How to set up Xiaomi’s video eye: a complete guide from installation to advanced features

Xiaomi’s video eye is not just a replacement for the traditional door peep, but a full-fledged smart home device with video fixation, two-way communication and integration into the Mi Home ecosystem. However, many users face difficulties already at the initial setup stage, from problems with connecting to Wi-Fi to incorrect operation of the motion sensor. In this article, we will discuss all the stages of settings, from physical installation to fine calibration of parameters, including solving typical errors.

Feature of Xiaomi video eyes (for example, models Mi Smart Doorbell 3, 4 Pro or Aqara) D100) It is a hybrid nature: they combine functions. IP-This requires a comprehensive approach to setup, from the correct positioning of the device to the configuration of notifications in the application. In the article you will find unique recommendations for optimizing the viewing angle to minimize false positives and hidden settings of records in the cloud.

Preparation for installation: model selection and configuration

Before you start installing, make sure that the chosen model of the video eye fits your needs. For example, the Mi Smart Doorbell 4 Pro supports facial recognition and has a built-in battery, whereas budget options (for example, the Mi Smart Doorbell 3) require a connection to the power supply.

• 🔋 Type of power: Battery models are easier to install, but require regular recharging (every 1-3 months). D100) More stable, but need to connect to the grid.
• 📶 Wi-Fi support: All current models only work with 2.4GHz networks. If your router only broadcasts 5GHz, you will need to configure channel separation.
• 🎥 Viewing angle: optimal range - 160-180°. Models with an angle less than 150° They may leave dead zones at the doorstep.
• 🌧️ Protection class: for street installation, choose devices with certification IP65 or higher (e.g. Mi Smart Doorbell 4 Pro).

Complete with a video eye should go:

• 🔧 Fortress bracket and screws (length depends on the material of the door - for metal will require more durable gears).
• 📄 Instructions with QR-code for connection (if not, the code can be found on the back of the device).
• 🔌 Power cable (for wired models) or battery (for autonomous models).
• 🔊 External call button (in some models, such as Aqara) D100, It's integrated into the body).

⚠️ Note: If you are installing a video eye in an apartment building, check the rules for installing equipment on the landing.

Physical installation: mounting on the door

Proper positioning of the video eye determines the quality of the video and the reliability of the motion sensor.

1. Height of installation: optimal distance from the floor is 1.4-1.6 m. If you set below, passers-by will enter the frame, which will cause false positives. Above - the view of the visitor's face will deteriorate.
2. Inclination angle: the device should be downwards (5-10)°), Use the level to precisely calibrate the area in front of the door.
3. Wi-Fi router distance: If the signal is weak (less than 2 divisions in the Mi Home app), consider a Wi-Fi extender or wired connection (for supported models).

For editing:

1. Apply the template from the kit to the door and mark the mounting points.
2. Drill holes with a diameter of 2-3 mm (for a metal door, use a metal drill).
3. Hold the bracket, then put the video eye case on it. For models with a battery (like the Mi Smart Doorbell 3), insert the battery first.
4. Connect the power (if the model is wired) Polarity is indicated on the connector: +5V and GND.

⚠️ Note: Do not place your video eyes on a door with a metal coating more than 2 mm thick – this can block the Wi-Fi signal. In such cases, use an external antenna (for example, Xiaomi Wi-Fi Amplifier 2).

3. Connect to the Mi Home app

To set up the video eye, you will need the Mi Home app (available for Android and iOS).

1. Download and install Mi Home from the official store (link).
2. Sign up or sign in to an existing Xiaomi account (be sure to link your phone number to restore access).
3. Click Add Add the device (+) → Select the Security category → Video-eye.
4. Scan it. QR-code from the back of the device or enter it manually (code specified in the instructions).
5. Connect to the device’s temporary Wi-Fi network (name begins with the device’s Wi-Fi network) Xiaomi_Doorbell_...), Then go back to the app.
6. Select your 2.4GHz home network and enter your password. Wait for the connection to complete (the indicator on the device should flash blue).

If the connection fails:

• 🔄 Restart router and video eyes (hold reset button for 10 seconds).
• 📶 Check that the 2.4GHz network is not hidden (SSID broadcast).
• 🛡️ Temporarily disable the firewall or antivirus on your phone.
• 📱 Try using another smartphone (sometimes the problem is in the version) Android/iOS).

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If the video eye doesn't connect to Wi-Fi, try using the mode AP (To do this, hold the button on the device for 5 seconds until the indicator starts flashing yellow, then reconnect in the application.

4. Basic setting: video, sound and notifications

After connecting configure, the main parameters in the Mi Home application:

Video parameters

• 🎥 Permission: select 1080p For maximum detail (but note that this will increase the load on the network). 720p.
• 🔄 Frequency: optimally 20-25 FPS. Higher values (30) FPS) It is only relevant for dynamic scenes.
• 🌙 Night mode: Turn on the car to automatically switch to IR lighting. Manually adjust sensitivity if the image is too dark or illuminated.

Audio settings

• 🔊 Volume speaker: set to 70-80% to avoid distorting voice during two-way communication.
• 🎶 Call melody: choose from preset or download yours (format) MP3, duration).
• 🚫 Do Not Disturb: Set your schedule (for example, 23:00 to 7:00) to turn off notifications at night.

Notification and automation

To avoid spam from false positives:

1. Go to Notification Settings → Motion sensor.
2. Set detection zones: exclude the street or staircase from monitoring (use the markup tool in the application).
3. Adjust the sensitivity: for an apartment is enough 50-60%, for a private house - 70-80%.
4. Activate human recognition (available in the Mi Smart Doorbell 4 Pro) to ignore animal or twig movements.

5. Advanced Features: Cloud, Integration, and Scenarios

Xiaomi’s video eyes support advanced features that often go unused.

5.1 Cloud storage and local records

By default, the video is saved to the Xiaomi Cloud for 7 days (free) to expand the features:

• 💾 Local Storage: Connect a microSD card (up to 128 GB, class) UHS-I U3) to the slot on the device. In the settings, select Record to the card. → Continuously or by event.
• ☁️ Extended Cloud: Subscribe to Mi Home Security Plan (from 99) ₽/month) to store records for up to 30 days and face recognition.
• 🔄 Backup: Once a month export important records through Settings → Records management → Exports.

5.2 Integration with other Xiaomi devices

Video eyes can be linked to other ecosystem gadgets to create automated scenarios:

• 💡 Smart lighting: when the motion sensor is triggered, Xiaomi Yeelight is turned on at the door.
• 🔔 Sirena: If a stranger gets into the frame, Xiaomi Mi Home Security Alarm is triggered.
• 📱 Smartwatch notifications: When you ring the doorbell, vibration is sent to the Mi Band or Xiaomi Watch.

To set up, go to Automation → Add → Condition (Motion sensor) → Action.

Voice control

Video Eye is compatible with Alice (via Yandex Station) and Google Assistant.

• "Alice, show the video from the door" - broadcast on TV with Mi TV.
• “OK Google, who rings the doorbell” is a voice alert for the visitor.

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For stable cloud functions (face recognition, long-term recording storage), be sure to link the video eyes to the Mainland China region in the settings of the Mi Home account.

6. Solving typical problems

Even after you set it up correctly, users are still experiencing errors, and let's look at the most common ones.

6.1 Video eye doesn't record movement

Possible causes and solutions:

• 🔋 Battery discharged: charge the device (for stand-alone models). Check the voltage on the network (for wired ones).
• 📡 Weak Wi-Fi signal: install repeater or move router closer to door.
• 🔍 Incorrect detection zones: Reconfigure monitoring areas in the app.
• 🛠️ Firmware failure: update the software through Settings → Firmware update.

6.2 Poor video quality at night

If the image in the dark is blurred or illuminated:

• 🌓 Adjust the IR lighting: in the camera settings, select Night mode → Manual setting and reduce the brightness of the backlight to 50%.
• 🧹 Clean the lens: dust or spider webs on the lens degrade the quality. Use a lilac-free napkin.
• 🔦 Add an external light source: install Xiaomi Mi next to you LED Desk Lamp with motion sensor.

No two-way communication is working

Sound problems are solved as follows:

• 🎤 Check the microphone on your phone: in the Mi Home settings, allow access to the microphone.
• 🔊 Reduce the volume of the speaker: if the sound is distorted, set the level to 60%.
• 📱 Update app: Older version of Mi Home may not support voice features.

⚠️ Warning: If the video eyes stop turning on after the firmware update (the indicator does not burn), reset to the factory settings. To do this, hold the button on the back for 15 seconds until the red LED flashes. Then repeat the connection procedure.

Energy efficiency

Autonomous models of video eyes (for example, Mi Smart Doorbell 3) discharge in 1-3 months with active use.

• 🔋 Turn off unnecessary notifications: Leave only alerts for calls and movements in key areas.
• 📹 Reduce recording time: set the duration of clips on the motion for 10-15 seconds (instead of 30 seconds by default).
• 🌡️ Set up a work schedule: Turn off the motion sensor at night if it is not critical for safety.
• ☁️ Use local storage: writing on a microSD consumes less power than uploading to the cloud.

For wired models (e.g. Aqara) D100) Power consumption is not critical, but keep the power stable.If the voltage is unstable, use Xiaomi Wi-Fi Smart Plug with surge protection.

8. Security and confidentiality

The video eye records video from your doorstep, so it’s important to ensure data protection:

• 🔐 Two-factor authentication: Enable 2FA in the Xiaomi account (Profile) → Security).
• 🌐 Secure Wi-Fi Network: Use Encryption WPA3 and a complex password (at least 12 characters).
• 👁️ Access Restriction: In device settings (Access Management) add only trusted users.
• 🗑️ Autodelete Records: Set up Cleanup of Old Videos in the Cloud (Settings) → Warehouse → Auto-removal).

If you sell or transfer a video eye to another user, you must:

1. Reset the device to factory settings (Settings) → General. → Reset).
2. Delete it from your Mi Home account.
3. Format the microSD card (if used).

⚠️ Note: Do not place the video eye in places where it can record public areas (for example, a staircase or a sidewalk).-152). Direct your camera strictly to your territory.

FAQ: Frequent questions about setting up Xiaomi video eye