Best Setting for Your Central Air Conditioning

More people fight over the thermostat than the remote and those battles become more pitched during periods of extreme heat. The disputes aren’t just about comfort, they’re about money too because every time you lower the thermostat in hot weather it raises your electric bill. So what’s the best setting for your central air conditioner? Well, that depends on whether you care more about keeping cool or keeping your utility bill in check. Fortunately, there’s a happy medium.

Energy Star says, for optimal cooling and energy-efficiency, the coolest you should keep your house is 78 degrees and that’s only when you’re at home and awake. A programmable thermostat makes it easy to match your cooling needs to your schedule but you can make the adjustments manually if you don’t have one. Try the following setpoints:

• 78 degrees when you’re home

• 85 degrees when you’re at work or away

• 82 degrees when you’re sleeping

More heat tolerant folks can experiment with the temperature, raising it one degree at a time to see how it affects your comfort and your budget. You’ll save 3 percent on your air conditioning costs for every degree you raise the temperature. If you aren’t comfortable at 78 degrees, lower the temperature a degree at a time. A ceiling or box fan causes a wind chill effect that enhances cooling, helping you feel comfortable at a higher temperature as long as the humidity isn’t too high.

More Cool Ideas

Of course, if you live in an area with more moderate temperatures, you may not need your central air conditioning all day and night. If so, you can take advantage of cooler night temperatures by keeping your windows open overnight. Close them on hot days and keep your shades and curtains drawn when it’s sunny outside. If you need the AC when you get home, you can program it to go on before you arrive or turn it on with a smartphone app.

Window air conditioners. It’s more difficult to reach the perfect temperature when you have a window air conditioner. Because the thermostat is in the unit itself, it registers the temperature in that part of the room and may not provide a consistent temperature throughout the space you want to cool, depending how big and open it is. That means getting the right comfort level is more trial and error. Start with it set at 78 degrees and see how you feel. If you have a window unit in your bedroom, turn it on 30 minutes or so before you go to bed so you’re not cooling an empty room.

Ways to beat the heat. No matter what type of air conditioning you have, it’s easier to keep the temperature at a comfortable level if you can prevent heat from getting into your home. The three main sources of unwanted heat are heat that seeps in from the outdoors, waste heat given off by appliances and incandescent lightbulbs, and heat from sunlight shining through the windows.

During a heat wave, avoid using your washer, dryer, and dishwasher during the heat of the day and make sure you use the exhaust fans in your kitchen and bathroom when you’re cooking or taking a shower. Cook outside on your grill.

Programmable thermostats. Consumer Reports tests energy-saving programmable thermostats with and without remote access.

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Troubleshooting 8 Common Air Conditioner Problems

Of course it’s on the hottest days that you notice your air conditioner is struggling. And it’s not always the fault of the equipment. A poorly maintained system can perform poorly, failing to keep you cool while costing you more to run. Here are some reasons why your air conditioner isn’t working as well as it used to.

Your filter is dirty. A clogged filter restricts airflow through the unit decreasing its efficiency and reducing the ability to effectively cool the air. If you haven’t cleaned the filter in your room air conditioner recently, do it now. Filters on central AC units should be changed at least once a month, especially if your system is running constantly or you have pets.

Warm air is leaking in. Check the window seals around your unit to make sure hot air isn’t getting in or cold air seeping out. If so, reseal around your unit with pieces of weatherstripping.

TV is too close to the AC. Avoid placing lamps or TV sets near the thermostat that controls your central air or near your window unit. The thermostat senses heat from these appliances, which can cause the air conditioner to run longer than necessary.

Registers are dirty or blocked. If you have a forced air heating and cooling system, regularly vacuum the registers to remove any dust buildup. Make sure that furniture and other objects are not blocking the airflow through your registers.

Thermostat is on the wrong setting. If you have a programmable thermostat, make sure you programmed it so your home is at a comfortable temperature when you’re there and a bit higher when you’re not. And keep in mind that for every degree you raise the temperature, you’ll save 3 percent on your air conditioning costs.

Window units, of course, don’t offer the whole-house control of a central system. If you’re depending on one window unit to cool a large space you’ll have to experiment with the thermostat setting as the temperature will vary depending on where you are in the room.

It’s too sunny inside. If your room AC unit is in a sunny window, it’ll have to work harder to cool your space. Likewise, if the thermostat for your central system is in a sunny spot, it will register the wrong temperature. Your best bet is to keep your shades and curtains drawn all day during the heat of the summer.

Plants are crowding the compressor. The outdoor compressor for central air needs adequate airflow to work correctly, so make sure there’s at least 2 to 3 feet of space between the unit and any plants or structures. There should also be 5 feet of clearance between the top of the unit and any trees above.

You forgot an annual checkup. An inspection by an HVAC technician can catch any serious problems before they get worse and leave you hot and bothered at the peak of summer. The technician will check all the moving parts as well as the refrigerant and recharge the system if necessary.

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Tips for The best audio and video setup for Apple TV

Now your Apple TV is set up lets take a look at the hardware: what plugs in where, and how to ensure you get the best audio and video quality.

The third-gen Apple TV features two methods of sound output: a dedicated optical output (often referred to as TOSLINK or sometimes S/PDIF), and audio output as part of the overall HDMI signal that also carries video.

You can skip this part if you don't have an expensive home entertainment set up in your home. Just plugging your Apple TV into your TV via the HDMI cable should mean that the audio comes through your TV speakers. However, if you have some expensive stereo or AV equipment here's how to set that up.

Here are the options for typical home entertainment setups.

1) Apple TV and AV receiver and TV

If your AV receiver has HDMI input and output, as most do, connect your Apple TV via one of the HDMI In ports, then connect the AV receiver to the TV via a second cable from the HDMI Out. Alternatively, for optimal quality connect your Apple TV directly to your TV using an HDMI cable, then use an optical digital cable to make a direct connection to your receiver’s optical input. If your receiver only has a coaxial digital input then an inexpensive converter box will be required.

2) Apple TV and AV receiver/TV and also hi-fi system

Connect the Apple TV’s HDMI output to the receiver, then connect the receiver to the TV via its HDMI output. Use the optical output to connect your hi-fi (see below if your hi-fi lacks a digital input). If you’d like to use an optical connection for both your receiver and your hi-fi, an inexpensive optical audio splitter box can be used to provide a signal for the receiver/TV when you’re watching television or movies, and for a hi-fi when you want to use your Apple TV to stream audio. Remember that the signal is digital so there’ll be no degradation in quality!

3) Apple TV and RCA/phono hi-fi, or headphones

For some hi-fi systems with RCA/phono input (that is, the traditional red and white analogue audio inputs) you’ll need an optical digital to analogue RCA/phono converter box. Because this device generates the audio you hear, the hardware inside has a substantial effect on quality. Audiophiles pay entertaining amounts of money for the best examples although perfectly functional examples can be had for less than a tenner on eBay – just search for “TOSLINK to analog converter”.

4) Apple TV: how to get the best picture quality on Apple TV

Ensure you’re outputting the correct HD resolution for your TV by opening Settings, and selecting the Audio & Video heading, and paying attention to the HDMI Output and TV Resolution headings. Then return to the main menu and select iTunes Store, and ensure the correct setting is visible under the Video Resolution heading.

Don’t forget that some TVs might need overscan deactivating to ensure the sharpest possible image without any cropping at the edges. How this is done varies from model to model, so see the TV’s instruction manual, although often selecting the PC/gaming option on the TV does the trick.  

If you find overscan being used during AirPlay playback, open Settings on the Apple TV, then select Audio & Video, and turn off the option entitled Adjust for AirPlay Overscan.

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The Apple TV : Troubleshooting

Here are some quick fixes for common Apple TV problems:

1) How to restore Apple TV

Go to Settings > General > Reset, and then select Restore. Restoring Apple TV can take some time.

If restoring doesn’t work or if Apple TV still doesn’t respond, you can restore it using iTunes.

Start by disconnecting the power and HDMI cables from Apple TV. Now connect one end of a micro USB cable (sold separately) to the back of Apple TV, and the other end to your computer. Now plug the Apple TV power cord back power outlet.

Open iTunes on your computer, select Apple TV in the Source list, and then click Restore.

2) Apple TV networking issues

You can resolve many Wi-Fi issues by checking your network connection settings. Find these at Settings > General > Network > WiFi on the Apple TV.

If you discover that you aren't connected to a network, the signal strength is low, or some of these settings are incorrect or blank, try the following steps:

Ensure that Apple TV is within range of your Wi-Fi router or base station.

Confirm that your Wi-Fi router and cable/DSL modem are connected to power and turned on.

Make sure other devices (you Mac, iPhone, iPad) are able to connect to the Wi-Fi network and access the internet.

If your Wi-Fi network uses a password, make sure you are entering it correctly.

Check for obstructions and change the location of the base station and/or Apple TV if necessary.

If security is enabled on the network, temporarily disable it on the base station and try connecting again.

Restart your Apple TV by choosing Settings > General > Restart.

Restart your router.

Connect your Apple TV to your modem via an ethernet cable and verify your internet connection

Check you are using the latest software at Settings > General > Software Update. (Update the software via an ethernet connection if necessary). 

If it's still not working, check which IP address the Apple TV is using. If it starts with 169.x.x.x,  the router or base station may not be configured properly. Check to see if DHCP access is available.  If DHCP is available, go to Settings menu, select General then Network and Configure TCP/IP. Set Apple TV to Automatic. If DHCP isn't available you can also configure the Apple TV with a manual IP address.

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How to view photos on the Apple TV ?

The Apple TV is a great gadget if you want to view your photos on your large TV screen. Here's how:

1) How to view a Mac photo album on the Apple TV

To view photos from your Mac on your Apple TV you need Home Sharing turned on in iTunes on your Mac and on your Apple TV.

To turn on Home Sharing, open iTunes on your computer, choose File > Home Sharing > Turn On Home Sharing, then enter your Apple ID and password and click Turn on Home Sharing.

Now in iTunes choose File > Home Sharing > Choose Photos to Share, then select Share Photos from and choose a source, either your whole photo library, Faces, Events or selected Albums, and click Apply.

Now choose Computers from the Apple TV menu and choose Photos. Select an album and you can add music, transitions and other slideshow effects using settings. You can also set it as a Screen Saver.

To start a slideshow, from inside the album click up on the Remote until you have Slideshow selected. Choose the settings for your slideshow, including the music, and the style of slideshow. There are lots of Slideshow styles to choose from, from a Photo Wall that looks like the Apple TV is panning around a gallery, to a Scrapbook, or Ken Burns style.

If you want to add music, select Default Music, you shoudl then see a link to the music library on your Mac, and then the choice of going to your Music library, or choosing from Recently Played, or Top 25 Most Played. What you can't do is choose a particular track.

When you have chosen your Slideshow style, select Start Slideshow.

You can also set the album to be your default Screen Saver. From within the album click up on the remote and across to Screen Saver. The Apple TV will ask you if you wish to use that album for your Screen Saver, click on Yes.

Remember, if your computer is off then you won't be able to view the slideshow as these images are stored on your Mac.

2) Create an iCloud photo stream to view on an Apple TV

Another way to view photos on your Apple TV is using iCloud Photo Sharing. Start by creating a photo stream. To set up a Photo Stream on your iPad or iPhone go to Settings > iCloud > Photos, and the use the toggle to turn Upload to My Photo Stream on to automatically upload all the your new photos to all your devices.

If you don't want every picture you take to appear on your Apple TV, you can create a separate photo stream by turning on iCloud Photo Sharing (you can actually share this with up to 100 people if you want). Now when you have a photo you wish to share, tap through to the Share Sheet and select iCloud. At this point either create a New Shared Stream, or add to an existing stream, and share with your iCloud address. 

The next step is to get your Apple TV home page and scroll down to iCloud Photos. It will request that you sign in to use features such as iCloud Photos, iMovie Theatre, and Family Sharing. Select Yes to sign into iCloud. (Remember that if you have installed the Remote app on your iPhone you can enter the password using the keyboard, you just need to open the app). Wait while it connects. Nect it will ask if you want to use My Photo Stream as your Screen Saver, you could choose to say yes, or you might prefer to pick a particular album to share with anyone who happens to be visiting.

Once you access your iCloud Photos you will have access to all the photos in your photo stream, along with photos from any friend's who share their photo libraries with you, and photos you share with others via iCloud Photo Stream.

If you don't see your photos that are in your Shared Stream, go to Settings on your Apple TV and choose iCloud > iCloud Photos Settings and turn on Photo Sharing and turn on My Photo Stream. It can take a few minutes for your photos to appear but when they are there you will be able to choose to view them in a slide show and even as your screen saver.

You can also stream photos this way from your Mac. In iPhoto or Aperture create an album, then choose Add to iCloud and select the Photo Stream you wish to share.

A shared stream can hold a maximum of 5000 photos and videos combined, but none of these eat into your iCloud allowance.

Apple is supposed to be launching a service soon that will store all your photos, whether taken on iPhone, iPad or stored on your Mac, in the cloud, so that you can access them all on any of your devices as any time. We'll update this section of this feature when this new service launches.

3) Share photos from your iPhone or iPad to the Apple TV

The easiest way to view a photo from an iPhone or iPad on the TV screen is to select the image and click on the Share icon (the box with an arrow coming out of it). Then choose the AirPlay icon to view the image on the TV screen. Once you are connected to the Apple TV any photo you open on your iPhone or iPad will appear on the big screen too, so you can swipe through an album, or choose to play a slideshow.

To stream a slideshow from your iPhone to the Apple TV, select the Share icon again, and tap Slideshow > Start Slideshow.

4) What to do if Apple TV isn't playing your photo albums or slideshows

Make sure the Apple TV and the Mac you’re using have Home Sharing turned on - and that they are using the same Home Sharing account. Make sure they are on the same local network.

Make sure you have photos in your photo library or in a folder on your computer (not on an external storage device), and make sure the photos you want to share are selected.

If you are still unable to see the images on your Apple TV try this. In iTunes, go to File > Home Sharing. Select Share Photos From: and click on the down arrow beside iPhoto to choose a folder. Now you can choose a folder of images anywhere on your Mac. Select the folder and choose Open and Apply.

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Tips for navigating the Apple TV interface

Finding your way around the Apple TV interface is simple, but the lack of buttons on the remote control can sometimes be confusing. Here's our guide to navigating the Apple TV.

1) Button layout

Apple prides itself on it's minimalist remote control. You'll find the Select button in the centre, encircled by the up, down, left and right navigation buttons. Below those are the Menu and the Play/Pause buttons. That should be all the buttons you need (if you find the lack of buttons frustrating though read the section below about using alternative remotes).

2) Using the Select button

You navigate around the Apple TV menus using the left, right, up and down controls. When you see something you wish to access just press the central Select button.

3) Menu button to step back, and get straight back to the home screen

Wherever you are on the Apple TV just press the Menu button to go back a step. If you are fed up with clicking back through sub menus to get to the home screen? Rather than go back through every sub menu you opened you can get straight back to the home screen by pressing and holding down the menu button for a few seconds.

4) Browse Apple's Movies, TV Shows

Navigate to and click on Movies or TV Shows icons on the Apple TV home screen to see the selection of entertainment Apple has on the iTunes Store, including any films or TV shows you have purchased.

You can navigate around Purchased (where anything you already own will be available to download from iCloud), Top Films/TV Programmes (what's popular/new to iTunes), Genres (comedy, action, etc), Genius (recommendations based on what you have previously watched) and Search.

If you wish to step back, or access another part of that menu, press the Menu button on your Remote. If you find something you would like to watch select it with the button in the middle of the remote, and choose to Buy or Rent. (Many of these films and TV shows are also available on Netflix for a monthly subscription, more on that below).

5) Fast forward and rewind on Apple TV

When you are playing content just hold down the Right button to fast-forward; press the button again to increase the fast-forward speed (there are three speeds) – same applies for rewind, just press the Left button.

6) Slow Motion on Apple TV

To move forward or back in slow motion, press the Play/Pause button to pause the video, then press the Right or Left button. To skip forward or back in 10-second increments, press the Play/Pause button to pause the video, then hold down the Right or Left button.

7) Skip ahead on Apple TV

To skip to the next or previous chapter (if no chapter markers are present, this will skip 1/20th of the video length, or 30 second intervals whichever is longer) press the Down button, then Right or Left to skip chapters.

8) Read about what you are watching

When you are watching content on the Apple TV just press up on the remote control to view information about what you are watching.

9) How to remove channels from your Apple TV menu

You can choose which apps appear on the Apple TV's home screen. Right now you can see the following services on the UK version of the Apple TV: movie and box set streaming service Netflix; Now TV; YouTube; video community Vimeo; concerts and music documentaries from Qello; music videos and concerts from Vevo; photos from Flickr; Japanese anime from Crunchyroll; live Korean TV from KORTV (why?); business reports from Bloomberg and WSJ Live; Sky News; Sky Sports Now TV service; more sports from NHL and MLB (yawn); You Tube; and Red Bull TV, and a few other bits and bobs that you probably will never even look at.

If you want to remove any of these channels from your Apple TV home screen you can press and hold the select key on the remote until the item jiggles and then press the directional buttons to move it or press the Play/Pause button to see more options including 'Hide This Item'. This is a great way to remove all the random American sports channels, and the truely baffeling KORTV.

Apple only introduced this simple way to reorganise your home screen in 2014. Prior to that it was necessary to Settings > General > Restrictions. You'd see all the channels listed with the word "Show" next to them. Just scroll to the channels you wish to remove and select "Hide". It looks like you need to enable Parental Controls, but you don't.

10) How to rearrange icons on the Apple TV Home Screen

You can also rearrange icons on the Apple TV home screen. Press and hold the button in the centre of your remote and when the apps start jiggling you can move them around using your up, down, left and right keys. It's just like iOS on your iPad or iPhone. Press Menu when you are done.

11) Put Apple TV to sleep/stand by mode

Put the Apple TV to sleep by holding the central select button for a few seconds when on the main menu (this trick used to work but appears not to now).

Alternatively, go to Settings > Sleep Now on Apple TV.

12) Reset Apple TV

Press and hold the Menu and Down buttons for six seconds. But remember you will need to set the Apple TV up again afterwards.

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Choose Between HD and Ultra HD

These terms refer to the TV’s native resolution. A regular high-definition (HD) set is also a called a 1080p model, as its screen resolution is 1920 x 1080. That means it has 1,920 pixels horizontally, and 1,080 pixels vertically, so it contains roughly 2 million pixels in all. Think of pixels, short for "picture elements," as the tiny individual dots that make up the TV's picture.

Ultra High-Definition (UHD) TVs, also called 4K TVs, have screen resolutions of 3840 x 2160, which contain 8 million pixels, or four times the number of individual pixels as an HD set. The more densely packed array of pixels in UHD sets make them capable of greater picture detail. The benefits of a UHD TV are more apparent in larger screen sizes, say 65 inches and above, or when you'd like to sit closer to the TV than you could with a 1080p set.

So why doesn't everyone just get a UHD TV? One reason is that you'll pay a premium of a few hundred dollars or more for a UHD TV, though the price gap is slowly narrowing. And there's still not a lot of native 4K content; what's available comes primarily from streaming services right now. We expect to see the first 4K UHD Blu-ray players, as well as more 4K streaming options, in 2016.

Another reason you may consider waiting: Standards for some UHD features, including high dynamic range (HDR) and a wider palette of colors, are still evolving. We expect most of these issues to be resolved by the end of 2015, when all of the standards—for TVs, streaming media, and Blu-ray discs—are nailed down to ensure that your UHD TV can take full advantage of them.

1080p TV

A high-definition TV, with 1920x1080 resolution, will be fine for most viewers, and you'll save a bit of money compared to a UHD set with a similarly sized screen. Almost every 1080p set available is an LCD TV with an LED backlight, but there are also a limited number of 1080p OLED TVs. And right now, it's unlikely you'll find a UHD TV smaller than 39 inches. We've found that many viewers aren't be able to see the extra detail in a UHD TV from normal viewing distances until they get to very large screen sizes, say 65 inches or above. Just remember that resolution is only one of a number of attributes a TV has to get right to produce excellent overall picture quality. Regular HD TVs remain an excellent choice for many consumers when you factor in price, especially in screen sizes smaller than 65 inches.

Ultra HD TV

Thanks to its higher-resolution 3840x2160 screen, a UHD TV (also known as a 4K TV) can display greater detail than a 1080p set when presented with high-quality UHD content. Images appear a bit sharper, with smoother lines on the edges of objects—depending on your viewing distance. The jump from regular HD to Ultra HD isn't as dramatic as the change from standard definition to HD, but many UHD sets attempt to enhance the image in other ways. For example, we're starting to see TVs with high dynamic range that provide a high level of contrast between the lightest and darkest images. Newer UHD TVs also widen the array of colors a TV can display, but exploiting these advantages requires specially produced content. Since standards for these features are still being finalized, it may pay to wait before making the jump to UHD. 

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The AppCam Pan/Tilt HD Indoor WiFi Camera OVERVIEW

Uniden’s AppCam system works with your smartphone or wireless device to create a powerful home security network. No PC interface is needed to view video on your smartphone or wireless devices. Set up the camera network on your mobile device and install the cameras; your network is up and running. 

The wireless AppCam offers superior quality video with true color. It is suitable for day or nighttime use.

Also, as dust, grime, and cobwebs accumulate on the camera glass, they can reflect light from the infrared LED and might lower video quality. Periodically clean the lens glass with a soft cloth.

FEATURES

System

• No PC required

• Direct connection to router

• WiFi connection to router

• P2P connection

• Records HD 720P up to 20fps

• Manual/motion recording to microSD

• Supports up to 32GB microSD

• High quality H.264 video

• Two-way Audio

AppCam Pan/Tilt Indoor Camera

• IR cut filter switch

• Night vision range – 25 feet

• Built-in microphone and speaker

• microSD card slot

Uniden’s AppCam App

• Multiple camera viewing and management from single app

• Remote access to recorded video

• Remote snapshot & recording control

• Event notification/email alert

WHAT’S INCLUDED

If any items are missing or damaged

contact our Customer Care Line immediately at +1-800-658-8068.

Never use damaged products!

PARTS OF THE CAMERA

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APPCAM24HD Indoor WiFi Camera : INSTALL CAMERAS

INSTALL CAMERAS

Consider the following when installing cameras:

• Clear line of sight video transmission distance is up to 500 ft.

— Walls, especially brick and concrete, shorten the transmission distance.

— Placement next to windows allows better transmission.

• Avoid having a direct light source in the view of the camera, such as ceiling or floor lamps or outside spotlights visible through the window.

• The camera is equipped with built-in infrared LEDs so you can use night vision for 24-hour surveillance. The LEDs will automatically activate at night and the picture viewed will turn to black and white. The night viewing range is up to 25 ft. Avoid pointing the camera lens directly at clear glass; the night vision LEDs will cause a blurred image.

• Optimized motion detection range is 6 - 18 feet for the camera. The farther away an object is, the less accurate the motion detection.

• If you leave your camera wirelessly connected to the router, your picture quality will be very good. However, you can leave the camera physically connected to the router for the highest quality images. If you wish to do so, install the camera within reach of the router. 

1. Use your mobile device to test the places where you are considering mounting the camera. Hold the device in that location; if you still have a WiFi signal on your device, the location should be okay.

Attach the camera stand if you have not already done so.

2. Unplug the camera from the power source and install it.

3. After the camera is installed, reconnect power.

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Guardian UDR777HD Wireless Security Kit : MAINTAINING and SOLVING PROBLEMS

MAINTAINING SYSTEM
UPGRADING UDR777HD MONITOR FIRMWARE
Check your system firmware version on the Network Information screen.
Go to www.uniden.com and search for the UDR777HD product page. Check the current firmware version.against your system firmware level. If you need to update your UDR777HD firmware, download the most current firmware version to your system’s SD card and then upload that firmware to the monitor.
1. Eject the SD card from the monitor.
2. Insert the SD card into the SD card adapter (included) and then insert it into your PC. If your PCdoes not have an SD card slot, you will need to use an SD card to USB adapter (not included.)
3. Go to www.unidenvideo.com.
4. Copy the current firmware to the SD card.
5. Remove the SD card and reinsert it into the monitor.
6. Upgrade the firmware (see page 39).
TAKING CARE OF YOUR HARDWARE MONITOR
As you use your monitor keep the screen clean by wiping it with a microfiber cloth to remove fingerprints, dust, etc.
CAMERAS
When dust and grime builds up on the camera lens and glass, it affects night vision capability. The infrared light reflects off of the dust and grime, limiting the camera’s “vision.” Use a microfiber cloth to regularly clean the cameras or when night vision video is cloudy or unclear.
MANAGING RECORDED FILES
Over time, your SD card will fill up with recorded files. If there are files you need to keep, transfer them to your computer for storage and remote viewing (see page 46). Otherwise, reformat your SD card every 4 to 6 weeks (see page 32).
COPYING FILES FROM THE SD CARD TO YOUR COMPUTER
1. Remove the SD card from the monitor.
2. Insert it into your computer’s SD card slot.
3. Navigate to the SD card and locate your files.
4. Copy them to the computer. These files can now be deleted from the SD card or the SD card can be formatted.
SOLVING PROBLEMS

If you have any trouble with your system, try these simple steps. If you are still having a problem with your camera, check the manual that came with your camera. If you still have a question, visit the Uniden website at www.uniden.com for assistance.
IF... :
The motion sensor won’t respond to movement: 
• Increasing the sensitivity of the motion sensor

• Checking the masking pattern
The motion sensor goes off when there’s nothing there:
• Decreasing the sensitivity of the motion sensor.

• Checking placement considerations.
I can’t play my video clips in another program:
• For MAC: Download another video payer such as Elmedia player.

• For PC: Video will play in players such as Windows Media® Player if an H.264 CODEC plug-in is installed.
I schedule a recording, save the schedule, and the recording does not happen at the scheduled time : 
• Check the settings on the Schedule Recording Setup screen
• Ensure that the system time is set to the current time.

• Make sure that the SD card is inserted into the monitor and there is still memory available on that card.
The camera’s signal status icon shows no bars : 
• making sure the camera is plugged in.
• making sure the camera is paired to the correct channel.
• re-pairing the camera and monitor.
• moving the camera closer to the monitor; it might be out of range.

• making sure the camera is turned on in Camera Setup
The camera won’t pair with the monitor : 
• making sure the camera is plugged in.
• pressing and releasing the pairing button quickly. Do not press and hold the pairing button.
• Check if other cameras in the area are also in Pairing mode.

Disconnect power to other cameras.
When I power up my monitor and cameras for the first time, they seem to be on but there is no picture on the screen :
• verifying that the cameras are turned on.
• verifying that the monitor is displaying a channel with a camera assigned to it.
The monitor picture has frozen :

Using a blunt object like an unbent paper clip to press RESET on the back of the monitor to reset the monitor. The monitor turns off. Press POWER to turn it back on.
I cannot remotely acces my recorded files :
• Verify that the monitor is connected to the internet.
• Verify that the time zone is set correctly for the monitor.

If you are away from your system, you will need someone to verify these items for you.
INTERFERENCE
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules and ETSI (EN) 300328. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy, and if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause interference to radio or television equipment reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:
• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Move the equipment away from the monitor.
• Plug the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the monitor is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/television technician for additional suggestions.

CAUTION! Any changes or modifications to this equipment not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void your authority to operate the equipment

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Installing BCD536HP HomePatrol Series Scanner with Wi-Fi

The BCD536HP can be placed on a convenient surface in your home as a base station, and connected to a standard outlet that supplies 120VAC, 60Hz. You must use either the supplied antenna or an electrically correct outdoor antenna, properly and safely mounted at your chosen site.

The unit can also be placed above, beneath, or in the dash of your vehicle using the supplied bracket and mounting hardware.

• If your scanner receives interference or electrical noise, move the scanner or its antenna away from the source.

• Do not use the scanner in high-moisture environments such as the kitchen or bathroom.

Avoid placing the scanner in direct sunlight or near heating elements or vents.

Power Related Issues

Important: To prevent memory from being corrupted, do not unplug the AC adapter during the time the memory is accessed for programming or auto store.

Note 1: If when you connect the AC adapter the [VOL] /Power Switch is ON, the scanner may not power on. Should this occur, simply turn the control OFF, then ON again.

Note 2: When you turn off the scanner using the power switch, the scanner remembers the last settings and mode. When you turn power back on, it resumes the previous mode.

Connecting an Optional Antenna

The scanner’s BNC connector makes it easy to connect a variety of optional  antennas, including an external mobile antenna or outdoor base station antenna.

Note: Always use 50-ohm, RG-58, or RG-8, BNC terminated coaxial cable to connect

an outdoor antenna. If the antenna is over 50 feet from the scanner, use RG-8 low-loss dielectric coaxial cable. Cable loss increases with higher frequency.

Connecting an Extension Speaker

In a noisy area, an optional amplified extension speaker, positioned in the right place, might provide more comfortable listening. Plug the speaker cables 1/8-inch (3.5-mm) mini-plug into your scanners back-panel Ext. Sp. Jack.

WARNING! If you connect an external speaker to the scanner’s Ext. SP jack or headphone jack, never connect the audio output line to a power supply and ground. This might also damage the scanner.

BCD536HP Only - All audio output is Class-D amplified (PWM). Never connect Ext. SP jack or headphone jack to an external Class-D AMP.

Base Station

This is the simplest approach to let you get started quickly. Decide on a location that is convenient to a nearby wall outlet, has desk space to let you complete your programming worksheets, will safely allow the indoor antenna to be extended, or near a window to use an outdoor antenna.

To secure the radio to a surface by means of the mounting bracket, follow the steps below:

1. Attach the four protective mounting feet to the mounting bracket when you casually use the scanner on a flat surface. Should you desire to permanently mount the scanner, remove the feet and use wood screws through the bracket as described in Steps 2 and 3.

2. Use the bracket as a template to mark positions for the two mounting screws.

3. At the marked positions, drill holes slightly smaller than the screws.

4. Align the bracket with the threaded holes on the sides of the radio case so the bracket is beneath the radio. Secure the bracket using the two threaded knobs. Never over tighten the knobs.

Once the radio is positioned, connect it to a source of AC power using the supplied 13.8V, 750 mA AC adapter. Insert the barrel of the AC adapter to the jack on the rear, upper right side of the radio marked. Insert the connector of the supplied indoor telescoping antenna to the BNC Antenna

Connector and apply moderate pressure to secure it.

Vehicle Installation

You can mount your scanner in your vehicle, using either the supplied bracket or the optional DIN-E sleeve.

If the scanner loses power (as when you turn off your car’s ignition with the scanners power switch on), it can corrupt the microSD card. To ensure that does not happen, turn off the scanner before turning the car’s ignition off.

WARNING! AVOID AIRBAG DEPLOYMENT ZONES.

Ignoring this installation concern may result in bodily harm and the inability of the airbag to perform properly.

Mounting Using the Bracket

With the bracket removed from the radio, use the holes in the bracket as a template to initially mark the location you plan to use in your vehicle. Be absolutely certain of what might be behind the mounting surface before making any holes, be it above, or below, or in front of your dash, armrest console, or other location. If you drill carelessly, expensive damage can result. If in doubt, consult your vehicle dealer’s service department or a qualified professional installer.

1. Using appropriate screws or other hardware, secure the bracket.

2. Insert the scanner and insert the bracket knobs to lock the scanner in position.

3. Attach the Cigarette Lighter Power Cord to the rear of the scanner and plug the adapter end into a dash mounted 12V DC socket.

4. Attach a suitable mounted mobile antenna to the antenna jack on the back of the scanner.

Mounting Using the DIN-E Sleeve

If you are unsure about how to install your scanner in your vehicle using the optional DIN-E sleeve, consult your automobile manufacturer, dealer, or a qualified installer. Before installing, confirm that your scanner fits in the desired mounting area and you have all the necessary materials to complete the task.

Your scanner requires a 2 x 7-1/8 x 5-5/16 inch (50 x 180 x 135 mm) mounting area. Allow an additional 2-3/8 inch (60mm) space behind the unit for connectors and wires.

1. Remove the bracket if it is attached.

2. Remove the four Philips screws from four small tabs on the rear of the case that secure the outer metal case and pull off the case (toward the rear) with care.

3. Install the DIN sleeve into the opening in your dashboard, lip facing out.

4. Push out the top and bottom tabs to hold the sleeve firmly in place.

5. Before inserting the scanner in the sleeve, attach the cable from the previously mounted antenna. Attach the DC Power leads. RED goes to a positive (+) connection on your fuse block while BLACK connects to the vehicles chassis ground (-).

6. Connect the ORANGE lead to one side of the headlamp switch so that when you activate the headlights, the scanners LCD display changes intensity. Be sure all the connections are routed away from any potentially pinching or slicing sheet metal.

7. Slowly slide the scanner into the sleeve until it locks in place.

8. To remove the unit, fully insert the removal keys into each slot on the left and right edges of the front panel. Carefully slide the radio from the sleeve.

Removing the Scanner from the DIN-E Sleeve

If you plan to connect other devices or wires to the radio, such as a GPS unit, at a later time, you should plan to remove the scanner from the DIN-E sleeve. This is easily done using the provided

Removal Keys that come with the optional DIN-E sleeve.

Refer to the illustration that follows, showing the Removal Keys.

Fully insert both Removal Keys into the slots on the left and the right edges of the radios dress panel. You cannot remove the radio with only one key. Press in fully, and do not twist the keys.

The radio will unlock from the sleeve making withdrawal from the sleeve possible. Store the keys in a safe place for future use.

Mounting Using ISO Technique

Some vehicles can take advantage of another approach to mounting a radio in a vehicle, called the ISO technique. However, this technique requires a very detailed and thorough knowledge of the technique. Therefore, we strongly suggest that if you have any doubt about your experience and abilities, please consult with a professional installer who is familiar with the ISO approach to radio installation.

To begin the process, it is first necessary to remove the scanners outer metal sleeve from the inner chassis. Unthread the four screws in the rear of the unit. Slide the cover toward the rear and off. Once the sleeve is removed, you will see threaded, metric machine screw holes on either side of the chassis cabinet. Uniden does not supply these screws. Their diameter, length, and screw type should be chosen by a qualified installer based on the internal vehicle bracket which will be used in securing the scanner chassis.

Once the original radio is removed from the vehicle dash and the fit of the scanner is correct, be sure to connect all the power, audio, antenna, and any other cables or wires, to the scanner before the scanner is secured.

The following illustration is a typical example of the ISO technique and the general side mounting screw holes often encountered. It does not actually represent the Uniden scanner or your vehicle’s mounting bracket. Only a professional installer will be able to determine the best and correct approach.

Connecting DC Cable with Orange Wire

Connect this cable to the vehicle’s electric system that receives power when you turn on your headlights. Now your scanner’s display will automatically dim when you turn on the headlights.

Using Internal Batteries (BCD436HP Only)

You can power your scanner using three alkaline or rechargeable AA batteries.

There is no switch for the battery type. Using non-rechargeable batteries, select “No” at the

Battery message when connecting the USB cable.

1. Install 3 AA batteries, matching the polarity symbols (+ -).

2. Replace the cover.

When Battery icon flashes and the scanner beeps every 15 seconds, replace or recharge the batteries.

Using Rechargeable Batteries

You can also use three rechargeable batteries to power your scanner. Before you use

rechargeable batteries, you must charge them. The scanner has a built-in circuit that lets you recharge batteries while they are in the scanner.

If the USB cable is connected to the scanner, or batteries are installed in the scanner when an USB cable is connected, the scanner will check the battery condition.

When the scanner is turned on, the scanner does not charge the batteies.

When the scanner is turned off, the scanner will charge the batteies.

The scanner displays “Normal Charging” while charging the batteies according to the Set Charge Time setting.

Caution: If the scanner gets too hot while charging, it will turn off automatically.

If the batteries are not installed, “No Battery” is displayed.

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APPCAM25HD Camera : MAINTAINING SYSTEM, TROUBLESHOOTING

MAINTAINING SYSTEM
TAKING CARE OF YOUR CAMERA
When dust and grime builds up on the camera lens and glass, it affects night vision capability. The infrared light reflects off of the dust and grime, limiting the camera’s “vision.” Use a microfiber cloth to regularly clean the cameras or when night vision video is cloudy or unclear.
MANAGING RECORDED FILES
Over time, your microSD card will fill up with recorded files. If there are files you need to keep, transfer them to your computer for storage and remote viewing.
Otherwise, reformat your microSD card every 4 to 6 weeks
Copying Files from the microSD Card to Your Computer
1. Remove the microSD card from the camera.
2. Insert it into your computer’s SD card slot. Use an adapter if necessary.
3. Navigate to the microSD card and locate your files.
4. Copy them to the computer. These files can now be deleted from the microSD card or the microSD card can be formatted
TROUBLESHOOTING
Before going through these troubleshooting procedures, verify that you have the most current version of this manual. Go to www.uniden.com and select
Owner’s Manuals from the Support tab’s drag-down list. Navigate to your model’s manual and open it. Check the issue and date on the front cover.
HOW TO IMPROVE THE WIRELESS SIGNAL QUALITY

If possible, remove obstacles in between camera and receiver that might reflect the signal. These could include furniture, cabinets, and walls. If the wireless signal is not improved, relocate the camera closer to the receiver.
IF... :
The app cannot find the camera : 
• Make sure your network supports DHCP protocol.
• Make sure that the DHCP option is turned on.
• Make sure the camera and your mobile device connect to the same WiFi router.
• Make sure the WiFi router is activated.
• Make sure the camera is properly powered on.

• Use the “ADD CAMERA” function to manually add the camera.
The camera does not find the router to connect to : 
• Make sure you selected the correct router in the Manage WiFi Network box.

• Make sure you entered the correct password for the router you selected in the Manage WiFi Network box.
My smartphone or wireless device cannot find the camera during setup:
• Make sure the router is turned on.
• Refresh the connection.
• Make sure your smartphone is connected to the same network as the camera.

• Make sure the camera’s green LED is blinking in a 3-flash/pause pattern. If it isn’t, reset the camera by pressing and holding the Reset button on the cord until the LEDs begin to flash.
No image appears : 
• Make sure the power adaptor is not damaged or defective and is plugged into an electrical outlet with power.
• Relocate the camera to obtain the best reception of wireless signals.

• Make sure the camera is properly configured in the app.
Poor image quality : 
Clean the camera lens using a lens cleaning cloth.

Spots or dust on the lens can also cause image quality problems.
Motion detection is not working :
• Make sure the sensitivity setting is not turned OFF. (Set sensitivity through the Advanced tab.)
• Adjust the sensitivity of the motion sensor. (Set sensitivity through the Advanced tab.)
• In motion detection mode, a moving object within the camera viewing angle is necessary to trigger the motion sensor for recording.

• Make sure the system date and time have been correctly set.
Bright white spots appear at nighttime :
The camera’s infrared LEDs produce invisible light that reflects off surfaces such as glass. Install the camera on the other side of windows or place the lens flush against
the surface to improve the night vision.

Please check the environment rating (Ingress) of the camera(s) before installing outdoors.
Memory card error :
Make sure the memory card is correctly inserted and formatted.

Please backup the data before formatting. This Format function will erase all data on the memory card.
Wrong date and time are shown :
• Make sure you’ve selected the correct time zone. Unexpected date and time can result in an incorrect recording schedule.

• Confirm the system date/time of the mobile device to ensure correct operation.
Router signal strength is weak :
• Change router/camera relative position.
• Use the Ethernet cable to physically connect the AppCam 25HD camera to your router.
• Use a Wi-Fi repeater/extender to maximize the service range of your Wi-Fi router.

• Switch your router to 11b/11g mode in order to improve router service range.
Limited internet bandwidth :

• Avoid more than two users accessing the AppCam 25HD at a time. 

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