SkyBell HD Video Doorbell Installation & Setup Guide
SkyBell HD Installation and Setup Guide
The SkyBell HD is a video doorbell designed to provide a live view of your doorstep directly to your smartphone. It also enables two-way communication with visitors, all without requiring you to physically open the door.
Understanding the SkyBell HD
The SkyBell HD shares similarities with the Ring Doorbell. However, a key distinction lies in its power requirements.
Unlike the Ring Doorbell, which offers the flexibility of battery or wired power, the SkyBell HD necessitates a connection to your existing doorbell’s wiring.
While the Ring Doorbell can operate on battery power alone, the SkyBell HD relies entirely on a wired power source.
Installation Process
Despite this wiring requirement, installing the SkyBell HD remains relatively straightforward, particularly if your existing doorbell wiring is easily accessible.
Rerouting wires is generally not needed for a successful installation, simplifying the process for many users.
The installation process is designed to be user-friendly, even for those with limited experience in home automation setups.
Preparing for SkyBell Installation: Doorbell Removal
The initial step in installing your SkyBell involves accessing the existing doorbell wiring. Begin by detaching the current doorbell button, typically affixed to your home's exterior wall using a pair of screws.
These screws can be easily removed with a standard screwdriver. Once the screws are out, carefully withdraw the doorbell button to reveal the underlying wires.
Compatibility with SkyBell is confirmed if you observe two small wires. However, alternative doorbell configurations may not be supported. Fortunately, the vast majority – approximately 99% – of doorbells utilize this two-wire system.
Verifying Wiring and Safety Precautions
A visual inspection of the wiring is crucial before proceeding. The image above illustrates a typical two-wire doorbell setup.
While generally low voltage, it is advisable to disconnect power to the wires via the circuit breaker for maximum safety. Although direct contact with doorbell wiring typically poses no shock hazard, exercising caution is always recommended.
Disconnecting the Existing Doorbell
The existing doorbell button will have two small wires secured with screws. Loosen these screws to detach the wires from the button.
With the wires disconnected, the wiring is now prepared for the SkyBell installation process.
Step Two: Installing the SkyBell HD Unit
Begin by taking the mounting plate included with your SkyBell. Position it against your exterior wall at the desired mounting location. Use a pencil to mark the points for the two mounting screws.
If your home’s exterior is constructed of brick or masonry, utilize the provided drill bit to create holes at the marked locations. Subsequently, insert the two yellow wall anchors before securing the mounting plate with screws.
For wood exteriors, simply drill pilot holes. Ensure the drill bit is slightly smaller in diameter than the screws provided.
Following this, fasten the mounting plate using the supplied screws. Prior to mounting, thread the doorbell wires through the central opening in the plate.
Wrap each of the two doorbell wires individually around its designated screw on the left side. Then, tighten the screws securely. Prevent contact between the two wires.
The polarity of the wiring is not critical; the doorbell button completes a circuit between the wires to activate the chime.
Now, take the SkyBell HD unit and position it over the mounting plate. Begin by aligning the tab at the unit’s top with the corresponding slot on the plate.
Subsequently, press down on the remainder of the unit to fully engage it with the mounting plate. Secure it in place by tightening the screw located at the bottom of the unit with a screwdriver.
Upon mounting, the SkyBell will automatically power on. It will cycle through alternating red and green indicator lights.
Step Three: Downloading and Configuring the SkyBell Application
Locate the App Store on your iOS device or the Play Store on your Android device and download the SkyBell HD app (iOS, Android).
Following installation, launch the application and select the "Sign Up" option.
Provide your email address, establish a secure password, and enter your full name. Subsequently, tap "Sign up" to proceed.
On the subsequent screen, choose the option to "Add a new SkyBell".
To initiate the setup process, tap "OK let's begin" located at the bottom of the screen.
Verify that your SkyBell unit is displaying a flashing green and red light. If it isn't, adhere to the on-screen instructions. If the indicator lights are correct, tap "Next" at the bottom.
If using an iOS device, temporarily exit the app and navigate to the Settings app, then select "Wi-Fi". Android users will simply select their home Wi-Fi network, as detailed in the following steps.
From the list of available networks, select the SkyBell HD Wi-Fi SSID to establish a connection.
Upon successful connection, return to the SkyBell app. Choose your home’s Wi-Fi network from the list and then tap "Next".
Enter the password for your Wi-Fi network on the next screen and tap "Go" or "Next".
The SkyBell HD will now begin configuring and connecting to your home Wi-Fi network; this process may take a few moments.
Once the connection is established, tap "Go to my SkyBell" at the bottom of the screen.
You will then be directed to the application’s main screen, providing a live camera view and a record of recent doorbell activity. The screen may initially appear blank, but will populate as activity occurs. Access settings by tapping the gear icon in the top-right corner.
