I can't hardly believe the cam is only held on by a magnetic. It seems it can stolen. They can use something like a light bulb remover, etc. & just wear a mask. 😮😢
The only way I know of would be to cast / airplay from your device to the TV. I don’t know of any native SimpliSafe app that would work on the TV. If anyone else does, or has found a way to do this, please share!
With the provided magnetic mount, yes. Which is why I mounted it up high and out of sight. However there are multiple screw in hard mounts available that would provide more security. Hope that helps!
Thanks. Had some trouble with mine connecting to wifi. Set it down came back to it a few days late and it synced. Orbi was finicking with it but it works well. Your tips were helpful.
Just checking out your SimpliSafe exterior camera install, plan to add them to my current SS system. I could help but notice that it looks like you have spray foam insulation that covers your soffit ventilation… is this causing any issues for you? Just curious…
Do you mean in general or with regard to the install? In either case, no. The spray foam inside the attic doesn’t actually reach all the way down to the soffit; there is still an air gap above the soffit.
Thanks Juan! Everyone’s experience may vary, but in my case, I’ve found that the notification comes through almost instantly. That said, it usually takes about 5 secs for the video to load once I click the notification and open the app. Hope that helps!
I actually just installed a second camera in my backyard using the solar panel as the power source. I’m still working to get panel oriented properly for max sun exposure. I’ll let you know how it works out!
I just got my simplisafe kit, and I didn't know the outdoor cameras were magnetic. It would be nice if they had some kind of tether in case someone tried stealing it or if something were to hit it. The magnet seems pretty strong however
Great video! There are several Simplisafe camera videos on setup / reviews, but there are NONE on how to retrieve video footage etc. That would make for a great new video, and you would be the only one!
Bro! Great video. No offense intended, but you may want to get your fingernails checked out. It looks like Koilonychia. It’s also called “spooning.” It's when your fingernails have raised ridges and scoop outward. Spooning can be a sign that you might have an iron deficiency anemia; heart disease; hemochromatosis, a liver disorder that causes too much iron to be absorbed from food; lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation; hypothyroidism or Raynaud’s disease, a condition that limits your blood circulation. Just trying to help. Keep the awesome videos coming 👍.
Short answer, yes. The camera has to tie into a new or existing SimpliSafe system which includes the base station. It won’t work as a stand alone device.
That is one area I wish they would improve. From the time I get a motion alert, it takes about the same (8-10 seconds) before the video is live. A lot can happen in 8-10 seconds…
Would like to see if the solar panel works just as well as the full electric . Would you consider using the panel for say 2 months and give us any feedback / differences
Per the SimpliSafe website outdoor camera trouble shooting guide "If the Camera is mounted upside down, you will still be able to detect motion but within 15 feet instead of 30. For best results, ensure that the camera is angled down by 30 degrees, facing the Camera towards entry/exit points on your property. " Since you mounted you camera upside down, you cut down on your motion detection range. You may need to remount using one of the Wasserstein Adjustable Mounts that they sell.
Now that the SimpliSafe wireless outdoor camera is here, I'm wondering if it's even worthwhile getting the doorbell camera. If the wireless outdoor camera has motion detection, a microphone and speaker, etc., would it not be better to have that than the doorbell camera? Would be interested to hear your thoughts on this, if you have any. I'm looking to set up my first SimpliSafe system, so I'm looking at all my available options.
Hey Meadmaker, I think the only advantage you’d have with the doorbell camera is getting the alerts if someone actually rings the doorbell. I don’t have the SimpliSafe doorbell camera since my home already had a Ring camera when I bought it. There is a level of convenience that comes with the doorbell cam, but you’ll have to determine if the cost of that convenience is worth it for you. Hope that helps!
@@howtobuildalife2208 - Thanks for that. I've purchased and installed my SimpliSafe system, and I went with the doorbell cam to replace my existing Ring doorbell cam. So far, the SimpliSafe doorbell cam is significantly better than the ring, so I'm pretty happy with it, and with the rest of the SimpliSafe system.
@@howtobuildalife2208 gotcha, not sure where you live, as far as climate, but yeah, I would pull that Soffit down, tear out that insulation, so air can flow up the rafters and out the gable. If any moisture builds up in there your asking for a rot issue.
I still have the solar panel but I have not used it for an install yet. Planning to add another camera behind the house soon with solar as the power source. It connects the same way the a/c power cord does, so no difference there. The biggest concern is positioning the panel so that it gets the maximum solar exposure during daylight hours. That will keep the internal battery topped off during the night or on cloudy days.
Agreed SimpliSafe system is easy to install. It's a good monitoring system but for the poor quality of their video doorbell camera from internet connectivity standpoint. I did purchase it along with the Video Doorbell Camera but the camera goes offline (no live stream) with a message 'Disconnected from the internet.' SimpliSafe attributed it to my poor Wi-Fi network when in fact I have 5 GHz-600 MBS speed bandwith along with six Google Nest Wi-Fi routers. When I complained to SimpliSafe, they asked me to the split the Wi-Fi network into 2.4ghz and 5ghz since SimpliSafe doorbell camera works only with 2.4ghz bandwith (this they do NOT say anywhere). I did the split and connected the SimpliSafe doorbell camera to 2.4ghz Wi-Fi network but in vain. The camera went offline as ever before. They sent me a replacement camera which too had the same 'going offline every 2-3 minutes' issue. I repeatedly called SimpliSafe and asked for a good solution. They had the cheek to say I should move my internet router (which is about 10 feet away from the doorbell camera) closer to the doorbell camera. That was the last straw that broke the camel's back and I canceled my subscription service. While the rest of the SimpliSafe system works, the doorbell camera does not since it's outdated. Today's doorbell cameras support dual bandwith (2.4ghz and 5ghz) and SimpliSafe lags behind, thanks to their outdated technology. I am currently using the SimpliSafe doorbell camera without the video recording feature from the web interface (smart app disabled due to my monthly subscription cancelation) though the the camera goes offline every 2-3 minutes but then I am not paying $27.99 for the poor quality of the camera. I can't return the equipment since I am past the product return window.
@@5-minute-witness356 it takes so long to wake and record it actually missed several instances a person walked in my side yard. We even tested it and found it useless. The delay is bad and the camera itself was very clunky. Using it assuming its making you or your home more secure could cost you your life.
The issue with putting the camera out of reach or too high up is that it would be easier for the criminals to conceal their faces with a hoodie or cap, lowering the camera gives you a longer range. I'd rather have my camera stolen that have a camera that is useless when it comes to facial recognition imho.
That’s interesting, I don’t remember reading that. I can tell you from my experience that it easily picks up motion far down the driveway (at least 20-25’ away). I do have it set on the highest sensitivity.
Flipping the camera does reduce the range of the motion detection. SimpliSafe sells a mounting bracket now for the outside camera that would enable you to just mount to the brick as he had originally planned. It's under $10.
The magnetic mount is very strong. It hasn’t moved at all since I’ve mounted it. I didn’t mention it in the video, there is a female threaded hole on the bottom of the camera housing. I haven’t looked, but I would assume there are aftermarket mounts available that would work if you want something more permanent.
If you don't want critical comments then you really don't want to know how to improve your video! I'm only responding because you stated your starting a channel. Also gave a thumbs up because for a first time video you did really well. Here's a few suggestions: 1. Short and precise, no love letters. No one wants to watch someone pulling insulation from hole in wall, drilling holes etc. Just say, this is what I did and used or at least fast speed video. Remember your own likes and dislikes when you're watching videos; try the "short and sweet" method. (sweet=informative). I believe the number of views will increase dramatically and put a little money in your pocket. 2. Take notes on your OWN thoughts about a product you just received and opened and write them down as you go. There probably the same thing others are curious about (likes/dislikes, what's that for, that's pretty lame, "A MAGNET" what were they thinking?, I wonder what this screw hole is for?) You get the idea! 3. If you want to make a little cash from referrals, list in your description (multiple) links to buy the products your using or installing. While I was being nosey, I looked at the products in your garage (1 example: gallon jug of wood glue) you like to do wood work? Your garage is well organized so maybe we'll see similar project videos. Anyway I could go on but I'm busy and maybe by stopping now, I'LL GET less thumbs down. Have a good day and make more videos. PS: Remember to keep your video's up to date as things are changing fast and that also will increase views.
Thank you for the feedback and detailed genuine suggestions. I really appreciate the support and advice and will take them on as I move the channel forward!
Good video. I'm due to upgrade my Gen1 Simplisafe system and it looks like the outdoor camera reviews are generally pretty good. Looks like you live in God's Country. Love the trees.
Thank you! We’re in NW Florida and love the area. If you’re going to upgrade to the Gen 3 anyway, the outdoor camera makes a great addition. If you want to stick with the original system, you could always add a Nest indoor/outdoor camera. The downsides are 1) you have to switch between apps and 2) SimpliSafe’s monitoring service won’t be able to access your camera feed in the event of an alarm.
I can't hardly believe the cam is only held on by a magnetic. It seems it can stolen. They can use something like a light bulb remover, etc. & just wear a mask. 😮😢
Question: is it possible to get a video feed to a large tv screen?
The only way I know of would be to cast / airplay from your device to the TV. I don’t know of any native SimpliSafe app that would work on the TV. If anyone else does, or has found a way to do this, please share!
Takes a full 6 hours to completely charge.
From Simplisafe: When fully charged, the battery is designed to last for up to 3 - 6 months. Thanks for this vid
Sorry the silly question…can someone just pull the magnet and steal it so easily?
With the provided magnetic mount, yes. Which is why I mounted it up high and out of sight. However there are multiple screw in hard mounts available that would provide more security. Hope that helps!
Thanks for your installation video! Just got my system and this was a lot of help! Thanks again!
Thanks. Had some trouble with mine connecting to wifi. Set it down came back to it a few days late and it synced. Orbi was finicking with it but it works well. Your tips were helpful.
Mines won’t connect to wifi
Just checking out your SimpliSafe exterior camera install, plan to add them to my current SS system. I could help but notice that it looks like you have spray foam insulation that covers your soffit ventilation… is this causing any issues for you? Just curious…
Do you mean in general or with regard to the install? In either case, no. The spray foam inside the attic doesn’t actually reach all the way down to the soffit; there is still an air gap above the soffit.
Excellent video. I have one question: how long it takes from the motion detection until you receive a push notification in your phone?
Thanks Juan! Everyone’s experience may vary, but in my case, I’ve found that the notification comes through almost instantly. That said, it usually takes about 5 secs for the video to load once I click the notification and open the app. Hope that helps!
you're an idiot if you ever install anything connected to the web as your doorbell, thermostat, camera's or any smart item.
Easy set up/Will want minimum subscription
Great vid. Thank you!
Would love to see a follow up video about this camera. How is it working? Are you satisfied with the performance? Thanks
I actually just installed a second camera in my backyard using the solar panel as the power source. I’m still working to get panel oriented properly for max sun exposure. I’ll let you know how it works out!
Wonder how good they are in cold and snowy Temps
I just got my simplisafe kit, and I didn't know the outdoor cameras were magnetic. It would be nice if they had some kind of tether in case someone tried stealing it or if something were to hit it. The magnet seems pretty strong however
Great video! There are several Simplisafe camera videos on setup / reviews, but there are NONE on how to retrieve video footage etc. That would make for a great new video, and you would be the only one!
You should use some tie straps to strap the plugs to the electrical box in the Attic.
Bro! Great video. No offense intended, but you may want to get your fingernails checked out. It looks like Koilonychia. It’s also called “spooning.” It's when your fingernails have raised ridges and scoop outward. Spooning can be a sign that you might have an iron deficiency anemia; heart disease; hemochromatosis, a liver disorder that causes too much iron to be absorbed from food; lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune disorder that causes inflammation; hypothyroidism or Raynaud’s disease, a condition that limits your blood circulation. Just trying to help. Keep the awesome videos coming 👍.
Do you need a base station for the camera to work?
Short answer, yes. The camera has to tie into a new or existing SimpliSafe system which includes the base station. It won’t work as a stand alone device.
Looking to get this system for my new home. New Subbie here!!!!
How long does it take to connect to Live view? I just bought 3 Blink cameras but it takes 8-10 seconds, which is no bueno.
That is one area I wish they would improve. From the time I get a motion alert, it takes about the same (8-10 seconds) before the video is live. A lot can happen in 8-10 seconds…
All companies need to start offering more colors for the housing. Have to buy covers to mount on trees and blend in. At least a flat black option.
Would like to see if the solar panel works just as well as the full electric . Would you consider using the panel for say 2 months and give us any feedback / differences
Excellent tutorial
Great video brother! Thank you sir
FYI: SimpliSafe also makes a permanent style outdoor camera bracket.
Per the SimpliSafe website outdoor camera trouble shooting guide "If the Camera is mounted upside down, you will still be able to detect motion but within 15 feet instead of 30. For best results, ensure that the camera is angled down by 30 degrees, facing the Camera towards entry/exit points on your property. " Since you mounted you camera upside down, you cut down on your motion detection range. You may need to remount using one of the Wasserstein Adjustable Mounts that they sell.
Good idea, but I've seen hard mounts that have better range than the ones that simplisafe sells. Matter of opinion and taste though.
The wasserstein mount is garbage, could never get it to tighten fully.
Great video! I'm looking for some more DIY home improvement videos because I would like to learn how to build a life!
Now that the SimpliSafe wireless outdoor camera is here, I'm wondering if it's even worthwhile getting the doorbell camera. If the wireless outdoor camera has motion detection, a microphone and speaker, etc., would it not be better to have that than the doorbell camera? Would be interested to hear your thoughts on this, if you have any. I'm looking to set up my first SimpliSafe system, so I'm looking at all my available options.
Hey Meadmaker, I think the only advantage you’d have with the doorbell camera is getting the alerts if someone actually rings the doorbell. I don’t have the SimpliSafe doorbell camera since my home already had a Ring camera when I bought it. There is a level of convenience that comes with the doorbell cam, but you’ll have to determine if the cost of that convenience is worth it for you. Hope that helps!
@@howtobuildalife2208 - Thanks for that. I've purchased and installed my SimpliSafe system, and I went with the doorbell cam to replace my existing Ring doorbell cam. So far, the SimpliSafe doorbell cam is significantly better than the ring, so I'm pretty happy with it, and with the rest of the SimpliSafe system.
Why do you have vented Soffit covered with spray in insulation? The point of the Soffit is to force air through your attic and out the ridge.
Good question; we didn’t build the house. It was like that when we bought it.
@@howtobuildalife2208 gotcha, not sure where you live, as far as climate, but yeah, I would pull that Soffit down, tear out that insulation, so air can flow up the rafters and out the gable. If any moisture builds up in there your asking for a rot issue.
great video. I am planning to purchase one. I would like to use the solar panel - is that hard to install ?
I still have the solar panel but I have not used it for an install yet. Planning to add another camera behind the house soon with solar as the power source. It connects the same way the a/c power cord does, so no difference there. The biggest concern is positioning the panel so that it gets the maximum solar exposure during daylight hours. That will keep the internal battery topped off during the night or on cloudy days.
Great walkthrough just purchased a Simplisafe kit after our car was broken into. Thanks!!
How do you like your simply safe alarm
Agreed SimpliSafe system is easy to install. It's a good monitoring system but for the poor quality of their video doorbell camera from internet connectivity standpoint. I did purchase it along with the Video Doorbell Camera but the camera goes offline (no live stream) with a message 'Disconnected from the internet.' SimpliSafe attributed it to my poor Wi-Fi network when in fact I have 5 GHz-600 MBS speed bandwith along with six Google Nest Wi-Fi routers. When I complained to SimpliSafe, they asked me to the split the Wi-Fi network into 2.4ghz and 5ghz since SimpliSafe doorbell camera works only with 2.4ghz bandwith (this they do NOT say anywhere). I did the split and connected the SimpliSafe doorbell camera to 2.4ghz Wi-Fi network but in vain. The camera went offline as ever before. They sent me a replacement camera which too had the same 'going offline every 2-3 minutes' issue. I repeatedly called SimpliSafe and asked for a good solution. They had the cheek to say I should move my internet router (which is about 10 feet away from the doorbell camera) closer to the doorbell camera. That was the last straw that broke the camel's back and I canceled my subscription service. While the rest of the SimpliSafe system works, the doorbell camera does not since it's outdated. Today's doorbell cameras support dual bandwith (2.4ghz and 5ghz) and SimpliSafe lags behind, thanks to their outdated technology. I am currently using the SimpliSafe doorbell camera without the video recording feature from the web interface (smart app disabled due to my monthly subscription cancelation) though the the camera goes offline every 2-3 minutes but then I am not paying $27.99 for the poor quality of the camera. I can't return the equipment since I am past the product return window.
This camera was a major disappointment.
I came to this video wondering how it worked for others. Would you say a little more about why the outdoor camera was disappointing?
@@5-minute-witness356 it takes so long to wake and record it actually missed several instances a person walked in my side yard. We even tested it and found it useless. The delay is bad and the camera itself was very clunky. Using it assuming its making you or your home more secure could cost you your life.
@@Burritosarebetterthantacos Many thanks!! Missing people walking around is a huge problem!!! Is there a different system you would recommend?
@@5-minute-witness356 I still use the indoor cameras with the outdoor kit and they are fine.
@@Burritosarebetterthantacos thank you!
Extremely professional, well done
The issue with putting the camera out of reach or too high up is that it would be easier for the criminals to conceal their faces with a hoodie or cap, lowering the camera gives you a longer range. I'd rather have my camera stolen that have a camera that is useless when it comes to facial recognition imho.
Installing with the solar panel is the way to go. Don’t put away the ladder until you have verified charging is occurring
It's hard wired in, don't even need the battery.
One of Simplisafe's installation guides says if you flip it upside down, it can only detect motion at 15 feet instead of the usual 30 feet.
That’s interesting, I don’t remember reading that. I can tell you from my experience that it easily picks up motion far down the driveway (at least 20-25’ away). I do have it set on the highest sensitivity.
Flipping the camera does reduce the range of the motion detection. SimpliSafe sells a mounting bracket now for the outside camera that would enable you to just mount to the brick as he had originally planned. It's under $10.
Good editing, left enough meat on the bone to learn but not waste time.
Nice video, nicely stocked garage, horrifying trapeze outlet in your attic 😂
Agreed! Not sure why they installed it like that, but it came in handy for this project!
How strong is the magnet to hold the camera? I wish they come out with permanent mount instead
The magnetic mount is very strong. It hasn’t moved at all since I’ve mounted it. I didn’t mention it in the video, there is a female threaded hole on the bottom of the camera housing. I haven’t looked, but I would assume there are aftermarket mounts available that would work if you want something more permanent.
@@howtobuildalife2208 There is now a permanent mount available.
If you don't want critical comments then you really don't want to know how to improve your video! I'm only responding because you stated your starting a channel. Also gave a thumbs up because for a first time video you did really well. Here's a few suggestions: 1. Short and precise, no love letters. No one wants to watch someone pulling insulation from hole in wall, drilling holes etc. Just say, this is what I did and used or at least fast speed video. Remember your own likes and dislikes when you're watching videos; try the "short and sweet" method. (sweet=informative). I believe the number of views will increase dramatically and put a little money in your pocket. 2. Take notes on your OWN thoughts about a product you just received and opened and write them down as you go. There probably the same thing others are curious about (likes/dislikes, what's that for, that's pretty lame, "A MAGNET" what were they thinking?, I wonder what this screw hole is for?) You get the idea! 3. If you want to make a little cash from referrals, list in your description (multiple) links to buy the products your using or installing. While I was being nosey, I looked at the products in your garage (1 example: gallon jug of wood glue) you like to do wood work? Your garage is well organized so maybe we'll see similar project videos. Anyway I could go on but I'm busy and maybe by stopping now, I'LL GET less thumbs down. Have a good day and make more videos. PS: Remember to keep your video's up to date as things are changing fast and that also will increase views.
Thank you for the feedback and detailed genuine suggestions. I really appreciate the support and advice and will take them on as I move the channel forward!
@Not Given Everyone's a freakin' critic! And a F-ing know it all! The video was fine! Shut up!
Cool video!
Good video. I'm due to upgrade my Gen1 Simplisafe system and it looks like the outdoor camera reviews are generally pretty good. Looks like you live in God's Country. Love the trees.
Thank you! We’re in NW Florida and love the area. If you’re going to upgrade to the Gen 3 anyway, the outdoor camera makes a great addition. If you want to stick with the original system, you could always add a Nest indoor/outdoor camera. The downsides are 1) you have to switch between apps and 2) SimpliSafe’s monitoring service won’t be able to access your camera feed in the event of an alarm.
Well done! Very informative and articulate. I’m excited to see more videos.
Thank you! I look forward to putting more out soon!
Love the look. Excited to see more about how to build my life. Thanks John!