Recently, I embarked on a journey to integrate my new Ring Video Doorbell 2 with SmartThings, and I must say, the process was both enlightening and a bit challenging. I wanted to share my experience in case anyone else is looking to do the same, as I found the official documentation a bit lacking in certain areas.
First, I connected my Ring account to SmartThings through the SmartThings Connect app. Initially, everything seemed smooth—my doorbell appeared as a device in the app, and notifications started flowing in. However, I quickly realized that not all features were accessible. The Ring Floodlight Cam and Ring Floodlight Wired, despite being on the same Ring account, didn’t show up in the device list. This was a bit frustrating, as I was eager to control them alongside my doorbell.
After some research, I discovered that these devices require a separate setup process. I learned that while the doorbell integrates seamlessly, additional devices often need manual pairing or specific configurations. I reached out to the Ring support team, and they confirmed that these devices aren’t automatically detected by SmartThings. Instead, they need to be added individually through the SmartThings app.
Here’s how I managed to get everything working:
- Manual Addition: I navigated to the SmartThings app, went to the ‘Devices’ section, and selected ‘Add Device.’ From there, I searched for ‘Ring’ and followed the prompts to add each device manually.
- Firmware Check: I ensured that all my Ring devices were running the latest firmware. Outdated software can sometimes cause compatibility issues.
- Network Stability: I checked my Wi-Fi network to ensure there were no connectivity issues. A stable network is crucial for seamless communication between devices.
- Configuration: Once all devices were added, I configured them within SmartThings to set up routines and automations. This included linking the floodlights to motion sensors and setting up notifications for package deliveries.
The result? A fully integrated smart doorbell system that enhances my home security and convenience. Now, I can monitor my doorstep from anywhere, receive alerts for motion or package detection, and even communicate with visitors remotely.
If anyone else is struggling with integrating multiple Ring devices into SmartThings, I hope this guide helps. It’s all about patience and a bit of troubleshooting. Happy automating!