How To Use Blink Mini Cameras Without A Subscription?
Blink manufactures indoor, plug-in security cameras that can function regardless of whether you purchase a subscription. Below is a quick guide to using these devices.
1. Set Up The Camera
The Blink Mini camera is available in black or white. Each unit has seven parts:
- Lens
- Reset Button
- Speaker
- Green-Red LED
- Night Vision LED (850nm)
- Blue LED
- Microphone
The package comes with the following accessories:
- USB power cord
- Power adapter
- Camera stand
- Mount screws
- Instruction manual
Proper installation is essential to the performance of a Blink Mini camera. You can easily mount these devices in the desired location using the mount screws and camera stand included.
Another way to install it is by using a vertical bracket stand with a slot-in design. You won't need to drill holes or buy adhesive materials because of its durable VHB tape. However, the bracket is not suitable for painted or wallpapered surfaces.
Click here to see these Blink Mini vertical mounting brackets on Amazon.
2. Install The Blink Home Monitor
To manage the settings and features well, you can download the Blink Home Monitor on your Android or Apple smartphones and tablets. Afterward, you will need to create an account. Since you can watch clips and add cameras in this mobile app, it omits the need to purchase big monitors.
3. Connect The Camera To Wi-Fi
To operate a Blink camera, you need to connect it to a Wi-Fi network. Blink can only support specific versions. Connectivity with three bars is optimal for a stable upload speed of images and alerts.
Click the + icon on the Blink app to add your Mini camera. Then, scan the QR code or type in the serial number found on the unit. Finally, find and join your network after you select "discover device." You can also move the camera to a different location or Wi-Fi network using the mobile app or Sync Module.
4. Enable Voice Control
Blink cameras are compatible with Alexa devices, allowing you to give voice commands for hands-free use. The Mini does not work with voice control systems like Siri and Google Assistant.
5. Allocate A Local Storage Device
As an alternative to cloud storage, allocate a USB flash drive exclusive to your video clips. This local storage allows you to store a large amount of data from your cameras.
6. Use An External Device
The Sync Module 2 is a coordinator for your Blink devices, whether you have a cloud or local storage. It has a Type-A port where you can insert a USB drive with 1GB to 256GB storage size. While the Sync Module improves battery life, it remains optional for Blink Mini and Video Doorbell.
7. Transfer Video Files Regularly
Unlike the automatic daily backup of cameras with a Blink subscription, you'll need to connect and safely eject the flash drive first to Sync Module 2 before moving saved files to your computer.
8. Plug In The Power Adapter
Blink Mini units are battery-powered and charged by connecting the cable with an AC adapter to the unit. But you won't have to do this frequently because its power capacity can last over a year or two.
You can get a new power cable extension if yours is broken or too short.
Click here to see this power cable extension on Amazon.
Is A Subscription Required To Use A Blink Mini Camera?
A Blink Mini camera subscription is optional, provided you only want the basic specs. Despite the low price tag of this smart device, you can still save money if you do not buy a recurring subscription plan.
What Can A Blink Mini Camera Do Without A Subscription?
What Are The Limitations Of A Blink Mini Camera With No Subscription?
Although Blink Mini cameras without a subscription are versatile tools you can rely on, the Blink Basic and Plus Plans offer a handful of features. These will enable you to maximize the device's capacity.
For $3 per month or $30 per year, the Basic Plan offers these benefits:
- 90-minute continuous live-view streaming
- Video recording of detected motions and live view
- Unlimited video history for up to 60 days
- Instant access to rapid video
- Video sharing
If you want premium service, subscribing to the Blink Plus Plan costs $10 per month or $100 per year. It gives you the following perks along with the Basic Plan inclusions:
- An unlimited number of devices supported in one account
- Discounted price on other Blink devices purchased through Amazon
- Extended warranty coverage
How To Save Motion Clips Without A Blink Subscription
To save motion clips for later viewing, you need a flash drive and Sync Module 2. Remember that you must purchase these devices separately.
The flash drive's storage capacity depends on the number of video clips you want to save. However, sizes beyond 256 GB are unrecognizable by Sync Module 2. The module supports USB 2.0 and USB 3.0.
If the content is near maximum capacity, you will get a reminder. The drive's file system will be reformatted into "exFAT" if incompatible.
Click here to see this 1-TB USB flash drive on Amazon.
Watch this video for a Blink app overview and a detailed tutorial on storing camera videos locally.
Which Blink Cameras Are Compatible With Local Storage?
The video captured by the XT2, XT, and Indoor (first generation) models are incompatible with local storage. Nonetheless, these older versions have the same features as if you paid for a plan.
You can only back up videos to a USB flash drive if your system has Sync Module 2. Blink Video Doorbell, Mini, Outdoor, and Indoor (second generation) cameras.
What To Do When You Can't Connect Your Blink Mini Camera
Here are some solutions for when you can't connect your Blink Mini camera to your Wi-Fi network or you experience recurring disconnection:
- Try another power outlet.
- Use a 5-volt or 1-Ampere power adapter.
- Change the cable.
- Make sure you have the correct password for the Wi-Fi network.
- Restart the Wi-Fi router.
- Remove and reconnect the camera from the Wi-Fi network.
- Check whether your router has a 2.4 GHz band, not 5 GHz.
- Transfer the camera location to prevent the router from blocking access.
- Determine the camera identifier. For instance, it can be "Generic Security Camera," "My Simple Link," or "Texas Instruments."
- Disable VPN temporarily during setup.
- Contact customer service if all else fails.
To solve other issues with this security system, explore Why Is My Blink Camera Cloudy? [And How To Fix It?].
Will Blink Mini Cameras Work With Another Blink System?
Do you have existing Blink cameras? You can easily integrate your Mini cameras with their system.
Press the reset button under the camera using a paper clip or mini screwdriver. Hold for over five seconds when you see a red light. You'll know that you successfully added the camera to your app when the light blinks blue.
How To Set Up Your Blink Subscription
If you want to try the one-month free trial or change your mind, here's a step-by-step procedure for setting up your Blink subscription. This applies to all Blink smart security devices.
- Download the Blink Home Monitor application on your mobile phone.
- Create an account and link it to your Amazon account.
- Select your preferred subscription plan.
- Explore the features available.
Remember, the subscription renews automatically every month or year unless you cancel it under your Amazon account Membership and Subscriptions tab.
What Happens To My Videos If I Cancel My Blink Subscription?
When the free trial expires, you have leeway for up to 60 days before the existing videos will be auto-deleted. The process is similar when you cancel the subscription. However, the timeframe may vary. You can access the video through the Blink application.
Final Thoughts
Thanks for reading! If you enjoyed this post, explore these articles about home security:
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