topic Re: Questions about merging a Q camera into a non-Q system in Buying Options & Tips

Questions about merging a Q camera into a non-Q system

Ricknau — Mon, 03 Oct 2016 04:29:32 GMT

I have an Arlo Wireless system with the base station and 4 cameras. If I buy an Arlo Q camera can it just become a 5th camera in that system, that is, can it be added to the existing account, link to the same base station, and be controlled along with the non-Q cameras from a single smart phone app? The app I use now for the non-Q cameras doesn't have the motion detection setup features of the Q model. I want to use the Q to trigger the other cameras.

I've only had the Arlo Wireless system for a week. Should I return it and get a kit that includes both types in the box?

Re: Questions about merging a Q camera into a non-Q system

jguerdat — Sun, 31 Jul 2016 12:08:43 GMT

You can almost get to where you want. The one fly in the ointment is that the Q cameras are each separate when it comes to controlling them, even between themselves. Thus, you can't use a Q to trigger the wireless cameras.

Re: Questions about merging a Q camera into a non-Q system

Ricknau — Sun, 31 Jul 2016 17:31:13 GMT

Arrgh! Well that's kills the whole purpose. I was hopeful based on this thread:

https://community.netgear.com/t5/Arlo-Q-Arlo-Q-Plus-Installation/Have-5-Arlo-s-adding-Arlo-Q-can-I-have-all-6-in-my-app/m-p/1035162#U1035162

That thread talks about combining multi-model components and using a Q as a trigger. -- "This allows customers to use the Arlo Q as an event (motion detection) based powered camera."

And of course the VMK3500 kit is 4 wire-less and 2 Qs so I'd have think it is possible, maybe requiring a VMK-3500 base station. Hence my last question-- should I (must I) I return the Arlo wire-less and buy the VMK3500 kit?

Edit: I can't find a user's manual for the VMK3500 so perhaps they do come as completly separate components from the Arlo wire-less system, as you are stating. If so they should state this clearly in their advertizing because it is an easy assumption that if they are sold in a package that they would function as a unit.

Re: Questions about merging a Q camera into a non-Q system

jguerdat — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 11:47:40 GMT

I suppose IFTTT could be a solution if you wanted to take it that far.

Re: Questions about merging a Q camera into a non-Q system

Ricknau — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 12:10:28 GMT

IF THIS from a Q, THEN THAT to a Wire-free? If possible then yes I would take it that far. This kind of setup could be a deal maker for a lot of potential buyers. I'm on the verge of returning my wire-free kit because of poor PIR detection outdoors. May do it anyway to exchange for the 3500 kit.

I get the impression from "take it that far" that the process might be fairly involved?

BTW, thanks for your involvement in these forums.

Re: Questions about merging a Q camera into a non-Q system

Ricknau — Mon, 01 Aug 2016 12:11:58 GMT

Re: Questions about merging a Q camera into a non-Q system

jguerdat — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 12:00:39 GMT

I have no Smart Home equipment to try IFTTT so I'm a poor resource for anything like this. I'd suggest a new thread specifically about this to see if someone who is actually using Arlo cameras with IFTTT have any suggestions.

Re: Questions about merging a Q camera into a non-Q system

Ricknau — Tue, 02 Aug 2016 15:37:51 GMT

Good idea. Think I'll do that.