CuddeBack CuddeLink System: Easy to Set-up But Here are some mistakes not to make
Setting up the CuddeBack CuddeLink System can be done in just 10 minutes, but there are some common mistakes to avoid. First, ensure that all cameras have fresh batteries and are set to the same time and date. Second, make sure the home camera is placed in a central location with a clear line of sight to all other
What is Cuddeback Cuddelink System
cameras. Third, test the system before leaving the site to ensure all cameras are properly connected. By following these steps, you can easily set up your CuddeLink System without any issues.
In 2008, I purchased my first trail cam, a Moultrie M80I for $199.99 from Scheels in Coralville Iowa. Despite its bulky black design, the camera was excellent and lasted for five years. Since then, I have bought numerous low-end, cheaper cameras in an attempt to cover more ground, but have consistently been disappointed by missed pictures and short life spans. However, I have come to realize that my theory was flawed, as a single, reliable camera would have been more effective than multiple unreliable ones.
Our we a CuddeLink system last year. At first, I faced several problems with it, such as the camera not taking night pictures, my own mistakes during the initial setup, and my lack of understanding of the buttons and technical layout of the camera’s user interface. I was extremely frustrated and confused and thought the expensive cameras were useless. However, after admitting that the issue was with me and not the cameras, I realized my mistake. In this article, I will explain how I overcame these challenges.
A case for investing in a CuddeLink system
My personal failures
A quick step-by-step guide to setting up your CuddeLink system in less than 10 minutes
Investing in CuddeBack’s CuddeLink System is a wise decision due to its exceptional features.
Hunting pressure is the most crucial factor in your whitetail strategy, according to seasoned big buck killers. Checking trail cameras can hinder your success, as it requires entering the deer’s territory and leaving your scent. This erases any tactical advantage gained from getting his picture. Cell cameras can reduce these intrusions, as the only time you need to visit them is to replace batteries, if you don’t have extended battery packs or solar panels.
Last season was a trial, but this year I am committed to shifting my trail cam strategy. I have decided to purchase quality cameras that will have a longer lifespan, 
even though I may not have as many cameras in the woods. Historically, I have purchased trail cams in the $75-$100 range and observed their lifespan to be about two years. However, after purchasing the CuddeLinks last year, they fired right up this year and I can already tell they are going to last for several years to come. By investing in quality cameras, I know they will work every time and save me money in the long run.
Finally, speaking of getting what you pay for, the CuddeLink system is an inexpensive way to send pictures to your email via cellular connection. Unlike other cell camera systems, which require a plan for each camera, CuddeLink only requires one plan for all of your cameras. This is because the remote cameras all send pictures to a single home camera, which then sends the pictures to your email. The plans offered by CuddeLink are definitely worth considering, as they offer great value for money.
What we did wrong:
When I first got my CuddeBack camera, I struggled with understanding how to operate it and set up the CuddeLink system. The 40-page booklet provided was overwhelming and confusing. I believe that a simpler, one-page document would have been more helpful for hunters like me. However, my biggest mistake was not updating the firmware. I deployed the cameras in September, but we were not getting night pictures. It was later discovered that the firmware was outdated, preventing the cameras from taking night pictures. The newest firmware as of August 1st, 2021 is 8.3, while the cameras I purchased had 7.1 loaded on them. It is important to update the firmware when purchasing a CuddeLink system, as updates are frequent and necessary for optimal performance.
Cuddeback 20MP IR Trail Camera
Cuddeback Cudde Back CuddeLink Wireless Trail Camera 3rd Gen Sensor, Low-Glow IR LED Camera with Antenna Bundle Solar Power Bank Sun & Shade pw-003, 32 GB Memory Card, and Card Reader (10-Pack)
Cuddeback Cudde Back CuddeLink Wireless Trail Camera 3rd Gen Sensor, Low-Glow IR LED Camera with Antenna Bundle Solar Power Bank, 32 GB Memory Card, and Card Reader (10-Pack)
Cuddeback Cudde Back CuddeLink Wireless Trail Camera 3rd Gen Sensor, Low-Glow IR LED Camera with Antenna Bundle Solar Power Bank, 32 GB Memory Card, and Card Reader (4-Pack)
Cuddeback Cudde Back CuddeLink Wireless Trail Camera 3rd Gen Sensor, Low-Glow IR LED Camera with Antenna Bundle Solar Sun & Shade Power Bank, 32 GB Memory Card, and Card Reader (1-Pack)
Cuddeback Cudde Back CuddeLink Wireless Trail Camera 3rd Gen Sensor, Low-Glow IR LED Camera with Antenna Bundle Solar Sun & Shade Power Bank, 32 GB Memory Card, and Card Reader (4-Pack)
Cuddeback CuddeLink Cell Trail Camera - AT&T Model G-5147 IR Trail Camera Cuddeback Game Camera Cuddeback w/ 32 GB SD Card
Cuddeback CuddeLink Cell Trail Camera - Verizon Model G-5109 IR Trail Camera Cuddeback Game Camera Cuddeback w/ 32 GB SD Card
Cuddeback CuddeLink L-Series Cell Home w/ 32 GB SD Card
10 Minute Set-up
Here is the stupid simple set up guide I wish I had. Below are the steps and information you need:
Insert Batteries
CuddeBack has a pretty convenient picture of how to insert the D cell batteries.
Update Firmware
Go to www.cuddeback.com and select the link, “Update Firmware”. There you will find the option and instructions to download the firmware.
Save it to an SD card
Turn your camera on. Go to “Commands” and toggle until you see the option “Load F/W”. Hit the up button to confirm and insert the SD card.
Let the camera run its course and it will update the firmware.
Cuddeback’s website’s view. Highlighted Green is the “Update Firmware” Button referenced above.
Cuddeback’s website’s view. Highlighted Green is the “Update Firmware” Button referenced above.
After selecting the Update Firmware button on the homepage. You will be taken to these instructions.
After selecting the Update Firmware button on the homepage. You will be taken to these instructions.
Set Time and Date
Change Photo Size to 20 MP
Go to commands and toggle until you see the photo size option. CuddeBack’s come standard at 5 MP.
Register your cell camera account
Go to www.camp.cuddeback.com
Go to “View Devices” Select “Add Device”
Fill in the information requested. The ICCID and the IMEI numbers will come from your cell camera but there is a good instructions sheet on the website. I have also pictured it below.
This is the instructions sheet provided by the website for providing your specific cell cameras information to link it to the cellular service.
This is the instructions sheet provided by the website for providing your specific cell cameras information to link it to the cellular service.
Link your cameras together
Repeat the above steps (besides the registration of your cell camera) with your other cameras. Now is time to set up your specific cameras to link together.
Cell Camera #1:
Go to: Commands go to “Link Menu”
Toggle to “CL Mode” and make sure it says “Home“
The next option is “CL Loc”, this camera will be 1.
The next option is “CL channel” this doesn’t have to be anything specific, but all your cameras need to be on the same channel
CuddeLink Camera #2:
Go to: Commands go to “Link Menu”
Toggle to “CL Mode” and make sure it says “Remote“
The next option is “CL Loc”, this camera will be 2.
The next option is “CL channel” this doesn’t have to be anything specific, but all your cameras need to be on the same channel
CuddeLink Camera #3:
Go to: Commands go to “Link Menu”
Toggle to “CL Mode” and make sure it says “Remote“
The next option is “CL Loc”, this camera will be 3.
The next option is “CL channel” this doesn’t have to be anything specific, but all your cameras need to be on the same channel
CuddeLink Camera #4:
Go to: Commands go to “Link Menu”
Toggle to “CL Mode” and make sure it says “Remote“
The next option is “CL Loc”, this camera will be 4.
The next option is “CL channel” this doesn’t have to be anything specific, but all your cameras need to be on the same channel
Deployment
Plot out on your map where you intend to string your cameras about. If in doubt of them reaching each other, plan for a shorter distance just to be safe.
I set the “home”” camera. Camera number 1 first. I then turn on camera number 2 and toggle within the “Link menu” until I get to “CL Level” That stands for CuddeLink level. Essentially it tells you how well they are connected. I then keep camera #2 on and walk to my next location monitoring the level of the connection to camera 1. Anything above a level 30 will get the job done.
After placing camera 2. I repeat the same thing with camera 3. Then finally camera 4.
This year, it’s important to reconsider your trail camera approach. Embrace new technology in the hunting industry, as it provides a significant advantage in the whitetail woods. Failing to utilize these tools would be a disservice to yourself, as they can give you the extra edge needed to bag that once-in-a-lifetime trophy.
