How to Set Up Your Arlo Pro 5S 2K Spotlight Camera

What You Will Need

• Arlo Pro 5S 2K Spotlight Camera
• Arlo SmartHub or compatible base station
• Rechargeable battery (included)
• Magnetic mount and screws
• Smartphone with the Arlo app installed
• 2.4 GHz or 5 GHz WiFi network
• Drill and drill bits (for permanent mounting)

Step 1: Charge the Battery

Before mounting, fully charge the included rechargeable battery using the magnetic charging cable. The LED on the camera will glow solid green when fully charged. A full charge typically takes around three to four hours and provides several months of battery life depending on activity level.

Step 2: Download the Arlo App and Create an Account

Download the Arlo Secure App from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Open the app and create a new Arlo account, or sign in if you already have one. The app will guide you through the rest of the setup process.

Step 3: Connect Your SmartHub or Base Station

If you are using an Arlo SmartHub, connect it to your router with the included Ethernet cable and plug it into power. Wait for the LED on the front to turn solid green, which indicates it is online and ready. The Pro 5S can also connect directly to your WiFi router without a SmartHub, but using one provides a more stable connection and local storage options.

Step 4: Add the Camera in the Arlo App

1. Tap the Add New Device option on the home screen of the Arlo app.
2. Select Cameras and then choose Arlo Pro 5S 2K from the list.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts to scan the QR code on the bottom of the camera or on the quick start guide.
4. The app will search for the camera and pair it with your SmartHub or WiFi network.
5. When prompted, select your WiFi network and enter the password.

Wait for the camera LED to blink blue and then turn solid blue, confirming a successful connection. This process may take up to two minutes.

Step 5: Choose a Mounting Location

Select a location that provides a clear view of the area you want to monitor. The Pro 5S has a 160-degree diagonal field of view, so mounting it at a height of seven to ten feet is ideal. Ensure the location is within range of your SmartHub or WiFi router. The built-in spotlight works best when the camera is pointed toward a walkway or entry point.

Step 6: Mount the Camera

1. Hold the magnetic mount bracket against the wall or eave and mark the screw holes with a pencil.
2. Drill pilot holes and secure the mount plate with the included screws and wall anchors.
3. Attach the camera to the magnetic mount. The strong magnet allows easy adjustment of the viewing angle.
4. Open the Arlo app and check the live view to fine-tune the camera position.

Step 7: Configure Detection Settings

In the Arlo app, navigate to the camera settings to customize your experience. Enable or disable the spotlight, adjust motion sensitivity, and set up activity zones to reduce false alerts. If you have an Arlo Secure subscription, you can also enable person, vehicle, animal, and package detection for smarter notifications.

Tips for Best Performance

• Avoid pointing the camera directly at strong light sources, as this can wash out the image.
• Keep the camera firmware updated through the Arlo app for the latest features and security patches.
• If battery life is a concern, consider adding the Arlo Solar Panel for continuous charging.
• Test the two-way audio after setup to make sure the microphone and speaker are working properly.