Can I use only the local storage with Arlo Go and turn off (or never activate) cellular?

[TraneTrax]

We want to monitor the jobsite where our new house is being built. There is no power or wi-fi.

My plan is to mount the Arlo Go to a tree overlooking the site and our storage trailer, and use the local storage to capture activity. Then if anything happens (namely, theft of tools or materials), I can review the locally-stored video later.

We do NOT need live-streaming or cloud storage (nor do I want to pay for those).

Can the Arlo Go be used in this way, with the cellular connection either turned off or never activated? I think it has to be activated initially to setup the camera, but then I don't want it using any cellular data.

[TomMac]

It would do what you want and record to the local mem card, but to the best of my knowledge you would need to at least sign up for the min amount of data plan...

Remember without a data plan you would have no control over the commands and scheduling.

I think a small expense for what you may save is worth it... like insurance.

[TraneTrax]

But if I use the data plan, can I limit what the camera sends so as not to go over and get bumped to a higher plan (assuming that's how it works)? I understand it's motion-activated. But there will be lots of motion every day at the site.

[TomMac · Accepted solution]

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TraneTrax wrote:

But if I use the data plan, can I limit what the camera sends so as not to go over and get bumped to a higher plan (assuming that's how it works)? I understand it's motion-activated. But there will be lots of motion every day at the site.

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TMK, you must use a data plan... how much data is adjustable to a degree by limiting to after hours or scheduling by you.( for the camera to be active )

There is not much else you can do as any motion recorded will go to the cloud and the mem card at the same time..and that involves data usage

Not to steer you away from buying a Netgear product, but have you looked at game cameras ?

( I rather you be happy than buy a product only to find it doesn't suit your needs )

[TraneTrax]

Thanks for your help. It turns out through Verizon I can get the Go for $349 with a 2-yr contract, at $20/month for the access fee, and it can use my existing data plan (which is 12GB, so plenty). I think that's the way to go.

[TomMac]

good to hear