1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your COMTEC ZDR-015 Front and Rear 2-Camera Drive Recorder. Please read this manual thoroughly before use to ensure proper functionality and safety.
The ZDR-015 is a high-performance dual-camera drive recorder designed to capture clear Full HD video from both the front and rear of your vehicle. It includes advanced features such as noise reduction, night vision, LED signal support, G-sensor, GPS, parking surveillance, and safety driving assistance functions.
2. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance. Ensure the device is securely mounted and cables are routed safely.
2.1 Package Contents
- Main Unit x1
- Rear Camera x1
- Rear Camera Connection Cable (approx. 7m) x1
- Mounting Bracket x1
- Double-sided Tape for Bracket Fixing x1
- Double-sided Tape for Rear Camera Fixing x1
- Hex Wrench for Angle Adjustment x1
- Degreasing Cleaner x1
- Cigar Plug Power Cord x1
- microSDHC Card (16GB) x1
- Instruction Manual (with Warranty Card) x1
2.2 Mounting the Front Camera
Mount the main unit (front camera) on the windshield, ensuring it does not obstruct the driver's view or interfere with airbags. Use the provided strong adhesive tape for secure attachment.
Image: Front camera securely installed on the car's windshield, providing a clear view of the road ahead.
2.3 Mounting the Rear Camera
Install the rear camera on the rear window. Connect it to the main unit using the provided rear camera connection cable. Ensure the cable is routed neatly and does not interfere with vehicle operations.
Image: Rear camera installed on the car's rear window, capturing footage from behind the vehicle.
2.4 Power Connection
Connect the cigar plug power cord to your vehicle's cigarette lighter socket. The device will power on and begin recording automatically when the engine starts.
2.5 Inserting the microSD Card
Insert the provided 16GB microSDHC card into the designated slot on the main unit. Ensure it is inserted correctly until it clicks into place.
3. Operation
The ZDR-015 offers various recording modes and functions to suit different driving situations.
3.1 Recording Modes
- Continuous Recording: Records video from engine ON to OFF. Older files are overwritten automatically when the storage limit is reached (default setting).
- Impact Recording (G-Sensor): When an impact is detected by the built-in G-sensor, the footage before and after the impact is saved as an event file, protected from overwriting.
- Manual Recording: Pressing the manual recording button saves footage at any desired timing, protecting it as an event file.
3.2 High-Speed Start
The newly developed high-speed start system allows the device to begin recording immediately after the engine is turned ON, ensuring no moments are missed from the start of your drive.
3.3 Display and Controls
The unit features a display for live view and settings adjustment. Controls are typically touch-based or via physical buttons.
Image: The ZDR-015 display showing real-time video feed and operational icons.
4. Key Features
4.1 Noise Countermeasures
The ZDR-015 is designed with robust noise reduction measures to prevent interference with digital terrestrial TV reception and car navigation GPS signals, ensuring stable operation of other in-car electronics.
4.2 HDR/WDR for Clear Night Images
Equipped with HDR (High Dynamic Range) and WDR (Wide Dynamic Range) functions (front camera only), the device records clear images even in challenging lighting conditions, such as backlighting, overexposure (whiteout), and underexposure (blackout).
4.3 Full HD 2 Million Pixels
Both front and rear cameras record in Full HD (2 million pixels), providing high-resolution, vivid images. This clarity is essential for identifying details in case of an incident or accident.
4.4 Enhanced Night Vision
Featuring a 1/2.7-inch image sensor, the ZDR-015 captures brighter and clearer images at night compared to conventional models, improving visibility in low-light conditions.
4.5 LED Signal Light Support
The device is compatible with LED traffic signals in both Eastern and Western Japan, ensuring that traffic lights are recorded accurately without flickering.
4.6 Parking Surveillance Function
By connecting the optional parking surveillance direct wiring cord [HDROP-09], the ZDR-015 can utilize its parking surveillance features:
- Impact Detection: Records front and rear footage when an impact is detected while parked.
- Continuous Recording: Can perform continuous recording while parked.
- Dedicated Folder: Parking surveillance footage is saved in a dedicated folder for easy identification.
- One-Time Parking Surveillance Mode: Allows temporary activation of parking surveillance even if it's usually OFF. Useful for specific locations.
- Parking Surveillance Mode Bypass: Temporarily disables parking surveillance, useful in vibrating environments like mechanical parking lots or windy days.
- Night Vision for Parking: Records relatively bright images even in dimly lit parking areas. (Note: May not record brightly in completely dark conditions.)
4.7 Secure Adhesion Mounting
The main unit is securely fixed with strong adhesive tape. Unlike suction cup mounts, this method prevents detachment due to high internal car temperatures or direct sunlight, which can cause rubber expansion.
4.8 Safety Driving Support Functions
The ZDR-015 includes six functions to support safe and comfortable driving:
- Forward Vehicle Start Notification: Alerts you when the vehicle in front starts moving.
- Forward Vehicle Proximity Notification: Alerts you if you are too close to the vehicle in front.
- Front Signal Notification: Alerts you when the traffic light ahead turns green.
- Lane Departure Notification: Alerts you if you deviate from your lane.
- Drive Support Function: Alerts you for sudden acceleration, deceleration, or sharp steering.
- Vehicle Speed Alarm: Alerts you if you exceed a set speed limit.
Important: These safety driving support functions are for assistance only and do not prevent accidents. Always pay attention to actual traffic conditions and drive safely. Some functions require GPS reception to operate. Performance may vary depending on surrounding conditions, weather, vehicle shape, color, and mounting position.
4.9 File Protection Function
The device's proprietary file system is designed to minimize data corruption even if power is suddenly cut off during an accident, increasing the likelihood of recovering important footage.
4.10 SD Card Check Function
Upon startup, the ZDR-015 checks the microSDHC card for damage. If damage is detected, an LED indicator will alert you, preventing situations where you might unknowingly drive without recording.
4.11 Emergency Recording Stop Function
In the event of a major impact (e.g., an accident), recording automatically stops. This prevents important footage from being overwritten if the vehicle is moved or repaired after the incident.
4.12 Reduced Formatting Frequency
The proprietary file system significantly reduces fragmentation of the SD card caused by repeated recording and deletion, thereby greatly reducing the frequency with which the SD card needs to be formatted.
4.13 Dedicated Viewer Software
A dedicated viewer software, downloadable from the COMTEC homepage, allows you to review recorded data on your PC. You can check not only video and audio but also G-sensor information. The software also allows conversion of recorded data into video or still image files for saving to your PC.
4.14 Recording Image Inversion Function
The built-in G-sensor automatically detects the device's orientation and inverts the recorded image if necessary, allowing for flexible mounting options, such as on the dashboard.
4.15 Other Functions
- Impact sensitivity adjustable in 11 levels (including OFF).
- Audio recording.
- Date and time information recording.
5. Maintenance
5.1 microSD Card Care
Although the ZDR-015's file system reduces the need for frequent formatting, it is recommended to periodically format the microSD card (e.g., once a month) to maintain optimal performance and prevent data corruption. Replace the microSD card if it shows signs of wear or damage.
5.2 Cleaning
Gently wipe the camera lenses and the unit's exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, which can damage the device.
6. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your ZDR-015, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
- Device does not power on: Check the power cord connection to the cigarette lighter socket and ensure the vehicle's ignition is on.
- No recording: Ensure the microSD card is inserted correctly and is not full or damaged. Format the card if necessary. Check the LED indicator for SD card errors.
- Poor image quality: Clean the camera lenses. Ensure the mounting position is stable and free from vibrations. Check HDR/WDR settings for optimal performance in varying light.
- GPS not receiving signal: Ensure the device has a clear view of the sky. Metalized window tints can interfere with GPS reception.
- Interference with other devices: The ZDR-015 has noise countermeasures, but if interference occurs, try repositioning the device or its cables.
For issues not covered here, please consult the full instruction manual or contact COMTEC customer support.
7. Specifications
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | COMTEC |
| Model Name | ZDR-015 |
| Product Dimensions | 3.25 x 9.65 x 6.2 cm (Main Unit) |
| Product Weight | 140 g |
| Color | Black |
| Mounting Type | Adhesive |
| Control Method | Touch |
| Power Voltage | DC12V |
| Max Current Consumption | Under 520mA |
| Operating Temperature | -10℃ to 60℃ |
| Frame Rate | 29.1 / 19.1fps (LED signal compatible) |
| GPS | Yes |
| G-Sensor | Yes (0.1G to 1.0G, adjustable in 0.1G increments) |
| Recording Media | microSDHC card (4GB to 32GB supported, Class 10 recommended) |
| Front Camera Image Sensor | 1/2.7 inch CMOS sensor |
| Front Camera Effective Pixels | Max 2 million pixels |
| Front Camera Lens Angle | Horizontal 115°, Vertical 58° (Diagonal 145°) |
| Front Camera F-Value | 2.0 |
| Front Camera Lens Material | Glass |
| Rear Camera Image Sensor | 1/2.7 inch CMOS sensor |
| Rear Camera Effective Pixels | Max 2 million pixels |
| Rear Camera Lens Angle | Horizontal 112°, Vertical 84° (Diagonal 140°) |
| Rear Camera F-Value | 2.4 |
| Rear Camera Lens Material | Glass |
| Video Capture Resolution | 1080p (Recording Resolution: 1920x1080 max) |
8. Warranty and Support
8.1 Warranty Information
The COMTEC ZDR-015 includes a warranty. Please refer to the warranty card provided with your instruction manual for specific terms, conditions, and duration of coverage.
8.2 Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to download the dedicated viewer software, please visit the official COMTEC homepage. Contact information for customer service can also be found in the instruction manual.
