Installing Your Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (2nd Gen)

What You Will Need

• Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (2nd Gen)
• Existing doorbell wiring (16-24 VAC) or built-in rechargeable battery
• Mounting bracket and screws (included)
• Release pin tool (included)
• Smartphone with the Arlo app installed
• 2.4 GHz WiFi network
• Screwdriver (Phillips head)
• Drill and drill bits (if needed)

Step 1: Decide Between Wired and Wireless Installation

The Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (2nd Gen) supports both wired and wire-free installation. If you have existing doorbell wiring rated between 16 and 24 VAC, you can wire the doorbell for continuous power and to ring your existing mechanical or digital chime. If no wiring is available, the built-in rechargeable battery powers the doorbell for several months between charges.

Step 2: Turn Off Power (Wired Installation Only)

If wiring the doorbell, go to your electrical panel and turn off the breaker controlling your doorbell circuit. Press your existing doorbell button to verify the power is off. Remove your old doorbell by unscrewing it from the wall and disconnecting the wires.

Step 3: Install the Mounting Bracket

1. If using existing wiring, thread the doorbell wires through the mounting bracket.
2. Position the bracket at about 48 inches from the ground for the best camera angle.
3. Mark the screw holes and drill pilot holes if needed.
4. Secure the bracket to the wall with the included screws and wall anchors.

Step 4: Connect Wires or Charge the Battery

For a wired setup, attach the two doorbell wires to the terminal screws on the back of the doorbell. The wires are not polarity-sensitive. For a wireless setup, charge the doorbell fully using the included USB cable before mounting. The LED will show solid green when charged.

Step 5: Attach the Doorbell

1. Align the doorbell with the mounting bracket and slide it into place until you hear a click.
2. Secure the doorbell with the included screw at the bottom, using the release pin tool to prevent theft.
3. If wired, turn the breaker back on at the electrical panel.

Step 6: Set Up in the Arlo App

1. Open the Arlo Secure App on your phone.
2. Tap Add New Device and select Doorbells.
3. Choose Arlo Essential Video Doorbell (2nd Gen).
4. Scan the QR code on the doorbell or its packaging.
5. Select your 2.4 GHz WiFi network and enter the password.
6. Wait for the doorbell to connect. The LED will pulse blue during setup and turn solid blue when ready.

This doorbell connects directly to WiFi and does not need a SmartHub or base station.

Step 7: Configure Chime and Notifications

In the Arlo app, configure how you want to be notified when someone presses the doorbell or triggers motion. Options include push notifications, phone calls through the app, or announcements through compatible smart speakers like Amazon Echo. If wired, your existing chime will ring when the button is pressed. You can also enable silent mode to receive only app notifications without ringing the physical chime.

Step 8: Adjust Motion and Video Settings

1. Set up activity zones to ignore motion from the street or sidewalk.
2. Adjust motion sensitivity to reduce false alerts.
3. Enable HDR for better image quality in challenging lighting conditions.
4. Test the two-way audio to ensure the microphone and speaker work clearly.

Tips for Best Performance

• The head-to-toe 180-degree field of view captures both faces and packages on the ground without needing a wedge mount.
• If using battery power, recharge before the battery drops below 15 percent to avoid missing events.
• For a stronger WiFi connection at the front door, consider placing your router closer or adding a WiFi extender.
• Use the Arlo app to review video history and fine-tune settings during the first week after installation.