Video Doorbell

Hello, so the ADC branded issue is no longer? I can purchase a retail version and use it with my excisting cloud service?

I did, because it was $60 cheaper than the ADC branded one at the time. Given both at the same price, I would go ahead and get the ADC one. That way you’re guaranteed to get better support on it from both skybell and ADC.

Hello, so the ADC branded issue is no longer? I can purchase a retail version and use it with my excisting cloud service?

Technically you could find a retail version with a firmware version that is not supported yet, which is the reason for the caution, but we haven’t seen that happen yet.

You can choose a retail version if you prefer. There is no physical difference.

Is there any benefits to using the Skybell through ADC other than just having everything in the same ap? I love ADC I’m just trying to decide what the best option is for me to start adding cameras,through ADC or a separate option.

A bit more robust clip management and deeper recording storage is found in the ADC integration. Integrating also gives access to recording schedules based around alarm system activity triggers from your alarm sensors and panel. ADC video is symbiotic with the alarm system, rather than strictly a parallel system.

Is there any benefits to using the Skybell through ADC other than just having everything in the same ap?

Also lock integration - can unlock the door from a button on the screen while having a Skybell conversation.

Where can I see the Skybell in the alarm.com website? I see it in the Android app under Doorbell Camera, and I can see it listed as a device at https://www.alarm.com/web/Video/SettingsOverview_v2.aspx, but I don’t see where I view the live video? When I look at the camera group setting for live video I only see my V721W listed.

Thanks,
Alan

Saved clips can be viewed on the Alarm.com website, but live view currently for the Skybell HD, being that it is Skybell’s app integrated with the service, is specific to the mobile app.

You cannot currently view the live feed on the website. You can initiate the live feed on the app.

Now that it has been in use for a while, I would like to ask a couple of questions about the current model SkyBell.

First, what is the most up to date model? Is Skybell HD the same model that has night vision?

Can the ADC flavor of Skybell also be used with the Skybell app? Basically, I am thinking it would be easier and quicker to bring up the Skybell app that to log into the ADC app, and I do not want the ADC app to remember my pw for obvious reasons.

Can you answer the Skybell (i.e., answer the doorbell) from more than one phone?

What is the time lag between motion detection of doorbell ring and notification? How long does it take for the video to come up after that? I have seen complaints saying this process takes 3+ minutes.

This may be a silly one, but with the Skybell placed at normal doorbell height, how well can you see the face of the person at the door?

Thanks

There is only one model, the Skybell HD. A slimline version is coming soon.

Can the ADC flavor of Skybell also be used with the Skybell app? Basically, I am thinking it would be easier and quicker to bring up the Skybell app that to log into the ADC app, and I do not want the ADC app to remember my pw for obvious reasons

Keep in mind you can set a pin code to access the app, instead of typing password each time.

But yes, the Alarm.com branded version is the same as the retail Skybell HD, just guaranteed to not have a firmware version past what Alarm.com supports officially.

Can you answer the Skybell (i.e., answer the doorbell) from more than one phone?

Yes. You can adjust Doorbell call recipients in the app settings the same as other notifications.

What is the time lag between motion detection of doorbell ring and notification? How long does it take for the video to come up after that? I have seen complaints saying this process takes 3+ minutes.

Normal expected function should be under 10 seconds button to video.

Those reporting exceptionally long times almost certainly have local network problems, wifi signal quality trouble, or hardware trouble. The Skybell HD has fairly hefty signal quality requirements, and if routers are left in the basement by the ISP, or if signaling is impeded in other ways, the Skybell HD may be difficult to implement.

This may be a silly one, but with the Skybell placed at normal doorbell height, how well can you see the face of the person at the door?

Normal mounting height for a doorbell is 4 feet. Keep in mind the wide viewing angle. In most cases you’ll have a full frame shot of the individual, depending on the mounting position. In some cases doorbells are mounted lower or off to the side, so a wedge mount accessory may be needed which can adjust the viewing angle.

You cannot currently view the live feed on the website. You can initiate the live feed on the app.

I can see the video with the mobile app but when I view the mobile version of the website from my phone it shows a card for the Skybell which looks like it is supposed to show live video, but instead just says “You don’t have permission to view this image”.

Is that the expected behavior? It seems like either the video or at least a thumbnail image should be displayed (preferred), or the card should not be shown at all?

Thanks,
Alan

I just checked and I am seeing the same as you. It is likely not intended, or ADC may be working on that. I’ll shoot this to ADC.