How to Set Up Your Ring Outdoor Contact Sensor

What You Will Need

• Ring Outdoor Contact Sensor
• Ring Alarm Base Station (already set up and online)
• Ring app (iOS or Android) with an active account
• Phillips screwdriver or drill
• Mounting screws (included)

Understanding the Outdoor Contact Sensor

The Ring Outdoor Contact Sensor works like the indoor contact sensor but is built to withstand outdoor conditions including rain, snow, and temperature extremes. It is designed for gates, sheds, detached garages, and other outdoor entry points. The sensor communicates with your Ring Alarm Base Station via Z-Wave and has an extended wireless range compared to the indoor version.

Step 1: Prepare the Sensor

1. Remove the Outdoor Contact Sensor from its packaging. You will find two pieces: the larger sensor body and the smaller magnet.
2. Remove the back cover of the sensor body and pull the battery tab to activate the pre-installed batteries.
3. Replace the back cover and ensure the gasket is properly seated for weather resistance.

Step 2: Add the Sensor in the Ring App

1. Open the Ring app and tap Set Up a Device.
2. Select Security Devices, then choose Outdoor Contact Sensor.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions and press the pairing button on the sensor when prompted.
4. Wait for the Base Station to discover the sensor via Z-Wave.
5. Name the sensor (e.g., "Back Gate," "Shed Door," "Garage Side Door") and assign it to a location.

Step 3: Mount the Sensor

1. Mount the sensor body on the fixed part of the gate, fence post, or door frame using the included screws. Pre-drill pilot holes if mounting on hardwood or metal.
2. Mount the magnet on the moving part (the gate door, shed door, etc.) so that it aligns with the sensor body when closed.
3. The sensor and magnet should be within one inch of each other when the gate or door is in the closed position. The alignment marks on both pieces should line up.
4. Tighten all screws securely. The outdoor sensor is larger and heavier than the indoor version, so screw mounting is recommended over adhesive for outdoor use.

Step 4: Test the Sensor

1. Close the gate or door and verify the Ring app shows the sensor as Closed.
2. Open the gate or door and confirm the status changes to Open and you receive a notification.
3. Check the signal strength in the device settings. If the signal is weak, consider adding a Ring Alarm Range Extender in an interior location between the Base Station and the outdoor sensor.

Step 5: Configure Alarm Settings

• Alarm Modes — Set whether the sensor is active in Home mode, Away mode, or both. Gates and shed doors are commonly monitored in both modes.
• Entry Delay — If this sensor covers a primary entry point, configure an entry delay to give yourself time to disarm the system.
• Linked Devices — Link the sensor with Ring cameras. For example, when the gate opens, a nearby Ring camera can start recording and turn on its lights.

Tips for Best Performance

• The Outdoor Contact Sensor is weather-resistant (IP66 rated) and designed for year-round outdoor use. However, avoid submerging it in water.
• The extended Z-Wave range reaches up to 250 feet in open air, but fences, walls, and building materials reduce this distance.
• Battery life is approximately one to three years, depending on how frequently the gate or door is opened and closed.
• Ensure the back cover gasket remains intact when replacing batteries to maintain weather resistance.
• This sensor is ideal for monitoring entry points that are not visible from inside your home, such as side gates and detached structures.