THINKWARE ARC 900

THINKWARE ARC 900 Dual Channel Dash Cam Instruction Manual

Model: ARC 900 (TW-ARC900D)

1. Introduction

The THINKWARE ARC 900 is a high-performance dual-channel dash cam system designed to provide comprehensive video surveillance for your vehicle. Featuring 4K Ultra HD recording for the front camera and 2K Quad HD for the rear camera, both equipped with Sony STARVIS 2 image sensors and Dual HDR technology, it captures clear, balanced footage day and night. This manual provides essential information for installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance of your device.

Video: About the THINKWARE ARC 900 Dash Cam. This video provides an overview of the key features and benefits of the ARC 900 dash cam, including its dual-channel recording capabilities, advanced image sensors, and parking surveillance modes.

2. What's in the Box

Please ensure all components are present before beginning installation:

  • Main Dash Cam Unit
  • Rear Camera with Connecting Cable
  • Windshield Mount with 3M Tape
  • Spare Mount Tape
  • 12V Power Cable
  • Hardwiring Cable
  • 64GB MicroSD Card
  • Adhesive Cable Holders (3ea)
  • Trim Tool
  • Quick Start Guide
  • CS Information
THINKWARE ARC 900 Main Dash Cam Unit
Image: Main Dash Cam Unit. The primary recording unit with a 3.5-inch IPS LCD touchscreen display.
THINKWARE ARC 900 Rear Camera
Image: Rear Camera. The secondary camera for recording the rear view of your vehicle.
THINKWARE ARC 900 Hardwiring Cable
Image: Hardwiring Cable. Used for connecting the dash cam directly to your vehicle's fuse box for advanced parking surveillance features.
THINKWARE ARC 900 64GB MicroSD Card
Image: 64GB MicroSD Card. Included for immediate use, providing ample storage for recorded footage.

3. Setup

Follow these steps for proper installation of your THINKWARE ARC 900 dash cam:

Video: How to Install ARC 900. This video provides a step-by-step guide for installing the THINKWARE ARC 900 dash cam, including power cable routing and rear camera placement.

3.1. Power Cable Installation

  1. Locate the fuse box: It is usually found below or near the driver's side dashboard. Depending on the vehicle, it may also be located in the passenger side or trunk area. Refer to your vehicle's manual if necessary.
  2. Access the fuse box: Remove the side dashboard panel near the driver's seat and loosen the weather strip to secure access to the fuse box and route the cable.
  3. Connect the hardwiring cable: Connect the included hardwiring cable to the fuse box. Ensure to connect the constant power, ACC, and ground wires to the correct fuse locations according to your vehicle type.
  4. Secure excess cable: Gather and wrap the remaining cable using fabric tape. Insert it into the fuse box area to prevent vibration noise.
  5. Route the power cable: Route the power cable along the trim toward the windshield. Make sure it does not block or interfere with the airbag.

3.2. Rear Camera Installation

  1. Route the rear camera cable: Route the rear camera cable along the trim toward the windshield installation area. Make sure it does not block or interfere with the airbag.
  2. Tuck the rear camera cable: Tuck the rear camera cable under the headliner and route it along the weather strip toward the rear. Secure it neatly behind the trim panels.
  3. Mount the rear camera: Mount the rear camera at the top of the rear windshield, ensuring the THINKWARE logo faces inside the vehicle. Adjust the angle and connect the cable. Install the camera within the area covered by the rear wiper for a clear view.
  4. Tidy up remaining cable: Tidy up the remaining rear camera cable inside the trunk panel. If the trunk panel is removable, secure the cable to the fixed frame with cable ties.

3.3. Final Angle Adjustment

  1. Reinstall dashboard panel: Reinstall the lower dashboard panel.
  2. Connect cables to dash cam: Connect the rear camera and power cables to the ARC 900 dash cam. Use the LCD screen to find the optimal mounting position. Ensure it does not obstruct the driver's view or any vehicle sensors.
  3. Secure mount: Remove the adhesive tape and press the mount firmly onto the windshield. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before applying.
  4. Tuck exposed cables: Tuck the exposed cables neatly under the headliner.
  5. Adjust front camera lens angle: Go to 'Menu' -> 'Settings' -> 'Road Safety' -> 'ADAS Front Camera Guide', and adjust the front camera lens angle following the on-screen guide.
  6. Check rear camera view: Check the rear camera view and adjust the rear camera lens angle as needed. The installation is now complete.

4. Operating Instructions

The THINKWARE ARC 900 offers various features and modes to enhance your driving experience and vehicle security.

4.1. Recording Modes

  • Continuous Recording: The dash cam records continuously while driving, overwriting older files when the MicroSD card is full.
  • Motion & Impact Detection: In parking mode, the dash cam initiates a 20-second recording (10 seconds before and 10 seconds after the event) when motion is detected in front of the camera lenses or an impact with the vehicle occurs.
  • Smart Parking Mode: Prevents heat-related damage by automatically switching to a low-power mode if the temperature inside the vehicle gets too high during parking mode. It records incidents triggered by impacts only until its operating temperature is safe again to resume Motion Detection Parking Mode.
  • Energy Saving Mode: Records footage triggered by impacts only, allowing the dash cam to reduce power consumption and remain in Parking mode for a longer duration.
THINKWARE ARC 900 Touchscreen Display
Image: 3.5-inch IPS LCD Touchscreen Display. The large, vibrant display allows for easy navigation, playback, and settings adjustments.

4.2. Mobile App Connectivity

The ARC 900 features built-in 5GHz Wi-Fi for seamless connectivity with the THINKWARE DASH CAM LINK app on your iOS or Android device. This allows you to:

  • View live footage from both cameras.
  • Adjust dash cam settings.
  • Download recorded videos directly to your smartphone.
  • Receive smart alert system notifications.
THINKWARE ARC 900 Wi-Fi Pairing with Mobile App
Image: Wi-Fi Pairing with Mobile App. Easily connect your dash cam to your smartphone for convenient access to features and footage.

4.3. Smart Driving Alerts & GPS

Stay informed and drive safely with integrated alerts and GPS functionality:

  • Front Vehicle Start Alarm: Alerts the driver when the vehicle in front has started to move after being at a full stop.
  • Traffic Change Light Alarm: Provides instant alerts as soon as the traffic light changes from red to green.
  • Built-in GPS: Tracks speed and location, and provides real-time red light and speed camera alerts. GPS data is embedded into recordings for accurate incident reconstruction.
Video: ARC 900 Driving - Day. Demonstrates the dash cam's video quality during daytime driving conditions.
Video: ARC 900 Driving - Night. Illustrates the dash cam's low-light performance and video clarity during nighttime driving.

5. Maintenance

Proper maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your THINKWARE ARC 900 dash cam.

5.1. MicroSD Card Management

  • Regular Formatting: It is recommended to regularly format the MicroSD card to maintain optimal recording performance and prevent data corruption. This can typically be done through the dash cam's menu settings.
  • Capacity: The ARC 900 includes a 64GB MicroSD card and supports cards up to 512GB, allowing for over 20 hours of continuous recording before auto-overwrite. For optimal performance, use THINKWARE-recommended MicroSD cards.

5.2. Thermal Protection

The Smart Parking Mode includes thermal protection, which automatically switches the dash cam to a low-power mode if the internal temperature becomes too high. This prevents heat-related damage and ensures continued operation once temperatures return to safe levels.

6. Troubleshooting

If you encounter any issues with your THINKWARE ARC 900, please refer to the following common troubleshooting tips:

  • Dash Cam Not Powering On: Check all power cable connections to ensure they are secure. Verify that the vehicle's power outlet or fuse box connection is functioning correctly.
  • Recording Issues: Ensure the MicroSD card is properly inserted and formatted. If issues persist, try using a different, compatible MicroSD card.
  • Wi-Fi Connection Problems: Restart both the dash cam and your mobile device. Ensure you are within range of the dash cam's Wi-Fi signal and that the correct network is selected.
  • Screen Unresponsive: Perform a soft reset by pressing the reset button (if available) or disconnecting and reconnecting the power.
  • Parking Mode Not Activating: Verify that the hardwiring cable is correctly installed and connected to both constant and ACC power sources in your vehicle's fuse box.

For more detailed troubleshooting or persistent issues, please consult the full user guide or contact THINKWARE customer support.

7. Specifications

FeatureDetail
Product Dimensions1.57 x 3.86 x 3.43 inches
Item Weight7.5 ounces
Item model numberTW-ARC900D
Connectivity technologiesBluetooth, Wi-Fi
Special featuresApp control, Automatic incident detection, Built-in 3.5" LCD touchscreen display with IPS panel/GPS/Mic/Speaker/Supercapacitor/Wi-Fi, G-sensor, Loop recording, Motion sensing, Mute function, Night vision, Touch screen, Voice alert, Parking Surveillance, HDR, Traffic signal alert, Front vehicle departure warning, Safety camera alerts - red light and speed cameras, Sony STARVIS 2 image sensor
Other display featuresWireless
ColorBlack
ManufacturerTHINKWARE
BrandTHINKWARE
Model NameARC 900
Vehicle Service TypeBus, Car, Minivan, RV, Truck
Connectivity TechnologyBluetooth, Wi-Fi
Video Capture Resolution2160p
Mounting TypeWindshield Mount
Control MethodApp

8. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the 'CS Information' document included in your product packaging or visit the official THINKWARE website. Ensure to register your product for any applicable warranty benefits.

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