RunCam Thumb 2 FPV Mini Action Camera User Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

The RunCam Thumb 2 is an ultra-lightweight FPV mini action camera designed for high-quality video recording in various remote-controlled applications. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, and maintaining your camera.

Figure 1: RunCam Thumb 2 FPV Mini Action Camera. This image displays the compact and lightweight design of the camera, highlighting its small form factor suitable for FPV drones and RC hobbies.

Product Components

Figure 2: Detailed overview of the RunCam Thumb 2 with labeled components. This image points out key parts such as the lens cover, MIC, button (power/shutter), indicator light (Red/Green), Micro SD Card Slot, ventilation holes, and the 1.25mm 3P (5V/GND/PWM) port.

• Lens Cover: Protects the camera lens.
• MIC: Microphone for audio recording.
• Button: Power and shutter control.
• Indicator Light: Displays camera status (Red/Green).
• Micro SD Card Slot: For memory card insertion.
• Ventilation Holes: For heat dissipation.
• 1.25mm 3P (5V/GND/PWM): External power and control port.

2. What's in the Box

Your RunCam Thumb 2 package includes the following items:

• Camera and accessories
• 1*3D Printed Camera Mount
• 1*Sets of Screws
• 1*JST Cable
• 1*Sets of ND Filter

3. Product Features

• Ultra-light 4K60FPS Camera: Weighing only 27g, this mini action camera offers 4K60FPS video recording, ideal for FPV drones, Cinewhoops, airplanes, and RC hobbies.
• 5V External Power Supply: The camera operates without built-in batteries, relying on an external 5V power source. Connect it to your flight controller or use a balanced cable for continuous recording.
• QR Code for Camera Setting: Adjust camera settings such as resolution, saturation, and exposure using the RunCam App. Supports horizontal and vertical shooting, and remote-control HD recording.
• GyroFlow Stabilization: Equipped with a built-in Gyro, the camera generates Gyro data files for smooth and stabilized video output.
• Replaceable Protective Cover & ND Filter: Features an effective lens protective cover and supports replaceable ND filters to improve exposure and reduce jello effects in footage.

4. Setup

Power Supply

The Thumb 2 supports terminal power supply and Type-C power supply. The power supply voltage only supports DC 5V.

Figure 3: Power Supply from Power Bank. Connect the camera via Type-C to a 5V power bank.

Figure 4: Power Supply from BEC (5V). Connect the camera to a Battery Eliminator Circuit (BEC) providing 5V.

Remote Control via UART (Recommended)

For remote control, connect the camera to your flight controller. For example, using Flight Controller Speedy Bee-F7:

1. Solder the wires of the Type-C control cable to the pads on Speedy Bee F7 V3.
2. Connect the Power wire to the 5V pad.
3. Connect the GND wire to the GND pad.
4. Connect the Tx wire to the R3 pad.
5. Connect the Rx wire to the T3 pad.

Figure 5: Diagram illustrating the UART connection for remote control. This image shows how to wire the camera to a flight controller for remote operation.

QR Code for Camera Settings

You can configure camera settings using the RunCam App and QR codes:

1. Go to the RunCam App to select Thumb 2.
2. Configure the desired settings and generate a QR code.
3. Power on the camera, double-press the button to switch to scanning mode (light turns solid green).
4. Use the camera to scan the QR code generated on the RunCam App (light turns solid red when camera scans successfully).

Figure 6: Visual guide for setting camera parameters via QR code using the RunCam App. The optimal scanning distance is 25mm.

5. Operating the Camera

Basic Recording

Once powered on, the camera is ready to record. Use the button to start and stop recording. Refer to the indicator light for recording status.

Using the RunCam App

The RunCam App allows for personalized customization of your camera settings. You can adjust resolution, screen rotation, and recording modes. This provides flexibility to match your specific filming needs.

Figure 7: Screenshot of the RunCam App interface showing smart settings for personalized customization. This image highlights options like image rotation, recording mode, and resolution adjustments.

6. Maintenance

Lens Protection

The camera features a replaceable protective cover to effectively shield the lens from scratches and damage. For enhanced durability, the lens is made with Corning Gorilla Glass.

Figure 8: Image demonstrating the lens protection feature of the RunCam Thumb 2. The lens is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass, offering scratch resistance for various environments.

ND Filter Usage

The replaceable ND filter helps improve exposure in bright conditions and reduces the 'jello' effect often seen in FPV footage, leading to smoother video.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your RunCam Thumb 2, consider the following general troubleshooting steps:

• Power Issues: Ensure the camera is receiving a stable 5V power supply. Check all cable connections.
• Recording Problems: Verify that a compatible Micro SD card is properly inserted and has sufficient free space. Check camera settings via the RunCam App.
• Overheating: In 4K60FPS mode, recording may be limited to about 10 minutes to prevent overheating. Consider reducing resolution for longer recordings or ensuring adequate airflow around the device.
• Remote Control: Double-check UART wiring and app settings for remote control functionality. Ensure no interference with GPS signals if applicable.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the official RunCam website or contact their customer service directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.