Introduction
Thank you for choosing the VStarcam 1080P Dash Cam. This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your device. Please read it thoroughly before use to ensure optimal performance and safety.
Safety Information
- Do not operate the dash cam or adjust settings while driving. Always pull over safely before interacting with the device.
- Ensure the dash cam is securely mounted and does not obstruct your view of the road.
- Use only the provided car charger to power the device. Using incompatible chargers may damage the dash cam.
- Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, direct sunlight for prolonged periods, or moisture.
- Keep the lens clean to ensure clear video recordings.
- Do not attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself. Contact customer support for assistance.
Package Contents
Verify that all items are present in your package:
- VStarcam 1080P Dash Cam
- Car Charger
- Suction Mount
- User Manual
Image: Package contents of the VStarcam Dash Cam, showing the camera, car charger, and suction mount.
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components and controls of your VStarcam Dash Cam.
Image: Front view of the VStarcam Dash Cam, highlighting the camera lens and VStarcam logo.
Controls and Ports:
- TF Slot: Insert a MicroSD card (Class 10, up to 32GB recommended) with contacts facing the back of the camera.
- Up Button: Used to navigate menu options upwards.
- Menu Button: Accesses the main menu for settings adjustment.
- Down Button: Used to navigate menu options downwards. In video recording mode, toggles sound recording on/off.
- Mic: Built-in microphone for audio recording.
- Reset Hole: Use a paperclip to reset the device if it becomes unresponsive.
- Power Button: Long press to turn the device on/off. Short press to turn the screen on/off.
- Hold Button (SOS): During recording, press to save the current video file as an undeletable, protected file.
- Mode Button: Press to switch between video recording, photo capture, and playback modes.
- OK Button: Confirms selections in menus. In camera mode, starts/stops video recording or takes a photo.
- 5V Power Slot: Connects to the external power source (car charger).
Setup
1. Install the MicroSD Card
Insert a Class 10 MicroSD card (up to 32GB recommended) into the TF slot until it clicks into place. Ensure the contacts face the back of the camera. The memory card is not included and must be purchased separately.
2. Mount the Dash Cam
Attach the suction mount to a clean, dry area on your windshield, ensuring it does not obstruct your driving view. Secure the dash cam to the mount. Adjust the camera angle to capture the road ahead effectively.
3. Connect Power
Connect the car charger to the 5V power slot on the dash cam and plug the other end into your vehicle's 12V power outlet (cigarette lighter socket). Route the cable neatly to avoid interference with driving controls.
Operating Instructions
Basic Operation
- Power On/Off: Long press the Power button. The blue light in the top left corner will illuminate. The device will automatically shut down on low voltage.
- Record Mode: Press the Mode button to switch to video mode. A video camera icon will appear on the screen. Short press the OK button to start recording. The blue light will flash, indicating recording is in progress.
- Photo Mode: Press the Mode button to switch to photo mode. A camera icon will appear in the upper left of the screen. Press the OK button to take a photo.
- Video/Photo Playback:
- Press the Mode button repeatedly until no icon (or a playback icon, if available) is shown in the upper left corner, indicating playback mode.
- Use the Up and Down buttons to browse through files (JPG for photos, MOV for videos).
- Press the OK button to play a video or view a photo.
- Alternatively, remove the MicroSD card and insert it into a computer, or connect the camera directly to a computer via a Micro USB to USB cable.
- Deleting Files:
- In playback mode, select the file you wish to delete.
- Press the Menu button. Select 'Delete' and press OK.
- Choose 'Delete current' and confirm with OK.
- Connecting to Computer: Plug a Micro USB to USB cable into the camera and your computer. The camera will display 'Mass Storage'. Press OK on the camera. You can then access files on the removable disk drive on your computer. The camera battery will also charge when connected.
Special Functions and Settings
Access these settings via the Menu button.
- Resolution: Adjust video recording quality. Higher resolution provides clearer images.
- Loop Recording: Allows continuous recording by overwriting the oldest unprotected files when the memory card is full. Options typically include 1, 3, or 5-minute segments.
- G-Sensor (Emergency Accident Lock): Detects sudden impacts or collisions and automatically locks the current video file to prevent it from being overwritten. Sensitivity can be set to Low, Medium, or High. If the card frequently reports being full, reduce the G-sensor sensitivity.
- Super Starlight Night Vision: The F1.8 wide aperture and advanced sensor enhance low-light recording, providing clearer video in dark conditions.
- Parking Monitor: When enabled, the device will automatically start recording if it detects vibration while parked. It typically records for 18-20 seconds and then shuts down. Requires the camera's internal battery to be charged or continuous 12V power.
- Motion Detection: When this function is active, the device will automatically begin video recording if it detects a moving object in front of the camera. Requires the camera's internal battery to be charged or continuous 12V power.
- Date Stamp: Enables the date and time to be displayed on recorded video files.
- License Plate Stamp: Allows you to enter your license plate number, which will then be displayed on recorded videos.
- Record Audio: Toggles audio recording on or off.
- Beep Sound: Controls the sound feedback for button presses.
- Screen Savers: When activated, the screen backlight turns off during recording to minimize distraction.
- Auto Power Off: The device will automatically shut off if no MicroSD card is inserted or if it is not actively recording.
- Frequency: Set to 50Hz or 60Hz according to your local power company frequency to avoid cross-stripe interference in recordings.
- Format: Use this option to erase all data on the MicroSD card. It is recommended to format the card every 15 days.
- Default Settings: Resets all settings to factory defaults.
- Version: Displays the device's firmware version.
Image: Diagram showing the seamless loop recording function, where older files are automatically overwritten.
Image: The VStarcam Dash Cam display showing a lock icon, signifying that the G-Sensor has activated and protected a video file.
Image: A visual comparison demonstrating the enhanced clarity of night vision recordings due to the F1.8 large aperture.
Maintenance
- MicroSD Card: Regularly format your MicroSD card (every 15 days is recommended) to maintain optimal performance and prevent file errors.
- Lens Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently clean the camera lens. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the lens.
- Storage: When not in use, store the dash cam in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your VStarcam Dash Cam, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause / Solution |
|---|---|
| Cannot take photos or record video | The MicroSD card may be full or locked. Format the card or unlock it. |
| Recording stops automatically | The MicroSD card may not be a Class 10 type. Use a high-speed Class 10 card. |
| 'File Error' during playback | Reformat the MicroSD card. |
| Blurred image | Check for fingerprints or dirt on the lens. Clean the lens gently. |
| Cross-stripe interference in image | Incorrect 'Frequency' setting. Adjust to 50Hz or 60Hz based on your local power frequency. |
| Device crashes or freezes | Press the Reset button located at the bottom of the camera using a paperclip. |
| 'Storage card is full' prompt frequently appears | G-Sensor sensitivity may be too high. Reformat the card and set G-Sensor sensitivity to 'Low'. |
Specifications
- Item Weight: 12 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 2.9 x 1.1 x 2.3 inches
- Item Model Number: 5823920441
- Batteries: 1 Lithium Polymer battery (included)
- Display Type: LCD
- Brand: VSTARCAM
- Vehicle Service Type: Car
- Connectivity Technology: Auxiliary
- Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
- Mounting Type: Suction Mount
- Color: Black
- Screen Size: 3 Inches
Warranty and Support
For warranty information, technical support, or service inquiries, please refer to the contact details provided with your product packaging or visit the official VSTARCAM website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
