VMB4000r3 System

[basskicker1]

I already have 5 cameras and want to add more. Can I or do I need to add a new additional system and if so, which?

[StephenB]

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@basskicker1 wrote:

I already have 5 cameras and want to add more. Can I or do I need to add a new additional system and if so, which?

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It depends on what cameras you purchase and whether you are also planning to get a subscription.

1. There is a limit of 5 unsubscribed cameras per account to get the free 7-day cloud storage for your Pro 2 cameras.
2. In addition, a base station can only handle 5 simultaneous streams.

If you are planning to get a subscription, then you can get Essential or Pro 5s cameras and add them directly to your home wifi.   If you want Ultras, they will need to be connected to a hub.  You can pair them with the existing hub (keeping in mind the 5 simultaneous stream limit) or purchase a smarthub (VMB4540 or VMB5000) for the new cameras.

If you aren't willing to get a subscription, then you will need to set up a new account for the new cameras, and share the cameras from your existing account using the "friend" account feature.  That will preserve your 7-day storage for your old cameras.

You will also need to get one of the smarthubs if you want to see recordings w/o a subscription.  Then use the direct access to local storage feature to see the recordings.  Essential, Pro 5s and Ultra models can all be paired with a smarthub.  You'd also need to get storage for the smarthub (a microSD card for the VMB5000; a usb thumb drive for the VMB4540).  128-512 GB will work - no need for more than that.

• https://kb.arlo.com/000062997

The limitations with local storage include

1. recordings can only be viewed using the app - not in your browser ( my.arlo.com)
2. recordings can only be viewed from the primary account - not "friend" accounts. 
3. there are no thumbnails - you need to download the recording to your phone before you see anything.
4. there is no ability to make manual recordings or take snapshots.
5. remote access requires router setting changes that many find difficult and which don't work with some internet service providers.

Note that you can work around (2) by sharing the cameras in your current account with the new one, and then use the new one on your phone.