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

[Ricknau]

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?

[jguerdat · Accepted solution]

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.

[Ricknau]

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-h...

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.

[jguerdat]

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

[Ricknau]

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.

[jguerdat]

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.

[Ricknau]

Good idea. Think I'll do that.