What You Need Before You Start

  • Your DoorBird unit (D1101V, D1101KV, or similar)
  • A power source: PoE switch/injector (recommended) OR existing doorbell wiring (8–24V AC/DC)
  • Ethernet cable (Cat5e or better) if using PoE
  • Drill + masonry bit (for brick/stone installations)
  • Screwdriver + included mounting hardware
  • DoorBird app (free, iOS or Android)
  • Your WiFi password (if using WiFi instead of wired Ethernet)

Step 1: Choose Your Power Method

DoorBird supports two power approaches:

A

PoE (Power over Ethernet) — Recommended

Run a single Cat5e cable from your PoE switch or PoE injector to the doorbell location. The cable carries both power and data. Cleanest installation, most reliable connection, no separate power adapter needed.

B

Existing Doorbell Wiring (8–24V AC/DC)

If you have existing doorbell wires, DoorBird can use them. Most US doorbells run on 16V AC — this works. Run a Cat5e cable alongside for network, or use DoorBird's WiFi. Note: the 2-wire converter accessory (A1072) lets you use just the existing 2 wires for everything.

Warning: Do not use standard 120V household wiring to power DoorBird. The device requires low-voltage input (8–24V AC/DC or PoE 802.3af). Always turn off power at the breaker before working on doorbell wiring.

Step 2: Mount the Hardware

Surface Mount Installation

  1. Hold the backplate against the wall at your desired height (typically 5–5.5 ft from ground)
  2. Mark drill points through the mounting holes
  3. Drill holes (use masonry bit for brick/concrete)
  4. Insert wall anchors if needed
  5. Thread your cables through the backplate hole
  6. Screw backplate to wall
  7. Connect cables to DoorBird terminals
  8. Click the DoorBird unit onto the backplate
  9. Secure with the tamper-proof screw (hex key included)

Flush Mount Installation

  1. Purchase the appropriate flush-mount housing (sold separately as DoorBird Backbox/Housing)
  2. Cut wall opening to housing dimensions
  3. Route cables into the housing
  4. Mount housing flush with wall surface
  5. Connect cables and snap in DoorBird front panel

Step 3: Connect to Your Network

Option 1: Wired (PoE)

If you ran Cat5e cable: plug it into a PoE switch or PoE injector. DoorBird will get an IP address from your DHCP server automatically.
Option 2: WiFi

DoorBird supports 802.11 b/g/n WiFi. During app setup, you'll enter your WiFi credentials. Ensure your router is within reasonable range — consider a WiFi extender if signal is weak at your front door.

Step 4: Set Up the DoorBird App

  1. Download the DoorBird app from the App Store or Google Play (free)
  2. Open the app and tap "Add Device"
  3. Scan the QR code on the back of your DoorBird unit
  4. The app will auto-discover the device on your network
  5. Enter your WiFi credentials if not using PoE ethernet
  6. Create your DoorBird account (free)
  7. Enable push notifications when prompted
  8. Test the doorbell — press the button and confirm you receive a notification
Tip: If you have multiple smartphones in your household, each family member can install the free DoorBird app and connect to the same device. Everyone gets push notifications when someone rings.

Step 5: Connect Your Existing Chime (Optional)

Want your existing indoor chime to ring when someone presses DoorBird? DoorBird has a relay output that can trigger your existing chime:

  • Connect the chime wires to DoorBird's relay output terminals
  • In the app, configure the relay to trigger on doorbell press
  • Set relay pulse duration to match your chime (typically 500ms)

DoorBird also sells the A1061W WiFi Chime accessory if you want a wireless indoor chime.

Step 6: Configure Motion Detection & Access Control

Motion Zones

In the DoorBird app, go to Settings → Motion Sensor. You can define motion detection zones — exclude traffic from the street, focus on your immediate entrance. Adjust sensitivity to reduce false alerts.

For Keypad Models (D1101KV, D1102KV)

Go to Settings → Access Control → PIN Codes. Add up to 6 PIN codes and assign labels (e.g., "Family," "Cleaner," "Dog Walker"). Each code unlocks the relay output you configure — connect this to your electric strike or gate controller.

For Fingerprint Models (D1101FV)

Go to Settings → Access Control → Fingerprints. Enroll fingerprints directly from the app by following the enrollment prompts. The DoorBird will light up and guide you through the scan process.

Common Installation Questions

Can I install DoorBird myself?

Yes, for surface mount with existing doorbell wiring or PoE. If you're cutting into walls for flush mount, or if you're unfamiliar with low-voltage electrical work, a licensed electrician or AV installer is recommended.

Does DoorBird work with my existing door strike / electric lock?

Yes. DoorBird has a built-in relay output that can trigger any electric strike, magnetic lock, or gate controller. Most residential electric strikes are 12V DC — connect them to DoorBird's relay output and configure the open duration in the app.

What if I lose WiFi or internet?

DoorBird continues to function on your local network even without internet. Visitors can still ring, the relay can still unlock, and you can access live video from devices on the same network. Push notifications and remote access require internet connectivity.