Pictrey A400 4K Dash Camera User Manual

1. Product Introduction

The Pictrey A400 is a high-performance 4K Dash Camera designed to enhance driving safety and convenience. It features 4K Ultra HD recording, Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for app control, NightVIS 2.0 for superior night vision, and various parking monitoring modes. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, and maintenance of your A400 Dash Camera.

1.1 Appearance

The A400 Dash Camera features a compact design with a 1.9-inch IPS display and intuitive controls.

Image: Pictrey A400 Dash Cam highlighting its key features: 4K, ADAS, APP Control, and Night Vision.

1.2 Function Buttons

The device includes several function buttons for easy navigation and control:

• Return/Settings Button: Used to go back or access settings.
• Recording On/Off Button: Toggles video recording.
• Screen On/Off Button: Turns the display on or off, or activates screen saver.
• Reset Button: Hold the confirm button for 6 seconds to reset the device.

2. Setup Instructions

2.1 Memory Card Installation

The A400 Dash Camera supports Micro-SD cards up to 256GB. A memory card is not included in the standard package and must be purchased separately.

1. Ensure the Dash Cam is powered off.
2. Insert the Micro-SD card into the slot until it clicks and locks in place. Refer to the silkscreen printed pattern beside the slot for correct orientation.
3. To remove, gently push the card inward until it clicks and pops out, then pull it from the slot.

Note:

• Use a branded Micro-SD card with a capacity of up to 256GB.
• Format the memory card before first-time use to prevent errors and ensure smooth operation.
• Do not remove the memory card while the Dash Cam is turned on.

Image: Recommended DDPAI Memory Card with U3 Ultra high speed specifications and recording duration table for various resolutions and card sizes.

2.2 Dash Cam Installation

There are several methods for powering and installing your Dash Cam:

Cigarette Lighter Power Supply

1. Wipe the front windshield: Clean the area where the dash cam will be mounted to ensure the bracket sticks firmly.
2. Power on the Dash Cam: Insert the car charger into the cigarette lighter, then connect the Dash Cam to the car charger using the included Type-C power cord. The Dash Cam will automatically start recording when the car starts.
3. Determine installation position and adjust lens angle:
   • Connect the Dash Cam to your mobile phone via the DDPAI App (see section 2.3).
   • In the app, navigate to "Device Settings" > "ADAS intelligent assistance reminder" > "Adjust ADAS installation position".
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to calibrate the installation position and lens angle.
4. Stabilize the Dash Cam: Attach the electrostatic sticker to the chosen installation position. Peel off the film from the 3M sticker on the bracket and firmly attach the bracket to the center of the electrostatic sticker.
5. Wiring: Route the power cord from the cigarette lighter receptacle to the Dash Cam, tucking it into the plastic guard plate of the car using the crowbar.

Note:

• The 3M sticker is disposable; confirm the recording angle before attaching.
• The cigarette lighter receptacle location may vary by car model.

Connect the Fuse Box (Intelligent Hardwire Kit is Required)

This method provides a neat installation and enables the parking monitoring function. However, the wiring is complex and should ideally be performed by a professional automobile service shop to avoid vehicle damage.

Note:

• The intelligent hardwire kit needs to be purchased separately.

Image: DDPAI Dashcam Hardwire Kit, required for 24H Parking Monitor functionality.

Connect the OBD Interface (OBD Power Cable is Required)

This method is easy to operate and also enables parking monitoring.

1. Plug the Type-C connector of the OBD power cable into the Type-C port of the Dash Cam.
2. Connect the other end of the OBD power cable to the OBD port of the vehicle.

Note:

• The OBD power cable needs to be purchased separately.
• The location of the OBD interface varies by vehicle model.

2.3 App Connection

The Pictrey A400 Dash Cam is powered by DDPAI. You need to download the DDPAI App to connect and control the device.

Downloading DDPAI App

Scan the QR code below or search for "DDPAI" in Google Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS) to download the DDPAI App.

Image: Visual representation of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for the DDPAI App, showing options to Connect, Explore, and Share.

Bluetooth Connection

1. Power on the Dash Cam. Follow the on-screen instructions to select language and set date/time.
2. Turn on Bluetooth on your mobile phone.
3. Launch the DDPAI App, tap "Device" > "+ Add a device".
4. Select the current device name (e.g., DDP1BXXXX) from the detected Bluetooth device list.
5. Press the confirm button on the far right of the device to authorize the connection.

Note:

• If Bluetooth search fails, tap "Rescan" in the app.
• The device connects to only one phone via Bluetooth at a time. To connect a different phone, disconnect the current one or reset the device.

Wi-Fi Connection

After successful Bluetooth connection, connect to the camera via Wi-Fi to view the device album, adjust settings, or access the preview interface.

For iPhones:

1. In the DDPAI App, tap "Go to connection" > "WLAN".
2. In your iPhone's Wi-Fi settings, select "pictrey_A400_XXXX".
3. Enter the default password (1234567890) and tap "Join".

For Android Phones:

If Wi-Fi is enabled, the system usually connects automatically. If not, you can manually connect:

1. Launch the DDPAI App, go to "Device" page, tap "+ Add a device", then "Device with screen".
2. Tap "Next" > "Connect to Wi-Fi". The detected Wi-Fi of the Dash Cam will be displayed.
3. Select "pictrey_A400_XXXX" from the Wi-Fi list, enter the default password (1234567890), and tap "Connect".

3. Operating Instructions

3.1 Device Interface Introduction

Once powered on, the device displays the main interface with a status bar, real-time preview area, and function buttons.

• Status bar: Shows recording status, date, time, memory card status, Wi-Fi, and audio recording status.
• Real-time preview area: Displays live video from the dash cam.
• Function button area: Allows access to settings, recording on/off, and screen on/off.

3.2 Video Function

Preview Video

• On the device: View the video directly on the 1.9-inch IPS screen.
• On the app: After connecting to the Dash Cam via the app, enter the real-time preview interface. Tap the landscape preview icon or rotate your phone horizontally for full-screen preview.

Note:

• Preview quality is lower; download videos for HD quality.

Playback Video

1. Connect to the Dash Cam via the app and enter the real-time preview interface.
2. Drag the progress bar to select the desired time starting point.
3. Tap the thumbnail or wait 5 seconds for the recorded video to start playing.

Note:

• The progress bar uses color codes: red for emergency events (sudden braking/collision), orange for parking monitoring.

Download Video

Method 1 (from preview):

1. Drag the progress bar to select the time starting point.
2. Tap the download icon to enter the downloading interface.
3. Tap "Complete" to save the file to your local album.

Method 2 (from device album):

1. Tap the "Device" interface in the app.
2. Long-press the video/photo file you want to download to enter selection mode.
3. Select the desired files and tap "Download".

Note:

• Video lengths range from 5 seconds to 3 minutes.

3.3 Taking Photos

The Dash Cam supports two main photography modes:

• Collision sensing photography: The Dash Cam automatically takes pictures when it detects a collision or emergency braking.
• Manual photographing: Enter the preview interface in the app and tap the camera icon to take a photo.

Note:

• Collision sensing and manual photos generate associated videos (default 10 seconds) saved in the "Snap"/"Emergency" tab of the "Device Album".
• Files are stored on the dash cam's memory; connect to the app to view or download.

View Device Album

After connecting the Dash Cam to the mobile phone, launch the DDPAI App. Tap "Device Album" on the "Device" interface to view captured photos and videos.

View Local Album

When photos/videos are downloaded to your phone's local album, they are stored on your phone. Launch the app and tap the "Local Album" tab of the "Device" interface to view them without connecting to the Dash Cam.

Automatically download snapshot/emergency files: You can enable this feature in "Me" > "APP Settings" to automatically download these files after connecting the device.

3.4 Parking Monitoring

Parking monitoring requires an intelligent hardwire kit (purchased separately). When enabled, the Dash Cam automatically enters parking monitoring mode after the vehicle is turned off.

Image: IPS Power Management system showing voltage detection to prevent battery drain during parking monitoring.

Time-Lapse Recording Mode

• Records at 1 frame per second, saving storage while capturing continuous footage.
• If a collision occurs, it takes a photo and records a collision event video, then switches back to time-lapse recording after 2 minutes.
• The device enters sleep mode after a set time or shuts down due to low voltage, waking only when the ignition starts.

Normal Video Recording

• Maintains normal recording after the car is turned off.
• Enters sleep mode after a set time or shuts down due to low voltage, waking only when the ignition starts.

Sleep Mode

• Enters sleep mode when the vehicle is off.
• If a collision is detected, it captures a photo and records a 30-second video, then returns to sleep mode.
• Shuts down if low voltage is detected, reactivating only when the vehicle starts.

3.5 Collision Detection & Locked Videos

When a collision or sudden braking is detected, the Dash Cam generates an emergency photo and video, which are stored separately and not overwritten by loop recording.

Setting Camera Sensitivity

You can adjust the collision sensitivity (High, Medium-high, Medium, Medium-low, Low, Off, Custom) in the DDPAI App under "Device Settings" > "Adjust collision sensitivity". Higher sensitivity triggers recording more easily.

Set the Duration of Related Videos during Shooting

The default related video duration is 10 seconds. You can change this to 10s, 20s, or 30s in the DDPAI App under "Device Settings" > "Duration of related videos during shooting".

• 10s: 5 seconds before and after the collision.
• 20s: 10 seconds before and after the collision.
• 30s: 15 seconds before and after the collision.
• Off: Still generates an emergency video of 5 seconds before and after the collision.

3.6 Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS)

ADAS provides real-time alerts to enhance driving safety.

Enable the ADAS Function

In the DDPAI App, go to "Device Settings" and turn on the "Advanced Driver Assistance System" switch.

• Enable "ADAS Intelligent Assistance Mode": Set sensitivity and turn on/off voice reminders for front vehicle start and fatigue driving.
• Disable "ADAS Intelligent Assistance Mode": No intelligent assistance voice reminders.

Set the Sensitivity of ADAS

You can adjust ADAS sensitivity (High, Medium, Low) in the DDPAI App under "Device Settings" > "ADAS Intelligent Assistance Reminder".

• High: Wider alarm range, suitable for novice drivers.
• Medium: Moderate alarm range.
• Low: Smaller alarm range, warns in high-risk scenarios, suitable for experienced drivers.

Fatigue Driving Voice Alert

Enable this feature in the DDPAI App under "Device Settings" > "ADAS Driver Assistance" to receive voice prompts reminding you to rest during long drives.

3.7 Data Transmission

To access recorded files, gently remove the memory card from the dash cam, insert it into a card reader, and plug it into a computer. Open the "DCIM" folder to browse or edit photos and videos.

• 200 Video: Includes regular recordings and time-lapse recordings (prefixed with "S" for front camera time-lapse).
• 201 Photo: Includes voice-triggered photos (prefixed with "N") and collision-triggered photos (prefixed with "G").

4. Maintenance

4.1 Firmware Upgrade

To upgrade the firmware, open the DDPAI App, connect to the Dash Cam's Wi-Fi, and go to "Me" > "About DDPAI" > "Check version". The app will detect if new versions are available. Follow the on-screen instructions to upgrade.

Note:

• Do not cut off power during an upgrade to avoid device damage.
• If an upgrade fails due to power outage, contact customer service or manually copy the upgrade package to the DCIM folder.

4.2 Safety Precautions

• Do not debug the Dash Cam or watch videos on your phone while driving. Prioritize driving safety.
• Do not install the Dash Cam in a location that obstructs your driving view.
• Use only the power cord included in the product package to prevent fire or electric shock.
• Use a branded Micro-SD card (up to 256GB). Format it through the app before use. Do not insert or remove the card while the device is on.
• Do not open or repair the Dash Cam yourself. Contact official customer service for product failures.
• The Dash Cam can be used in other places and powered by an adapter that meets standard requirements.

5. Troubleshooting (FAQ)

How do I format a memory card?

• Method 1 (on device): Press the Settings button on the home screen, select "Format".
• Method 2 (via app): Connect to the device via app, go to "Camera Settings" > "Storage Management".
• Method 3 (via computer): Remove the card, insert into a card reader, connect to computer, right-click the card drive and select "Format".

What is the Wi-Fi password of the Dash Cam?

The default Wi-Fi password is "1234567890".

Can I change the Wi-Fi password of the Dash Cam?

Yes. Connect to the Dash Cam via app, go to "Device Settings" > "Set WIFI Password", enter a new password, confirm, and save.

How do I reset the Dash Cam?

In case of abnormal state, press the function button for approximately 6 seconds to reset the device. It will automatically restart.

What if I forget the Wi-Fi password?

Press the confirm button for approximately 6 seconds to reset the device. The password will revert to the default "1234567890".

What should I do if the time is incorrect?

Connect your device to your mobile phone via the DDPAI app. Ensure the app is connected to the camera's Wi-Fi. The camera will automatically synchronize the phone's time.

6. Specifications

7. User Tips

• Memory Card: The standard package does not include a memory card. For optimal performance and to prevent storage issues, always use a branded U3 Class 10 MicroSD card (up to 256GB). Lexar, Kingston, Samsung, and Toshiba are known compatible brands.
• Parking Monitoring: To enable 24/7 parking monitoring, an Intelligent Hardwire Kit or OBD Power Cable is required and must be purchased separately. Ensure you acquire the correct kit for your needs.
• Installation: For complex wiring methods like fuse box connection, it is highly recommended to seek installation assistance from a professional automobile service shop.
• App Connectivity: If you experience issues connecting via Bluetooth, try the "Rescan" option in the app. Remember that the dash cam can only connect to one phone at a time.

8. Warranty and Support

The Pictrey A400 Dash Camera comes with a 1-year warranty.

For any product failures or issues, please contact official customer service for relevant consultation and support. Do not attempt to open or repair the device yourself.

9. Product Video Demonstration