of Blinkist installed. Then, log out and in again of the app, making sure that you're on strong wi-fi connection.
Why is my Blink camera not responding to the Sync Module? ›If adding your device fails and you receive an error "Remove the batteries for 10 seconds, then reinsert them and try again." power cycling the camera will enable it, so it can successfully communicate with your sync module.
Why won t my Blink module sync? ›
The blink sync module won't work when it loses connection to your Wi-Fi network or power supply. Ensure that your module is connected to a working internet connection. Once connected, the two LED indicators turn solid blue and green. Try power cycling the sync module to get it back online and running.
Can I unplug my blink sync module to move it? ›The Blink Sync module would need to remain plugged into a normal wall outlet at all time for the Blink cameras to operate, you are able to however manually arm and disarm your Blink System or even individual cameras on your system at anytime through the APP.
How many cameras can 1 Blink module hold? ›The Blink app allows you to manage multiple Sync Module systems and their connected Blink devices from a single account. Each Sync Module added to your account allows you to group and manage up to ten cameras in a single system.
What is the best distance for Blink camera? ›The best range of detection is within 5 to 20 feet (about 1.5 to 6m) from the camera. By placing your camera higher off of the ground, you can avoid smaller animals causing motion alerts.
Where is the best place to put the Blink Sync Module? ›Place your Blink sync module near your wi-fi router for best connection.
Why can't i get my Blink camera back online? ›If you receive a "Camera Offline" notification that "Your Blink Mini is offline", it means the Blink servers lost communication with the camera. This will normally fix itself when the network comes back up, or when there is less traffic on the Wi-Fi network.
How do I reset my Blink motion camera? ›Instead, there's a small reset button on the bottom side of the camera. You can use this button if your camera isn't connecting to the internet or has other issues. Step 1: Press and hold the reset button for 30 seconds. Step 2: The camera should now be back at its factory defaults mode.
How do I reset my Blink camera if it wont work? ›Resetting A Blink Camera Back To Factory Settings
This is done simply by unplugging your internet modem, waiting a few minutes, and plugging it back in. This is usually enough to resolve any issues with your Sync Module or cameras not working.
The security of your Blink devices is a top priority. Blink devices receive guaranteed software security updates until at least 4 years after the device is last available for purchase on our websites unless otherwise noted below.
How do I relink my Blink camera? ›Use a small object or fingernail to press the reset button for 5 seconds. You will see a flash of red and then after 15 seconds a blinking blue light and solid green light appear at the front of the Sync Module. The Sync Module is ready to be added through the Blink app.
How do you get Blink back online? ›
Reboot or power cycle the router and wait for internet to return. Verify your Sync Module is displaying a solid green and solid blue light. If you see any other light pattern, power cycle your Sync Module, unplug the power cord from the back of the unit, wait 10 seconds, and plug it back in.
Does Blink camera connect to Wi-Fi or Sync Module? ›The Sync Module manages communications between your Blink devices and our secure servers; therefore your camera needs to connect to its local Wi-Fi. The Blink Mini, Video Doorbell, and Wired Floodlight do not require Sync Modules for those communications, which is why they broadcast their own local Wi-Fi connections.
Is there a reset button on the Blink? ›The Blink Mini has a reset button on the bottom side of the camera. This reset button can be used when you add your Mini to a new or existing Blink system or when you move your Mini to a new location or Wi-Fi network.
Can you Delete a blink camera and reinstall it? ›After deletion
If you plan on adding the camera again to this system or another system, remove the batteries or unplug it for at least 15 seconds before attempting to add the camera. To reactivate a deleted camera, use the standard process of adding a camera to your Blink system.
A physical reset button is included on the rear of the Sync Module. Only after trying a power cycle should you use this button to put your Sync Module into setup mode (unplug and plug-in the power cord).
Can you mount Blink cameras without screws? ›The Wasserstein No-Drill Mount for Blink Video Doorbell is the perfect way to avoid any drilling while installing your Blink Doorbell. With this easy-to-install wall mount, you simply peel off the adhesive cover and place it on any smooth surface you like (including wood, tile, marble, glass, etc.).
Do you need a sync module for Blink? ›The Sync Module is required for Blink Outdoor and Indoor cameras, and optional for the Blink Wired Floodlight, Blink Video Doorbell and Blink Mini. Having a Sync Module with your doorbell improves battery life significantly.
Where is the best place to mount a blink camera? ›Ideally, the camera should be mounted in an area with a clear view of any points of entry. This could be the front or back door, windows, and garages. What is this? Additionally, the camera should be mounted in an area with good lighting and not blocked by trees or other obstacles.