Notice: This device was previously referred to as the “Alarm.com Doorbell Camera.”

SkyBell Doorbell Camera: Installation, Setup & Troubleshooting

Introduction

The SkyBell Doorbell Camera provides front-door awareness with a built-in camera, PIR motion sensor, microphone, and speaker for two-way audio. With both the original Wi-Fi Doorbell and the Slim Line models available, you can add smart video entry to a wide range of homes using the Customer app.

Included Materials

• Wall mounting bracket
• Wall screws
• Masonry anchors

Compatibility Overview

• Supported: Slim Line I (ADC-VDB105/106), Slim Line II (ADC-VDB105x/106x), SkyBell HD (ADC-VDB101/102)
• Not supported: SkyBell V1/V2; Slim Line hardware on third-party platforms
• Note: Some retail SkyBell HD units not sourced through authorized channels may be incompatible.

Requirements

Power & Chime

• AC systems: 16–24 VAC, 10 VA with mechanical or digital chime. If there is no chime, install a 10 Ω, 10 W resistor across the circuit.
• DC supply: 15–24 VDC, 0.5–1 A. Supplies > 0.5 A require a 10 Ω, 10 W resistor.
• Digital chimes: Require a SkyBell Digital Doorbell Adapter (DDA) and enabling the digital chime setting in the app.
• Two doorbells on one transformer: Use 16–24 VAC, 20 VA minimum.

Wi-Fi & Network

• Upload speed: ≥ 2 Mbps at the door location.
• Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, 2.4 GHz (and 5 GHz for Slim Line II on 20 MHz channel).

Pre-Installation Checks

1. Doorbell circuit works: Press the existing button and confirm the indoor chime rings. Fix any power issues first.
2. Verify wiring: Inspect the button and chime for low-voltage wiring. Plug-in wireless chimes and intercom systems are incompatible.
3. Identify chime type:
   • Mechanical: Metal bars + striker → works without DDA.
   • Digital: Speaker-based → requires DDA + enable “Digital Door Chime.”
   • Tube chime: Incompatible.
   • No chime: Use phone alerts and add a 10 Ω, 10 W resistor.
4. Wi-Fi password ready: Test at the door with the door closed.
5. Speed test: Confirm ≥ 2 Mbps upload at the install location.

Hardware Installation

1. Remove the existing button and prevent wires from slipping into the wall.
2. Attach the mounting bracket: Feed wires through the center hole and secure the bracket flush to the wall.
3. Connect power wires: Loosen bracket terminals, insert wires of similar thickness, then tighten evenly. If wires are thick, splice short thinner pigtails to the bracket.
4. Mount the camera: Hook the top onto the bracket, press toward the wall, and hand-tighten the set screw (avoid power tools). The LED should illuminate.

Digital Doorbell Adapter (DDA) — Digital Chimes Only

Important: If the chime has a diode installed, remove it before adding the DDA or ringing issues (e.g., constant ringing) may occur.

• J4 → Front terminal on digital chime
• J3 → Trans terminal on digital chime
• J5/J6 → two doorbell circuit wires from the wall (no polarity)

Sync & App-Based Setup (AP Mode)

1. Enter AP mode: Press and hold the main button until the LED alternates red/green.
2. Open the Customer app (stay on the home Wi-Fi or LTE as instructed).
3. Add Doorbell Camera: Go to Doorbell Camera and tap Add Camera (or use the in-app video installation wizard).
4. Name the device and continue.
5. Connect to the temporary network: When prompted, join Skybell_######### or SkybellHD_######### (based on the serial). Stay within 6 ft of the device.
6. Select your home Wi-Fi and carefully enter the password.
   • For hidden SSIDs, temporarily unhide the network for setup, then re-hide after connection.
   • DHCP is recommended; manual/static IP is available if required.
7. Finish: Wait for the success screen and a solid green LED.

Enable Digital Chime (If DDA Installed)

In the app, go to Doorbell Camera → Settings and toggle Digital Door Chime to On. Save.

Notifications & Recording Rules

Notifications

• Button Pushed: Instant push alert; acknowledging opens two-way audio and live video.
• Motion: Push alert on motion; acknowledging opens two-way audio and live video.
• Tip: You can disable the indoor chime (Do Not Disturb style) while still receiving push alerts.

Recording Rules

• Call (Button): Record when the doorbell is pressed.
• Motion: Record on motion; reduce sensitivity if you see too many clips.
• Event-Triggered: Record clips after sensor events or an alarm.
• Notes: Typical clip length ≈ 1 minute; clips may be longer during alarms or active calls. Accounts have monthly clip limits.

LED Behaviors & Quick Actions

Common LED States

• Alternating Red/Green: AP mode (ready to sync in the app)
• Solid Green: Connected and ready
• Pulsing Blue (Slim Line) / Alternating Red/Blue (HD): Battery charging (often < 30 minutes after install)
• Flashing Orange: Manually enter AP mode (press/hold until rapid green strobe; then AP mode)

Button Hold Shortcuts

• Enter AP Mode: Hold until rapid green strobe → release → alternating red/green
• Power Cycle: Hold until rapid blue strobe (reboot; up to 2 minutes)
• Factory Reset: Hold until rapid yellow strobe (resets Wi-Fi and configuration)

Power Information & Troubleshooting

• Wired power required: The internal battery only buffers during chime ringing; it’s not a standalone power source.
• Transformer aging: Output can degrade; symptoms include streaming/boot issues. Replace weak transformers.
• Low power indicators: Persistent red/blue or blue double-flash patterns can indicate transformer issues—upgrade if needed.
• No-chime installs: Use a 10 Ω, 10 W resistor unless using a plug-in transformer.

Need Help?

For wiring diagrams, DDA guidance, and personalized assistance, visit the True Protection Support Center or contact our team. Explore additional security camera solutions for your home.