BlazeVideo A350W Trail Camera Instruction Manual

2.1. About Batteries

Requires eight (8) 1.5V AA Alkaline or Lithium batteries. Energizer AA Lithium batteries are recommended for maximum battery life.

Do not mix old and new batteries. Do not mix battery types.

Rechargeable NiMH AA batteries can be used, but are not recommended due to lower voltage (1.2V), which may cause night recording issues and require frequent replacement.

Remove batteries when the camera is NOT in use.

2.2. About SD Card

Requires a standard-size SDHC/SDXC memory card (max capacity 512GB, Class 10). SanDisk 32GB SDHC/Class10 memory cards are recommended for best cost-performance.

Before use, gently remove the protective films on the front of the camera. Format your SD card in the camera for best performance.

2.3. About APP Wi-Fi Connection

For optimal performance, keep your phone within 15 meters (45 feet) of the camera. Move closer if the signal is weak due to interference.

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3.1. About the Camera

The A350W is a new generation Wi-Fi trail camera with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules. It connects and operates via the 'TrailCam Mobile' APP. The Bluetooth module is used for device discovery, and Wi-Fi is used for preview, image transmission, and settings.

The camera features advanced imaging technology, including smart night vision, blur reduction, and noise reduction for high-resolution image quality.

3.2. Main Features

• Bluetooth connection for device discovery
• Wi-Fi connection for preview, playback, and settings
• High-quality pictures (up to 32MP still photos)
• 1296P 20fps or 1080P 30fps H.264 video clips with audio
• Clear night vision, flash range 100ft (36pcs high-performance infrared no glow 940nm LEDs)
• Wide view angle - 70°
• Easy to use/program with well-designed operation buttons and a built-in 2.4-inch color screen
• Two working modes: Motion detection and Time lapse
• Fast trigger time approx. 0.1~0.6 second (pre-activated technology with 3 PIR sensors)
• Fast recovery time of less than 0.5 second
• Long trigger distance up to 90ft
• Info strip on each capture: Date, Time, Temperature & Moon phase
• Operation hours, Loop Recording, Time Lapse, Password protected
• Built for any climate - IP66, Operation Temperature: -4~140°F (-20~60°C)
• Supports SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card, max capacity 512GB (user supplied)
• Extremely long in-field battery life up to 8 months in stand-by state with 8 AA 1.5V batteries (user supplied)

5.1. Loading Batteries

After opening the battery compartment cover, you will find eight battery slots (Figure 6). Install all eight batteries for operation. Ensure correct polarity: the negative or "flat" end of the battery should be against the long spring of each slot.

When battery power is low in ON mode, the screen will display "Low Battery". Replace the batteries. If the battery indicator shows RED, the batteries may not be able to power the IR LEDs at night, but the camera will still function during the day until the "Low Battery" message appears. Replace batteries for continued night vision.

5.2. Inserting the SD Card

Insert the SD card (with the camera powered off) before operating the camera. Do not insert or remove the SD card when the camera is powered on or in surveillance mode (Figure 7).

To insert the SD card: Insert it into the card slot with the label side upwards. A "click" sound indicates successful installation. If inserted incorrectly, it will not fit without force. If the SD card is not installed correctly, the device will not display an SD card icon.

Formatting the SD card using the camera's "Format SD Card" menu option before first use is recommended, especially for cards previously used in other devices.

To remove the SD card: Gently push the card in (do not pull without pushing first). The card will be released from the slot when you hear a click. Ensure the camera is switched OFF before inserting or removing SD cards or batteries.

7.1. OFF Mode

The OFF mode is the "safe" mode for actions like replacing the SD card or batteries, or transporting the device. When storing or not using the camera, switch it to OFF. Note that the camera consumes a small amount of power in OFF mode. It is advisable to remove the batteries if the camera will not be used for a long time.

7.2. ON Mode

In ON mode, you can check and change camera settings using the built-in screen. Access settings by pressing the MENU key. You can adjust photo/video resolution, interval between photos, and enable/disable time imprint (See Section 9 ADVANCED SETTINGS). The screen displays information such as the number of images taken, battery level, and camera or video mode.

Attention please: In ON mode, the camera will automatically enter SURVEILLANCE mode if there is no operation (key pressing) within 5 minutes. The camera will then perform according to your settings.

In ON mode, you can connect the camera to a computer via USB to download images.

7.3. SURVEILLANCE Mode

After inserting batteries and the SD card, switch the camera on. Pressing the START button enters SURVEILLANCE mode. If the Mode is set to "Motion Detection", the camera will count down 30 seconds before capturing images. If the Mode is set to "Time Lapse", there will be no countdown, and the camera will be ready for Time Lapse capture.

Once in SURVEILLANCE mode, manual controls are disabled. The camera captures photos or videos automatically based on its current settings.

TIP: Press the START button again to wake the camera and reprogram it if needed.

8.1. Download TrailCam Mobile APP

Before using Wi-Fi functionality, download the 'TrailCam Mobile' APP from the App Store or Google Play.

8.2. Enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

Enable Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on your mobile phone before opening the APP. This optional step can speed up the connection between the APP and the camera.

NOTES:

The screenshots are indicative; actual diagrams may differ across APP versions, iOS, and Android.

During APP use, grant access to Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, storage, location, and camera. Enable Local Network (iOS14) for taking pictures and videos.

8.3. Add Your Camera

Ensure your camera is in ON mode and nearby. For a stable connection, stay within 45ft (13.7m) with no obstacles like walls or glass doors between you and the camera.

Open the APP and tap the orange stripe at the top to add your camera.

8.4. Select Camera Type

Tap "Wi-Fi Camera". The APP currently supports Wi-Fi cameras and may support cellular cameras in the future.

8.5. Search Your Camera and Link

The camera will be indicated as "NONAME_A350W" by default. After setting a camera name, the ID will update to "XXXX_A350W" (XXXX is a 4-character choice).

The APP automatically searches for nearby Wi-Fi trail cameras. Ensure your camera is within Wi-Fi range. This may take up to 15 seconds. If no device appears, tap the Refresh button.

Tap the desired camera from the list (Figure 11). The APP will connect, which may take up to 15 seconds to establish Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connection. The process involves 4 steps: Connecting through Bluetooth, Activating the camera, Searching Wi-Fi, and Connecting through Wi-Fi.

A system pop-up message will appear asking to join the WLAN network (Figure 12). Tap 'Join' to allow Wi-Fi connection. The network name, e.g., "CAM8Z6_E9316A9F2066", indicates the camera's Wi-Fi hotspot. "CAM8Z6" is a fixed prefix, and the rest is a unique identifier.

NOTE: On Android devices, pop-up messages may vary due to manufacturer customizations.

After connection, a confirmation message will appear (Figure 13). Tap "Start" to begin using the APP.

8.6. APP Navigation

The APP offers four main features: Camera, Status, Settings, and Gallery (Table 1, Figures 14-17).

8.7. Important Notes on APP Wi-Fi Connection

10.1. Mounting

After configuring settings at home, mount the camera securely outdoors for scouting game or other applications. Mount on a sturdy tree with a diameter of about 6in. (15cm). For optimal picture quality, position the tree about 16-17ft. (5m) away from the monitoring area, with the camera at a height of 2.5-3.5ft. (0.75-1m).

For best night results, the subject should be within the ideal flash range (100ft / 30m) and no closer than 10ft. (3m) from the camera.

There are two mounting methods: using the provided adjustable web belt or the tripod socket.

Using the adjustable strap: Thread one end of the strap through the two brackets on the back of the camera. Thread the end through the buckle and fasten securely around the tree trunk, ensuring no slack.

Using the tripod socket: The camera has a socket at the bottom for mounting on a tripod or other accessories with a standard UNC 1/4-20 thread screw (user supplied).

10.2. Sensing Angle and Distance Test

To test the camera's monitoring effectiveness, perform this test:

• Switch the camera to ON mode.
• Press MENU, go to "Motion Test". The camera will count down up to 30 seconds and be ready to capture motion. (Note: Delay time may be less than 30 seconds depending on motion sensor activation time.)
• Close the camera door.
• Move at various positions, distances, and angles in front of the camera within the expected game area.
• If the motion indicator RED light blinks, the position is within the sensing area. If it does not blink, it is outside the sensing area.
• During sensing tests, the camera takes pictures when motion is captured. The screen shows the number of triggers. (Note: The red light blinks only for motion within the central PIR sensor's area. The central sensor has a 60° angle of view. Side sensors have a 30° angle of view and are used for pre-activation and faster triggering; their motion does not trigger the red light.)

Test results help optimize placement. Mount height should vary based on target animal size; 3 to 6 feet is generally preferred.

Avoid potential false triggers from temperature fluctuations or motion disturbances by not aiming the camera at heat sources, branches, or bushes (especially on windy days). Do not install the camera behind glass windows, as motion cannot be sensed. Avoid aiming at glass objects.

10.3. Starting

The camera supports "Motion Detection" and "Time Lapse" working modes. Press START to enter surveillance mode.

• Motion Detection: When set to "Motion detection", the camera counts down 30 seconds, then enters standby (surveillance) and captures images/videos when motion is detected, as programmed in the menu. Refer to "Detection Delay" and "PIR Sensitivity" parameters.
• Time Lapse: When set to "Time Lapse", the camera enters Time Lapse mode after pressing START and takes images periodically based on the "Timelapse Interval" setting, regardless of "Detection Delay".