1. Product Overview
The COMTEC HDR103 is a Full HD drive recorder designed to capture high-quality video footage of your journeys and while parked. It features advanced recording functions, including parking surveillance, time-lapse recording, and G-sensor activated impact recording, ensuring comprehensive coverage for your vehicle. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, and maintenance to help you maximize the device's performance.
1.1 Package Contents
Before proceeding with installation, please verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- Main Unit x1
- Mounting Stay x1
- Double-sided Tape for Stay x1
- Hex Wrench for Stay Angle Adjustment x1
- Degreasing Cleaner x1
- Cigarette Plug Cord (approx. 4.0m) x1
- Cord Clamp x3
- microSDHC Card (8GB/class10) x1
- Sticker (HDROP-06) x1
- Instruction Manual (with warranty) x1
1.2 Device Components
Familiarize yourself with the main unit and its components:
Figure 1.1: Front view of the COMTEC HDR103 drive recorder main unit, showing the lens and control buttons.
Figure 1.2: The HDR103 drive recorder installed on a windshield, displaying live footage on its screen.
2. Setup and Installation
Proper installation is crucial for optimal performance and safety. Follow these steps carefully.
2.1 Choosing an Installation Location
Select a location on your windshield that does not obstruct the driver's view and allows the camera to capture a clear view of the road ahead. The device can also be installed on the dashboard or rear glass with appropriate adjustments.
Figure 2.1: The HDR103 drive recorder mounted on the windshield, positioned behind the rearview mirror.
Figure 2.2: The HDR103 drive recorder mounted on the vehicle's dashboard.
2.2 Mounting the Device
- Clean the chosen installation area on the windshield or dashboard using the provided degreasing cleaner.
- Attach the double-sided tape to the mounting stay.
- Securely attach the mounting stay to the cleaned area.
- Attach the main unit to the mounting stay.
- Adjust the camera angle using the hex wrench to ensure a clear view. The built-in G-sensor automatically flips the recorded image if mounted upside down, allowing for dashboard installation.
2.3 Power Connection
Connect the drive recorder to your vehicle's power supply using the provided cigarette plug cord. For advanced functions like parking surveillance, an optional direct wiring cord (HDROP-14) is required. If connecting to a compatible COMTEC radar detector, an optional intercommunication cable (ZR-13/ZR-14/ZR-17) can provide power and enable integrated control.
2.4 Inserting the MicroSD Card
Insert the included 8GB microSDHC card (Class 10 recommended, supports up to 32GB) into the designated slot on the drive recorder. Ensure it is inserted correctly until it clicks into place.
3. Operation
The HDR103 offers various recording modes and features to suit your needs.
3.1 Recording Modes
- Continuous Recording: Automatically records video from when the engine is turned ON until it is turned OFF. Older files are overwritten once the storage limit is reached.
- Impact Recording: The built-in G-sensor detects impacts and automatically saves the current, previous, and next video files as protected impact recording data. Impact sensitivity is adjustable in 11 levels (including OFF).
- Manual Recording: Press the designated switch to manually record and protect video files at any desired moment.
- Parking Surveillance Recording: (Requires optional HDROP-14) When parked, the device detects impacts and records video. It can also perform continuous recording in parking mode. Recorded files are saved in a dedicated folder for easy access.
- Time-Lapse Recording: Records still images at 1-second intervals and compresses them into a short video, enabling long-term recording both during driving and parking surveillance.
3.2 Image Quality Features
- HDR/WDR Function: Corrects brightness differences in images, preventing whiteout and black crush, ensuring stable and clear recordings even in strong backlight or at night.
- Clear Night Recording: Equipped with a 1/2.7-inch image sensor, the HDR103 captures brighter and clearer images even in low-light conditions.
- LED Traffic Light Support: The device is designed to record clearly even with LED traffic lights, which have different power frequencies in various regions.
3.3 Radar Detector Intercommunication (Optional)
When connected to a compatible COMTEC radar detector using an optional intercommunication cable (ZR-13/ZR-14/ZR-17), the HDR103 offers enhanced functionality:
- Image/Audio Playback: View recorded video and audio directly on the radar detector's screen.
- Device Control: Adjust recording settings and operate the drive recorder via the radar detector's touch panel or remote control.
- GPS/OBD2 Information: Acquire GPS data (vehicle speed, position, date/time) and OBD2 data (throttle opening, engine RPM, etc.) from the radar detector for detailed recording.
- Power Supply: The radar detector can supply power to the drive recorder, simplifying wiring.
4. Maintenance
Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and reliable operation of your HDR103 drive recorder.
4.1 MicroSD Card Management
The HDR103 utilizes a specialized file system that minimizes fragmentation, eliminating the need for periodic manual formatting of the microSD card. However, it is recommended to occasionally back up important files to a computer and replace the microSD card if you notice any performance degradation or error messages.
4.2 Cleaning the Device
Gently wipe the camera lens and the device body with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust or smudges. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as they may damage the device.
5. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues and their solutions.
5.1 SD Card Check Function
The HDR103 features an SD card check function that verifies the integrity of the microSDHC card upon startup. If a card error or damage is detected, an alert will be displayed on the screen or via an LED indicator, preventing recording failures due to a faulty card.
5.2 Emergency Recording Stop Function
In the event of a significant impact (e.g., an accident), the device automatically stops recording. This feature prevents important accident footage from being overwritten if the vehicle is moved or the device is inadvertently powered on during post-accident procedures or repairs.
5.3 Using the Viewer Software
For detailed analysis of recorded data, download the dedicated viewer software from the COMTEC official website. This software allows you to:
- View video and listen to audio recordings.
- Analyze G-sensor data (impact force, direction).
- Convert recorded data into standard video or still image formats for saving to your computer.
This software provides a comprehensive overview of driving conditions and events.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Image Sensor | 1/2.7-inch CMOS Sensor |
| Effective Pixels | Max 2 Million Pixels |
| Lens Angle (Horizontal) | 136° |
| Lens Angle (Vertical) | 70° |
| Lens Angle (Diagonal) | 168° |
| F-Value | 2.0 |
| Lens Material | Glass |
| Power Voltage | DC12V |
| Max Current Consumption | Under 800mA |
| Operating Temperature | -10°C to 60°C |
| Frame Rate | 27.5fps (LED Signal Compatible) |
| GPS | None (Acquirable via compatible radar detector) |
| Recording Media | microSDHC Card (8GB included, supports 8GB-32GB, Class 10 recommended) |
| G-Sensor | Yes (0.1G to 1.0G, 0.1G increments, 11 levels adjustable) |
| Body Dimensions (WxHxD) | 82.4 x 40 x 26.5 mm |
| Body Weight | 98g |
| Display Type | LCD |
| Video Capture Resolution | 1080p |
| Assembly Method | Adhesive |
| Control Method | Touch, Remote (via compatible radar detector) |
7. Warranty and Support
7.1 Product Warranty
The COMTEC HDR103 drive recorder comes with a 3-year warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects but excludes consumables. Please refer to the warranty card included in your package for full terms and conditions.
7.2 Customer Support
For further assistance, technical support, or to download the latest viewer software, please visit the official COMTEC website. Ensure you have your product model (HDR103) and purchase details ready when contacting support.
