Can I Use Rechargeable Batteries in Blink Camera?
One common question among Blink camera users is whether rechargeable batteries can be used as an alternative to disposable batteries.
Technically you can use any rechargeable batteries in Blink cameras, but note that the circuit of the camera is not made for taking power from rechargeable batteries. And Blink themselves don’t recommend using rechargeable batteries.
In this article, I will discuss the feasibility of using rechargeable batteries in Blink cameras, discussing the drawbacks, benefits and considerations.
Rechargeable Batteries in Blink Camera?
No, you cannot use rechargeable batteries in the Blink Camera. Although it has a USB port, that is for connecting the camera to the power source. The USB port cannot charge the batteries inside the camera.
The camera circuit is not made for getting powered by rechargeable Li batteries. But you can use them at your own risk.
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What is the Battery life of Blink Camera?
For Blink Cam models like the XT2, Video Doorbell, and Indoor and Outdoor Cam, lithium AA batteries can last for two years.
In total, there will be 43,200 seconds of motion-triggered recordings, 5,882 seconds of Live View alone, and 4,788 seconds of Live View plus two-way communication.
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Can I Power the Camera without a Battery?
You can power a Blink camera with a USA power cable. The Blink has put this option for users who don’t want to take the hassle of changing batteries.
You have to plug the USB power cable into a wall socket. And you have to make sure the cable reaches the camera.
But there is a huge drawback to only using USB power cables. When there is a power outage, your camera will go completely offline. And you won’t get any surveillance footage.
So it is recommended to use the camera plugged into the current source and keep the Lithium 1.5 AA batteries in it.
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Which Batteries Can I Use In Blink Camera?
The Blink camera only uses Lithium-ion AA 1.5 volt batteries. There are some rechargeable AA batteries in the market, but using them can hamper the Blink camera as it is not supported.
Blink does not have a charging station to charge the batteries. But some Amazon sellers claim that their Lithium-ion batteries can power Blink cameras. But they add the condition that you must recharge them on a different port or charging station.
Others provide a third-party battery pack that contains Li-Ion batteries to turn your Blink Camera into a rechargeable device. These packs each feature a separate USB connector where a USB cable may be plugged in to recharge them.
But as Blink tells us not to use rechargeable batteries in their cameras, it would be good not to use any rechargeable batteries with the Blink camera.
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Benefits of Rechargeable Batteries
Cost-Effectiveness:
Rechargeable batteries present a cost-effective solution for long-term use.
While the upfront cost may be slightly higher than disposable batteries, the ability to recharge and reuse them significantly reduces ongoing expenses, making them more economical in the long run.
Environmental Sustainability:
Opting for rechargeable batteries aligns with sustainability efforts, reducing waste generated from disposable batteries.
By using rechargeable batteries, you contribute to minimizing the environmental impact associated with battery disposal.
Convenience and Availability:
Rechargeable batteries can be easily recharged using a compatible charger, eliminating the need for frequent battery replacements.
Additionally, rechargeable batteries are widely available, making it convenient to purchase and maintain a sufficient supply for your Blink cameras.
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Consideration for using Rechargeable Batteries in Blink Cameras
As Blink themselves say not to use rechargeable batteries, there are some users already using them in their Blink cameras.
Some things you have to keep in mind before using rechargeable batteries in Blink camera and those are:
Battery Chemistry:
When using rechargeable batteries, it is crucial to select the appropriate battery chemistry.
Nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) rechargeable batteries are recommended for Blink cameras, as they provide reliable performance and can be recharged numerous times without significant degradation.
Battery Capacity and Runtime:
Pay attention to the capacity rating (mAh) of rechargeable batteries. Higher-capacity batteries generally provide longer runtime before requiring a recharge.
Consider the specific power requirements and expected usage patterns of your Blink cameras to ensure that the rechargeable batteries can adequately power them.
Charging Infrastructure:
To use rechargeable batteries effectively, you will need a compatible battery charger.
Invest in a reliable charger that supports NiMH batteries and offers features such as individual cell charging and overcharge protection.
This ensures proper charging and extends the lifespan of the rechargeable batteries.
Tips for Optimizing Rechargeable Battery Performance:
- Cycle Batteries Regularly: To maintain optimal performance, it is recommended to fully discharge and recharge rechargeable batteries periodically. This practice helps prevent battery memory effects and ensures consistent performance over time.
- Monitor Battery Level: Keep an eye on the battery level of your Blink cameras to prevent unexpected shutdowns. Regularly check the battery status through the Blink app or the camera’s LED indicators, and recharge the batteries as needed.
- Spare Batteries: To ensure uninterrupted operation, it’s advisable to have spare fully charged rechargeable batteries on hand. This way, you can quickly replace depleted batteries without compromising your home security Giga Secure.
Things That Damage Blink Camera Battery Life
Several things can damage battery life if you use them in Blink cameras. Some of them are:
- Slow Internet: Slow internet can be the culprit of damaging the battery life. If you have a slow internet speed, it drains the battery faster.
- Temperature: If the weather is hot, the battery drains faster.
- Weak Signal: If the camera is far away from the router, it struggles to connect to the internet. So the battery drains faster.
- Incompatible Battery: If you use rather than Lithium AA, Li-ion, Ni-MH, Ni-Cd or Alkaline batteries, the camera drains the battery faster. And using those batteries also can hamper the camera too.
- Rechargeable Batteries: as you already know, you should not use rechargeable batteries in Blink cameras. The best batteries are 1.5-volt lithium AA batteries. If not, purchase Li-Ion batteries with a separate charging connector or utilize a battery pack from a third party.
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Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]
Why not use rechargeable batteries for Blink cameras?
The rechargeable batteries cannot supply enough current for the blink cameras. That is why you cannot use them for Blink cameras.
What batteries for Blink cameras?
Only use AA 1.5 volt Lithium batteries. And Do not use any Lithium Ion, Alkaline batteries.
Why there is a USB port on the Blink Camera?
You can power the Blink camera using only home electricity. Through the USB port, you can plug the camera into a wall socket.
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