COMTEC HDR-352GH Drive Recorder User Manual

1. Introduction

The COMTEC HDR-352GH Drive Recorder is a compact, high-performance Full HD dash camera designed for vehicle recording. It features a 2-megapixel image sensor, noise reduction, night vision correction, and LED signal compatibility. This device includes a dedicated 8GB microSD card, a 3-year warranty, G-sensor, GPS, and supports 12V/24V vehicles. It also offers parking surveillance and can link with compatible radar detectors.

2. Setup

2.1. Mounting

The device can be mounted on the windshield or dashboard. Use the included mounting bracket and double-sided tape for secure installation. Ensure the camera has a clear view of the road and does not obstruct the driver's vision.

Image: Dash cam mounted on a windshield, viewed from outside the car.

Image: Dash cam mounted on a windshield, viewed from inside the car.

Image: Dash cam mounted on the dashboard.

2.2. Power Connection

Connect the device to your vehicle's 12V/24V power supply using the included cigarette lighter plug cord (approx. 4.0m length). For parking surveillance, an optional direct wiring unit (HDROP-05) is required.

2.3. microSD Card Insertion

Insert the included 8GB Class 10 microSDHC card into the designated slot. The device supports microSDHC cards from 4GB to 32GB (Class 10 recommended).

2.4. Initial Setup

Upon first power-on, the device will perform an SD card check. If the card is damaged, an error message will appear on the LCD. GPS will automatically correct date and time information, eliminating the need for manual setting.

2.5. Angle Adjustment

The 2.7-inch full-color TFT LCD allows for easy angle adjustment during recording to ensure optimal field of view.

Image: Rear view of the dash cam showing the screen with recording.

3. Operating Instructions

The drive recorder offers five recording modes:

3.1. Driving Modes

• Continuous Recording: Records video from engine ON to engine OFF. Older footage is automatically overwritten when the storage limit is reached.
• Impact Recording: When the built-in G-sensor detects an impact, the device automatically saves the video footage (up to 2 minutes before and after the impact) as a separate file to prevent overwriting.
• Manual Recording: Pressing the switch allows you to manually record video at any desired time. This footage is also saved as a separate file.

3.2. Parking Modes (Requires optional HDROP-05 direct wiring unit)

• Continuous Parking Surveillance: Records for up to 12 hours after the engine is turned OFF. Recording stops automatically if the vehicle battery voltage drops below a set level to protect the battery.
• Impact Parking Recording: If an impact is detected while parked, the device records footage (up to 2 minutes before and after the impact) and saves it as a separate file.

4. Features

• Full HD Recording: Captures video in 1080p resolution with a 2-megapixel CMOS sensor.
• Wide-Angle Lens: Features a 168-degree diagonal wide-angle lens (horizontal 136°, vertical 70°) to capture a broad view of the road.
• HDR/WDR Function: High Dynamic Range (HDR) and Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) functions correct images to reduce white-out (overexposure) and black-crush (underexposure), especially in strong backlight conditions or when entering/exiting tunnels. This ensures clearer recording of important details like license plates.
• LED Signal Light Support: Compatible with LED traffic signals across Japan, ensuring that signal lights do not appear to disappear due to high-speed flickering.
• Night Vision Enhancement: Equipped with a large 1/2.7-inch image sensor for brighter and clearer recordings even at night. Minimum illumination is 2 LUX.
• GPS Functionality: Records vehicle speed and location information along with video data. Date and time are automatically corrected via GPS.
• Radar Detector Mutual Communication (Optional): When connected to a compatible COMTEC radar detector (requires optional ZR-13 or ZR-14 communication cable), the radar detector can display the drive recorder's video, control its settings, and acquire GPS and OBD2 information. This allows for detailed driving data analysis via the viewer software, including throttle opening, engine RPM, and intake manifold pressure.
• Viewer Software: The included dedicated viewer software (on microSDHC card) allows for easy playback and analysis of recorded data on a PC. It displays video, audio, G-sensor information, and for GPS-equipped models, vehicle trajectory on Google Maps and driving speed. Recorded data can also be converted to video or still images for saving.
• LCD Reversal Function: The built-in G-sensor automatically detects the device's orientation and reverses the LCD display, allowing for flexible mounting on the dashboard or other surfaces.
• Drive Support Function: Detects sudden acceleration, deceleration, or sharp turns and provides alerts.
• Vehicle Speed Alarm Function: Notifies with a chime sound if the set speed limit is exceeded.
• Easy Switch: The function of the switch can be selected from four types: playback, recording, audio recording, or parking.

5. Maintenance

• SD Card Check Function: The device checks the microSDHC card upon startup. If the card is damaged, an abnormality will be displayed on the LCD to prevent missed recordings.
• Backup Function: In case of power interruption due to an accident, the built-in supercapacitor prevents file corruption and protects recorded footage.
• Emergency Recording Stop Function: In the event of a major impact, recording automatically stops to prevent important footage from being overwritten if the vehicle is moved or repaired afterwards.
• G-Sensor Sensitivity: Impact sensitivity can be adjusted in 11 levels (including OFF).
• Cleaning: Use a degreasing cleaner (included) to clean the mounting surface before installation.

6. Troubleshooting

• If the device is not recording, check the microSD card for damage or ensure it is properly inserted.
• If LED traffic signals appear to disappear, ensure the device's LED signal compatibility feature is active.
• If parking surveillance is not working, verify that the optional direct wiring unit (HDROP-05) is correctly installed and the vehicle battery voltage is sufficient.
• If radar detector communication is not functioning, ensure a compatible communication cable (ZR-13 or ZR-14) is used and properly connected.

7. Specifications

8. Warranty and Support

The product comes with a 3-year warranty from the date of purchase. Proof of purchase (such as a delivery note) is required. The warranty is void if used outside of Japan.