VIOFO A229 USER MANUAL

The user manual is available on https://viofo.com/en/content/42-help-and-support/

Copyright©2022 VIOFO Ltd. All Rights Reserved.

Product Overview

Standard Items

The VIOFO A229 Duo package includes the following standard items:

• Front Camera
• Type-C Data Cable
• Car Charger
• GPS Module
• Spare Front Mount Sticky Pads
• Spare Rear Mount Sticky Pads
• Trim Removal Tool
• Windshield Static Stickers x2

Note: The USB data cable is only for connecting the camera with computer to transfer video files or upgrade firmware, not for charging the camera.

Optional Accessory

Optional accessories available for the VIOFO A229 Duo include:

• Rear Camera
• Rear Camera Cable (6M)
• Bluetooth Control
• CPL (Circular Polarizing Filter)
• Hardwire Kit
• External Microphone

Product Diagram

1) Front Camera

The front camera features the following components:

• 1 - Menu/Power [Power/Menu] button
• 2 - Menu Up / Recording Start/Stop [Record] button
• 3 - Menu Confirm / Video Protect / Playback [Lock/Confirm] button
• 4 - Menu Down / Microphone Enable/Disable [Microphone] button
• 5 - Wi-Fi On/Off [Wi-Fi] button
• 6 - Rear Camera Port
• 7 - Memory Card Slot
• 8 - External Microphone Port

Diagram Description: A visual representation of the front camera showing the placement of buttons, ports, and the lens.

2) Rear Camera (Optional)

The rear camera has the following indicators and ports:

• 1 - Power In / MicroSD Card Reader Mode
• 2 - Reset Button
• 3 - Power Status Indicator
• 4 - Recording Status Indicator
• 5 - GPS Status Indicator
• 6 - Microphone Status Indicator
• 7 - Wi-Fi Status Indicator

Diagram Description: A visual representation of the rear camera, highlighting the lens and power input.

Inserting / Removing the Memory Card

Inserting the Memory Card

Push the memory card into the card slot until you hear a click, with the card label facing forward (away from the screen).

Removing the Memory Card

Ensure the camera is turned off or not recording. Push the edge of the memory card with your fingernail; the card will spring out enough to be removed.

Note: The microSD card is sold separately. It must be UHS-U1/U3 or above rated, with a capacity up to 256GB. 64GB, 128GB, and 256GB cards must be formatted with the FAT32 file system. VIOFO brand memory cards, manufactured with top-tier MLC NAND flash, are recommended for durability and reliability.

Formatting the Card

Memory cards must be formatted before first use. Periodic formatting is suggested to ensure optimal camera performance. Formatting will erase all data permanently, so back up important data beforehand.

LED Indicators

Buttons and Icons

Recording Mode

Standby Mode (Not Recording)

Playlist Mode

Setting Menu Mode

Display Overview

The camera's LCD screen displays various status indicators:

• Recording Mode: Indicates the current recording mode.
• Recording Status: Shows if the camera is recording (solid red) or not (flashing red).
• Loop Recording Status: Displays the loop recording status.
• G-sensor Status: Indicates the status of the G-sensor.
• Parking Motion Detection: Shows the status of motion detection for parking mode.
• Parking Mode: Indicates if the camera is in parking mode.
• Wi-Fi Status: Shows Wi-Fi connection status (e.g., connected, connecting, disabled).
• Microphone: Indicates if the microphone is enabled or disabled.
• Emergency Lock: Indicates if a file has been locked due to an emergency event.
• Recording Time: Displays the duration of the current recording.
• Video Resolution: Shows the current video resolution (e.g., 1440P30 + 1440P30).
• GPS Status: Indicates GPS signal status (receiving, received, disabled).
• SD Card Status: Shows the status of the microSD card (e.g., inserted, full, error).

Diagram Description: A screenshot of the camera's LCD display showing various icons and information like time, date, resolution, and status indicators.

Installation

Front Camera Installation

1. Insert the clips, then slide the mount horizontally into the slot on the back of the camera. Diagram Description: Shows clips being inserted and the mount sliding into the camera body.
2. Select a location on the windshield rear of the rear-view mirror. Diagram Description: Illustrates the recommended mounting position on a car windshield behind the rear-view mirror, with an arrow pointing to the cigarette lighter socket for power connection.
3. Wipe clean the installation surface of the windscreen with a dry cloth. Ensure it is grease-free for the sticky pad to adhere firmly.
4. Peel the protection film off the sticky pad and camera lens.
5. Fix the front camera onto the selected location.
6. Adjust the lens angle: Look at the live view on the LCD and adjust the lens angle up or down as necessary.

Rear Camera Installation

1. Select an installation location on the windscreen, ensuring it is free from defrost grid wires and allows the camera to record the entire rear view.
2. Wipe clean the installation surface of the windscreen with a dry cloth.
3. Peel the protection film off the sticky pad and camera lens.
4. Fix the rear camera on the selected location.

Cable Connection

1) Connecting to Power

Plug the USB power adapter into your vehicle's 12V / 24V female power socket. Insert the car charger USB cable's male port into the camera's mount USB port. Diagram Description: Shows the USB power adapter connecting to a car's power socket (labeled 2) and the USB cable connecting to the camera mount (labeled 1).

2) Connecting with Rear Camera

Power off the product and connect the rear camera cable to the front camera (main unit). Cable routing should be as shown in the following diagrams.

Diagram Description 1: Illustrates the connection of the rear camera cable to the front camera unit.

Diagram Description 2: Shows the cable routing for both the front and rear cameras through the car's interior.

Installation Tips

1. Do not install/mount the camera in a location that interferes with the driver's visibility and safety.
2. Install/mount the camera close to the rearview mirror so that both sides of the scene being recorded are equally covered by the camera's field of view (FOV).
3. To ensure a clear view on rainy days, position the lens within the windshield wiper's sweeping range.
4. Do not install/mount the camera on or near airbag panels.
5. The installation/mounting location should not be affected by sun control film (window tint). Avoid placing other electronic equipment close to the camera for optimal performance.

Note: Do not install/mount the camera or cables near an airbag panel or within the airbag's working range. The manufacturer is not liable for any injury or death caused by deployment of the airbag.

Operation

Power On / Off

1. When you start the engine, the camera will turn on and begin recording automatically.
2. When you turn off the engine or unplug the charging cable from the power adapter, the camera will stop recording and turn off.
3. Long press the [Power/Menu] button to power on or off the camera.

Loop Recording

1. Insert a microSD card into the camera's card slot. Automatic loop recording begins once the camera detects power.
2. The time frame for each video file can be set to 1, 2, 3, 5, or 10 minutes.
3. When there is insufficient space on the microSD card, loop recording will automatically overwrite the oldest files.
4. Loop recording files are saved to the SD card in the `DCIM\MOVIE` folder.

Emergency Recording

1. Automatic emergency recording: When the G-sensor is activated by a collision, the current footage will be locked automatically to avoid being overwritten by loop recording.
2. Manual emergency recording: Pressing the [Lock/Confirm] button during recording will lock the current file. Once locked, the file will not be overwritten by the loop recording feature.

Note: Collision sensing feature can be adjusted in settings under the "G-sensor" option. Locked files are saved to SD card: `DCIM\Movie\RO` folder.

Playback Videos

1. Under standby mode (not recording), long press the [Lock/Confirm] button to enter the playlist.
2. Use the arrow buttons ([Record], [Microphone]) to select the desired video and press the [Lock/Confirm] button to play.
3. Press the [Power/Menu] button to exit.

Note: Separate files are created for front and rear camera recordings. The file name for the front camera is `Year_Date_Time_***F`, and for the rear camera is `Year_Date_Time_***R`. The default video resolution for both front and rear cameras is 2560 x 1440P at 30fps.

PC Mode

1. Connect the camera to a computer using the included short USB cable.
2. The camera will automatically turn on and display "microSD Card Reader Mode" on its LCD screen.
3. The computer will detect it as a "removable disk".
4. There will be two folders under the `DCIM` folder:
   • Movie: Contains loop recording video files, parking mode video files (in `Parking` subfolder), and protected/locked video files (in `RO` subfolder).
   • Photo: Contains video snapshot files.
5. Copy the needed files to your computer drive.

PIP Mode

There are four modes for live preview on the A229 LCD screen when the rear camera is attached:

• Front + Rear (Rear overlaid): Shows preview video for front and rear cameras on the LCD screen, with the rear camera preview on the top left side.
• Rear + Front (Front overlaid): Shows preview video for front and rear cameras on the LCD screen, with the front camera preview on the top left side.
• Front Only: Shows preview video for the front camera only on the LCD screen.
• Rear Only: Shows preview video for the rear camera only on the LCD screen.

Note: Picture-in-Picture (PIP) mode is available only when the rear camera is attached.

Firmware Upgrade

Follow the instructions on the VIOFO website to upgrade the firmware: https://viofo.com/en/content/42-help-and-support/

Note:

• Before using a microSD card to upgrade the firmware, formatting the card in the camera is necessary to ensure stable read and write operation.
• Do not unplug or power off the camera during a firmware upgrade, as it may cause the camera to subsequently fail to boot.

System Settings

You can configure product features according to your needs and preferences using the camera buttons or the VIOFO app. To enter the menu settings, please stop recording first.

• Resolution: Set the video resolution for footage. Options include:
  • Front Camera Only: 2560 x 1440P 30fps, 1920 x 1080P 30fps
  • Front + Rear Camera: 1440P 30fps + 1440P 30fps, 1080P 30fps + 1080P 30fps
• Loop Recording: Options are Off, 1, 2, 3, 5, or 10 minutes. Recording begins automatically after powering on with a microSD card. Each recorded file is up to three minutes long, with old footage being replaced when microSD card storage is full.
• Video Bitrate: Set the video bitrate. High bitrate may improve video quality and smoothness, especially for fast motion or high contrast scenes, but may decrease recording time. Low bitrate saves space and records for longer.
• WDR (Wide Dynamic Range): Adjusts the ratio between the brightest and darkest parts of an image for better exposure in varying lighting conditions.
• Exposure Value (Front & Rear): Adjust the EV from -2.0 to +2.0 for front and rear cameras separately to improve footage under different light sources. Default is 0.0.
• Record Audio: Turn the microphone on or off. This can also be changed during recording by pressing the [Microphone] button.
• G-Sensor: Measures shock forces and locks video recordings. Settings from "low" to "high" determine the force needed to lock a file. "Low" is recommended.
• Wi-Fi: Set Wi-Fi On/Off. Press the [Wi-Fi] button for 3 or 5 seconds to enable Wi-Fi quickly. 5GHz Wi-Fi mode is recommended.
• Parking Recording: Offers three options:
  • Off: The camera will not enter parking mode after the ignition is off.
  • Auto Event Detection: Records for 45 seconds when a moving object is detected while parked.
  • Time Lapse Recording: Records at low frames (1/2/3/5/10 fps) continuously without audio.
  • Low Bitrate Recording: Records continuously in mini file size with audio, using low bitrate for both front and rear cameras.

Note: VIOFO HK4 ACC hardwire kit cable is recommended for parking mode recording.

• Parking Motion Detection: Adjusts sensitivity to prevent minor motion (e.g., wind, rain) from triggering a recording.
• Parking G-sensor: Detects significant or sudden movements (impacts, collisions) to trigger event recording. High sensitivity is suggested for parking mode.
• Enter Parking Mode Timer: Set a timer for entering parking mode (only applicable when hardwired with VIOFO HK4; function won't work with external battery). Options:
  • "OFF": Enters parking mode immediately after the engine is off.
  • "90s": Enters parking mode 90 seconds after the engine is off.
• Parking Recording Duration: Options:
  • "Off": Camera will not record during parking mode.
  • "1 hour": Camera will shut down after 1 hour in parking mode.
• Time-lapse Recording: Records video from captured frames at specific intervals to conserve memory and reduce review time. Default is off.
• Live Video Source: Select preview source: Front camera, Rear camera, Rear Overlaid, or Front Overlaid.
• Rear Image Rotate: Turn the rear camera image rotation on or off.
• Rear Image Mirror: Turn the rear camera image mirroring on or off.
• GPS: Turn the GPS logger on or off. The GPS module includes location data in recordings. If disabled, speed and position tracking, and time/date synchronization will not occur. Use "Dashcam Viewer" to visualize position and speed.
• Speed Units: Select between kilometers per hour (KMH) and miles per hour (MPH).
• GPS Stamp: Imprints GPS information on the recorded video.
• Date Stamp: Imprints the date and time on the recorded video.
• Brand Model Stamp: Imprints the camera model on the recorded video.
• License Plate Number: Imprints the car number on the recorded video.
• Custom Text Stamp: Imprints custom text on the recorded video.
• Beep Sound: Options: Off, Only Keytone, Only Boot Sound, All. Enable/disable button and startup sounds.
• Boot delay: Set a delay for the camera to boot up when powered on. Options: Off, 5s, 10s.
• Language: Select from 简体中文, 繁體中文, English, Français, Español, Português, Deutsch, Italiano, Русский, 日本語, Türkiye, Română, Polski, Česky, Slovensky.
• Voice Notification: Turn voice notifications on or off.
• Date / Time: Set the system date and time.
• Time Zone: Set the current time zone for GPS time and date calibration. Note: Time zone must be manually adjusted for daylight savings.
• Frequency: Set to minimize flickering and banding in the recorded video.
• Screen Saver: The screen turns black after a set interval (default 1 minute) while recording. Adjust the time interval in the menu.
• Format: This operation deletes all data on the microSD card. Note: All information will be deleted and unrecoverable. Back up needed files before formatting.
• Format Reminder: Set the number of days between format warnings.
• Default Setting: Restores the device to factory settings.
• Version: Check the current firmware version of the camera.

Review and Control on Smartphone

The VIOFO app allows remote control of your camera via a smartphone. Features include full camera control, live preview, playback, and video recording. While Wi-Fi is enabled, the camera can only be controlled by the VIOFO app. Turn on Wi-Fi in the menu or long press the [Wi-Fi] button. When Wi-Fi is on, a Wi-Fi status icon and password appear on the camera LCD screen.

Diagram Description: A screenshot of the camera's LCD showing Wi-Fi status, SSID, password, date, and time.

Connecting the camera to a smartphone

Search for "VIOFO" on the Google Play Store (Android) or Apple App Store (iOS), or scan the QR codes below to download the APP.

QR Code Description: Two QR codes are displayed, one for the Apple App Store and one for Google Play.

Follow these steps:

1. Download and install the VIOFO APP.
2. Run the VIOFO APP.
3. Turn on the Wi-Fi in the camera's menu or long press the [Wi-Fi] button.
4. On the VIOFO app, follow the app instructions to connect with the camera.

Bluetooth Remote Control

The optional Bluetooth remote control, mounted in a convenient location on your dashboard, allows you to safely protect important videos from being overwritten without taking your eyes off the road. Pressing the Bluetooth remote locks the current video file and takes a video snapshot.

Pairing with dash camera

1. Power on the camera.
2. Press and hold the video lock button on the remote control for 3 seconds to pair with the camera.
3. If pairing is successful, the LED indicator on the remote turns blue.

Diagram Description: Shows the Bluetooth remote control and the dash camera, with a Bluetooth symbol indicating connection.

Notice

FCC Statement

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment causes harmful interference to radio or television reception (which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on), the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

Caution

Any changes or modifications to this device not explicitly approved by the manufacturer could void your authority to operate this equipment. This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Shenzhen VIOFO Technology Co.,Ltd, declares that this Radio Frequency peripheral is in compliance with the essential requirements and other relevant provisions of Directive 1999/5/EC.

Customer Service

Thank you for choosing VIOFO! All products are warranted for 12 months from the date of purchase, and all accessories are warranted for 3 months. VIOFO offers lifetime technical support for all users, committed to ensuring 100% satisfaction with products and services.

Product Registration Program

VIOFO offers a Product Registration Program to help customers extend their warranty by 6 months. Visit www.viofo.com and register your new product to extend the warranty from 12 months to 18 months.

Your Opinion Matters

If you have any thoughts on how VIOFO can improve, please connect with them at support@viofo.com.

Video Sharing

Share videos captured on your VIOFO camera. For a chance to get a mysterious gift, send your videos to marketing@viofo.com.

How to Contact Us ?

• Submit a ticket at support.viofo.com
• Live chat box at www.viofo.com
• Email: support@viofo.com
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/viofo.world
• Phone (CN): +86 755 8526 8909 (Mon-Fri 9am-6pm)