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How to Install an Arlo Pro 5S Camera With the Arlo Solar Panel

Arlo GuideSecurity Cameras
medium difficulty 45-60 minutes 7 views 0 found helpful Updated
This guide applies to: Arlo Arlo Pro 5S (Pro 5S 2K)
Quick Setup (Do This First)
  • Plan Locations
  • Mount Camera
  • Mount Solar Panel
  • Connect Power Cable
  • Verify in App

Most users complete this in under 60 minutes

Expert Review & Technical Scope

DeviceArlo Arlo Pro 5S
Model CoveragePro 5S 2K
Fix Time45-60 minutes
DifficultyMedium
Required Toolsdrill, level, masonry or wood bit, ladder
Network / ProtocolWi-Fi / app-based troubleshooting context

Overview

The Arlo Pro 5S paired with a solar panel removes battery charging hassles. This guide mounts both units, aims the panel for daily sun, and verifies charge in the Arlo app.

Why This Happens in Real Homes

The Arlo Pro 5S paired with a solar panel removes battery charging hassles. This guide mounts both units, aims the panel for daily sun, and verifies charge in the Arlo app. In day-to-day use, this usually looks like Arlo Pro 5S and solar panel; Arlo account active; Sunny mounting location.

Most cases trace back to Panel aimed at shade; Cable too short for run; Mount on loose siding. The fix works best when you go step by step instead of changing multiple settings at once.

A practical order for this issue is: Plan Locations -> Mount Camera -> Mount Solar Panel -> Connect Power Cable. After each step, test the exact behavior that was failing so you can confirm what actually solved it.

What's Included

  • Arlo Pro 5S and solar panel
  • Arlo account active
  • Sunny mounting location
  • Arlo app on phone
  • Drill and bits
  • Mild weather install day

Got your materials ready? Here's what to check first.

Before You Start

  • Panel aimed at shade
  • Cable too short for run
  • Mount on loose siding
  • Dirty solar surface
  • Battery very low at install
  • Weak WiFi at camera

Don't skip this step — it breaks everything if you do

Warning

Do not run the panel cable across roof edges without a clip. Wind and ice loads can pull connectors apart.

Tools & Requirements

drilllevelmasonry or wood bitladdersmartphone with arlo app

Installation Steps

1

Plan Locations

Pick a camera spot with view of the target and strong WiFi. Pick a panel spot with 6 plus hours of sun. The two do not need to be side-by-side, just within cable reach.

2

Mount Camera

Anchor the camera mount into framing, not just siding. Use a level to keep the camera straight. Clip the camera body onto the mount and verify it holds firmly.

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3

Mount Solar Panel

Secure the solar panel bracket and tilt the panel to face south. In northern latitudes aim higher; near the equator aim flatter. Fasten the panel after tilt is set.

4

Connect Power Cable

Route the panel cable to the camera, leaving a drip loop to shed water. Plug the magnetic or screw connector into the camera power port firmly.

5

Verify in App

Open the Arlo app and confirm the camera shows a charging indicator within an hour of full sun. Adjust panel tilt if charge rate looks low over two days.

Installation Tips

Aim panel south in northern hemisphere
Plan cable run first
Anchor to studs
Clean panel on install day
Charge battery before mounting
Add node for WiFi

Still stuck? This is usually the deeper cause below.

Pro Tip

Clean the solar panel seasonally. Dust and pollen reduce daily charge more than most homeowners expect.

Official Manufacturer Manual

If you need the complete manufacturer documentation for advanced setup, wiring diagrams, or detailed specifications, you can download the official manual below. The manual includes full technical instructions directly from the manufacturer and may help if your issue requires deeper troubleshooting.

Download the Official Arlo Pro 5S Manual

Source: arlo.com

Need More Help? Arlo Support

Note: The contact information below connects you directly to Arlo's official customer support team, not Trunetto. They can help with warranty claims, device replacements, and advanced technical issues.