The Takeaway: Off-grid, solar-powered cellular security cameras deliver 24/7/365 peace of mind without relying on Wi-Fi, landline power, or short-range wireless setups.
Q: Will cameras work in areas with poor cell service?
A: Yes. If you can make a phone call or send a text at the location, cameras will typically work. DEFEND 4G cameras can often get identical or even superior reception than cell phones because of their componentry and eSIM, which automatically connects to the strongest cellular network available regardless of signal provider. Note that if a specific location lacks sufficient signal strength, simply moving the camera a few feet, particularly up, can improve signal reception.
Q: What happens if someone steals or damages the camera?
A: All footage is stored in the cloud, so even if a camera is stolen or vandalized, you retain access to recorded video. Many users also position cameras so there is overlapping coverage.
Q: How long does the battery last without solar?
A: Battery life depends on multiple factors, including weather, settings, and activity. The DEFEND Cam can operate for several months on battery alone, but with solar panels, the unit runs indefinitely without battery changes or recharging. The DEFEND 360 includes a rechargeable battery and solar panel, and can run indefinitely with sufficient daily sunlight.
Q: Can I access cameras from multiple phones?
A: Yes. The DEFEND App allows you to share camera access with family members, employees, or anyone else with a DEFEND account. You control who has access and their permission levels.
Q: Do I need a separate data plan for each camera?
A: Yes, each camera requires its own cellular data plan. However, plans are affordable, starting at just $5/month, and there are no contracts or long-term commitments. Learn more about plans here.
Q: Will cameras work in extreme temperatures?
A: DEFEND cameras are built to operate in temperatures from -4°F to 122°F. DEFEND 360 is IP65 rated, meaning its internal components are completely dust-tight and protected against water jets from any direction, while DEFEND Cam is IP66 rated, meaning it is also dust-tight and can withstand even more powerful blasts of water.
Q: Will DEFEND cameras work in areas of poor Wi-Fi?
A: DEFEND cameras operate on 4G cellular networks, so they are completely independent of your local Wi-Fi. If your phone has a cell signal, your DEFEND cameras should be able to transmit imagery without a problem.
Q: How do cellular cameras prevent false alerts from blowing leaves, passing insects, or moving shadows?
A: DEFEND cameras use advanced passive infrared (PIR) motion detection, which helps the cameras trigger only for actual thermal movements, such as vehicles, intruders, or larger animals. False alerts do occur, however. To cut down on false alerts, try trimming branches or tall grasses that are in the camera’s immediate field of view, reduce the camera’s motion sensitivity in the app, and mount the camera so it faces north.
Q: How clear is the night vision? Can it identify trespassers or loose livestock?
A: DEFEND cameras feature high-definition sensor technology and long-range infrared LEDs. This delivers crisp night vision footage that can often clearly identify faces, license plates, loose livestock, and more.
Q: Will the solar panel charge the cameras during cloudy days or heavy winter snow?
A: Yes. High-efficiency solar panels continue to absorb diffuse solar radiation and top off the internal battery even on overcast or short winter days. To maximize solar gain, if needed, panels should face directly south. Mounting the solar panel at an angle of 45° or steeper can help heavy snow to naturally slough off.
Q: Can I view DEFEND security camera imagery if I am out of the country?
A: Yes. You can view footage from anywhere in the world as long as your mobile device can connect to the internet and you can open the DEFEND App. In addition to viewing, saving, sharing, and deleting media, you can adjust camera settings, request on-demand imagery, and enter live view.