BlazeVideo A323 Trail Camera Instruction Manual
This document provides comprehensive instructions for the BlazeVideo A323 Trail Camera.
1. In the Box
- 1 x Camera
- 1 x Mounting Strap
- 1 x Instruction Manual
- 1 x Mini USB Cord
Note: Memory card and batteries are not included (user supplied).
2. Important Note
The camera 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, or different battery types. Rechargeable AA batteries are not recommended due to lower voltage and potential operational issues. Remove batteries when the camera is not in use.
A standard-size SD memory card (max capacity 512GB, Class 10) is required. 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 for optimal performance.
3. Introduction
3.1. About the Camera
The A323 trail camera is a digital scouting camera triggered by motion. It uses a sensitive Passive Infra-Red (PIR) motion sensor to capture high-quality pictures (up to 24MP) or 1080P 30fps H.264 video clips with audio.
Key features include:
- High-quality pictures (up to 24MP) or full HD video clips with audio, utilizing a Sony Starlight sensor and F1.6 aperture lens for clear images in low light.
- Clear night vision with a 100ft flash range, using 36pcs high-performance infrared no-glow 940nm LEDs.
- Easy operation with a 2.4-inch LCD color screen for reviewing pictures and videos.
- Two working modes: Motion detection and Time lapse.
- Fast trigger time (approx. 0.1~0.6 seconds) and recovery time (less than 0.5 seconds), with a long trigger distance up to 82ft.
- Info strip on each capture: Date, Time, Temperature & Moon Phase.
- Operation hours, Loop Recording, Time Lapse, and Password protection are available.
- IP66 Waterproof design for outdoor use, resistant to rain and snow. Operation Temperature: -4~140°F (-20~60°C).
- Supports SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards up to 512GB (user supplied).
- Extremely long in-field battery life up to 8 months in standby with 8 AA 1.5V batteries (user supplied).
3.2. Applications
The camera can be used for:
- Hunting and tracking animal traces or habits.
- Wildlife observing and researching.
- Sports activities like riding, driving, camping, or exploring.
- Motion-triggered security for homes, farms, offices, and communities.
- Indoor and outdoor surveillance where invasion evidence is needed.
4. Parts and Controls
The camera features 36 built-in high-efficiency infrared LEDs, LED Indicators, Optical Lens, PIR Sensors, and Lock Holes in the front view (Figure 1).
Figure 1: Front View depicts the placement of the Light Sensor, Indicator, IR LEDs, Microphone, Lock Hole, Optical Lens, Center PIR Motion Sensor, and Side PIR Motion Sensors.
Figure 2: Bottom View shows the SD Card Holder, Mini USB Port, DC 12V/1A Plug (4.0x1.7mm), and Tripod Base (1/4"-20).
Figure 3: Back View shows the Lock Buckle and Strap Hole.
Figure 4: Inside View displays the Color Screen, Operation Buttons, and Battery Compartment and Cover.
Figure 5: Operation Buttons and Shortcut details the UP Key (Video Mode), DOWN Key (Camera Mode), OK Key (Playback Mode), RIGHT Key (Manual Shutter), and Power Switch.
TIP: If the PIR Lens appears dirty, it does not affect performance. Clean lightly by blowing or picking out dirt; avoid wiping to prevent scratches, as they do not reduce PIR detection performance.
5. Installing the Batteries and SD Card
5.1. Loading Batteries
Open the battery compartment cover to reveal eight battery slots (Figure 6). Ensure all eight batteries are installed with correct polarity (negative or "flat" end against the spring). Use 1.5V AA Lithium or Alkaline batteries. Energizer 1.5V Lithium AA batteries are recommended. NiMH Rechargeable batteries may have reduced efficiency and may not work for night video recording.
When battery power is low in SET mode, a "Low Battery" message will appear.
Figure 6: Loading the Batteries illustrates the correct battery placement.
5.2. Inserting the SD Card
Insert the SD card with the camera's power switch in the OFF position. Do not insert or remove the SD card when the power switch is in the ON or SET position. The camera supports standard-size memory cards (.jpg for photos, .mp4 for videos) up to 512GB capacity (Figure 7).
Figure 7: Inserting the SD Card shows the SD card and the OFF/ON/SET switch.
To insert the SD card, align its label side upwards. A "click" sound indicates successful installation. If the card does not insert easily, it may be facing the wrong way.
Formatting the SD card using the camera's "Format" parameter is recommended before first use, especially if the card has been used in other devices.
To remove the SD card, gently push it in until it clicks, then release. Ensure the camera's power is OFF before removing cards or batteries.
6. Using the Camera
After installing batteries and an SD card, you can mount the camera outdoors. For optimal results, familiarize yourself with the manual and camera functions indoors, including setting the date and time, and understanding photo/video modes.
7. The OFF, ON, and SET Modes
- OFF mode: Power switch in the OFF position. This is the safe mode for actions like replacing batteries or SD cards, or for storage. The camera consumes minimal power in this mode. It is advisable to remove batteries if the camera will not be used for an extended period.
- ON mode: Power switch in the ON position. In this mode, the camera enters surveillance (Motion Detection or Time Lapse) and captures images automatically based on settings. Manual controls are inactive. The camera can be switched directly from OFF to ON, or via SET mode to adjust settings first.
- SET mode: Power switch in the SET position (screen is on). This mode allows you to check and change camera settings via the built-in screen. The screen displays information like image count, battery level, and camera/video mode. If no operation occurs for 5 minutes in SET mode, the camera automatically enters ON mode. You can connect the camera to a computer via USB to download images in SET mode.
Shortcut Keys/Functions (in SET mode):
- UP key: Quickly set the camera to shoot video clips.
- DOWN key: Quickly set the camera to take still photos.
- RIGHT key: Manually trigger the shutter for testing. The image counter increases by one.
- OK key: Enter playback mode. Use UP or DOWN keys to navigate photos/videos. Press OK again to exit playback.
8. Advanced Settings
You can customize camera settings in SET mode. Press MENU to enter/exit the menu. Use UP/DOWN keys to navigate and LEFT/RIGHT keys to change settings. Press OK to confirm and save changes.
| Parameter | Settings (Bold = default) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Mode | Motion Detection, Time Lapse | In Motion Detection mode, the camera captures photos/videos when triggered. In Time Lapse mode, it captures photos/videos periodically based on the "Timelapse Interval" parameter. |
| Photo or Video | Photo, Video, Photo+Video | Select whether to capture still photos or video clips. |
| Photo Quality | 24MP, 20MP, 16MP, 8MP, 4MP, 2MP | Select resolution for still photos. Higher resolution provides better quality but larger files, potentially slowing shutter speed. |
| Photo Burst | 01, 02, 03, 04, 05 | Select the number of photos taken in sequence per trigger. |
| Video Quality | 1080P, 720P | Select video resolution (pixels per frame). Higher resolution yields better video quality but larger files. |
| Video Length | 10 seconds, Optional from 3s to 5m | Select video recording length. Note: Night videos are limited to 30 seconds to conserve battery. |
| Video Sound | On, Off | Selecting On records video with sound. |
| Video Format | MP4, MOV | MP4 is the mainstream format. MOV may be needed for legacy software. |
| Detection Delay | 10 seconds, optional from 0s to 60m | Sets the waiting time before responding to subsequent triggers after the first detection. This prevents redundant images. Invalid if Mode is set to "Time Lapse". |
| PIR Sensitivity | High, Medium, Low | Select PIR sensor sensitivity. High is suitable for warm temperatures or capturing distant objects. Medium/Low is better for cold weather. Invalid if Mode is set to "Time Lapse". |
| Side Motion Sensors | On, Off | Activating side sensors provides faster trigger speeds and helps capture fast-moving animals. The camera pre-activates if a side sensor detects motion. If the center sensor detects motion within 5 seconds, capture begins; otherwise, it re-enters standby. |
| Motion Test | N/A | Helps aim the camera at the target area. Refer to Section 9.2. |
| Timelapse Interval | 1 hour, optional from 2s to 24h | Sets the time lapse interval. Effective only when Mode is "Time Lapse". Invalid if Mode is set to "Motion Detection". |
| Date/Time | M/D/Y, hh:mm | Set date and time. Use LEFT/RIGHT to switch settings, UP/DOWN to set current date and time. Input format may change; refer to "Date Format" settings. |
| Date Format | D/M/Y, M/D/Y, Y/M/D | Select the date format shown on the screen and in captures. |
| Time Format | 12h, 24h | Select the time format shown on the screen and in captures. |
| Camera Name | On, Off | Assign a 4-character name (A-Z, 0-9) for location identification in photos. |
| Info Strip | On, Off | Select On to display date, time, temperature, and moon phase on each capture. |
| Loop Recording | On, Off | On: Overwrites oldest files with new captures when the SD card is full. Off: Stops capturing when the SD card is full. |
| Operation Hours | On, Off | Enable the camera to function only within specified daily hours. |
| Password | On, Off | Set a 4-digit password for protection. Contact customer support if the password is lost. |
| Format SD Card | Yes, No | All files are deleted upon formatting. Back up important files first. Recommended if the card was used in other devices. |
| Factory Reset | Yes, No | Selecting Yes resets all settings to manufacturer defaults. |
| Version | Defined | Displays the camera's version. |
9. Mounting and Positioning the Camera
9.1. Mounting
Mount the camera securely on a sturdy tree, approximately 6 inches (15cm) in diameter. For optimal picture quality, position the camera about 16-17 ft. (5 meters) away from the monitored area, at a height of 2.5-3.5 ft. (0.75-1m). For best night results, ensure the subject is within the ideal flash range: no farther than 65' (20m) and no closer than 10' (3m).
Mounting options include:
- Adjustable Strap: Thread the strap through the brackets on the back of the camera and secure it around the tree trunk using the buckle. A cable lock cannot be used with the strap simultaneously.
- Tripod Socket: The camera has a standard UNC 1/4-20 thread screw socket at the bottom for mounting on a tripod or other accessories (user supplied).
Figure 8: Mounting the Camera shows the strap mounting method.
9.2. Sensing Angle and Distance Test
To test the camera's monitoring area:
- Switch the camera to SET mode.
- Select "Motion Test" in the Menu. The camera will countdown up to 30 seconds before being ready to capture motion.
- Close the camera door.
- Move in front of the camera at various positions, distances, and angles within the expected area.
- If the motion indicator LED (RED light) blinks, the position is within the sensing area. If it does not blink, it is outside the sensing area. The central sensor's angle of view is 60°, and each side sensor's angle is 30° (used for pre-activation).
The test results help determine the best placement. The ideal height from the ground is generally 3 to 6 feet, varying with animal size.
Avoid potential false triggers by not aiming the camera at heat sources or nearby branches/bushes (especially on windy days). Do not install the camera behind glass windows or aim it towards glass objects.
9.3. Switching on the Camera
The camera supports "Motion Detection" and "Time Lapse" modes.
- Motion Detection: In ON mode, the camera counts down 30 seconds and enters standby to capture images when motion is detected, based on Detection Delay and PIR Sensitivity settings.
- Time Lapse: In ON mode, the camera enters Time Lapse mode and captures images periodically according to the "Timelapse Interval" parameter, regardless of motion detection.
Before leaving the camera unattended, check:
- Battery polarity and power level.
- Sufficient SD card space.
- Power switch is in the ON position.
10. Review Photos or Videos
Photos and videos are stored in the \DCIM\100MEDIA folder on the SD card (e.g., DSCF0001.JPG, DSCF0001.MP4). MP4 video files can be played on media players like Windows Media Player, QuickTime, or VLC.
You can review media directly on the camera screen.
Alternatively, in SET mode, use the provided USB cable to download files to a computer, or use an SD card reader (user supplied) to browse files on a computer.
11. Technical Specifications
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Working Mode | Motion detection or Time Lapse |
| Max. Pixel Size | 24MP |
| Lens | F=1.6, FOV=63°, Auto IR-Cut |
| IR Flash | 100ft |
| LCD Screen | 2.4" Color screen |
| Keypad | 6 Keys, 1 Power switch |
| Memory | SD, SDHC or SDXC standard-size memory card (Not included), max capacity 512GB |
| Picture Resolution | 24MP, 20MP, 16MP, 8MP, 4MP, 2MP |
| Video Resolution | 1080P@30fps, 720P@30fps |
| PIR Sensitivity | High/Normal/Low |
| PIR Sensing Distance | 82ft (Below 77°F/25°C) |
| PIR Sensing Angle | Total 120° (while side motion sensors enabled); Central zone: 60°, Left side: 30°, Right side: 30° |
| Trigger Time | Approx. 0.1~0.6 second (0.1s while side motion sensors enabled) |
| Trigger Interval | 0sec.-60min, Programmable |
| Shooting Numbers | 1~5 |
| Video Length | 3sec ~ 5min., Programmable (Note: Max 30 seconds at night time to conserve batteries lifetime) |
| Info Strip | On /Off |
| Operation Hours | On /Off, Specific working period of time |
| Password | 4-Digit Code |
| Camera Name | 4-Character (A-Z, 0-9) |
| Time Lapse | 1 Sec. ~ 24 Hours |
| Power Supply | 8x1.5V AA Batteries (Not included) |
| Stand-by Time | 8 Months |
| Auto Stand-by | Auto Stand-by (Surveillance mode) in 5 minutes while no operation in SET mode |
| Low Battery Alarm | 8V - Low Battery (Batteries die); 9V - Night vision is unavailable in low voltage (Almost die) |
| Interface | Mini-USB, Standard-size SD card holder, External Power (DC 12V/1A, Plug 4.0x1.7mm) |
| Mounting | Strap, Tripod Base (1/4-20) |
| Waterproof | IP66 |
| Operation Temperature | -4~140°F/-20~60°C |
| Operation Humidity | 5% ~ 95% |
| Certificate | FCC & CE & RoHS |
| Product Dimensions | 6.1 x 4.4 x 3.0 inches |
12. Warranty
One Year Limited Warranty: This trail camera is warranted against defects in materials and workmanship for one year from the original purchase date, under normal use and conditions. This warranty does not cover damages from misuse, abuse, improper handling or installation, damage by wild animals, or unauthorized repairs.
BlazeVideo will, at its option, repair or replace the camera free of charge during the warranty period. This warranty extends only to the original retail buyer from an authorized dealer. Proof of purchase (receipt, order number) is required for warranty benefits. Replacement products are covered for the remaining portion of the original warranty period.
This warranty covers failures due to defects in materials or workmanship under normal use and does not cover normal wear and tear.
For warranty returns, please contact your dealer or distributor.
13. FCC Compliance 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. Operation is subject to two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) it must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
The equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy. If not installed and used correctly, it may cause harmful interference to radio communications. There is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation.
If interference occurs with radio or television reception, try the following measures:
- Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
- Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
- Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from the receiver's.
- Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician.
The device contains no user-serviceable parts. Repairs should only be performed by an authorized repair center. Unauthorized repairs or modifications may damage the equipment and void your warranty and authority to operate the device under Part 15 regulations.
The provided shielded interface cable must be used to comply with FCC limits for digital devices.
FCC & CE logos are displayed.
