AZDOME M550 Dash Cam User Manual

1. Customer Service

For issues such as defective/damaged items, inaccurate descriptions, missing parts/accessories, inadequate performance/quality, or wrong items sent, contact AZDOME customer service.

Contact AZDOME before returning any item for prompt issue resolution.

Scan the WhatsApp QR code to add AZDOME on WhatsApp for contact.

2. Introduction

This manual provides instructions for operating the AZDOME dashcam. Read it before use to ensure correct operation. Product performance improvements may lead to changes in manual content without prior notice.

Scan the QR code to download the manual.

3. In The Box

Verify the presence of the following items before installation:

• Front dash camera ×1
• Rear camera (6M/20ft) ×1
• Sticker ×1
• Screws ×2
• Electrostatic films for front cam ×2
• USB charger with power cable (3.5M/12ft) ×1
• Rear window bracket ×1
• Storage card ×1 (AZDOME 64GB SD Card pre-inserted)
• Cable clips ×5
• Pry tool ×1
• User manual ×1

4. Specification

5. Product Diagram

The AZDOME M550 dash cam features a main unit with a screen and various ports, and a smaller rear camera. Key components include:

• ① Screen
• ② Mounting bracket
• ③ Power button
• ④ Up button
• ⑤ OK button
• ⑥ Down button
• ⑦ Mode button
• ⑧ Microphone
• ⑨ Reset button
• ⑩ Speaker
• ⑪ USB charging port
• ⑫ Rear camera connection port
• ⑬ SD card slot
• ⑭ Rear camera
• ⑮ Cabin camera connection port (Cabin Camera not included in packaging; search "AZDOME Cabin Camera for M550 dash cam" on Amazon if needed).

6. Buttons And Functions

The dash cam features several buttons with specific functions:

Indicator Lights:

• Lights Green: Camera is ON but NOT Recording.
• Blinks Green: Camera is ON and Recording.
• Lights Red: Camera is turning on.
• Blinks Red and Green: Firmware is being updated.

7. Installation

Install the front camera at the top of the front windshield. Clean and dry the windshield before installation. Install the IP68 waterproof Rear Camera outside the car.

Front Camera Installation

1. Connect the magnetic bracket and M550 dash cam via strong magnetic attraction. Plug in the cabin camera (if applicable).
2. Insert the microSD card into the dash cam's microSD slot and format it for first-time use.
3. Stick the electrostatic film on your windshield, then attach the magnetic bracket on top of the electrostatic film.
4. Turn off the car engine.
5. Connect the charging cable to the mini USB port of the magnetic bracket. Use the pry tool to lift windshield trim/molding edges and tuck in the power cord.
6. Adjust the front camera lens angle using the bracket. AZDOME recommends pointing the lens slightly downwards (≈10° below horizontal) for a 6:4 road to background video ratio.
7. Turn on the engine. The dashcam will power up and start recording. Video files are stored on the microSD card. Loop recording will replace the oldest files when the card is full, ensuring the most recent video files are always available.

Rear Camera Installation

Here are three examples of where to guide the rear camera's wire:

Plug the rear camera cable into the Mini USB input socket of the front camera. The cable can be routed along the car's roofline, down the side pillar, and towards the rear of the vehicle.

1. Select a flat, central location near the number plate lamp at the rear of the vehicle to mount the camera.
2. Attach tape to the camera bracket to hold it in position during installation. Drill two small holes: one for the first screw and the second for the reverse camera cable.
3. Use a screwdriver to fix the first screw, leaving it loose enough to adjust the camera.
4. Insert the camera wire through the drilled hole, checking the installation position.
5. Mark the suitable place for the second screw and drill a small hole.
6. Fix and securely tighten both screws.
7. After installation, connect the rear plug to the rear camera connection port of the front camera. The rear camera connects to the front camera, which is powered by the car cigarette lighter.
8. Adjust the lens position to ensure it is level with the ground.
9. Start the engine and verify correct installation.

8. Using AZDOME Dashcam

The camera powers up and records automatically when it receives power, then saves video and turns off automatically when the car shuts off.

1. Auto Power ON/OFF:

1. Plug the car charger into the cigarette lighter socket.
2. When the car engine is on, the dash cam will turn ON and start recording automatically.

When the car key is turned to the LOCK position, the dash cam automatically saves the recording and turns OFF.

2. Manual Power ON/OFF:

• Manually Turn ON: Press the power button once.
• Manually Turn OFF: Press and hold the power button for at least 2 seconds.

First Time Use

This menu sets your preferred Language, Time Zone, and Date & Time. It appears when:

1. The Dash Cam is first turned on.
2. There has been a Firmware Update.
3. The Dash Cam's settings have been reset using the 'Default Setting' option in System Settings.

The setup process involves selecting language (e.g., English, Français, Español, Português), then time zone (e.g., UTC/GMT-4:00, UTC/GMT-5:00, UTC/GMT-6:00, UTC/GMT-7:00), and finally setting the date and time (Year, Month, Day, Hour, Minute, Second, and Format MM/DD/YY).

Time Zone Settings

Time and date settings are applied upon receiving a GPS connection. Examples of GMT offsets include: GMT-7 (Los Angeles), GMT-4 (New York), GMT+10 (Sydney). Adjust time zone settings for standard vs. daylight savings time. If unsure of your GMT offset, refer to http://www.greenwichmeantime.com/time-zone/usa/.

9. Playing Video Files Using AZDOME Dash Cam

Press the 'M' button to access Menu settings, then select 'Playback Mode'.

• Normal Videos: Video files saved in normal loop recording mode.
• Locked Videos: Video files locked by the dashcam due to car shock or manual locking.
• Picture: Picture files taken.

In the thumbnail playback interface, long press the 'M' button to delete or protect files. The screen displays thumbnails of recorded videos, with navigation buttons (Power, Up, OK, Down, Menu) below.

10. Playing Video Files Using Your Smartphone

Check real-time video using your smartphone

1. Search for and install the "AZDOME" app from Google Play Store or Apple App Store. QR codes are provided for direct download.
2. Turn on WiFi of the dash cam: Long press the Down Button for two seconds to enter WiFi Mode. A QR code is displayed on the dash cam screen for WiFi setup. The screen shows "WiFi Mode ON", "WIFI Name: M550 ************", and "Password: 12345678". Instructions "1. Connect your phone to WIFI of M550", "2. Open AZDOME APP", and "Press&hold "DOWN BUTTON" to disconnect or turn on" are also shown.
3. Turn on your phone's WiFi and connect to the dashcam's WiFi (SSID: M550_************, Default PASSWORD: 12345678). The phone may indicate 'No Internet Connection', which is normal as the dash cam WiFi is only for video/photo transfer, not internet broadcasting. Ignore this prompt.
4. Open the AZDOME App and tap "Check Real-time Video". You can now view the currently recorded video in real-time by connecting your smartphone to the dashcam via Wi-Fi Direct. The app interface shows a live preview, recording status, and options like Device Albums, Stop, Sound Recording, Switch Mode, Switch Camera, and HD Resolution.

Download the video files into your smartphone

1. Go to the Dashcam Preview interface. STOP recording first, then press 'Device Album' to access Photo, Video, and Emergency files. The app shows a "Recorder album" with categories for Photo, Video, and Emergency, and a list of recorded files by date.
2. Select video files to download to your phone. Downloaded files are found in the APP's original interface menu under 'Local Video'. Downloading a single video file may take some time. The app shows a download progress indicator.

The app won't show the live video on your phone. It only shows a picture of the beach?

Cellular data can prevent live video viewing. Disable the 'AZDOME' cellular data for your phone and ensure 'Local Network' for 'AZDOME' is turned on.

• For Latest iOS System: Go to Settings → AZDOME → Click 'Wireless Data' → Select 'WLAN'.
• For Older iOS System: Go to Settings → AZDOME → Disable the 'Cellular Data'.

For Android phones: When installing the AZDOME APP, allow access to device location ('While using the APP') and photos/media ('Allow'). After connecting to M550 WiFi, a 'No Internet' notification may appear. Wait 10-15 seconds for a pop-up/notification. Tap it to confirm you want to stay connected despite no internet. Once confirmed, you are set.

What is a WiFi Feature?

The WiFi feature allows wireless pairing of the dash camera with your smartphone to instantly access recordings. You can view, download, and share videos. It uses WiFi signals for pairing, similar to Bluetooth speakers.

Can I watch the videos around my car remotely?

No. The AZDOME M550 dash cam does NOT broadcast footage over the cloud or internet. It is not a cloud or IP camera. Live video and footage are accessible via the AZDOME dash cam's APP only within a 10FT range.

What is the WiFi Range?

The WiFi signal range is approximately 10FT without obstructions. Similar to home WiFi, the signal is limited to this small device's immediate vicinity.

For iPhone:

If an iPhone displays "The Wi-Fi network "AZDOME M17_066438" does not appear to be connected to the Internet. Do you want to temporarily use cellular data?", tap 'Keep Trying Wi-Fi'. Otherwise, the camera may disconnect, requiring you to forget the AZDOME WiFi and re-pair.

11. Playing Video Files Using Your Computer

1. Remove the microSD card from the dashcam.
2. Insert the card into a microSD card reader and connect it to a computer.
3. Download and install the AZDOME GPS Player from www.azdomes.com > Support > Downloads. (Note: Close or ignore anti-virus software prompts; it will not cause security impact.)
4. Click 'Open Files' in the AZDOME GPS Player to browse and select the Movie or EMR folder on the microSD card. All files in the selected folder will be displayed. Alternatively, drag video files directly to the launcher screen.
5. There are two ways to play video:
1. Click the File-Open icon to choose the folder you want to play, then click to start playback. (Note: Only one folder can be selected at a time, and no video files will be visible in the folder selection dialog.)
2. Select the memory card disk from 'My Computer', find the video file, and drag and drop it directly to the player. GPS information will be displayed on the player.

File named ************** *******A = Front camera video file

File named ************** *******C = Rear camera video file

Scan the QR code to get the whole process about AZDOME GPS Player.

12. Menu

The menu allows configuration of various dash cam settings.

1. Video Settings

Resolution

Choose the video resolution:

• Front Cam + Rear Cam:
  • 4K (3840x2160 @30FPS) + Full HD (1920x1080 @30FPS)
  • 2K (2560x1440 @30FPS) + Full HD (1920x1080 @30FPS)
  • Full HD (1920x1080 @30FPS) + Full HD (1920x1080 @30FPS)

Loop Recording - 1min/ 3mins(Default)/ 5mins

Select the length (1/3/5 min) of each video clip for continuous loop recording. The dash cam automatically deletes the oldest files when the memory card is full to ensure continuous recording.

Rear Cam Mirror — On(Default)/Off

• On: Dash cam screen displays a mirror image for the rear camera.

Timelapse Record - Off(Default)/On

• On: 1-minute Time lapse video = 30 minutes real time coverage. Video files play at high-speed during playback.

Timelapse is for leisure activity settings, not for incident evidence. Turn off for normal driving conditions.

Record Audio – On(Default)/Off

Turn On/Off the microphone for video recording.

WDR - On(Default)/Off

Wide Dynamic Range (WDR) processes images for clear recordings in bright and dark light by combining multiple images at different brightness levels.

Frequency - 50HZ/ 60HZ(Default)

Set according to your country's power supply specification:

• 60HZ: Used in USA, North America.
• 50HZ: Used in Europe, most Asian Countries.

G-Sensor - Off/ High/ Middle(Default)/ Low

A 3-axis impact gravitational accelerometer that detects physical/gravitational forces. When triggered, the current video file is locked as an emergency file and not deleted by loop recording. Higher sensitivity means less force is needed to trigger automatic file protection.

Exposure -+2.0,+5/3,+4/3,+1.0,+2/3,+1/3,+0.0(Default)/-1/3,-2/3,-1.0,-4/3,-5/3,-2.0

Adjust video exposure for brighter or darker video.

2. Playback Mode

• Normal Videos: Video files saved in normal loop recording mode.
• Locked Videos: Video files locked by the dashcam due to car shock or manual locking.
• Picture: Picture files taken.

3. Park Monitor

This function requires the AZDOME 3-Lead Hardwire Kit to be properly installed with an output current of 2.5A. Select [Connected] and choose a parking mode option.

Scan the QR code to get the AZDOME 3-Lead Hardwire Kit.

*Collision Detection Parking Mode:

1. When the car engine is OFF and key is in lock position, the camera stops continuous recording and enters impact detection mode, then turns OFF.
2. In impact detection mode, if the car is hit and impact reaches the set G-Sensor level, the camera turns ON, records a 1-minute continuous video, saves and locks it in the EMR folder, then turns OFF.
3. When the car starts next time, the camera automatically returns to normal video mode and continuous recording.

*Time-Lapse Parking Mode:

1. When the car engine is OFF and key is in lock position, the camera stops continuous recording and enters timelapse 1fps recording mode.
2. During timelapse recording, if the car is hit and impact reaches the set G-Sensor level, the camera locks the current looping timelapse video clip, saves and locks it in the EMR folder, then returns to timelapse 1fps recording.
3. When the car starts next time, the camera automatically stops timelapse parking mode and returns to normal video mode and continuous recording.

*Motion Detection Parking Mode:

1. When the car engine is OFF and key is in lock position, the camera stops continuous recording and enters motion detection mode. The camera stays ON and idle, but the LCD screen turns off after 15 seconds.
2. The camera records tens of seconds of video only when motion is detected by the front lens, continuing until no more motion is detected.
3. In Motion Detection mode, if the car is hit and impact reaches the set G-Sensor level, the camera stops motion detection, records a 1-minute continuous video, saves and locks it in the EMR folder, then returns to motion detection mode.
4. When the car starts next time, the camera automatically stops motion detection parking mode and returns to normal video mode and continuous recording.

4. Timezone/Time

• Date/Time: Adjust as required. Note: Settings will be overwritten by satellite connection.
• Time Zone: Manually adjust for Dash Cam's time display. Settings are applied upon GPS connection.

5. WiFi- Off(default)/On

Turn On/Off the WiFi of the dash cam. WiFi Name SSID: M550_************, Default PASSWORD: 12345678.

6. Video Stamp - Off/On(Default)

Turn On/Off Time Stamp / GPS Stamp / Speed Stamp / LOGO Stamp on recorded files.

7. Micro SD Card

• Storage Format Remind: When enabled with a chosen duration, the dash cam will prompt "Please format SD card" to prevent too many locked files from hindering loop recording.
• SD Card Format: Optimizes the card's file system for the camera. Note: Format the memory card every 1-2 months for stable performance.
• Storage Info: View memory card storage information.

8. Language – Multilingual

Select your preferred language. Default: Follows First Time Use selection.

9. System Settings

• Fatigue Driving Reminder — Off(default )/1hour/2hours/4hours: When enabled with a chosen duration, the dash cam will sound an alert.
• Speed Unit - KM/H/MPH(default): Choose between MPH and KMH.
• Volume— Low(default)/Medium/High: Adjust the internal speaker volume.

Beep Sound - On(default)/Off

Switch on/off or adjust key tone.

Screen Saver — Live Video Always ON(Default)/Screen OFF After 1 Min /Screen OFF After 3 Min/Stealth Mode Startup

• Live Video Always ON: Screen always stays ON.
• Screen OFF After 1 Min or Screen OFF After 3 Min: Screen shuts down after 1 or 3 minutes without interaction. Recording continues normally. Press button to re-open screen.
• Stealth Mode Startup: Screen is OFF when dash cam turns ON. Press button to re-open screen.

Default Setting

Restore all settings to factory defaults. Recordings are not affected.

GPS Info

Check satellite number / Longitude / Latitude / Speed.

10. Version

Check current firmware version. Visit the AZDOME website (www.azdomes.com > Support > Download) for the M550 Firmware Upgrade Guide.

13. Firmware Update

1. Remove the microSD card from the dashcam.
2. Insert the card into a microSD card reader and connect it to a computer.
3. Download the latest M550 Firmware from www.azdomes.com > Support > Downloads on your computer.
4. Unzip the downloaded firmware (Zip file) and copy all '********.bin' firmware files to the root directory of the microSD card.
5. Connect the camera to the car charger. Press the POWER button to start the firmware update. A blinking red LED indicates the AZDOME M550 dash camera is updating. The display will remain blank during the 1-2 minute update. Ensure power is not disconnected. The camera will turn ON automatically once updated.
6. Check the latest firmware version in the camera's menu > Version.

14. FAQ

Q1: Camera turns ON / OFF automatically?

Ensure output current is 5V/2.5A and use the AZDOME car charger. Verify cabin and rear cameras are connected correctly. Automatic reboots upon detecting different cameras improve stability.

Q2: Video Image is blurred?

Remove protective lens film, clean the lens, and ensure the windshield is clean and free of grease, dirt, and debris.

Q3: Camera gets HOT?

It is normal for the camera to run slightly hot due to high-speed video recording (up to 158°F/70°C).

Q4: No power to my Dash Cam but it works upon my computer?

The cigarette power cable may not be working. Inspect the fuse in the Car Power Cable plug. If blown, inspect the power cable for damage.

Q5: The sound is not synchronised with video during playback?

PC Codecs may be incompatible or outdated. Download the latest AZDOME GPS Player from www.azdomes.com > Support > Downloads.

Q6: Video Files cannot be played on my computer?

Dash Cam video files are in MP4 format. Ensure suitable playback software is installed on your PC.

Q7: Video has no sound?

Ensure 'Record Audio' setting is ON. Press the UP Button once during recording to Mute/Unmute the built-in microphone. Ensure 'Timelapse Record' setting is OFF in the Menu.

Q8: Photograph is blurred?

The Dash Cam has a minimum focal range of around 2 meters. Objects closer than this may be blurred. LONG PRESS for 2-Seconds to Take Snap.

Q9: I can not delete files on my Dash Cam?

Check if files are 'locked'. In the thumbnail playback interface, long press the 'M' button to delete or un-lock related files.

Q10: Camera showing Memory Error or the video clips is recorded inconsistent length (e.g. 6, 10, 14, 18 seconds etc)?

Using unqualified or third-party SD cards can affect dashcam performance and cause random reboots. If issues persist, the TF card may be unqualified and not meet 3-channel dash cam recording requirements. Contact AZDOME for a new memory card.

15. Notice

CE Compliance: This product complies with the radio interface requirements of the European Community.

Waste Disposal: This symbol indicates the product must not be discarded as household waste. It should be delivered to an appropriate collection point for recycling to protect natural resources, human health, and the environment. For more information, contact your local municipality, disposal service, or the shop where you purchased the product.

FCC Statement

Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment. 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 does cause 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.

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.

This equipment complies with FCC radiation exposure limits set forth for an uncontrolled environment. This equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator & your body. This transmitter must not be co-located or operating in conjunction with any any other antenna or transmitter.

Product Information & Support

• Product: Car Dashcam
• Manufacturer: Lingdu Co., Ltd.
• Address: 1801-1808, HaiYun Building, No. 468, Minzhi Avenue, Longhua New District, Shenzhen, China. 518000
• Product Warranty: One-Year Limited Warranty
• Customer Support: help@azdome.hk
• Website: www.azdomes.com
• FCC ID: 2ASWVLS05D

COPYRIGHT©2022 Lingdu Co., Ltd. All rights reserved.