Solar 4G Camera Setup Guide
HiLink 4G Solar Security Camera · about 15 minutes per camera · no Wi-Fi needed
⬇ Download the illustrated PDF guide
Includes step-by-step app screenshots. Print it or save it to your phone.
Before you start you'll need:
- Your smartphone (iPhone or Android) with the free Tuya Smart app (or Smart Life)
- A standard 5V USB wall charger (the charging cable is in the box)
- Optional: a microSD card, up to 128GB, formatted FAT32, for local recording
Tip: set the camera up on a table first, then mount it. Setup is much easier at arm's length.
Part 1: Get the camera ready
- Charge the battery. Plug the camera into a USB wall charger using the included cable and charge for 4–6 hours before setup and mounting. Use a normal wall charger, not a power bank.
- Insert a microSD card (optional). Open the rubber cover on the camera body and insert the card before turning the camera on. The 4G SIM is already installed inside. You don't need to touch it or activate anything.
- Turn it on and wait for the blue light. Press and hold the power button for 3–4 seconds. The light comes on red, then changes to flashing blue. Wait 1–2 minutes for it to find the 4G network.
| What the light means | |
|---|---|
| Flashing red | Not connected to 4G yet. Wait, or move to a spot with better signal. |
| Flashing blue | Connected and ready to add in the app. |
| Solid blue | Set up and working normally. |
Part 2: Connect to the Tuya Smart app
Download Tuya Smart from the App Store or Google Play and create a free account first.
Method 1 (easiest): scan the QR code on the camera
- Open the Tuya Smart app.
- Tap + in the top-right corner.
- Tap Scan.
- Scan the QR code sticker on the camera.
- Wait while it connects (up to 2 minutes).
- Tap Done. Your live view appears.
Method 2: if Method 1 doesn't work
Here the camera scans a QR code shown on your phone screen.
- Tap + then Add Device.
- Go to Camera & Lock → 4G Camera (4G).
- Tap Next until a QR code appears.
- Hold the phone 15–20 cm in front of the lens. When you hear the beep, tap “I heard a prompt”.
- Wait while it connects, then tap Done.
Second camera? Repeat Part 1 and Part 2 for each camera, then name each one in the app (e.g. “Front gate”, “Shed”). In the app's camera settings, switch on SD card recording and motion alerts.
Part 3: Mount the camera & solar panel
- Check the 4G signal first. Stand where you want the camera and check your own phone's mobile signal. The camera needs 4G coverage at that spot.
- Mount at 2.5–3 metres high. Don't mount it upside down, and avoid pointing it at glass, mirrors, air-con vents or fans. Heat and moving air cause false motion alerts.
- Face the solar panel NORTH. In Australia, point the panel north, in direct sun with no shade from trees, roofs or walls. Keep it within about 2 m of the camera.
- Connect the solar cable and seal it. Plug the solar cable firmly into the camera's power input and check the weather seal is fully seated.
Important: keep it weatherproof. Press the rubber cover over the microSD and USB ports firmly flush. Water getting in through an open cover will damage the camera and isn't covered by warranty.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | What to do |
|---|---|
| Camera shows offline or won't connect | Check your phone has 4G signal at that spot. Give the camera 2–3 minutes after turning it on. Try moving it a few metres to a stronger signal. |
| Light isn't flashing blue | Charge for longer, then press and hold the Reset button for 5 seconds until you hear a voice prompt, and start Part 2 again. |
| QR code won't scan | Try Method 2. Turn your phone brightness up, wipe the lens, and hold the phone 15–20 cm away. |
| Battery runs down | Make sure the panel faces north with no shade, wipe it clean, and check the solar cable is firmly plugged in. Lower motion sensitivity in the app if the camera triggers all day. In long cloudy spells, top it up with the USB cable. |
| No recordings on the SD card | Turn the camera off, re-seat the card, turn it back on, then switch on recording in the app. If the app says the card is abnormal, format it from the app. |
| No alerts on your phone | Turn on notifications for Tuya Smart in your phone settings, and check motion detection and alerts are on in the camera's settings in the app. |
Stuck? We'll set it up with you.
Our Australian team can walk you through it over the phone in 10–15 minutes.
Email hilink2025@gmail.com · Phone +61 452 209 406
Covered by our 12-month warranty and your rights under Australian Consumer Law.
Our Australian team can walk you through it over the phone in 10–15 minutes.
Email hilink2025@gmail.com · Phone +61 452 209 406
Covered by our 12-month warranty and your rights under Australian Consumer Law.
