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    • Product Update: Webcam Installation and Troubleshooting

    • Modified on: Mon, 11 Aug, 2025 at 11:59 AM
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    Note: This article is for the newly redesigned module. This updated module is in the process of being rolled out and may only be available to some users.


    Overview

    Webcams can be integrated with BuildingLink in a variety of ways. They are useful for keeping a photographic record of visitors and contractors.  They can also be used in combination with the Dymo Label Printer to create physical photo badges or passes for visitors and contractors. You can use your webcam to create a photo directory of residents, and you can also choose to require photos when packages, keys, or other items are picked up (if you'd like to maintain photographic records of the people picking up these items). To purchase a webcam, please use the following link: Equipment Order Forms.


    Note: Click on the images to enlarge them.



    Table of Contents

    Installing a Webcam


    The webcam should be set up through our Connector app. To configure your webcam, visit Installing and Troubleshooting Peripherals with Connector. Once set up, connect your webcam to the computer by plugging it into a USB port. For best results, plug the camera directly into the computer, not through a hub or splitter. 

    Selecting the Camera


    If your computer has multiple cameras (you may have a camera built into the monitor, for example), you must specify the correct default webcam. Open the     Connector app and select the appropriate camera under "Model Name."

     



     

    You can also choose the webcam when capturing a photo in BuildingLink (shown below). 

     



    Troubleshooting the Webcam



    Step 1: Open the Connector App to check whether the webcam is configured correctly. If further troubleshooting is needed, unplug your webcam and plug it into another USB port. If the webcam is currently plugged into a USB hub, unplug it and plug it directly into the computer. Also, be sure that any USB hubs you are using for BuildingLink equipment are powered USB hubs. 


    If you purchased your webcam from somewhere other than BuildingLink, you may need to install or reinstall the software that came with the camera. Check the manufacturer's website for software updates or follow any instructions that may have been supplied with your webcam.

    If you are still having difficulty, call our Support Line at 877-501-7117 x0.

    Using Your Webcam to Add a Photo of a Resident


    To add resident photos in BuildingLink, bring up the unit in the Quick Search field and click the pencil icon under the user profile image. Next, choose Upload File or Take Picture and follow the prompts.



    Enabling Photos for Specific Event Types


    BuildingLink can help track contractors or visitors in your building by combining your webcam with the functionality of the Event Log.

     

    To set whether or not a photo can be added to a particular type of event, go to the Front desk tab, select Event log, click the blue Settings button, and select Event Types.  You'll see a list of all Event Types currently active for your building, along with their corresponding colors and details.  To edit a specific event type, move your mouse over it and click.

     

    The "Edit event type" window will appear.  Here, you can completely customize how the Event Type functions. For more information on Event Types, see our help article for Event Log Settings.

     

    To set whether a photo can be added to an Event, look for the setting that reads "When opening events of this type". If you'd like the photo to be optional,  check off Photo (via webcam or upload).  If you'd like the photo to be mandatory, check the Required box under "Photo (via webcam or upload)." If the "Required" box is checked, the system will not allow the Event to save unless a photo is attached.

     

    Note: Photos can be added upon Opening an Event or upon Closing an Event, but not both. 



    Adding Photos to an Event


    Photos can be an effective way to track contractors or visitors at your building. Adding photos to a specific Event works much like adding a profile photo.


    When recording a new event that requires a photo, look for the Take photo button on the right side of the page.  (If this button does not appear,  that means one of two things: photos are not enabled for the Event Type, or the computer is not recognizing the webcam.)