Introduction
The COMTEC ZDR-013 is a high-performance drive recorder designed to capture clear, high-definition video of your journeys. Featuring 2 million pixels for Full HD recording, high-speed startup, and advanced recording functions, it provides reliable evidence in case of incidents. This device also offers unique intercommunication capabilities with compatible COMTEC radar detectors, enhancing its functionality and ease of use. This manual will guide you through the installation, operation, and maintenance of your ZDR-013 drive recorder.
Image: Overview of the COMTEC ZDR-013 Drive Recorder, showcasing its compact design and primary features such as 2 million pixels, Full HD, and intercommunication compatibility with radar detectors.
Key Features
- Intercommunication with Radar Detectors: Connects with compatible COMTEC radar detectors (e.g., ZERO702V, ZERO802V, ZERO802M) to enable operation and image confirmation directly from the radar detector's screen. It also acquires GPS information from the radar detector for accurate speed and position data.
- Parking Surveillance Function: With the optional HDROP-09 parking surveillance/direct wiring cord, the device can detect impacts while parked and record video before and after the event. Continuous parking recording is also supported, with footage saved to a dedicated folder.
- High-Speed Recording: Recording begins approximately 1 second after the engine is turned ON, ensuring that crucial moments from the start of your drive are captured.
- HDR/WDR for Enhanced Image Quality: High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) functions ensure clear recording in various lighting conditions, including strong backlight, bright sunlight, and low-light environments, preventing overexposure and underexposure.
- 2 Million Pixel Full HD Recording: Captures high-resolution 1080p video, providing clear and detailed images for accident analysis or general driving records.
- Bright Night Recording: Equipped with a large 1/3-inch CMOS image sensor, the ZDR-013 records brighter and clearer images even in low-light night conditions.
- Nationwide LED Traffic Signal Compatibility: Designed to record correctly regardless of the power frequency differences between East and West Japan, ensuring traffic signals are captured without flickering.
- Three Reliable Recording Modes:
- Constant Recording: Automatically records from engine ON to OFF.
- Impact Recording: Utilizes a built-in G-sensor to automatically save footage when an impact is detected.
- Manual Recording: Allows users to manually initiate recording at any desired moment by pressing a button.
- Reliable Data Protection: Features a dedicated file system that minimizes data corruption during sudden power loss and an SD card check function to alert users of card damage, preventing missed recordings. An emergency recording stop function prevents overwriting critical accident footage.
- Noise Countermeasures: Engineered to minimize interference with terrestrial digital broadcasting and car navigation GPS signals.
- Recorded Image Flip Function: The G-sensor automatically detects the device's orientation and flips the recorded image, allowing for flexible installation on dashboards or windshields.
Setup
Package Contents
- Main Unit x 1
- Mounting Bracket x 1
- Double-sided Tape for Bracket x 1
- Hex Wrench for Angle Adjustment x 1
- Degreasing Cleaner x 1
- Cigarette Plug Cord x 1
- microSDHC Card (8GB) x 1
- Instruction Manual (with Warranty) x 1
Installation Location
Choose an installation location on your windshield or dashboard that does not obstruct the driver's view or interfere with airbag deployment. Ensure the camera has a clear view of the road ahead. For optimal performance, avoid placing it near other electronic devices that might cause interference.
Image: The COMTEC ZDR-013 Drive Recorder mounted on the inside of a car's windshield, positioned to capture the road ahead without obstructing the driver's view.
Mounting the Device
- Clean the chosen installation area thoroughly with the provided degreasing cleaner.
- Attach the double-sided tape to the mounting bracket.
- Securely attach the mounting bracket to the cleaned surface.
- Slide the ZDR-013 main unit onto the mounting bracket until it clicks into place.
- Adjust the camera angle using the hex wrench to ensure a level and clear view.
Power Connection
Connect the included cigarette plug cord to the drive recorder and then to your vehicle's cigarette lighter socket. For intercommunication with a compatible COMTEC radar detector, use the dedicated intercommunication cable (sold separately) to connect the ZDR-013 to the radar detector. This allows the radar detector to supply power and share GPS information.
Note: In some idling stop vehicles, the main unit may restart when the engine restarts. If this occurs, use the included cigarette plug cord for power.
microSDHC Card Insertion
Insert the provided 8GB microSDHC card (Class 10 recommended, supports 4GB to 32GB) into the card slot on the device. Ensure it is inserted correctly until it clicks into place.
Operating Instructions
Power On/Off
The ZDR-013 automatically powers on and begins recording when the vehicle's engine is started. It powers off automatically when the engine is turned off.
Recording Modes
- Constant Recording: This is the default recording mode. The device continuously records video from the moment the engine is turned on until it is turned off. Older files are automatically overwritten when the storage limit is reached.
- Impact Recording: The built-in G-sensor detects sudden impacts (e.g., collisions, hard braking) and automatically saves the corresponding video segment (before and after the event) to a protected folder, preventing it from being overwritten. Impact sensitivity can be adjusted (OFF and 4 levels).
- Manual Recording: Press the designated button on the device to manually initiate a recording segment. This segment will also be saved to a protected folder.
Image: The top view of the COMTEC ZDR-013 Drive Recorder, displaying its control buttons for functions such as manual recording, volume adjustment, and microphone control.
Parking Surveillance (Optional)
To use the parking surveillance function, the optional HDROP-09 direct wiring cord is required. Once installed, the device will monitor for impacts while the vehicle is parked. Upon detection, it records a video segment and saves it to a dedicated parking surveillance folder. Continuous parking recording is also available.
Viewing Recorded Footage
Recorded footage can be viewed in several ways:
- Via Compatible Radar Detector: If connected to a compatible COMTEC radar detector, you can view images and adjust settings directly on the radar detector's screen.
- Using Dedicated Viewer Software: Download the dedicated viewer software from the COMTEC homepage to your PC. This software allows you to view video, audio, and G-sensor data, as well as convert footage to video or still images.
- Directly on PC: Insert the microSDHC card into a card reader connected to your PC to access the recorded files.
Maintenance
SD Card Management
- SD Card Check Function: The ZDR-013 automatically checks the microSDHC card for damage upon startup. An LED indicator will notify you if an abnormality is detected, preventing recording failures.
- Reduced Periodic Formatting: The device uses a specialized file system that significantly reduces fragmentation compared to standard PC file systems. This means the frequency of needing to format the SD card is greatly reduced. However, occasional formatting is still recommended to maintain optimal performance and extend the card's lifespan.
- File Protection Function: The dedicated file system is designed to minimize data corruption even if power is suddenly cut off, increasing the chances of recovering important data.
Cleaning
Gently wipe the camera lens and the device body with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the unit.
Troubleshooting
- Device does not power on: Check the power connection. Ensure the cigarette plug cord is securely inserted into both the device and the vehicle's power socket. If using a radar detector for power, ensure the intercommunication cable is properly connected and the radar detector is powered on.
- No recording or recording errors:
- Check if the microSDHC card is inserted correctly.
- Ensure the microSDHC card is not full. If it is, old files will be overwritten, but if protected files fill the card, recording may stop.
- If the SD card check LED indicates an error, the card may be damaged. Try formatting the card or replacing it with a new one (Class 10, 4GB-32GB recommended).
- Poor image quality (blurry, whiteout, black crush):
- Ensure the camera lens is clean and free from dirt or smudges.
- Verify that the HDR/WDR functions are enabled in the settings (if adjustable via radar detector or viewer software).
- Adjust the camera angle to avoid direct sunlight or strong reflections.
- GPS information not acquired (when connected to radar detector): Ensure the intercommunication cable is securely connected between the ZDR-013 and the radar detector. Confirm that the radar detector itself is receiving GPS signals.
- Interference with other devices (e.g., terrestrial digital TV, car navigation GPS): While the ZDR-013 has noise countermeasures, some interference may occur depending on the installation environment. Try repositioning the drive recorder further away from sensitive electronic devices.
- Emergency Recording Stop Function: If a severe impact is detected, recording will automatically stop to protect the footage. This is a safety feature to prevent overwriting.
Specifications
Image: A detailed table outlining the technical specifications of the COMTEC ZDR-013 Drive Recorder, including camera, recording, and general product details.
| Category | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | COMTEC |
| Model Name | ZDR-013 |
| Product Dimensions (D x W x H) | 30.1 x 79 x 42.6 mm |
| Product Weight | 72 g |
| Image Sensor | 1/3 inch CMOS Sensor |
| Effective Pixels | Max 2 Million Pixels |
| Lens Angle (Horizontal / Vertical / Diagonal) | 120° / 63° / 145° |
| F-Value | F1.8 |
| Lens Material | Glass |
| Minimum Illumination | 2 LUX |
| Power Voltage | DC12V |
| Maximum Current Consumption | Less than 250mA |
| Operating Temperature Range | -10°C to 60°C |
| Frame Rate | 29.1 / 19.1 / 9.1 fps (LED signal compatible) |
| GPS | None (GPS information acquired via compatible radar detector) |
| Recording Media | microSDHC card (8GB Class 10 included, supports 4GB-32GB) |
| G-Sensor | Yes (0.1G to 1.0G, adjustable in 0.1G increments) |
| Video Capture Resolution | 1080p |
| Mounting Type | Adhesive |
| Display Type | LCD (via compatible radar detector) |
| Battery Included | No |
Warranty
The COMTEC ZDR-013 Drive Recorder comes with a 1-year product warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use. Please note that consumables (such as the microSDHC card) are typically not covered under this warranty. Retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Support
For further assistance, software downloads, and detailed product information, please visit the official COMTEC website. The dedicated viewer software for PC is available for download from the COMTEC homepage, allowing you to analyze recorded data comprehensively.
For technical support or inquiries regarding your ZDR-013, please refer to the contact information provided in the warranty section of your instruction manual or on the official COMTEC website.
