1. Product Overview
The BAL Drive Recorder Mirror Model 5600 is a high-performance dash camera designed to provide comprehensive front and rear recording for your vehicle. It integrates seamlessly into your car as a rearview mirror, offering a wide and clear view of the road ahead and behind. Equipped with advanced features like GPS, WDR, and G-sensor, it ensures reliable recording and enhanced safety on your journeys.
Figure 1: Front view of the BAL Drive Recorder Mirror.
This device is compatible with both 12V and 24V vehicle electrical systems. Its full-screen 9.7-inch IPS LCD touch panel provides intuitive control and a vivid display. The front and rear cameras both capture footage in high-definition 2-megapixel resolution, ensuring clear and detailed recordings.
2. Package Contents
Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- BAL Drive Recorder Mirror Main Unit
- Rear Camera (Waterproof and Dustproof, IEC standard IP65 compliant)
- Rear Camera Cable (7 meters)
- Power Cable (for 12V/24V vehicle power outlet)
- GPS Antenna
- Mounting Straps/Adhesive Mounts
- 16GB Class 10 microSD Card (pre-inserted in main unit)
- User Manual (this document)
Figure 2: Product packaging and included accessories.
3. Product Features
- Dual Full HD Recording: Simultaneous 2-megapixel recording from both front and rear cameras.
- Wide Dynamic Range (WDR): Enhances video quality in varying light conditions, ensuring clear footage even at night.
- Integrated GPS: Records vehicle location and speed data along with video footage.
- G-Sensor: Automatically detects impacts and locks the current recording to prevent overwriting.
- Parking Surveillance Mode: Monitors your vehicle for impacts while parked, providing security.
- 9.7-inch IPS Touch Panel: Large, clear, and responsive display for easy operation and viewing.
- Rear Camera Functionality: Waterproof and dustproof rear camera (IP65) can be linked with reverse gear for use as a rear monitor.
- LED Signal Compatible: Ensures stable recording even with different LED signal frequencies (East/West Japan).
- Adjustable Lens: The front camera lens can be horizontally extended and adjusted vertically/horizontally for optimal positioning.
4. Setup and Installation
4.1. Device Components and Ports
Familiarize yourself with the main unit's layout and connection points:
Figure 3: Rear view of the main unit, indicating GPS, TF (microSD), AV-IN, and USB ports.
- GPS Port: Connect the external GPS antenna here.
- TF (microSD) Slot: Insert the provided 16GB Class 10 microSD card.
- AV-IN Port: Connect the rear camera cable here.
- USB Port: For power connection and data transfer.
- Front Camera Lens: Located on the left side (when facing the mirror).
- Speaker: For audio playback and alerts.
4.2. Installation Steps
- Insert microSD Card: Ensure the provided 16GB Class 10 microSD card is securely inserted into the TF slot on the main unit.
- Mount the Main Unit: Attach the drive recorder mirror over your existing rearview mirror using the included straps or adhesive mounts. Ensure it is securely fastened and does not obstruct your view.
- Connect Rear Camera:
- Route the 7-meter rear camera cable from the main unit to the desired mounting location for the rear camera (e.g., rear windshield or license plate area).
- Connect the rear camera to the AV-IN port on the main unit.
- Secure the rear camera in place. If connecting for reverse gear linkage, consult a professional for proper wiring to your vehicle's reverse light circuit.
- Connect GPS Antenna: Plug the GPS antenna into the dedicated GPS port on the main unit. Mount the antenna in a location with a clear view of the sky, typically on the dashboard or near the windshield.
- Connect Power: Plug the power cable into the USB port on the main unit and connect the other end to your vehicle's 12V/24V power outlet (cigarette lighter socket). Route the cable neatly to avoid interference with driving.
- Adjust Lens: The front camera lens can be pulled out horizontally and adjusted vertically or horizontally to capture the optimal view of the road. Adjust it to ensure the road ahead is centered in the recording frame.
Figure 4: Attaching the drive recorder mirror to the existing rearview mirror using straps.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1. Power On/Off
The device will automatically power on and begin recording when your vehicle's ignition is turned on. It will power off automatically when the ignition is turned off.
5.2. Basic Recording
Upon powering on, the device enters continuous recording mode. Both front and rear cameras will record simultaneously. The recording status is indicated on the display.
5.3. Display Control
- Switching Views: Slide your finger left or right on the touch screen to quickly switch between front camera view, rear camera view, or split-screen view (if supported).
- Adjusting Viewing Angle: Slide your finger up or down on the touch screen to adjust the vertical viewing angle of the displayed camera feed.
- Screen On/Off: Tap the power button briefly to turn the display on or off while recording continues in the background.
Figure 5: The drive recorder mirror installed, providing a clear view of the road.
5.4. GPS Functionality
With the GPS antenna connected, the device will automatically record your vehicle's location and speed data along with the video footage. This data can be viewed using the dedicated PC viewer software (not included, typically downloadable from manufacturer's website).
5.5. G-Sensor and Emergency Recording
The built-in G-sensor detects sudden impacts or collisions. When an impact is detected, the device automatically triggers emergency recording, saving the current video segment to a protected folder on the microSD card, preventing it from being overwritten by continuous recording.
5.6. Parking Surveillance Mode
When the vehicle is parked and the ignition is off, the parking surveillance mode activates. If an impact is detected (e.g., a bump or collision), the device will automatically wake up and record a short video segment. This feature requires a continuous power supply or a dedicated hardwire kit (sold separately) to function when the vehicle is off.
5.7. Rear Monitor Function
If the rear camera is properly wired to your vehicle's reverse light circuit, the display will automatically switch to the full rear camera view when you engage reverse gear, assisting with parking maneuvers.
6. Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the display and camera lenses. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- microSD Card Management:
- Regularly format the microSD card (at least once a month) using the device's menu settings to ensure optimal performance and prevent data corruption.
- Replace the microSD card periodically (e.g., every 6-12 months) as continuous recording can wear out the card.
- Always power off the device before inserting or removing the microSD card to prevent data loss or card damage.
- Firmware Updates: Check the official BAL website periodically for any available firmware updates to ensure your device has the latest features and bug fixes.
7. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Device does not power on. | No power supply; loose connection; faulty power cable. | Check power cable connection to device and vehicle outlet. Ensure vehicle ignition is on. Try a different power outlet. |
| Recording stops or footage is corrupted. | MicroSD card full; faulty microSD card; card speed too low. | Format the microSD card. Replace with a new Class 10 or higher microSD card. |
| GPS signal not acquired. | GPS antenna not connected; antenna obstructed; poor satellite reception. | Ensure GPS antenna is securely connected and mounted with a clear view of the sky. Move vehicle to an open area. |
| Rear camera not displaying. | Rear camera cable loose or damaged; faulty rear camera. | Check the connection of the rear camera cable to the main unit. Inspect the cable for damage. |
| Screen is dark or unclear at night. | WDR feature not enabled (if applicable); dirty lens. | Ensure WDR is enabled in settings. Clean camera lenses. |
8. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | BAL |
| Model Name | 5600 |
| Screen Size | 9.7 inches (IPS LCD Touch Panel) |
| Effective Pixels (Front/Rear) | 2 Million Pixels (Full HD) |
| Recording Media | microSD Card (16GB Class 10 included) |
| Operating Voltage | DC12V / DC24V |
| Main Unit Dimensions (W×D×H) | Approx. 257mm × 19mm × 73mm |
| Rear Camera Dimensions (W×D×H) | Approx. 24mm × 34mm × 24mm |
| Rear Camera Cable Length | 7 meters |
| Recording Modes | Continuous Recording, Emergency Recording, Parking Surveillance Mode |
| Special Features | Built-in GPS, WDR, G-Sensor, LED Signal Compatible, Movable Lens |
| Mounting Type | Adhesive (typically clip-on for mirror dash cams, but data states adhesive) |
| Control Method | Touch Screen |
| Batteries | Included / Required (Internal battery for parking mode) |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official BAL website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
If you encounter any issues not covered in this manual or require further assistance, please contact BAL customer support through their official website or the contact information provided on the product packaging.
Official BAL Website: BAL Official Store on Amazon.co.jp
