1. Introduction
The Vandlion A3 Portable Mini Camera is a compact and versatile device designed for various recording needs. It features HD 1080P video recording, loop recording, motion detection, and a built-in flashlight. Its durable zinc alloy shell and magnetic absorption with a back clip design make it convenient for portable use in diverse environments.
This manual provides detailed instructions on how to set up, operate, maintain, and troubleshoot your Vandlion A3 Mini Camera.
2. Package Contents
Please check the box for the following items:
- 1 x HD Camera
- 1 x English Manual
- 1 x USB Data Cable
3. Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the camera's components:
- ON/OFF/Auxiliary Light Switch
- Photographing Button
- Reset Button Hole
- Lanyard hole
- LED Status Indicator Light
- Video Recording/Saving Switch
- Audio Recording/Saving Switch
- TF Card Slot (support up to 32G, not included)
- Micro USB port
- Camera Lens
- Auxiliary Light Lamp
- Back clip
The camera features a 90-degree rotatable lens for wider view angles.
4. Setup
4.1. Charging the Camera
Before first use, fully charge the camera for 3-5 hours. The camera has a 3.7V/1100mAh lithium battery. It supports recording while charging.
- Connect the camera to a computer or power adapter using the provided USB data cable.
- The indicator light will show charging status.
- A full charge provides approximately 3 hours of video recording or 6 hours of audio recording.
4.2. Inserting a Micro SD Card
The device does not have built-in memory. A Micro SD card (8GB to 256GB, Class 10 or above recommended) is required for recording.
- Locate the TF Card Slot (8) on the camera.
- Gently insert the Micro SD card into the slot until it clicks into place.
- To remove, push the card in again until it springs out.
Memory card capacity affects recording time:
- 8GB TF Card: Approx. 280 minutes of recording, 80 minutes of filming.
- 32GB TF Card: Approx. 6 hours of video saving time.
4.3. Setting System Time
To synchronize the system time, connect the camera to a computer. The camera will create a text file (e.g., "time.txt") on the Micro SD card. Open this file and modify the date and time to match your current system. Save the file and safely eject the camera. The time will be updated upon the next power cycle.
The `time.txt` file contains settings for date, time, motion detection, and loop recording. An example format is `2017-06-05 23:59:59 motion:0 YOY`.
- The first `Y` (Show time) / `N` (No time) controls whether the date and time are displayed on the video.
- The second value (e.g., `0`, `1`, `2`) sets the video and photo resolution: `0` for 1080P, `1` for 720P, `2` for 480P.
- The `motion:0` / `motion:1` setting controls motion detection: `0` for off, `1` for on.
- The third `Y` (Loop video) / `N` (Close loop video) controls loop recording: `Y` means when the memory card is full, it will overwrite the oldest files; `N` means recording stops when the card is full.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Power On/Off
- To Power On: Slide the ON/OFF/Auxiliary Light Switch (1) upwards. The device will turn on, indicated by a blue light.
- To Power Off: Slide the ON/OFF/Auxiliary Light Switch (1) upwards again and hold for a short period until the red light flashes 6 times, then the device will power off.
5.2. Video Recording
- To start video recording: Slide the Video Recording/Saving Switch (6) upwards. The green light will flash, indicating video recording is in progress.
- To save video: Slide the Video Recording/Saving Switch (6) downwards. The recording will be saved.
5.3. Audio Recording
- To start audio recording: Slide the Audio Recording/Saving Switch (7) upwards. The blue light will flash, indicating audio recording is in progress.
- To save audio: Slide the Audio Recording/Saving Switch (7) downwards. The recording will be saved.
5.4. Taking Photos
- While in video recording mode, press the Photographing Button (2) once to take a photo. The blue light will flash once, and then the green light will resume flashing, indicating a photo has been taken.
5.5. Motion Detection
If motion detection is enabled in the `time.txt` settings, the camera will automatically start recording when motion is detected and stop when motion ceases. This helps conserve memory space.
5.6. Flashlight Function
- To turn on the flashlight: Slide the ON/OFF/Auxiliary Light Switch (1) downwards.
- To turn off the flashlight: Slide the ON/OFF/Auxiliary Light Switch (1) upwards.
5.7. Connecting to PC
To access recorded files or use the camera as a webcam:
- Connect the camera to your computer using the USB data cable.
- The computer will recognize the device as a removable disk.
- You can then transfer files or use it as a webcam for meetings or other purposes.
6. Maintenance
- Keep the camera clean and free from dust and moisture.
- Avoid dropping or subjecting the camera to strong impacts.
- Charge the camera regularly, even if not in use, to maintain battery health.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the camera yourself. Contact support if issues arise.
7. Troubleshooting
- Camera not turning on: Ensure the battery is charged. Connect to a power source and try again.
- Cannot record: Check if a Micro SD card is properly inserted and if it has sufficient free space. Ensure the card is Class 10 or above.
- Low battery auto-save: The camera is designed to detect low battery levels and automatically save the current recording file before powering off to prevent data loss.
- Files not showing correct date/time: Ensure you have correctly set the system time via the `time.txt` file as described in Section 4.3.
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Vandlion |
| Model Number | A3 |
| Shell Material | Zinc Alloy |
| High Definition Support | 1080P (Full-HD) |
| Video Format | AVI (1920*1080P) |
| Video Code | MJPG |
| Recording Format | WAV (512Kbps) |
| Frame Number | 30FPS |
| Image Ratio | 4:3 |
| Sensor Type | CMOS |
| Optical Zoom | Fixed Focus |
| Additional Function | Recording Function, Motion Detection, Flashlight |
| Storage Type | Micro SD (8GB to 256GB, Class 10+) |
| Battery Capacity | 3.7V/1100mAh lithium battery |
| Battery Recording Time | Approx. 6-8 hours |
| USB Connector | USB 2.0 High Speed (Micro USB port) |
| Dimensions (MM) | 90*25*11MM (approx. 3.74in x 0.98in x 0.39in) |
| Weight | About 78g |
| Working Temperature | -5 to 40 degrees Celsius |
| Compatible System | Windows 2000 & above |
| Certification | CE |
9. User Tips
- For optimal performance, use a high-speed Micro SD card (Class 10 or above).
- The camera's ability to record both sound and video simultaneously, along with its fixed focus optical zoom, makes it suitable for various recording needs.
- Consider using the camera for sports events, as a driving recorder, or for general recording purposes due to its portable design and features.
- The long battery life and auto-save function on low battery are beneficial for extended recording sessions and data protection.
10. Warranty and Support
The manufacturer provides a 1-year warranty from the date of purchase for quality problems. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For technical support, troubleshooting assistance, or warranty claims, please contact the seller or manufacturer directly. Do not attempt to repair the device yourself, as this may void the warranty.
