Surfola SF230 Action Camera User Manual

Introduction

Thank you for choosing the Surfola SF230 Action Camera. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your device. Please read it thoroughly to ensure proper use and to maximize your camera's capabilities.

Image: The Surfola SF230 Action Camera, showcasing its compact design, waterproof housing, external microphone, and remote control.

What's in the Box

Your Surfola SF230 Action Camera package includes the following items:

• Action Camera x 1
• Waterproof Case x 1
• External Microphone x 1
• Remote Control x 1
• USB Cable x 1
• Cycling Accessories x 1
• Batteries x 2
• Other Mounting Accessories (total 20 accessories)

Image: All components of the Surfola SF230 Action Camera package, including the camera, waterproof case, various mounts, and charging cable.

Setup

1. Battery and Micro SD Card Installation

1. Open the battery compartment cover on the bottom of the camera.
2. Insert a fully charged battery, ensuring correct polarity.
3. Insert a Class 10 or higher Micro SD card (up to 128GB, not included) into the card slot until it clicks. Ensure the card is formatted correctly before first use.
4. Close the battery compartment cover.

2. Charging the Camera

Connect the camera to a power source using the provided USB cable. The charging indicator will illuminate. A full charge typically takes a few hours.

3. Using the Waterproof Case

The SF230 action camera comes with an official Surfola waterproof case, allowing it to be used up to 40 meters (131 feet) underwater. Before submerging, ensure the case is properly sealed and free of debris. It is recommended to test the waterproof case without the camera inside first.

4. Attaching Mounting Accessories

The camera includes 20 accessories for various scenarios, such as cycling, hiking, and diving. Refer to the accessory introduction video for guidance on how to attach different mounts.

5. Connecting to Your Phone via Wi-Fi

The camera supports Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to preview, download, and delete content directly from your smartphone using the Live DV mobile application.

6. External Microphone and Remote Control

The SF230 includes an external microphone to improve sound quality and reduce ambient noise, and a wireless remote control for convenient operation from a distance.

Operating the Camera

1. Power On/Off and Mode Switching

Press and hold the Power/Mode button to turn the camera on or off. Short press the Power/Mode button to cycle through different modes (Video, Photo, Playback, Settings).

2. Video Recording

The SF230 supports various video resolutions and frame rates, including 4K/30FPS, 2K/30FPS, 1080P/60FPS, 1080P/30FPS, and 720P/120FPS. Press the Shutter/OK button to start and stop recording.

Image: The Surfola SF230 Action Camera set up on a tripod, capturing a scenic outdoor view, demonstrating its use for stable video recording.

3. Photo Capture

Capture high-quality photos with resolutions up to 20MP, 16MP, 12MP, or 8MP. Switch to Photo mode and press the Shutter/OK button to take a picture.

4. Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS)

The camera is equipped with an electronic image stabilization chip to ensure wider and more stable shooting, especially during motion activities.

5. Wide-Angle Lens

The 170° wide-angle lens captures a broader field of view, allowing you to record more of your surroundings.

6. Special Functions

The SF230 offers various functions including time-lapse, slow motion, and burst-photo modes. These can be accessed and configured in the camera settings.

7. Multi-Scenario Use

The camera is designed for diverse activities, from water sports like swimming and diving (with waterproof case) to land-based adventures like cycling, hiking, and vlogging.

Image: A snowboarder with the Surfola SF230 Action Camera mounted on their helmet, illustrating its use as a helmet camera for winter sports.

Image: The Surfola SF230 Action Camera positioned on a kitchen countertop, recording a person cooking, highlighting its versatility as a vlogging camera.

Image: A child riding a bicycle with the Surfola SF230 Action Camera mounted on the handlebars, demonstrating its suitability as an entry-level sports camera for biking.

Image: The Surfola SF230 Action Camera mounted on a car dashboard, functioning as a dash camera to record driving scenery.

8. HDMI Output

Connect the camera to a larger display using an HDMI cable (not included) to view your recorded content directly on a TV or monitor.

Maintenance

1. Cleaning

• Wipe the camera body with a soft, dry cloth.
• For the lens, use a lens cleaning cloth and specialized lens cleaning solution. Avoid touching the lens directly.
• After using the waterproof case in saltwater, rinse it thoroughly with fresh water and let it air dry. Ensure no salt residue remains on the seals.

2. Battery Care

• Store batteries in a cool, dry place when not in use.
• Avoid fully discharging batteries before recharging to prolong their lifespan.
• If storing for extended periods, charge batteries to about 50% capacity.

3. Storage

When not in use, store the camera and accessories in a dry, dust-free environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Troubleshooting

Camera Not Turning On

• Ensure the battery is fully charged and correctly inserted.
• Try using the second included battery.

Poor Video/Photo Quality

• Check that the lens is clean and free from smudges.
• Ensure you are recording in the desired resolution (e.g., 4K).
• Verify that Electronic Image Stabilization (EIS) is enabled for smoother footage, especially during movement.
• Ensure adequate lighting conditions.

Waterproof Case Leakage

• Before each use, inspect the rubber seal for any debris, hair, or damage. Clean it thoroughly.
• Ensure the case is securely latched.
• Always perform a dry test of the case before inserting the camera for underwater use.

Microphone Issues / Poor Audio

• Ensure the external microphone is securely connected to the camera.
• Check microphone settings in the camera menu.
• Note that wind noise can significantly affect audio quality, especially during high-speed activities.

SD Card Not Recognized / Recording Issues

• Ensure the Micro SD card is Class 10 or higher and formatted to FAT32 (or exFAT for larger cards) on the camera itself or a computer.
• Try a different Micro SD card to rule out card malfunction.
• Ensure the card is inserted correctly.

For further assistance, please refer to the official user manual PDF or contact Surfola support.

Specifications

Warranty and Support

Surfola is committed to providing excellent customer service and product reliability.

• Warranty: Surfola provides a 2-year warranty for every customer.
• Refund Policy: 30-Day Refund available.
• Replacement Policy: 365-Day Replacement available.
• Troubleshooting: 24-Hour Troubleshooting support.
• Lifetime Support: Enjoy lifetime support for your Surfola SF230 Action Camera.

For any inquiries or support needs, please contact us at: support.ac@surfola.co

Image: Icons representing Surfola's customer service commitments: 30-Day Refund, 365-Day Replacement, 24-Hour Troubleshooting, and Lifetime Support.