How to Set Up Your LIFX Nightvision A19 Infrared Bulb

What's in the Box

Your LIFX Nightvision A19 Infrared Bulb package includes the bulb and a quick-start card. This unique bulb combines standard visible light with infrared LEDs, making it dual-purpose: it serves as a regular smart light during the day and provides invisible infrared illumination at night for security cameras. It uses a standard E26 base and connects directly to WiFi without any hub. The infrared mode is invisible to the human eye but dramatically improves night vision camera footage.

Prerequisites

The LIFX Nightvision works best when positioned near a security camera that supports night vision or infrared sensing. Install it in a fixture with a standard E26 socket, ideally in a porch light, garage, or hallway where camera coverage is important. The controlling light switch must remain on at all times. Your WiFi network must operate on 2.4GHz. Download the LIFX app and create an account before installation. Plan the bulb's placement to complement your security camera's field of view for maximum night vision benefit.

Step-by-Step Setup

1. Turn off the light switch for the target fixture.
2. Screw the LIFX Nightvision into the E26 socket. Position the bulb so the infrared LEDs have a clear line of sight to the area your security camera monitors.
3. Turn the switch back on. The bulb will enter pairing mode with a visible light display.
4. Open the LIFX app and tap "Add Device" or the "+" icon.
5. Select the Nightvision bulb when it appears in the discovered devices list.
6. Enter your 2.4GHz WiFi credentials to connect the bulb to your network.
7. Name the bulb based on its location, such as "Front Porch NV" or "Garage Camera Light."
8. Test both visible light mode and infrared-only mode through the app. In infrared mode, the bulb appears off to humans but provides illumination visible to cameras.

Configuring Infrared and Visible Light Modes

The Nightvision bulb has two key modes. In standard mode, it functions like any LIFX color bulb with full RGB colors and white temperature control. In infrared mode, the visible LEDs turn off and only the infrared LEDs emit light, which is invisible to the human eye but enhances your security camera's night vision range significantly. Use the LIFX app to schedule automatic switching between modes, such as visible light from sunset to 11 PM, then infrared-only until sunrise. You can also adjust the infrared intensity in the app. For outdoor cameras, maximum infrared output improves visibility at greater distances.

Smart Home Integration Tips

The LIFX Nightvision works with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. Create automations that coordinate the bulb with your security system. For example, use IFTTT to switch the bulb to infrared mode when your security camera detects motion at night, or use a HomeKit automation to activate infrared when the last person leaves home. With Alexa routines, you can say "Alexa, good night" to switch all Nightvision bulbs to infrared mode while turning off other house lights. The bulb also pairs well with smart home routines that arm security cameras at bedtime.

Quick Troubleshooting

If the bulb doesn't appear in the LIFX app, confirm your phone is on the 2.4GHz network and reset the bulb by toggling power five times at one-second intervals. If your camera's night vision doesn't improve with the infrared LEDs on, check that your camera supports external infrared illumination and that its built-in IR-cut filter is functioning. Position the bulb to minimize direct infrared reflection off walls or windows toward the camera, as this can wash out the image. If the infrared LEDs seem dim, ensure infrared intensity is set to maximum in the LIFX app. Keep the firmware updated through the app for the latest features and stability improvements.