1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the COOAU Mini Dash Cam M53. This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your dash camera. Designed for ease of use and reliable performance, the M53 offers 1080P Full HD recording, a 170° wide-angle lens, and essential features like G-sensor, loop recording, and 24-hour parking monitoring (with optional hardware kit) to ensure comprehensive coverage of your driving journey.
Image 1.1: COOAU Mini Dash Cam M53. This image illustrates the compact design of the dash cam, highlighting its small form factor and the prominent front lens with 'Full HD 1080P' and 'F1.8' aperture markings.
2. Package Contents
Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- COOAU Mini Dash Cam M53
- Suction Cup Mount
- Charging Cable (USB)
- User Manual
Note: A U3 Micro SD card (up to 256GB) is required for operation and is not included in the package.
3. Product Overview
The COOAU M53 dash cam features a compact design with a 2-inch IPS screen for clear viewing and easy navigation. Its intuitive button layout allows for simple operation while driving. The device is equipped with a high-quality lens and a supercapacitor for reliable performance across various temperatures.
Image 3.1: 2-inch IPS Screen. This image shows the dash cam mounted on a windshield, with a close-up inset displaying the clear 2-inch IPS screen and its user-friendly buttons for menu access and settings adjustments.
4. Installation Guide
Follow these steps to properly install your COOAU Mini Dash Cam M53:
- Attach the Unit to the Windshield: Secure the suction cup mount to a clean, dry area on your car's windshield, ideally behind the rearview mirror to avoid obstructing your view. Ensure it is firmly attached.
- Insert Micro SD Card: Insert a U3 Micro SD card (not included) into the designated slot on the dash cam. Ensure it clicks into place.
- Connect to Power Supply: Plug the charging cable into the dash cam's power port. Route the cable neatly along the windshield and dashboard edges to the car's cigarette lighter socket.
- Connect to Cigarette Lighter Socket: Plug the other end of the charging cable into your car's 12V cigarette lighter power outlet. The dash cam will power on automatically when the vehicle starts.
Image 4.1: Small Design, Easy Install. This visual guide demonstrates the three primary steps for installing the dash cam: 1. Attaching the unit to the windshield using the suction cup. 2. Connecting the charging cable to the cigarette lighter socket. 3. Connecting the power supply to the dash cam.
Image 4.2: Detailed Installation Steps. This image provides a more comprehensive view of the installation, including securing the suction cup, routing the power cable discreetly along the car's interior, connecting the charger, and the dash cam's position once installed.
5. Basic Operation
5.1 Power On/Off
The dash cam will automatically power on and begin recording when connected to the car's power supply and the vehicle ignition is turned on. It will power off automatically when the ignition is turned off.
5.2 Recording Modes
The M53 supports continuous loop recording, G-sensor activated emergency recording, and 24-hour parking monitoring.
- Loop Recording: When the SD card is full, the dash cam automatically overwrites the oldest unlocked video files to make space for new recordings. This ensures continuous recording without manual intervention.
- G-Sensor (Emergency Recording): The built-in G-sensor detects sudden shakes or collisions. When triggered, it automatically locks the current video segment, preventing it from being overwritten by loop recording. These locked files serve as crucial evidence in case of an incident.
- 24-Hour Parking Mode: With an optional hardwire kit (not included), the dash cam can monitor your vehicle even when parked. If an impact is detected, it will automatically start recording.
Image 5.1: G-Sensor, Loop Recording & Parking Mode. This image visually explains the core recording functionalities: G-sensor for auto-saving emergency videos during driving or parking, loop recording for continuous overwrite, and impact-activated parking mode (requires hardwire kit).
Image 5.2: Loop Recording & Auto Overwrite. This infographic illustrates how the dash cam automatically manages storage by overwriting the oldest video files when the SD card capacity is reached, ensuring continuous recording. It also provides estimated recording times for different SD card sizes (32GB, 64GB, 128GB, 256GB).
5.3 Video Quality and Features
- 1080P Full HD & 170° Wide Angle: The dash cam records in 1920x1080P at 30 frames per second, capturing clear details. The 170° ultra-wide-angle lens covers up to 6 lanes of traffic, providing a broad view of the road.
- WDR (Wide Dynamic Range): Equipped with WDR technology and an F1.8 large aperture, the dash cam delivers excellent image quality even in challenging lighting conditions, such as strong backlight or low-light environments, enhancing clarity for both day and night recordings.
Image 5.3: FHD 1080P & 170° Wide Angle. This image highlights the dash cam's ability to capture clear details in 1080P resolution with a 170° wide-angle lens, demonstrating its coverage across multiple lanes and clarity for elements like license plates.
Image 5.4: WDR Automatic Image Correction. This comparison illustrates the effectiveness of WDR technology, showing how it enhances image brightness and detail in challenging lighting conditions, making recordings clearer both during the day and at night.
5.4 Screen Indicators and Settings
The 2-inch IPS screen displays real-time video and various indicators. Use the physical buttons to navigate menus and adjust settings such as date/time, video resolution, G-sensor sensitivity, and parking mode options.
GIF 5.5: Recording Indicator. This GIF shows the 'REC' indicator and the current time and date displayed on the dash cam screen, confirming active recording.
GIF 5.6: Car Plate Stamp Input. This GIF demonstrates the on-screen interface for inputting a car plate number, which can be stamped onto video recordings for identification.
GIF 5.7: Fatigue Reminder. This GIF displays a coffee cup icon on the screen, which may serve as a reminder for the driver to take a break during long journeys.
6. Maintenance and Care
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your COOAU Mini Dash Cam M53, consider the following:
- Clean the Lens: Regularly clean the dash cam lens with a soft, lint-free cloth to ensure clear video recordings. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the lens.
- SD Card Management: Periodically format your Micro SD card (every 2-4 weeks) to prevent data corruption and ensure smooth loop recording. Back up any important locked videos before formatting.
- Temperature Resistance: The M53 utilizes an upgraded supercapacitor, providing stable operation in extreme temperatures ranging from 14°F to 140°F (-10°C to 60°C). This design enhances safety, energy efficiency, and extends the product's lifespan compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, avoiding issues like battery expansion in heat or failure in cold.
- Secure Mounting: Ensure the suction cup mount is securely attached to the windshield to prevent the dash cam from falling, especially during temperature fluctuations. Re-attach if it becomes loose.
Image 6.1: Durable Supercapacitor. This image highlights the supercapacitor's ability to withstand extreme temperatures, showing cars in both hot desert and snowy winter environments, emphasizing the dash cam's reliability and extended lifespan.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your COOAU Mini Dash Cam M53, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Dash cam does not power on. | No power from car charger; faulty cable; loose connection. | Check car charger connection and fuse. Ensure cable is securely plugged into both dash cam and charger. Try a different USB cable or car charger. |
| Video files show errors or are corrupted. | SD card issue (not U3, full, corrupted); incorrect date/time settings. | Ensure you are using a U3 speed class Micro SD card. Format the SD card regularly within the dash cam's settings. Check and correct date/time settings. |
| Suction cup mount detaches. | Dirty windshield; extreme temperature changes; improper attachment. | Clean the windshield thoroughly before attaching. Press firmly to remove air bubbles. Re-attach if temperatures fluctuate significantly. |
| "Please delete locked files" message appears. | Too many locked emergency video files filling up the SD card. | Manually delete unnecessary locked files from the SD card via the dash cam or by connecting the SD card to a computer. Adjust G-sensor sensitivity if it's too high. |
| Recordings are blurry or unclear. | Dirty lens; protective film still on lens; incorrect focus. | Clean the lens with a soft cloth. Ensure any protective film has been removed from the lens. |
GIF 7.1: Locked Files Warning. This GIF illustrates a common on-screen message indicating that the SD card is full due to too many locked emergency video files, prompting the user to delete or transfer them.
8. Technical Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Brand | COOAU |
| Model Name | M53 |
| Video Capture Resolution | 1080p (1920x1080P@30fps) |
| Actual Viewing Angle | 170 Degrees |
| Screen Display Size | 2 Inches |
| Display Type | LCD (IPS) |
| Flash Memory Type | SD (Supports up to 256GB U3 Micro SD Card) |
| Power Source | Supercapacitor |
| Operating Temperature | 14°F to 140°F (-10°C to 60°C) |
| Mounting Type | Suction Mount |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Product Dimensions | 3.1D x 5.7W x 5.9H Centimetres |
| Special Features | FHD 1080P Front, Easy to Install and Use, Compact size, Wide Angle, WDR, Loop Recording, G-sensor, 24-Month Reliable Warranty |
9. Warranty and Customer Support
COOAU is committed to providing high-quality products and excellent customer service. Your COOAU Mini Dash Cam M53 comes with a comprehensive warranty and dedicated support:
- Warranty: The COOAU dash cam team offers a 2-year warranty from the date of purchase.
- Returns/Replacements: Enjoy worry-free replacement or a full refund within 30 days of purchase.
- Technical Support: Lifetime technical support is available for all COOAU dash cam products.
- Contact Us: For any inquiries, technical assistance, or warranty claims, please contact our customer service team via email at support-us@cooau.com. Our team aims to reply within 24 hours.
