Dear TP-Link Tapo Support Team,

You didn't answer me in email, and asked me to post on here. Then your FQA doesn't help me in any. So as your wish. I posted here. 

I am writing to report a persistent and serious issue with my Tapo D235 video doorbell, which I have been unable to resolve despite following the official hardwired power requirements.

Device & Power Configuration
- Model: Tapo D235
- Power supply: Hardwired AC
- Transformer: 24 VAC (doorbell transformer)
- Wiring distance: approximately 15 meters
- Cable size: 1.5 mm² copper wire
- Power source is stable, and no other loads are connected
- Wi-Fi network is stable with strong signal

Despite this, the battery level continuously fluctuates between 0% and 80%, even while hardwired. The percentage changes unpredictably and does not stabilize.

Functional Impact (Major Issue)
This issue causes severe daily inconvenience:
- Almost every morning I must reboot the doorbell for it to function properly
- If I do not reboot it, the doorbell often becomes unresponsive
- When parcels arrive, the doorbell is frequently offline or unreachable
- This happens even when the network condition is good and stable

As a result, the core function of the doorbell (real-time notification and live view) becomes unreliable and unacceptable for daily use.

Additional Notes
- I have already replaced the transformer with 24 VAC, which meets the official hardwired requirement
- The wiring distance and cable size are well within safe electrical limits
- The issue only improves temporarily after rebooting, then returns again
- This behavior suggests a possible power management / battery calibration / firmware-related issue

My Request
I would like to request:
1. An explanation as to why the battery level fluctuates so drastically under proper hardwired AC power
2. Confirmation whether this is a known issue with the D235
3. Any firmware update, power specification clarification, or corrective solution
4. If necessary, guidance on replacement or escalation, as the device is currently not reliable for its intended purpose
 

1. Transformer details

   The transformer used is a 240V AC to 24V AC step-down transformer, rated at 30VA, dedicated for continuous operation.

   It is directly supplied from the distribution board and is not shared with any other load.

2. Details of the power / battery fluctuation

   Yes, the battery level changes randomly and repeatedly, typically observed after overnight operation.

   The percentage can fluctuate significantly (for example, from near 0% to around 80%) without any clear pattern.

   This behavior occurs consistently and not as a one-time event.

3. Voltage measurement using multimeter

   I have checked the voltage using a multimeter:

• Output at the transformer terminals: 24 VAC

• Voltage measured directly at the doorbell hardwire terminals: 24 VAC

The voltage reading at the doorbell matches the transformer output and appears stable during measurement.

Despite meeting the specified hardwired power requirements, the battery level fluctuation and device instability persist, often requiring a daily reboot for the doorbell to function properly.

Please advise on the next steps or further investigation required, as this issue significantly affects daily usability.