This guide walks you through the complete installation of the Smarttech Knock Knock Video Doorbell, from checking compatibility to final app setup. Whether you’re replacing an old doorbell or installing a new one, we’ve got you covered with clear, beginner-friendly instructions.
Key Takeaways
- Check compatibility first: Ensure your existing doorbell wiring and voltage meet the Smarttech Knock Knock requirements to avoid damage or malfunction.
- Turn off power at the breaker: Always shut off electricity before handling wires to prevent shocks or short circuits.
- Use the included mounting bracket: The bracket ensures a secure fit and proper alignment for optimal camera and motion detection performance.
- Download the Smarttech app: The app is essential for Wi-Fi pairing, live viewing, motion alerts, and customizing settings.
- Test the doorbell after installation: Confirm audio, video, and notifications work before finishing the setup.
- Enable two-way audio and motion zones: Customize these features in the app for better security and fewer false alerts.
- Keep firmware updated: Regular updates improve performance, security, and add new features over time.
How to Install Smarttech Knock Knock Video Doorbell
Installing a video doorbell can feel intimidating, especially if you’ve never worked with electrical wiring before. But don’t worry—installing the Smarttech Knock Knock Video Doorbell is easier than you think, and this step-by-step guide will walk you through every part of the process. Whether you’re upgrading from a traditional doorbell or installing one for the first time, we’ll help you get your smart doorbell up and running safely and efficiently.
By the end of this guide, you’ll know how to check your home’s compatibility, safely remove your old doorbell (if applicable), mount the new device, connect it to your Wi-Fi network, and configure all the smart features through the companion app. We’ll also cover common troubleshooting tips and best practices to keep your doorbell working smoothly for years to come.
Let’s get started!
What You’ll Need Before You Begin
Visual guide about How to Install Smarttech Knock Knock Video Doorbell
Image source: cdn.shopify.com
Before diving into the installation, it’s important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Having everything ready will save you time and prevent frustration mid-process.
Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:
- Smarttech Knock Knock Video Doorbell kit – This should include the doorbell unit, mounting bracket, screws, wire connectors, and a charging cable (if battery-powered).
- Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead) – For removing old plates and securing the new bracket.
- Voltage tester – To confirm the power is off and check your existing doorbell voltage.
- Drill and drill bits (optional) – Only if you need to create new mounting holes or run wires.
- Smartphone or tablet – To download and use the Smarttech app during setup.
- Wi-Fi network name and password – The doorbell needs a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection (5 GHz is not supported).
- Ladder (if needed) – For reaching high doorbell locations.
Pro tip: If you’re unsure about your doorbell’s wiring or voltage, consult an electrician before starting. Safety first!
Step 1: Check Compatibility and Power Requirements
Not all homes are ready for a smart doorbell right out of the box. The Smarttech Knock Knock Video Doorbell requires specific electrical conditions to function properly.
Check Your Existing Doorbell System
Most traditional doorbells use low-voltage AC power, typically between 8V and 24V. The Smarttech Knock Knock is designed to work within this range, but you’ll want to verify your current setup.
To check:
- Locate your doorbell transformer—usually found in the basement, attic, or near your electrical panel.
- Look for a label that lists the voltage output (e.g., “16V AC”).
- If you can’t find the transformer, use a multimeter or voltage tester on the doorbell wires at the wall. With the doorbell button disconnected, touch the probes to the two wires. A reading between 8V and 24V AC is ideal.
If your voltage is too low (below 8V), the doorbell may not charge properly or could malfunction. If it’s too high (above 24V), you risk damaging the device. In either case, consider upgrading your transformer or consulting an electrician.
Wi-Fi Requirements
The Smarttech Knock Knock connects to your home Wi-Fi network to send live video, alerts, and recordings. It only supports 2.4 GHz networks—5 GHz is not compatible.
Make sure your router broadcasts a 2.4 GHz signal. If you have a dual-band router, ensure the 2.4 GHz network is enabled and has a strong signal at your front door. Weak Wi-Fi can cause lag, dropped connections, or failed recordings.
Tip: Use a Wi-Fi analyzer app on your phone to check signal strength at the installation spot. If it’s weak, consider installing a Wi-Fi extender.
Step 2: Turn Off Power and Remove Old Doorbell
Safety is critical when working with electricity. Even though doorbell voltage is low, it’s still important to turn off the power to avoid shocks or short circuits.
Turn Off the Power
1. Go to your home’s main electrical panel (breaker box).
2. Locate the circuit that controls your doorbell. It may be labeled “doorbell,” “chime,” or “front door.” If not, turn off the main breaker to be safe.
3. Use a non-contact voltage tester on the doorbell wires to confirm power is off. Touch the tester to each wire—if it beeps or lights up, power is still on.
Never skip this step. Even low voltage can be dangerous if you’re not careful.
Remove the Old Doorbell
Once the power is off:
- Unscrew the old doorbell button from the wall.
- Gently pull it away to expose the two wires connected to the back.
- Take a photo of the wiring for reference—this helps when connecting the new doorbell.
- Loosen the terminal screws and disconnect the wires. Label them “Front” and “Trans” (or “Transformer”) if possible.
- Set the old doorbell aside.
If you’re installing the Smarttech Knock Knock in a new location (no existing doorbell), you’ll need to run wires from the chime unit to the new spot. This may require drilling through walls and is best done by a professional unless you’re experienced with electrical work.
Step 3: Install the Mounting Bracket
The mounting bracket is the foundation of your doorbell installation. It holds the device securely and ensures proper alignment for the camera and motion sensors.
Position the Bracket
1. Hold the mounting bracket against the wall where you want to install the doorbell.
2. Use a level to make sure it’s straight.
3. Mark the screw holes with a pencil.
Ideal placement is about 48 inches (4 feet) from the ground—eye level for most visitors. Avoid placing it directly under bright lights or in full sun, as this can cause glare or overheating.
Drill and Secure the Bracket
1. Drill pilot holes at the marked spots (use a masonry bit if installing on brick or stucco).
2. Insert wall anchors if needed (included in the kit for drywall or plaster).
3. Align the bracket with the holes and screw it into place using the provided screws.
4. Make sure it’s tight and doesn’t wobble.
Pro tip: If your wall is uneven, use the included angle adjustment plate to tilt the doorbell slightly for a better view of the walkway.
Step 4: Connect the Wires
Now it’s time to connect the doorbell to your home’s wiring. The Smarttech Knock Knock uses two wires: one from the doorbell button and one from the transformer (chime unit).
Prepare the Wires
1. Strip about 1/4 inch of insulation from the ends of both wires if they’re not already exposed.
2. Twist the bare copper strands to prevent fraying.
Attach Wires to the Bracket
The mounting bracket has two terminal screws labeled “Front” and “Trans.”
1. Loosen the screws slightly.
2. Insert one wire under the “Front” terminal and tighten the screw.
3. Insert the other wire under the “Trans” terminal and tighten.
4. Gently tug on the wires to ensure they’re secure.
Important: It doesn’t matter which wire goes where—the doorbell is not polarity-sensitive. But keeping them consistent with your old setup can help if you ever need to troubleshoot.
Secure the Wires
Use the included wire connectors or electrical tape to bundle any excess wire and tuck it neatly into the wall cavity. This prevents strain on the terminals and keeps the area clean.
Step 5: Attach the Doorbell Unit
With the bracket and wires in place, it’s time to mount the Smarttech Knock Knock doorbell.
Align and Snap Into Place
1. Hold the doorbell unit with the camera facing outward.
2. Align the bottom edge with the bracket’s lower lip.
3. Gently press the top of the unit toward the wall until it clicks into place.
You should hear a satisfying snap when it’s secure. Give it a light tug to confirm it’s locked in.
Secure with Security Screw (Optional)
For added theft protection, use the small security screw (included) to lock the doorbell to the bracket. This requires a special screwdriver (usually a Torx or security hex bit), which may be included in the kit.
This step is highly recommended if you live in an area with high foot traffic or previous package theft.
Step 6: Power On and Test the Doorbell
Now that everything is connected, it’s time to restore power and test the system.
Turn the Power Back On
1. Return to your breaker panel and turn the doorbell circuit back on.
2. Wait about 30 seconds for the doorbell to power up.
You should see a light on the doorbell—usually a solid or blinking LED. Refer to the user manual for your model’s specific light codes.
Test the Chime
Press the doorbell button. You should hear the chime inside your home. If not:
- Check that the wires are securely connected.
- Verify the chime unit is powered and working.
- Ensure the doorbell is receiving power (LED light should be on).
If the chime doesn’t sound, double-check your wiring and voltage. A faulty connection or low voltage can prevent the doorbell from triggering the chime.
Step 7: Download the Smarttech App and Connect to Wi-Fi
The real magic of the Smarttech Knock Knock happens through its mobile app. This is where you’ll view live video, receive alerts, and customize settings.
Download the App
1. On your smartphone or tablet, open the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android).
2. Search for “Smarttech Knock Knock” or “Smarttech Home.”
3. Download and install the official app.
Make sure you’re downloading the correct app—look for the official Smarttech logo and developer name.
Create an Account
1. Open the app and tap “Sign Up” or “Create Account.”
2. Enter your email, create a password, and verify your email address.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete setup.
Having an account allows you to access your doorbell from anywhere and receive cloud notifications.
Pair the Doorbell with the App
1. In the app, tap “Add Device” or the “+” icon.
2. Select “Video Doorbell” and choose “Knock Knock” from the list.
3. The app will prompt you to scan the QR code on the back of the doorbell or enter the serial number manually.
4. Follow the in-app instructions to connect the doorbell to your Wi-Fi network.
During this process, the doorbell will emit a series of beeps and flashes. Keep your phone close to the doorbell to ensure a strong connection.
Enter Wi-Fi Credentials
1. Select your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network from the list.
2. Enter your Wi-Fi password carefully—case-sensitive and no spaces.
3. Wait for the app to confirm the connection.
If the connection fails:
- Move closer to your router.
- Restart your router and try again.
- Ensure you’re using 2.4 GHz, not 5 GHz.
- Reset the doorbell (see troubleshooting section).
Once connected, the app will guide you through initial setup, including naming your doorbell (e.g., “Front Door”) and setting your time zone.
Step 8: Configure Settings and Features
Now that your doorbell is online, it’s time to customize it to fit your lifestyle and security needs.
Enable Motion Detection
1. In the app, go to “Device Settings” > “Motion Detection.”
2. Toggle motion alerts on.
3. Adjust sensitivity—higher sensitivity catches more movement but may trigger false alerts from passing cars or trees.
Set Motion Zones
To reduce false alerts:
1. Tap “Motion Zones” in the app.
2. Draw custom zones on the camera view (e.g., only the walkway, not the street).
3. Save your settings.
This ensures you’re only alerted when someone approaches your door.
Enable Two-Way Audio
The Smarttech Knock Knock supports real-time conversation with visitors.
1. Go to “Audio Settings.”
2. Toggle “Two-Way Talk” on.
3. Test it by pressing the talk button in the app and speaking.
Make sure your phone’s microphone and speaker are working properly.
Set Up Notifications
Customize when and how you receive alerts:
- Choose between push notifications, email, or both.
- Set quiet hours (e.g., no alerts after 10 PM).
- Enable “Person Detection” to only alert for humans, not animals or vehicles.
Enable Cloud Recording (Optional)
Some Smarttech plans offer cloud storage for video clips. If available:
1. Go to “Recording Settings.”
2. Choose a plan (free or paid).
3. Enable automatic recording on motion or doorbell press.
Note: Cloud storage may require a monthly subscription.
Step 9: Final Testing and Troubleshooting
Before considering the installation complete, run a few tests to ensure everything works as expected.
Test Live View
Open the app and tap “Live View.” You should see a clear, real-time video feed from your doorbell. Check for:
- Good lighting and visibility.
- Smooth video with no lag.
- Clear audio when speaking.
If the video is blurry or dark, adjust the doorbell angle or clean the lens.
Test Motion Alerts
Walk in front of the doorbell to trigger motion detection. You should receive a notification within a few seconds. If not:
- Check motion sensitivity and zones.
- Ensure the doorbell has a strong Wi-Fi signal.
- Restart the app and doorbell.
Test Doorbell Press
Press the doorbell button. You should:
- Hear the chime inside.
- Receive a push notification.
- See a live video popup in the app.
If the chime doesn’t sound, double-check wiring and voltage.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with careful installation, you might run into a few hiccups. Here are solutions to common problems:
Doorbell Won’t Power On
- Check that power is restored at the breaker.
- Verify wire connections are tight.
- Test voltage at the terminals—should be 8V–24V AC.
- Try a different transformer if voltage is too low.
Wi-Fi Connection Fails
- Ensure you’re using 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi.
- Move closer to the router during setup.
- Restart the router and doorbell.
- Reset the doorbell to factory settings (usually by holding the setup button for 10 seconds).
Video is Laggy or Freezes
- Check Wi-Fi signal strength at the doorbell.
- Reduce video quality in the app settings.
- Limit the number of devices on your network.
- Install a Wi-Fi extender if needed.
Two-Way Audio Doesn’t Work
- Check phone volume and microphone permissions.
- Ensure the doorbell’s speaker isn’t blocked.
- Update the app and doorbell firmware.
False Motion Alerts
- Adjust motion sensitivity.
- Refine motion zones to exclude busy areas.
- Enable “Person Detection” if available.
Maintenance and Best Practices
To keep your Smarttech Knock Knock doorbell working smoothly:
- Clean the lens monthly with a soft, dry cloth to maintain video clarity.
- Check for firmware updates in the app—updates improve performance and security.
- Inspect wiring annually for corrosion or loose connections.
- Replace the battery (if applicable) every 6–12 months or when the app indicates low power.
- Test the doorbell monthly to ensure all features are working.
Conclusion
Installing the Smarttech Knock Knock Video Doorbell is a smart upgrade that enhances your home’s security, convenience, and curb appeal. With this guide, you’ve learned how to safely check compatibility, wire the device, connect it to Wi-Fi, and configure all the smart features through the app.
From turning off the power to customizing motion zones, every step is designed to be simple and stress-free—even for beginners. And with regular maintenance, your doorbell will provide reliable service for years to come.
Now that you’re all set, enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing who’s at your door—even when you’re not home. Welcome to the future of home security!