The takeaway: Cellular security shouldn’t be complicated–that’s why DEFEND 360 can be set up in minutes and requires no special tools or knowledge.
Security camera setup shouldn’t require hours of work, specialized tools, and electrical expertise. DEFEND 360 is security made simple–it has no wires, no need for electricity, and can be mounted anywhere you can drive a few screws into wood or siding, and all you need is a screwdriver and a ladder.
Here’s how to set up and mount your DEFEND 360 wireless security camera for hands-off uninterrupted operations.
DEFEND 360 Unboxing
Your DEFEND 360 comes with everything you need for security operations. There’s no need to add accessories at checkout–everything you need is waiting for you in the box.
The first thing you will see when you open the box is the Quick Start guide, which explains the setup process clearly. Next is the solar panel and cord, and the DEFEND 360 camera body, the antenna–which you will attach–the solar panel bracket, mounting hardware, USB-C charging cable, and camera mounting bracket.
The rechargeable lithium battery is already installed inside the camera.
How to Activate Your DEFEND 360 4G Security Camera
Once your account is set up and the DEFEND app is on your phone, final activation is a breeze. First, make sure the battery is fully charged. Plug the USB-C cable either into the port behind the rubber gasket on the back of the camera, or remove the battery and charge it directly.
With charging complete, you are ready to add the camera to the DEFEND app. In the app, click on “Add a Camera” or “Activate Your First Camera.” From here, the app walks you through the entire process. Choose what camera you are adding, then scan the QR code on the top of the DEFEND 360 using your phone’s camera. Finally, install the antenna.
With that done, switch the camera to “On.” The camera lens will rotate and a series of lights will flash: Red means it is selecting the best network, flashing blue light means it's connecting to the server, and solid blue means it’s in setup mode. After a few minutes, the camera is ready to go.
How to Mount Your DEFEND 360
Mounting your DEFEND 360 cellular security camera is a simple process that only takes a few minutes.
Keep in mind that because DEFEND 360 doesn’t require electricity or Wi-Fi, it can be placed almost anywhere and moved on a whim as frequently as you want.
Ideally, the camera should be mounted about 8 feet off the ground and within about 70 feet of where you expect the most traffic will be. Ideally, traffic will move perpendicularly to the camera.
First, mount the bracket at your chosen location using the provided screws. Next, turn the camera on using the switch behind the rubber gasket, then attach the solar panel cable to the back of the camera. To attach the camera to the mounting bracket, align the grooves on the camera to the grooves on the bracket and slide it in. Make sure the DEFEND logo faces you, adjust the solar panel so it faces south, and adjust the antenna.
Bundle any extra solar panel wire and tuck it behind the camera so it’s out of the way.
How to Use Live View on DEFEND 360
Live view is one of the main features of the new DEFEND 360; it allows you to connect to your camera from anywhere and see and hear what is going on. Live view is also how you can pan, tilt, and zoom for a full 360-degree field of view.
In the DEFEND app, find the camera you want and tap on “Live View.” It will take a few seconds to connect and open a live view session. Once in live view, you can adjust the camera angle up and down, left and right, as well as the zoom. Hold your phone horizontally for a larger panorama and make your adjustments using the buttons on the phone screen.
Options for Mounting Your DEFEND 360 Solar Panel
Paired, the rechargeable lithium battery and solar panel can power your DEFEND 360 wireless cellular security camera for months at a time with no interruptions.
Tactacam gives you two ways to mount your solar panel. The first one is to mount the panel on top of the camera using the included swivel plate. Consider that the panel should be positioned to receive direct sunlight each day.
The second option can be used if your camera location is shaded or does not have good sun exposure. This involves mounting the panel away from the camera so it can get the most sun. To do this, remove the panel’s swivel mount by unscrewing it to reveal the back face plate. Then, mount that plate to your surface using the same screws. Now, screw the solar panel mounting bracket onto the face plate and screw the panel itself on. Finally, wrap up and tuck away any loose cable.
Keep in mind that in some locations, you may need to adjust your solar panel angle based on where the sun is. You can monitor your battery levels right from the app to see when charging effectiveness is reduced.