Have you ever wondered how to connect all your security cameras and gadgets like doorbells into one system? Maybe you worry that if one camera stops working, your whole security setup won’t do its job. Or perhaps you have multiple cameras and wish you could see all of them in one place. Well, if any of these questions sound like something you’ve wondered about, then you’re in luck because we’re going to talk about the Blink Sync Module 2.
Meet the Blink Sync Module 2
So, the Blink Sync Module 2 is like the big boss of all your Blink cameras, doorbells, and home security stuff. It’s a small device that does a really important job. What it does is it connects all your cameras to one special place on the internet, which is called an IP address. Think of it like having one remote control for all your devices instead of a bunch of different ones.
Why It’s Cool
Now, here’s the cool part. You can even plug in a USB flash drive to the Blink Sync Module 2. This flash drive acts like a mini computer brain and can store your videos. How much it can store depends on how big your flash drive is. So, if you have a lot of videos to save, you can get a big flash drive, and if you just have a few, a smaller one will do.
What’s New?
Guess what? There’s an even newer and better version called the Blink Add-on Sync Module 2. It came out on January 28th, 2021. When you open the box, you’ll find the Blink Sync 2 module, a special power supply that goes on the wall, a cable that looks like it has a regular USB on one side and a tiny one on the other (that’s called Micro-USB), and a little booklet with instructions to help you set it up.
So, that’s the Blink Sync Module 2, making your security cameras and gadgets work together like a team!
Do I Need a Blink Subscription with a Sync Module?
Hey there! So, here’s the deal: If you want to save your video clips to the cloud, you’ll need to get a subscription to Blink’s cloud storage plan. It costs $10 a month, but I promise you, it’s totally worth it!
Now, if you don’t want to subscribe, that’s okay too. Your Blink Sync Module will still work, but there’s a little twist. You’ll need to have a USB stick plugged into the module to save your videos.
How to Access Blink’s Cloud Storage
To get to your cloud storage, you’ll use the Blink app. Just open the app and tap on the little cloud icon you see on the home screen.
Blink Sync Module 1 vs. 2: What’s the Difference?
Okay, let’s talk about the Sync Modules. Last year, they came out with version two, and it’s a real upgrade, like, “Wow!” They made a few changes to make it even better. Now, both modules can handle up to 10 cameras, but there are some key differences between the two. So, what’s the scoop on Sync Module 1 and 2? What makes them different?
- Module 2 is faster and snappier. It responds quicker when you want to see your camera footage.
- Module 2 has a cool feature: it lets you plug in a USB flash drive. That means you can save your videos right on that flash drive. Super handy, right?
So, that’s the lowdown on Blink Sync Modules 1 and 2. They help keep your cameras running smoothly, whether you go for the subscription or not!
Do You Need a Sync Module for Blink Doorbell, Outdoor Camera, Indoor Camera, or Blink Mini?
Hey, let’s clear this up! Do you have a Blink doorbell, outdoor camera, indoor camera, or Blink Mini? Well, the good news is, you don’t absolutely need a Sync Module for them to work. Technically, they can do their thing without it. But hang on, there are some cool things a Sync Module can do for you.
Benefits of a Sync Module
So, why might you want one? First off, it makes things super simple. Instead of dealing with a bunch of different addresses for each camera and setting them up one by one, you only have to worry about one address with the Sync Module. Easy, right?
Secondly, the Sync Module can make your cameras work faster. It helps send all that camera data to your phone, tablet, or computer quicker than just relying on your regular Wi-Fi connection. This goes for all Blink security cameras, like the Blink Mini, XT2 outdoor cameras, video doorbell cameras, and more.
Setting Up Blink Sync Module 2
Now, if you decide to get a Sync Module, setting it up is a breeze. But before you start, keep these things in mind:
- Module Placement: It’s best to put your Sync Module somewhere that’s about the same distance from all your cameras. It doesn’t have to be exact, but the closer you can get, the better.
- Range: The Sync Module can reach up to about 100 feet. If you place it close to your Wi-Fi router, it can help extend that distance. So if you need to put a camera far away, like on the other side of your house, it might not be the best choice.
Adding a Blink Camera to Sync Module
Okay, you’ve got your Sync Module all set up, and now you want to add a camera to it. Here’s how you do it:
- Get the Blink app and install it on your device (whether it’s an iPhone or Android).
- Tap the plus sign to add a new device.
- Choose the specific device you want to install (like a wireless camera, mini camera, video doorbell, etc.).
- Authorize the device to access your camera by scanning a QR code.
- Name your device something unique.
- Plug in your Sync Module and wait for the lights to show up (you’ll see a blinking blue and a solid green light).
- When the lights are on, tap “Discover Device.”
- Connect your device to Wi-Fi.
- Once you’re connected, tap “Done.”
Using 2 Blink Sync Modules
Got lots of cameras and need even more space? No worries! You can add a second Sync Module to your setup. It’s like adding a new friend to your crew. Just follow the same steps you did for the first one, and you’re good to go!
Moving a Blink Camera to a Different System
Moving a Blink camera from one Sync Module to another is a piece of cake. Just delete it from the old module and add it to the new one.
How Far Can a Blink Camera Be from a Sync Module?
The Blink Sync Module can reach up to 100 feet. If you need more range, you can use a Wi-Fi extender, but for most folks, 100 feet is plenty.
Deleting a Blink Sync Module
If you don’t need a Sync Module anymore, you can quickly delete it from your system. Open the Blink app, go to settings, find the Sync Module, and hit “Delete Sync Module.”
Best Location for the Blink Sync Module
The best spot for your Sync Module is somewhere central with a good Wi-Fi signal. Many folks like to keep it right next to their internet router. Easy peasy!
How Many Blink Sync Modules Do You Need?
Let’s make this super easy to understand! How many Blink Sync Modules do you need? Well, it’s as simple as this: you need one Sync Module for every group of 10 cameras you want to set up.
So, here’s a quick breakdown:
- If you’re planning to set up 6 cameras around your home, you’ll need one module.
- But if you’re going big with 11 to 20 cameras, you’re going to need two modules.
How to Reset a Blink Sync Module
Sometimes, things might not go as planned, and you need to reset your Sync Module. No worries, here’s how you do it:
- Unplug the Sync Module from the power source.
- Plug it back in. That should reset it and hopefully fix any issues you were facing.
Now, if this simple unplug-and-plug trick doesn’t work, there’s another way. You can use the reset button. Find it next to the USB port for the flash drive on the module. You’ll need a paper clip to press it. Hold it down for about 5 seconds, and you should see a red flashing light, followed by blue flashing lights, and then a solid green light. That means it’s reset and ready to go!
Blink Sync Module Light Meanings
Here’s a quick cheat sheet for understanding the lights on your Blink Sync Module:
- Solid Red Light: This means there’s no internet connection. Check your router to make sure it’s connected to the internet.
- Blinking Green Light: If your module is flashing green, it means you’re not properly connected to the internet. You might want to check out our guide on what to do when it’s blinking green.
- Blinking Blue Light: If you see this, it means the camera is connected, but the connection isn’t strong. Maybe the camera is too far away from the module.
- Solid Blue Light Only: This means your device has been reset and is ready to connect to your network.
- No Lights: If there are no lights at all, it means there’s no power. Just plug it in!
Best USB Flash Drive for Blink Sync Module USB Port
If you’re using a USB flash drive with your Sync Module, here’s a recommendation:
The SanDisk 256GB Ultra Flair USB 3.0 Flash Drive. It’s super speedy with transfer speeds up to 150MB/s, which means you won’t have to wait long for files to transfer. Plus, it’s tough with a metal casing that can handle bumps and knocks. It even comes with password protection for added security. This USB 3.0 connector is perfect for fast and reliable data transfers.
Troubleshooting
Here are some common issues and how to fix them:
- IP Conflict: If your camera goes offline because of an IP conflict, try turning everything off and on again, restarting your router, and unplugging and plugging in your devices. Sometimes, a little reset does the trick!
- Blink Camera Won’t Connect to Sync Module: If your camera or devices aren’t connecting, give them a reset by unplugging and plugging them back in. If that doesn’t work, try moving them closer together. If that still doesn’t do it, consider using a different Wi-Fi network.
- Keeps Going Offline: If your module keeps dropping off the internet, make sure it’s close enough to the router. If not, you might want to try disconnecting and reconnecting to your Wi-Fi network through the module.
- Already Registered to a Different Account: If your Sync Module is already registered to another account, you’ll need to contact support for help. They can guide you through the process of resolving this issue.
- Won’t Reset with the Reset Button: If the reset button isn’t working, your best option is to unplug and plug the module back in.
- Blink Camera to Sync Module Signal Is Weak: If you’re having trouble with a weak connection, try moving your camera closer to the router. If that doesn’t help, consider using a different Wi-Fi network.
- Blink Sync Module Data Is Bad: If your videos or data seem messed up, it might be due to a poor internet connection. Check your internet connection and try moving closer to the router. If you’re using a flash drive, consider switching it out for a different one.
Conclusion: A Smart Choice for Home Security
If you’re on the hunt for a reliable home security system that won’t break the bank, you’re in luck! Ensuring the safety of your home and loved ones is a top concern for folks like us, right? And let’s not forget the sweet satisfaction of snagging a great deal. Well, the Blink Sync Module 2, paired with its wireless camera options, is the real deal when it comes to affordability and dependability. Take my word for it, you won’t want to miss out on exploring what it has to offer!
