How to Integrate Reolink NVR with SmartThings for a Smarter Home Security System

Integrating your Reolink Network Video Recorder (NVR) with SmartThings can take your smart home security to the next level by enabling your cameras to interact seamlessly with other connected devices. While Reolink doesn’t officially support SmartThings, there are proven methods to bridge the gap using software, protocols, and community-driven solutions.

This guide will walk you through practical approaches to make your Reolink NVR compatible with SmartThings.

Why Integrate Reolink NVR with SmartThings?

• Unified Control: Manage your home security and other smart devices within a single platform.
• Automation Possibilities: Trigger smart actions like turning on lights or locking doors when motion is detected by your Reolink cameras.
• Convenience: Monitor live feeds and camera events through the SmartThings app, reducing the need for multiple apps.

Methods to Integrate Reolink NVR with SmartThings

1. Use Blue Iris Software as a Bridge

Blue Iris is a powerful video management tool that works well with Reolink devices and can be integrated with SmartThings. Here’s how:

1. Set Up Blue Iris:
   • Install Blue Iris software on a PC or server.
   • Add your Reolink cameras to Blue Iris using their RTSP or HTTP stream URLs.
2. Connect Blue Iris to SmartThings:
   • Install a custom SmartThings Device Handler and SmartApp designed for Blue Iris.
   • Configure triggers and automation within SmartThings, allowing events like motion detection to interact with other devices.

   Pros:

   • Supports advanced camera features like motion detection.
   • Allows full camera management from the Blue Iris dashboard.

   Cons:

   • Requires a dedicated PC or server for Blue Iris.
   • Setup involves moderate technical expertise.

2. Leverage ONVIF Compatibility

Reolink devices support the ONVIF protocol, which can be utilized to connect them to SmartThings.

1. Install an ONVIF Device Handler:
   • Search for community-created ONVIF Device Handlers compatible with SmartThings.
   • Install the handler within the SmartThings IDE.
2. Add Your Reolink Device:
   • Input your Reolink NVR or camera details, such as IP address, ONVIF port, username, and password.
3. Test and Configure:
   • Verify the live feed works in SmartThings.
   • Set up automations for motion detection or other triggers.

   Pros:

   • Direct connection without additional software.
   • Simplifies live feed viewing.

   Cons:

   • Limited functionality (e.g., no two-way audio or advanced motion alerts).
   • Potential configuration challenges.

3. Use Third-Party Platforms like Scrypted

Scrypted is a home automation platform that acts as an intermediary, translating Reolink streams into formats compatible with SmartThings.

1. Install Scrypted:
   • Run Scrypted on a server, NAS, or Raspberry Pi.
   • Add plugins for Reolink cameras.
2. Connect to SmartThings:
   • Use SmartThings-compatible plugins to bridge Scrypted and SmartThings.
3. Configure Automations:
   • Set up events like triggering an alarm or turning on lights based on motion detection.

   Pros:

   • Supports multiple camera formats and advanced features.
   • Works with various smart home ecosystems.

   Cons:

   • Requires technical setup and additional hardware.
   • May involve some trial and error.

Challenges and Considerations

• Network Configuration: Ensure your Reolink NVR and cameras are accessible on your local network or via port forwarding if remote access is needed.
• Device Limitations: Some camera features may not translate fully into SmartThings, such as two-way audio or advanced analytics.
• Community Support: Since Reolink doesn’t officially support SmartThings, you’ll rely on community forums for guidance and troubleshooting.

Helpful Tips

• Check Firmware Updates: Keep your Reolink NVR and cameras updated to ensure compatibility with third-party software.
• Use Static IP Addresses: Assign static IPs to your cameras and NVR for a stable connection with SmartThings or intermediary platforms.
• Backup Configurations: Save your settings regularly to avoid starting from scratch during troubleshooting.

Conclusion

Integrating Reolink NVR with SmartThings may require additional effort, but the benefits are worth it. Whether you choose software like Blue Iris, leverage ONVIF protocols, or use third-party tools like Scrypted, you can create a unified and automated home security system. By following this guide and experimenting with available options, you’ll unlock the potential of your smart home ecosystem while enhancing convenience and security.

Questions and Answers

1. Can Reolink NVR work directly with SmartThings?
No, Reolink NVR does not natively support SmartThings. However, you can integrate them using third-party software like Blue Iris, ONVIF protocols, or platforms like Scrypted.

2. What is the easiest way to integrate Reolink with SmartThings?
Using ONVIF compatibility is one of the simplest methods. Install an ONVIF Device Handler in SmartThings and configure your Reolink devices with the required details.

3. Can I trigger SmartThings automations using Reolink cameras?
Yes, you can set up automations, such as turning on lights or sending alerts, by using motion detection events from Reolink cameras through integration platforms.

4. Do I need additional hardware to connect Reolink NVR to SmartThings?
Not necessarily. While software like Blue Iris or Scrypted may require a dedicated PC or server, ONVIF integration can work without extra hardware.

5. What limitations should I expect when integrating Reolink with SmartThings?
You may encounter limited functionality, such as the inability to use two-way audio or advanced analytics, depending on the integration method you choose.