Cobra SC 100 Dash Cam Owner's Manual

Introduction

Congratulations on purchasing the Cobra SC Series smart dash cam. SC Series cameras offer peace of mind by continuously recording the road in high-definition video. With advanced features, excellent video quality, and a focus on user experience, Cobra SC dash cams are an ideal solution for recording your drives. This manual covers the SC 100 model.

SC 100 Dash Cam Features

• Front-View Lens with 1080P Full HD Quality
• Dual Band Wi-Fi for Flawless Connectivity
• Instant Driver Alerts for Red Light & Speed Cameras and Live Police Alerts
• 140° Field of View
• Embedded GPS for Location and Speed Information
• SD Card Included

Product Service and Support

For questions regarding operation or installation, contact Cobra directly. Do not return the product to the retail store. Contact information varies by country. For the latest details, visit www.cobra.com/support.

What's in the Box - SC 100

• SC 100 Dash Cam
• 8GB SD Card
• GPS Attachment
• Vehicle Power Charger
• Micro USB Data Cable
• Quick Start Guide

Optional Accessories

A Hardwire Kit (CA-MICROUSB-003) is available at www.cobra.com for a clean, direct installation into your vehicle's fuse box, allowing for continuous recording even when the vehicle is off.

Hardware Interface

The dash cam features several key components:

• SD Card Slot: For inserting the memory card.
• Micro USB Ports: For power and data connection.
• Multifunction Button: Used for various operations.

Button Actions:

LED Indicators:

• Blue LED: Indicates when the camera is powered up.
• Red LED: Blinks when the camera is recording.

Installation

Mounting

To install the GPS Windshield Mount, connect the dash cam to the mount. Ensure the camera lens protective film is removed. Select a suitable spot on your windshield, ideally centered and below the rearview mirror, and confirm placement. Proper initial placement is crucial as it is an adhesive mount.

Powering the Device

Connect the supplied 12V Vehicle Power Adapter to your vehicle's cigarette lighter socket and the other end to the dash cam's micro USB port. The unit will power on and start recording automatically. To manually power on, press and hold the Multifunction button until the LED lights activate.

Note: For a more permanent installation that allows for discrete power cable routing and recording while your vehicle is off, consider the Hardwire Kit (CA-MICROUSB-003) available at www.cobra.com.

Operation

The dash cam is designed for simple operation. Upon powering on, it will immediately begin loop recording. When the SD card is full, the oldest footage is automatically overwritten by new recordings. To protect a clip from being overwritten, press the Emergency Record button (Multifunction button) to save it.

Operation

Powering On the Device

The device powers on automatically when plugged in. It can also be powered on by pressing and holding the Multifunction button until the LED lights activate (when connected to power).

Loop Recordings

When the SD card is full, the camera continuously overwrites the oldest footage. To protect a clip from being overwritten, press the Multifunction button to move it to the locked content partition.

Emergency Recordings

Emergency Recordings are triggered by pressing the Multifunction button or by the G-Sensor detecting a significant impact (e.g., hard braking, collision). These create locked files that are not overwritten. The system also locks adjacent clips (up to 30 seconds before and after) if an incident occurs within a clip's duration.

The SD Memory Card

The device includes an SD memory card. To remove it, press firmly on the card to push it further into the slot; it will click and pop out. The camera supports SD cards up to 128GB. It is recommended to format the card in the camera before first use. Class 10 high-endurance cards from reputable brands are recommended for continuous recording.

Volume Adjust

Models with LCD displays allow volume adjustment via the settings menu. All models can adjust volume using the Drive Smarter® app.

Voice Announcements

The SC 100 provides voice alerts for approaching red-light cameras ?, speed cameras ?, user-reported police ?, radar detection, accidents ⚠️, and other important system information. These alerts are enhanced by the Drive Smarter® app.

Example Alerts: "File Protected" ?️, "Please Insert SD Card" ?️ ➡️ ?, "Speed Camera Ahead" ? ➡️

Initial Setup and Drive Smarter® App

Initial Setup

Upon first power-on, the SC 100 begins loop recording. It is recommended to pair the dash cam with the Drive Smarter® app to download the latest firmware and ensure optimal performance. Follow the app's instructions for pairing.

Drive Smarter® App Features

The dash cam connects via Bluetooth® to the Drive Smarter® app, enabling:

• Real-Time Driver Alerts: Notifications for radar, speed, and red-light cameras.
• Cloud Video Management: Manage and share footage from your smartphone.
• Emergency Mayday Notification: Alerts a contact in case of an accident.
• Turn-by-Turn Navigation: Plan routes and view upcoming turns.
• Over-The-Air Updates: Update camera firmware and features wirelessly.

Download the Drive Smarter® app: ⬇️ App Store ? | Google Play ▶️

Connection Instructions

1. Start the Drive Smarter® app and log in or create an account.
2. Follow the app's instructions to create a vehicle profile and connect the camera.
3. A chime will sound on the camera, and it will appear as "Connected" in the app upon successful pairing.

Real-Time Driver Alerts

Connecting to the Drive Smarter® app provides real-time alerts for:

• Red Light Camera ?
• Live Police ?
• Caution Areas ⚠️
• Speed Camera ?
• Speed Traps ?

Video Settings

Video Resolution

Choose your preferred video resolution for loop and emergency recordings. Higher resolutions offer clearer images but require more storage space. Available resolutions:

• 1080P Full HD (1920x1080) at 30 Frames Per Second
• 720P HD (1280x720) at 60 Frames Per Second
• 720P HD (1280x720) at 30 Frames Per Second

Loop Clip Time

Set the duration for individual video clips (1, 2, or 3 minutes). Shorter clips are easier to transfer and share.

Video and Photo Playback Mode

View recorded videos and photos using the Drive Smarter® app or by removing the SD card and connecting it to a PC.

Memory Card Storage

The SD card stores both loop recordings and locked content (events, photos). When the card is full, loop recordings are overwritten. Pressing the multifunction button during recording locks the current clip.

Emergency Recordings

As described earlier, these are automatically saved and protected from overwriting.

Photos

Photos are automatically saved in the Locked partition of the SD card.

Important: You may be prompted to "Format the SD Card." This action deletes all data. Save important footage via the Drive Smarter® app or by manually uploading to your PC before formatting.

Safety Features

G-Sensor Impact Detection

The built-in G-Sensor detects collisions, automatically locking the current recording. It also locks adjacent recordings (up to 30 seconds before/after) for events occurring within a clip. Sensitivity can be adjusted from Level 1 (most sensitive) to Level 3 (least sensitive), or turned off. Level 1 is recommended for most users. Locked videos are stored in the "Events" folder.

Parking Mode & Motion Detection

When the vehicle is parked, Parking Mode uses the Motion Sensor and G-Sensor to monitor for activity. If motion or a G-Sensor impact (above Level 1) is detected, the unit wakes up and starts recording 1-minute clips as long as activity persists. The camera enters parking mode after 5 minutes of inactivity. The display turns off, and recording stops unless motion or an impact is detected.

Notes:

• Parking Mode requires continuous power, either from an 'always-on' cigarette lighter socket or a hardwired connection. Check www.cobra.com for accessories.
• If parked in a high-activity area, the "Auto Surveillance Shutoff" setting can prevent continuous recording by setting a time limit for Parking Mode. This also helps prevent battery drain if the vehicle is left off for extended periods (over 48 hours).
• You can configure Parking Mode and Motion Detection settings independently.

General Settings

• Video Resolution: Select desired resolution (1080P Full HD, 720P HD).
• Loop Clip Time: Set clip duration (1, 2, or 3 minutes).
• Wi-Fi: Enable/disable Wi-Fi and view network name/password.
• GPS: Enable/disable GPS for location stamping and vehicle tracking (when hardwired).
• Date / Time:
  • Automatic: Uses GPS signal for date/time. Ensure correct Time Zone and Daylight Savings settings.
  • Manual: Set date and time manually.
• Microphone: Enable/disable for silent recordings.
• Motion Detection: Monitors for movement/light changes when parked. Requires continuous power. Use "Auto Surveillance Shutoff" to manage recording duration and battery life.

More Operation Settings

Parking Mode

Monitors for G-Sensor/accelerometer changes (bumps, collisions, break-ins) to save footage. Use "Auto Surveillance Shutoff" to limit recording duration and prevent battery drain during extended parking periods. Requires continuous power via hardwire kit or 'always-on' cigarette lighter socket.

Surveillance Auto Shutoff

Sets a time limit for Motion Detection and Parking Mode to prevent battery drain when the vehicle is parked for extended periods.

G-Sensor

Adjust sensitivity from Level 1 (easiest to activate) to Level 3 (most severe impacts). Level 1 is recommended.

Watermark

Enable/disable video stamps for Date/Time, Speed, GPS coordinates, and a custom Driver ID. The Cobra logo can also be included.

Driver ID Watermark

Assign a custom Driver ID (e.g., "John", "Employee 12") to be stamped on footage.

Exposure

Adjust video and image brightness.

Language

Select the on-screen language for the camera interface.

Drive Smarter® Services

Configure automatic video uploads to the Drive Smarter® app, send incident reports to insurance providers, and set up Mayday alerts for severe G-Sensor events.

Speed Units

Choose between Miles Per Hour (MPH) or Kilometers Per Hour (KPH) for speed display in the watermark.

Volume

Adjust the volume for notifications and button beeps.

WDR (Wide Dynamic Range)

Enables accurate footage capture in very bright conditions, recommended for most recording scenarios.

GPS Format

Select GPS coordinate format: Decimal Degrees or Degrees.

Frequency

Choose between 50Hz or 60Hz to mitigate video flickering.

Format Reminder

Set reminders to format the SD card for optimal performance and video protection.

Delete Videos Reminder

Receive periodic reminders to free up space by deleting older or unnecessary video content.

Restore Defaults

Resets the device to factory settings. This action does not erase data on the memory card.

Format SD Card

Permanently deletes all data on the inserted SD card. Recommended for new cards and periodic maintenance.

About

View device information, including serial number, FCC ID, Industry Canada number, manufacturer part number, and firmware version.

Firmware Updates

Ensure the camera is connected to a constant power source during firmware updates to prevent the unit from becoming non-functional. Use a vehicle's cigarette lighter socket or a household outlet.

Using the Drive Smarter® App

1. Check current firmware version in the camera's 'About' menu (Menu > ABOUT).
2. Power the camera.
3. Connect the camera to the app. The app will check for available updates.
4. Tap 'Download' on the notification to get the latest firmware.
5. Follow the app's instructions. Camera LEDs will blink during installation.
6. Verify the update by checking the 'About' screen again.

Using a Mac or PC

For optimal performance, check www.drivesmarter.com for software updates.

1. Check current firmware version in the camera's 'About' menu.
2. Connect the dash cam to your computer using the included USB to Micro-USB cable.
3. Power on the dash cam and select "Connect to Computer".
4. The camera will appear in Windows Explorer or Finder.
5. Download the firmware update file (ending in ".bin") from www.drivesmarter.com.
6. Copy or drag the ".bin" file to the root directory of the camera's SD card.
7. Safely disconnect the dash cam from the computer.
8. Connect the dash cam to a power source. It will boot into the Firmware Update Menu.
9. Follow on-screen prompts (if available) or allow automatic update.
10. Verify the update via the camera's 'About' menu or the app.

Camera Specifications

Comparison of Cobra SC Series models:

*Optional Flex Cams include Rear View & In-Cabin Cameras, available for SC 200, SC 200D, SC 400, and SC 400D.

Troubleshooting & FAQ

Troubleshooting

If your unit is not operating properly, check the following:

• Ensure the power cord is properly connected.
• Verify the vehicle's cigarette lighter socket is clean and free of corrosion.
• Confirm the power cord's adapter is firmly seated.
• Ensure you have downloaded the latest firmware.

FAQ

• Where do I mount/position my dash camera on the windshield?

  Power on the dash cam to view the camera's feed while mounting. Centering the camera below the rearview mirror is recommended. Use the Drive Smarter app for a live view to assist with positioning.

• What is the largest SD card size I can use in my camera?

  We recommend a minimum Class 10 or U1 card from a reputable vendor. Maximum sizes are:

  Model	Max SD Card Size
  SC 100	128GB
  SC 201	256GB
  SC 200	256GB
  SC 200D	256GB
  SC 400	256GB
  SC 400D	256GB

  Important: Format the SD card in the camera before first use via the camera menu or the Drive Smarter® app.

• Why is my unit not powering up?

  Ensure proper connection. If the unit is off, press and hold the power button. If using Parking Mode/Motion Detection with a hardwire kit, the unit might not wake up immediately. Start driving; it will wake up upon detecting motion or driving.

• How do I use Parking Mode and Motion Detection?

  These features can be enabled in the camera's settings. They monitor your vehicle when parked, provided the unit is connected via hardwire kit or an 'always-on' cigarette lighter socket. The unit enters a low-power standby mode and wakes up upon detecting significant motion or impact.

• Why is my unit not getting a GPS Lock (GPS icon is red)?

  GPS locks best when the device is on the road. A lock may not be possible in garages, parking structures, or when testing indoors.

Trademarks, Warnings, and Regulatory Information

©2022 Cobra Electronics Corporation. Cobra and the snake design are proprietary trademarks of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA. Other trademarks belong to their respective owners. Cobra Electronics Corporation™ is a trademark of Cobra Electronics Corporation, USA.

The Driver Awareness Alert display feature is subject to US Patent Numbers 8,842,004 and 8,970,422, with additional pending US Patent Applications.

Warning! The Forward Collision Warning System (FCWS) feature, when active, is for limited informational purposes only. It does not replace the driver's responsibility for safe driving judgment, traffic regulation compliance, and awareness of road conditions. FCWS performance may be reduced in low visibility or adverse weather. The driver is responsible for safe vehicle operation; do not substitute driving judgment with this feature. Cobra disclaims liability for damages arising from its use.

Warning! The Lane Departure Warning System (LDWS) feature, when active, is for limited informational purposes only. It does not replace the driver's responsibility for safe driving judgment, traffic regulation compliance, and awareness of road conditions. LDWS may have limited functionality in low visibility, poor weather, or on unmarked roads. The driver is responsible for safe vehicle operation; do not substitute driving judgment with this feature. Cobra disclaims liability for damages arising from its use.

Note: This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) it may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

Caution: Modifications not approved by Cobra Electronics Corporation may violate FCC Rules and void the authority to operate this equipment. This device complies with RSS-310 of Industry Canada. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. CAN ICES-3B/NMB-3B.

Disposal of Electronics Equipment: This product may contain hazardous substances. The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol ♻️ indicates it should not be disposed of with household waste. It must be handed over to an applicable collection point for electrical equipment recycling. Proper disposal helps prevent negative environmental impact. Contact your local civic office or retailer for information on collection, reuse, and recycling systems.

Compliance Marks: FC CE ROHS

Limited 1-Year Warranty

Warranty Terms

Cobra warrants your product against defects in materials and workmanship for one (1) year from the original purchase date. Cobra will, at its discretion, repair or replace the product free of charge. Shipping charges for sending the product to Cobra are not covered. Products received COD will be refused.

Proof of purchase (invoice or receipt) is required for warranty claims, except for factory-direct purchases.

Warranty Exclusions

The warranty does not apply if:

1. The serial number has been removed or modified.
2. The product has been subjected to misuse, damage (including water damage, physical abuse, improper installation), or modification.
3. The proof of purchase is from an unauthorized dealer or internet auction site (e.g., E-bay, U-bid).

Limitation of Warranty

You acquire the product "AS IS" and "WHERE IS", without any representation or warranty. Cobra specifically disclaims warranties of merchantability and suitability for a particular purpose. Cobra is not liable for consequential, special, or incidental damages arising from the use, misuse, or mounting of the product.

These limitations may be restricted by state laws. Cobra is not responsible for products lost in shipment.

General Warranty Information

All Cobra products have a factory warranty. Typically, this is a one to three (1-3) year warranty from the original retail purchase date (refer to policy for details). Standard accessories and accessory items also carry a one-year factory warranty. Shipping to Cobra's facility is not covered; return shipping within the US is included. This warranty is non-transferable. "Repair or replace" does not include removal or installation costs, labor, or expenses.