GBF WiFi IP Doorbell
USER MANUAL
Model: PL960 Series
Welcome
Congratulations on purchasing the GBF PL960 Series of IP Doorbells. This system allows you to monitor and interact with visitors at your door from anywhere your mobile device has a WiFi or data connection. Please read these instructions carefully to ensure proper setup and enjoyment of your IP Doorbell system.
You can connect the PL960 Series IP Doorbells to your Local Area Network (LAN) via a Wireless (WiFi) connection or a Wired (Ethernet Cable) connection. Wired connections are generally preferred for video and audio streaming devices, but the convenience of wireless connectivity may be a deciding factor for your installation.
Note: The GBF IP Doorbell System operates exclusively on 2.4GHz WiFi and is not compatible with 5GHz WiFi.
Package Contents
- (1) GBF PL960M/QPM/TPM IP Doorbell
- (1) Metal Back Box
- (1) External Wi-Fi Antenna with 3' Cable
- (1) 12VDC Power Supply
- (1) Relay/Push-to-Exit Wiring Harness
- (1) Bell Connector Wire Set
- (1) Varistor (blue case)
- (4) Screws with Anchors
- (2) Hex-Head Screws
- (1) Allen Key
- (1) Installation and Instruction Manual
Device Overview
The IP Doorbell unit features:
- 720P Camera Lens
- Illuminator LEDs
- Customizable Nameplate
- Speaker
- Bell Button
- Microphone
- Access Code Keypad (on some models)
1. Installation
Note: Initial configuration may be more convenient when the IP Doorbell is temporarily connected to power near your home internet router and a computer for testing.
Location
Choose a location considering sightlines, shadows, and lighting for the camera. Ensure proximity to AC power and access for wiring additional accessories. Optimal mounting height is approximately 60" (150cm) from the ground. Consider drilling a 1½" or larger hole for the Wi-Fi antenna concealment.
Back Box Mounting
Feed power supply wiring, wiring harness(s), and Wi-Fi Antenna or RJ-45 cable through the back box hole. Mount the back box to the wall using the supplied screws and anchors.
Connecting and Mounting
Set the desired unlock duration time using the switch on the back of the IP Doorbell. Connect the wiring harness and other cables to the back of the IP Doorbell. Gently feed excess wiring into the wall cavity and place the IP Doorbell into the back box, top first. Secure the IP Doorbell at the bottom leading edge with the supplied Hex-Head screws and Allen key.
Note: The RJ45 jack is not wired for POE. Refer to Appendix A for details.
Installation Wiring Diagrams
The manual includes diagrams illustrating various wiring configurations:
- Unlock Relay Duration Selection Switch settings (1 second or 5 seconds).
- Wiring for Power Supply Connections and connection to an Existing Door Chime (optional).
- Wiring Diagram for Normally Open Circuit (e.g., Electronic Door Strike or Deadbolt), including connections for a Push to Exit Button and Lock Power Supply.
- Wiring Diagram for Normally Closed Circuit (e.g., Electronic Mag Lock), including connections for a Push to Exit Button and Lock Power Supply.
Note: PL960M/PM Lock and Bell Relays are rated Maximum 3 Amps at 250VAC or 30VDC.
2. Configuration Preparations
Before proceeding, it is recommended to perform a factory reset of the IP Doorbell settings.
- Connect the WiFi antenna or your Router directly to the IP Doorbell via an Ethernet cable (RJ45 connector). Note: The RJ45 jack is not wired for POE.
- Apply power to the IP doorbell.
- Within 5 seconds, press and hold the 'Bell' button until you hear a distinctive 1-second buzzer sound (after approximately 1 minute, preceded by illuminator LED flashes). Release the 'Bell' button when the buzzer stops.
- The IP Doorbell will reset (approximately one minute) and be ready for configuration after the illuminator LEDs flash.
Note: Performing a factory reset erases all configuration settings. Avoid resetting after initial setup unless absolutely necessary.
Downloading the ControlCam2 App
To configure and receive calls, download the ControlCam2 Application from the Google Play Store (Android) or the Apple App Store (iOS).
Preparing the App
Note: It is best practice to restart your phone and disable cellular data during initial configuration.
- Connect your smartphone to the WiFi network you intend to use for the IP Doorbell.
- Open the ControlCam2 app.
- Create an account by clicking 'Sign up'. Note: Each mobile device requires a separate account.
- Enter a username, password, password confirmation, and a custom question/answer.
- Read and agree to the terms and privacy agreement.
- Click 'Sign up'. A 'Registration Success' message will appear if the details are valid. Click 'OK'.
- Log in to your account.
For Wireless (WiFi) installation, proceed to step 3.1.1 (Android) or 3.1.2 (iOS). For Wired (RJ45) installation, confirm the Ethernet cable connection and complete step 3.2.
3. Network Configuration
3.1.1 Configuration Using the Android App
- In the app, click the [+] button or 'Click here to add device'.
- Select "Doorbell2" and then 'Hotspot Connection'.
- Click 'Next' to search for the device's configuration SSID. If multiple devices are found, select the one matching the GID label on the device.
- When connected, enter your WiFi network password and click 'Next'.
- A confirmation message 'Command was sent successfully, the device is configured' will appear. Press 'OK'.
- In the device details, set the default password to '1234'. You can change the device name (max 20 characters, no spaces) and press 'Save'. Note: Do not change the GID identification.
- The device will appear on the 'Home screen'. Click its image to access it.
Once connected to WiFi and added to the app, you can access the IP Doorbell from anywhere via WiFi or mobile data. Note: For additional devices, use the 'Add Manually' method (Section 3.2), not 'Hotspot Connection' again.
3.1.2 Configuration using the iOS App
- From the app's "Doorbell" screen, click the [+] button or 'Click here to add device'.
- Select "Doorbell2" and then 'Hotspot Connection'.
- Press 'Next'.
- Enter your WiFi network password.
- On your iOS device, go to WiFi settings, find the IP Doorbell's hotspot SSID (LID + GID number), and connect to it.
- Return to the ControlCam2 app and click 'Next'. Confirm connection when prompted. Your iOS device should reconnect to your WiFi.
- In the device details, set the default password to '1234'. You can change the device name (max 20 characters, no spaces or special characters) and press 'Save'. Note: Do not change the GID identification.
- The device will appear on the 'Home screen'. Click its image to access it.
Once connected to WiFi and added to the app, you can access the IP Doorbell from anywhere via WiFi or mobile data. Note: For additional devices, use the 'Add Manually' method (Section 3.2), not 'Hotspot Connection' again.
3.2 Adding a configured or wired IP Doorbell
Add a device using LAN search, QR code scan, or manual entry.
- Connect your mobile device to the Wi-Fi/LAN network containing the IP Doorbell.
- In the app's "Doorbell" screen, click the [+] button.
- Choose "Doorbell2" and then 'Add Manually'.
3.2.1 LAN Search
- If on the same network, the system will search automatically.
- A list of GID numbers and IP addresses will appear. Click the desired device. The 'Add Device' screen will pre-populate fields.
- Set the default password to '1234'. You can change the device name (max 20 characters, no spaces or special characters) and press 'Save'. Note: Do not change the GID identification.
- The device image will appear on the 'Doorbell' screen. Click it to access.
3.2.2 QR Code Scan
- Press the 'QR CodeScan' button.
- Allow the app to access your camera.
- Focus the camera on the QR code on the back of the device. The 'Add Device' screen will pre-populate fields.
- Set the default password to '1234'. You can change the device name (max 20 characters, no spaces or special characters) and press 'Save'. Note: Do not change the GID identification.
- The device image will appear on the 'Doorbell' screen. Click it to access.
3.2.3 Manually
- Press the 'Manual Input' button.
- Manually enter the device's GID from the label on the back cover.
- Set the default password to '1234'. You can change the device name (max 20 characters, no spaces or special characters) and press 'Save'. Note: Do not change the GID identification.
- The device image will appear on the 'Doorbell' screen. Click it to access.
Note: If connected via Ethernet, it's recommended to disable the IP Doorbell SSID broadcast as described in Appendix B.
4. Using the ControlCam2 App
4.1 IP Doorbell Device Settings
Access device settings by clicking the gear-cog icon on the 'Doorbell' screen.
4.1.1 Changing Device Name, Username, and Password
Note: The username and password must match those configured on the IP Doorbell.
- In the 'Device's setting screen', enter new information and press 'Save'.
- The app will return to the 'Home screen' with the updated information.
4.1.2 Unlock Time
The unlock duration is set via a 2-position switch on the back of the IP Doorbell during installation. App settings do not affect this duration.
4.1.3 One-Key Unlock
Activate the 'One-Key Unlock' option to bypass entering the unlock password. Set the password (default '1111') and press 'Save'.
4.2 Advanced IP Doorbell Device Settings
Click the 'Advanced Settings' button on the 'Device setting' screen.
4.2.1 Modify Device Password
Change the access password required each time the device is accessed.
- In 'Advanced Settings', click 'Modify Device Password'.
- Enter the current password, then the new password and confirmation. Note: If the IP Doorbell username/password changes, update it on all connected mobile devices.
- Press 'Save' and exit 'Device Settings'.
4.2.2 Modify Unlock Password
Set a password for the unlock relay activation and 'One-Key Unlock' function.
- In 'Advanced Settings', click 'Modify Unlock Password'.
- Enter the current unlock password (default '1111'), then the new password and confirmation. Note: If the unlock password changes, update it on all connected mobile devices.
- Press 'Save' and exit 'Device Settings'.
4.2.3 Motion Detection
Enable motion detection alerts for your IP Doorbell.
- In 'Advanced Settings', click 'Motion Detection'.
- Toggle the 'On/Off' button.
- Press 'Save' and exit 'Device Settings'. Note: This setting is universal across all connected ControlCam2 App instances.
4.2.4 Set Time
Synchronize the IP Doorbell's time with your smartphone.
- In 'Advanced Settings', click 'Set Time'.
- Click 'OK' to confirm.
- Exit 'Device Settings'.
4.2.5 Reboot/Restore
Use 'Reboot' for a device reset or 'Restore' for a factory reset.
- In 'Advanced Settings', click 'Reboot/Restore'.
- Select 'Reboot' or 'Restore'.
- Click 'OK' to confirm.
- Exit 'Device Settings'. Note: 'Restore' erases configuration settings.
4.3 Deleting a device from the App
- Ensure your mobile device is connected to the internet.
- From the 'Doorbell' screen, click the trash bin icon for the device.
- Confirm by clicking 'OK'. The device is removed from your account but remains configured on the network.
4.4 ControlCam2 Operation
4.4.1 Answering a call
When a visitor presses the call button, your smartphone receives a notification. Ensure app notifications are enabled.
Note: For audible notifications, disable 'Doorbell Call Vibration' (iOS) or 'Doorbell Call Silence' (Android) modes. Ensure call and media volumes are up and 'Do Not Disturb' is off.
You can 'Accept' or 'Decline' calls. To converse, press and hold the 'Press to Talk' icon, and release to listen.
4.4.2 Unlocking the Door
During a call or monitoring, press the 'lock' icon on the live video screen to activate the unlock relay. If 'One-Key Unlock' is off, you will be prompted for the unlock password (default '1111'). The door unlocks for the duration set by the back switch.
4.4.3 Monitoring the Outdoor Station
Click a device's image on the 'Doorbell' screen to access live video. Monitor mode allows snapshots, video recording, audio, and two-way talk.
4.4.4 Image Capture
Click the camera icon during a call or monitoring to take a snapshot. Access snapshots in 'Media' from the 'Main Menu'.
4.4.5 Video Record
Click the video icon to start recording. Click again to finish. Recordings are accessible in 'Media' from the 'Main Menu'.
4.4.6 Silencing Audible Doorbell Notifications
From the 'Doorbell' or 'Ring Mode' screen, access the 'Main Menu' and enable 'Doorbell Call Vibration' (iOS) or 'Doorbell Call Silence' (Android) to mute audible notifications and only vibrate your device.
4.4.7 Silencing Motion Detection Alerts
From the 'Doorbell' or 'Ring Mode' screen, access the 'Main Menu' and enable 'Motion Detection Vibration' (iOS) or 'Motion Detection Silence' (Android) to mute audible motion alerts and only vibrate your device.
4.4.8 Selecting Custom Ringtones and Motion Alerts
- From the 'Doorbell' or 'Ring Mode' screen, access the 'Main Menu'.
- Press 'Ringtone Setting'.
- Choose 'Doorbell Call' or 'Motion Detection'.
- Select from available custom audio alerts and press 'Save'.
4.4.9 Accessing recorded videos/images
- From the 'Doorbell' or 'Ring Mode' screen, access the 'Main Menu'.
- Select the 'Media' option.
- View recent files (images and videos).
- To delete files, press 'Edit', select files, and press 'Delete' or the trash icon.
4.4.10 App Mode
Choose your notification preference:
- 'Silent' Mode: No smartphone notifications, but alarms are stored.
- 'Global Ring-in' Mode: All devices in the account notify the smartphone.
- 'Selective Ring-in' Mode: Choose which devices notify you.
Select your desired mode from the second tab on the ControlCam2 home screen. If changing to 'Selective Mode', you can select specific devices.
4.5 User Account Configuration
Access account settings via the 'Main Menu' icon, then your profile image or username.
4.5.1 Change User Account Password
- From the 'Account' screen, click 'Change Password'.
- Enter current password, then the new password and confirmation.
- Click 'Done'. You will be redirected to the login screen.
4.5.2 Change Verification Question and Answer
- From the 'Account' screen, click 'Reset Verification'.
- Enter current password, then your new custom question and answer.
- Click 'Save'.
4.5.3 Logging Out of the App
- From the 'Main Menu' or 'Account' screen, click 'Logout'.
- You will be redirected to the login screen.
5. Keypad Programming (PL960QPM/TPM)
The keypad can be programmed with up to 40 access codes, triggering the same relay as the ControlCam2 App. Access codes and programming passwords can be 2 to 6 digits long. Master password and unlock delay times are independent of the IP Doorbell. A factory reset of the IP Doorbell does not affect keypad programming, and vice versa.
5.1 Modify the Programming Password
- Disconnect power to the IP Doorbell.
- Restore power. Two short chirps will be heard.
- Within 3 seconds, press the '*' button.
- Enter the new password. A longer beep confirms storage.
- Press '*' to exit programming mode.
5.2 Enter Programming Mode
- Press the '*' button; a chirp is heard.
- Enter the programming password (default '1234'). A longer beep indicates programming mode.
- Programming mode exits automatically after 30 seconds of inactivity or by pressing '*'.
5.3 Set Unlock Duration Time
- Enter programming mode.
- Press '00'; a longer beep is heard.
- Enter two digits (01-99) for the new unlock duration in seconds. A longer beep confirms the change.
- Press '*' to exit programming mode.
5.4 Add User Access Codes
- Enter programming mode.
- Enter two digits (01-40) for the user code slot. A longer beep is heard.
- Enter the new user code. Another longer beep indicates successful storage.
- Press '*' to exit programming mode. Note: Slots 31-40 are toggle-on/toggle-off; codes in these slots hold the unlock relay active until re-entered.
5.5 Delete User Access Codes
- Enter programming mode.
- Enter two digits (01-40) for the slot containing the code to delete. A longer beep is heard.
- Press '#'; a longer beep confirms deletion.
- Press '*' to exit programming mode.
5.6 Delete User Access Codes Directly
- Enter programming mode.
- Press '#'; two short chirps are heard.
- Enter the access code to be deleted. A longer beep confirms deletion.
- Press '*' to exit programming mode.
5.7 Setting the Length of the Access Codes and Programming Password
- Enter programming mode.
- Press '99'; a longer beep is heard.
- Enter a single digit (2-6) for the desired length. A longer beep confirms the change.
- Press '*' to exit programming mode. Note: The programming password may need to be reset using section 5.1.
5.8 Delete All Settings (Maintains Programming Password)
- Enter programming mode.
- Press '#'; two short chirps are heard.
- Press '#' again; a longer beep is heard.
- Press '#' seven more times. After three seconds, a longer beep confirms deletion of all user codes and resets the unlock duration to 1 second. Programming password and length remain unchanged.
- Press '*' to exit programming mode.
5.9 Factory Reset (Custom Keypad Settings Only)
- Disconnect power to the IP Doorbell.
- Restore power. Two short chirps will be heard.
- Within 3 seconds, press the '#' button. A longer beep indicates keypad programming has been restored to factory defaults.
GBF Electronics Inc. Contact Information
GBF Electronics Inc.
110A-12811 Clark Place
Richmond, BC
Canada, V6H 2H9
Tel: 604-278-6896 or 604-285-8721
Fax: 604-278-6895
Email: info@gbfelectronics.com
Visit the website support section for video tutorials.
Troubleshooting
Hotspot Configuration Issues
- 'No new device found' error: Check antenna connection, range, and WiFi visibility (SSID). Forget and reconnect the network on your mobile device. Consider a factory reset, phone restart, and disabling cellular data.
- 'Connection failed' error: Manually connect to the IP Doorbell's hotspot via your mobile device's WiFi settings. Confirm connection and return to the app.
Notification Issues
- Notifications appear, but no audible alerts: Ensure 'Doorbell Call Vibration' (iOS) or 'Doorbell Call Silence' (Android) are off. Check call/media volumes and disable 'Do Not Disturb'.
- No notifications received: Verify app notifications are enabled. For 'Selective Ring-in' mode, ensure 'Alarm Notify' is enabled for the IP Doorbell. Check app login status and mobile device's internet connection (WiFi/cellular). Review LAN settings in the Web Browser Interface for gateway/DNS IP addresses. Ensure connection to the primary router and check for hardware firewalls.
Video and Connectivity Issues
- 'Connecting' or 'Connected' but no video: Poor internet communication. Check video feed clock display for consistent second count. Verify WiFi signal strength. If Second Stream Video Coding was changed via Web Browser interface, revert to H.264 defaults.
- 'Unlock failed!' message: Incorrect unlock password or poor internet communication. Ensure all mobile devices use the same unlock code. Check video feed clock for consistency and verify WiFi signal strength.
- Conversation cut off short: Due to VOIP delay, hold the 'Press to Talk' icon slightly longer after speaking. Practice to ensure clear transmission.
Other Issues
- Video soft/washed out: Ensure the protective film on the camera lens is removed.
- 'Delete fail' or general setting 'fail' error: Ensure internet connectivity for cloud-based settings.
- 'Wrong username or password': The credentials are shared by all registered devices. If changed on one device, update all others. Default: admin, 1234.
- Missing 'Push to talk' icon: Connect to live video via a ring-in notification first, or enable the microphone icon below the video display.
- No lights on IP Doorbell: Check the power supply. Blue backlighting is always on.
- Keypad touch issues: Touch keys lightly for a single confirmation beep. Overly sensitive keypads may register adjacent presses.
Appendix A: Installation Tips
WiFi
WiFi Range: Affected by antenna placement, obstacles, and WiFi 'Pollution'.
Antenna Placement: Mount the external high-gain antenna vertically. Avoid vertical metal between the antenna and your Wireless Access Point (WAP).
Obstacle Composition: Materials like aluminum siding, foil insulation, stucco walls, in-floor heating, window treatments, blinds, and mirrors can negatively affect WiFi range.
WiFi 'Pollution': Sources include neighboring WiFi access points and electrical appliances, especially in dense urban areas.
Testing WiFi Strength: Mount the IP Doorbell and antenna. Use your mobile phone to check the IP Doorbell's 'Hotspot' SSID signal strength (e.g., LIDawXXXXXXXX) nearby the WAP. Adjust antenna orientation for optimal signal.
Weatherproofing
The GBF 960 Series has an IP55 rating, protecting against dust, water jets (like wind-driven rain), and human contact, but not high-pressure water streams. The design allows water vapor to drain, preventing corrosion.
Recommendation: Do not use silicone or other sealants. Instead, apply Rubber Foam Weather Stripping tape (closed cell) to the back of the backbox. Use stacked pieces for rough surfaces to create a seal when mounting. Run screws through the tape. The bottom edge is intentionally unsealed to allow water to drain.
Wiring
Wire Connectors: Use gel-filled "B" Connector wire splices for thin, corrosion-resistant connections.
Poor Man's POE: For short hardwired runs, unused Cat5e wire pairs can extend power supply leads. Double up wires for each polarity. Ensure correct polarity.
Ethernet Cable Length Limits: Theoretical limit is 100 Meters (328 Feet) for Cat5e/Cat6 with pure copper conductors. Active devices like POE extenders can renew this length.
Keypad
The touch-sensitive keypad buttons are responsive and work with or without gloves in various weather conditions. Touch keys lightly to register a single confirmation beep, avoiding accidental adjacent presses.
Appendix B: Disabling the IP Doorbell SSID Broadcast
For hardwired IP Doorbells, the 'Hotspot' mode may remain enabled, broadcasting an SSID. To disable this broadcast:
- Determine the IP address assigned by your router (obtainable via the app's device scan).
- Enter the IP address (e.g., http://192.168.1.88) into a web browser.
- Log in using the default 'User Name' ('admin') and 'Password' ('1234').
- Navigate to 'Config' > 'Network Settings' > 'Wireless'.
- Depending on the build, either click 'Close' or select 'WLAN Mode' from the pull-down menu (if it shows AP Mode).
- Click 'OK' to save and restart the IP Doorbell.
- Log back into the Web Browser Interface. Navigate to 'Config' > 'Network Settings' > 'LAN'.
- Ensure Gateway and Preferred DNS IP addresses match your router's IP. If not, check 'DHCP Enable', click 'Save', and reset the IP Doorbell.
The IP Doorbell SSID should no longer be visible in your mobile device's WiFi network list.
GBF Electronics Inc. | Tech Support: 604-278-6896 or 604-285-8721 | https://gbfelectronics.com | info@gbfelectronics.com
