VIOFO A229 Pro Dashcam User Manual

1. Product Overview

Standard Items

• Front Camera + GPS Mount
• Type-C Data Cable
• Car Charger
• Type-C to USB-A Power Cable
• Type-C USB Adapter
• Optional: Rear Camera Cable (6M)
• Optional: Interior Camera Cable (1M)
• Optional: Bluetooth Remote Control
• Optional: CPL Filter
• Spare Adhesive Mounts
• Static Cling for Windshield
• Trim Removal Tool
• User Manual
• Optional: HK4 Hardwire Kit

Optional Accessories

• Rear Camera
• Interior Camera
• Rear Camera Cable (6M)
• Interior Camera Cable (1M)
• Bluetooth Remote Control
• CPL Filter
• HK4 Hardwire Kit

Product Diagram

Front Camera (Main Unit): Features a lens, power button (PWR), record button (REC), GPS indicator, microphone indicator (MIC), Wi-Fi indicator (Wi-Fi), and a microSD card slot. It also has ports for the rear/interior camera and power input.

Rear Camera (Optional): Features a lens and a mount. Connects via a dedicated cable.

Interior Camera (Optional): Features a lens, IR LED, and light sensor. Connects via a dedicated cable.

GPS Mount: Contains the GPS module and connects to the front camera.

Ports: USB Type-C port for power and data, rear camera port.

LED Indicators

Buttons and Icons

Power Button (PWR): Long press to turn on/off. Short press to take a photo.

Record Button (REC): Short press to start/stop recording. Long press to format the memory card. Press during recording to lock the current file.

Microphone Button (MIC): Short press to enable/disable audio recording. Long press to enable/disable parking mode.

Wi-Fi Button: Long press to enable/disable Wi-Fi. Short press to change live video source.

Menu Button (☰): Press to enter the menu or navigate options.

Up/Down Arrows: Navigate menus, adjust settings.

OK Button: Confirm selections, start/stop recording.

Display Overview

The dashcam display shows various information including recording mode, Wi-Fi status, recording status, G-sensor status, GPS status, time, date, resolution (e.g., 2160P30), and storage status (e.g., microSD).

2. Installation

Insert/Remove Memory Card

Ensure the camera is powered off. Insert the microSD card into the slot until it clicks. To remove, press the edge of the card with your fingernail.

Note: Use a Class 10 or UHS-I microSD card up to 512GB. Format the card before first use.

Install Front Camera

1. Choose a location on the windshield behind the rearview mirror, ensuring it doesn't obstruct the driver's view.
2. Clean the mounting surface with a dry, degreased cloth.
3. Attach the dashcam to the windshield using the adhesive mount or a static cling sticker.
4. Peel off the protective film from the adhesive pad and the camera lens.

Install Static Cling Sticker (Optional)

1. Clean the windshield surface.
2. Peel the red-marked protective film from the static cling sticker and apply it to the windshield. Press firmly for several seconds to remove air bubbles.
3. Peel off the green protective film from the static cling sticker.
4. Peel off the protective film from the adhesive mount and attach it to the sticker. Press the camera firmly for several seconds to ensure secure attachment.

Connect Power

Insert the USB cable into the camera's Type-C port and connect the car charger adapter to the vehicle's 12/24V socket.

Install Rear Camera (Optional)

1. Select a mounting location on the rear windshield, avoiding the defroster grid, where the camera can capture the rear view.
2. Clean the mounting surface with a dry cloth.
3. Peel off the protective film from the adhesive pad and the camera lens.
4. Secure the rear camera in the chosen location.
5. Connect the rear camera cable to the front camera unit. Route the cable neatly using the included clips.

Install Interior Camera (Optional)

1. Choose a mounting location on the windshield, avoiding the defroster grid, where the camera can capture the interior view.
2. Clean the mounting surface with a dry cloth.
3. Peel off the protective film from the adhesive pad and the camera lens.
4. Secure the interior camera in the chosen location.

Connect Interior Camera

Use the interior camera cable to connect the two cameras. Power off the device before connecting. Route the cable neatly and secure it with clips.

Tips:

• Do not install the camera or cables near or in airbag deployment zones.
• Mount the camera near the rearview mirror to capture both sides of the scene equally within the camera's Field of View (FOV).
• For good visibility in rainy conditions, position the lens within the windshield wiper's range.
• Avoid installing on surfaces affected by window tinting. Ensure no other electronic equipment is near the camera for optimal performance.

Remove Cameras

To detach the front camera, slide it to the right on its mount and pull it out. For rear or interior cameras, power off the camera first before disconnecting.

3. Recording Operation

Initial Setup

Upon first activation, the dashcam will prompt you to set the language, time zone, and speed unit.

1. Language Setup: Use the [REC button] and [MIC button] to navigate and select your preferred language, then press [OK button] to confirm.
2. Time Zone Setup: Use the [REC button] and [MIC button] to select the time zone and press [OK button] to confirm. You can also press the [Menu button] to go back.
3. Time and Date: The dashcam will automatically set the time and date via GPS signal. Press [OK button] to confirm.
4. Speed Unit Setup: Use the [REC button] and [MIC button] to select the speed unit (e.g., KM/H, MPH) and press [OK button] to confirm.

Format microSD Card

The microSD card must be formatted before first use. Select the format option [✔️] and press [OK button] to confirm. The camera will restart automatically after successful formatting.

Note: Formatting will erase all data. Back up important files beforehand.

Loop Recording

1. Insert the microSD card. Automatic loop recording starts when the camera is powered on.
2. Video files are recorded in 1/2/3/5/10 minute intervals.
3. When the microSD card is full, the oldest files will be automatically overwritten.
4. Loop recording files are saved in the `\DCIM\Movie` folder.

Emergency Recording

1. Automatic Emergency Recording: When the G-sensor detects a collision, the current footage is automatically locked to prevent overwriting by loop recording.
2. Manual Emergency Recording: Press the [REC button] during recording to lock the current file. Locked files are protected from being overwritten.

Note: G-sensor sensitivity can be adjusted in the settings. Locked files are saved in `\DCIM\Movie\RO`.

Power On/Off

• The camera automatically turns on and starts recording when the engine starts.
• The camera stops recording and turns off when the engine is turned off or the charger cable is disconnected.
• Short press [PWR button] to turn the camera on. Long press [PWR button] to turn the camera off.

Disable/Enable Audio Recording

Press the [MIC button] once to disable or enable audio recording. The MIC indicator will turn off or show blue.

Parking Mode

There are three parking mode options:

1. Automatic Event Detection: Records video when motion is detected. Stops recording if no new motion is detected.
2. Time-lapse Recording: Records video at low frame rates (1/2/3/5/10 fps) continuously without audio.
3. Low Bitrate Recording: Records video and audio at a low bitrate, creating smaller file sizes for continuous recording.

Note: Parking mode requires the VIOFO HK4 Hardwire Kit for continuous power and protection of the vehicle's battery. In hot weather, consider using time-lapse recording and turn off the dashcam if the internal temperature exceeds 60°C to prevent errors.

Parking Timer

Set a timer for how long the camera remains in parking mode after the engine is turned off (e.g., 'Off', '1 Hour').

Parking G-sensor

Detects significant motion (e.g., impact) and triggers event recording. High sensitivity is recommended.

Motion Detection in Parking Mode

Adjusts sensitivity to prevent false triggers from wind or rain.

4. Playback and Video Management

Playback on Dashcam

1. In standby mode, long press the [REC button] to enter the playback menu.
2. Use the arrow buttons ([REC button], [MIC button]) to select a video and press [OK button] to play.
3. Press the [Menu button] to exit.

Playback via VIOFO App

Enable Wi-Fi on the dashcam. Connect your smartphone to the dashcam's Wi-Fi network. Open the VIOFO app and select 'Connect Camera' to view, manage, and download videos.

Playback on PC

1. Remove the microSD card from the dashcam (ensure it's powered off).
2. Insert the card into a card reader connected to your PC.
3. Open the DCIM folder using a media player like VLC to view videos.

Video File Storage

Files are stored separately for front, interior, and rear cameras. Locations include `DCIM\Movie` for loop recording and `DCIM\Movie\RO` for emergency recordings.

File Naming Convention

Files are named using the format: `YYYY_MMDD_HHMMSS_XXX.MP4`, where XXX indicates the camera source (e.g., F for Front, I for Interior, R for Rear, P for Parking).

5. Smartphone Control

Connecting to Smartphone

Enable Wi-Fi on the dashcam. On your smartphone, connect to the VIOFO Wi-Fi network (SSID and password displayed on the dashcam screen). Open the VIOFO app and select 'Connect Camera'. The Wi-Fi indicator on the dashcam will turn solid blue when connected.

App Layout Overview

The VIOFO app provides:

• Menu: Access settings, support, firmware updates, and social media links.
• Live View: Real-time view from front, rear, and interior cameras. Allows changing camera sources.
• Camera Files: Browse, download, and delete recorded videos and photos.
• Playback: View recorded videos.
• Settings: Adjust dashcam settings remotely.

6. Accessory Installation

Install CPL Filter

The CPL (Circular Polarizer) filter reduces reflections and glare, improving image quality. Align the white mark on the CPL with the corresponding mark on the camera lens mount before installation.

Install Bluetooth Remote (Optional)

The Bluetooth remote allows you to safely lock important videos or take snapshots without taking your eyes off the road. To pair, turn on the camera, then press and hold the lock button on the remote for 3 seconds.

7. Dashcam Settings

Video Settings

• Resolution: Options include 4K (3840x2160P 30fps) for the front camera, and combinations like 2160P30+1440P30 for dual/triple camera setups.
• Bitrate: Low, Normal, High, or Maximum. Higher bitrate provides better quality but uses more storage.
• Loop Recording: Set recording intervals (1/2/3/5/10 minutes).
• Audio Recording: Enable or disable the microphone.
• Exposure Value (EV): Adjust exposure for front, rear, and interior cameras (-2.0 to +2.0). Default is 0.0.
• HDR: Enable, disable, or set to Auto for improved dynamic range in challenging lighting conditions.
• G-sensor: Adjust sensitivity to detect impacts and lock recordings. Low sensitivity is recommended.
• Print: Overlay information like date, time, GPS speed, coordinates, license plate, or custom text onto videos.

8. Firmware Update

Follow instructions on the VIOFO website (viofo.com/content/42-help-and-support/) to update the dashcam's firmware. Ensure the microSD card is formatted before updating and do not turn off the camera during the process.

9. Important Notes & Customer Service

Parking Mode Details

Parking modes (Event Detection, Time-lapse, Low Bitrate) require the HK4 Hardwire Kit for continuous power. Be mindful of high temperatures in summer.

Live Video Source

Select the desired camera view: Front, Interior, Rear, Rear Overlay, Front Overlay, or All Cameras.

System Settings

• Wi-Fi: Enable/disable Wi-Fi (2.4GHz or 5GHz). 5GHz is recommended.
• Time Zone: Set the current time zone for GPS time synchronization.
• Date/Time: Manually set the system date and time.
• Screensaver: Set the display to turn off after a set period of inactivity.
• Frequency: Adjust to minimize flickering and banding in recordings.
• Language: Select the display language.
• Format: Erase all data on the microSD card.
• Format Reminder: Set reminders to format the microSD card (Off, 15/30/60 days).
• Default Settings: Restore the device to factory settings.
• Version: Check the current firmware version.
• Video/Photo Lists: Access recorded files.

GPS

Enable/disable GPS to record location data. GPS also synchronizes time/date. Use 'Dashcam Viewer' software on a PC to visualize location and speed on videos.

Speed Units

Choose between Kilometers per Hour (KM/H) and Miles per Hour (MPH).

Voice Commands

Enable voice control to operate the camera using voice commands (e.g., take photo, start/stop recording, enable/disable Wi-Fi). Voice command language should match the system language (English, Chinese, Russian, Japanese).

FCC Compliance

This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to conditions that this device does not cause harmful interference. It has been tested and found to comply with the limits for Class B digital devices. Radiation exposure limits are also met.

Customer Service

VIOFO offers a 12-month warranty on products and a 3-month warranty on accessories. Lifetime technical support is provided. Register your product on viofo.com to extend the warranty by 6 months.

Contact Us

For support, visit support.viofo.com, use the live chat on viofo.com, or email support@viofo.com. You can also find VIOFO on Facebook (facebook.com/viofo.world) or call +86 755 8526 8909 (CN) during business hours (Mon-Fri, 9:00-18:00).