VIOFO A119 MINI 2 Dashcam User Manual

Product Overview

Package Contents

• VIOFO A119 MINI 2 Dashcam
• Car Charger
• Type-C USB Data Cable
• Pry Tool
• 3M Adhesive Mount
• Static Stickers (x2)

Note: The USB data cable is for connecting the dashcam to a computer to transfer video files or upgrade firmware. It cannot be used as a power cable for car charging.

Optional Accessories (Sold Separately)

• CPL (Circular Polarizing Lens) Filter
• Bluetooth Remote Control
• HK4 Hardwire Kit for Parking Surveillance

Product Diagram

The VIOFO A119 MINI 2 features a compact design with various ports and controls:

• Front View:
1. Menu / Power On / Power Off button
2. Previous / Start Recording / Stop Recording button
3. Confirm / Lock Video / Playback button
4. Next / Turn Microphone On / Turn Microphone Off button
5. Wi-Fi On / Off button
6. Power Port / Data Transfer Port
7. Memory Card Slot
• Side View:
1. Reset Hole
2. Power Status Indicator LED
3. Recording Status Indicator LED
4. Microphone Status Indicator LED
5. Wi-Fi Status Indicator LED
• Top View:
1. USB Power Port
2. Base (GPS Module)
3. Lens

LED Indicators

Button Functions

Recording Mode

Playback List Mode

Standby Mode (Not Recording)

Settings Menu Mode

Screen Icons

• ? Recording Mode
• ? Recording Status
• ⚠️ Emergency Recording
• ? Microphone
• ? Wi-Fi Status
• ⏱️ Recording Duration (e.g., 00:00:00)
• ?️ Video Resolution (e.g., 1440P30)
• ?️ GPS Status
• ? Memory Card

Dashcam Installation Instructions

Inserting/Removing Memory Card

Warning: Always turn off the A119 MINI 2 dashcam before inserting or removing the memory card. Inserting or removing the card while the dashcam is operating may damage files on the card.

Inserting Memory Card

Ensure the dashcam is turned off. Hold the memory card with the text facing towards the back of the dashcam. Insert the card into the slot until you hear a distinct "click" sound.

Removing Memory Card

To remove the memory card, first turn off the dashcam. Gently press the memory card with your finger until it pops out, then you can pull it out.

Important Notes:

• Memory cards are sold separately. Use a High Endurance (UHS-U1/U3 or higher) type memory card with a maximum capacity of 256GB.
• VIOFO recommends purchasing VIOFO brand memory cards, which use top-tier MLC NAND manufacturing for durability.
• For first-time use, the memory card must be formatted to FAT32. Other formats are not supported.
• Formatting will permanently delete all data on the memory card. For optimal performance, it is recommended to format the memory card regularly (backup important files in time).
• Ensure the dashcam is off and the card label faces forward (away from the screen) before pushing the storage card into the slot until you hear a click.

Formatting Memory Card

Formatting on the Dashcam

Insert the memory card into the dashcam, connect to the VIOFO App on your smartphone, and select "Format" from the App menu. Alternatively, long press the [REC] button on the dashcam.

Formatting on a Computer

Insert the memory card into your computer using a card reader. For deep formatting, you can download the formatting tool from the official VIOFO website: https://viofo.com/download/guiformat.exe

Installing the Dashcam

1. Choose Installation Location: Select a suitable position on the windshield near the rearview mirror, ensuring the camera does not obstruct the driver's view.
2. Clean Windshield: Use a damp cloth to thoroughly clean the installation surface of the windshield. Ensure there are no oil stains, fingerprints, or other dirt on the inside or outside of the car windshield.
3. Mount Dashcam: Install the dashcam on the windshield. Before installation, the static sticker can be applied to the chosen location first (refer to the Static Sticker section below).
4. Remove Protective Films: Peel off the protective film from the dashcam lens and the adhesive mount packaging.
5. Attach Dashcam: Affix the dashcam and gently press it for a few seconds to ensure it adheres firmly.
6. Adjust Lens Angle: Observe the real-time view on the LCD screen. Adjust the lens angle up and down to achieve the optimal shooting perspective.

Connecting Power

Insert the car charger head into the car's 12V/24V cigarette lighter socket, then insert the Type-C port into the dashcam's power interface.

Installing Static Sticker (Optional)

1. Clean Windshield: Before installation, clean the surface of the windshield thoroughly.
2. Apply Sticker: Peel off the red marked protective film from the static sticker, then apply the sticker to the windshield. Press for a few seconds to ensure no air bubbles remain.
3. Remove Green Film: Peel off the green marked protective film from the static sticker.
4. Attach Dashcam Mount: Tear off the dashcam base adhesive packaging and attach it to the static sticker. Press firmly for a few seconds to ensure the dashcam is securely fixed.

Important Considerations:

• Do not install the dashcam in a position that obstructs the driver's view or interferes with driving safety.
• It is recommended to install the dashcam near the rearview mirror for a better recording view.
• To ensure a clear view in rainy or snowy weather, install the dashcam within the wiper's sweep area to prevent obstructed views.
• Do not install the dashcam on or near the airbag panel.
• If the vehicle's rear windshield has a sunshade, ensure the dashcam's operation is not affected by it. For optimal performance, avoid installing other electronic devices near the dashcam to prevent interference.

Warning: Do not install the dashcam near the airbag panel or within the airbag deployment area. The manufacturer is not responsible for any injuries caused thereby.

Removing the Dashcam

To detach the camera from its bracket, slide the camera to the right, then pull the unit out from the mounting bracket.

Note: Always turn off the dashcam before attempting to insert or remove the camera.

Dashcam Operation and Specific Functions

Power On/Off

1. When the car engine starts, the dashcam will automatically power on and begin recording.
2. When you turn off the engine or unplug the car charger, the dashcam will stop recording and power off.
3. Long press the [Menu] button to manually turn the dashcam on or off.

Loop Recording

1. Once a memory card is inserted into the dashcam slot and power is connected, the dashcam will automatically begin loop recording.
2. Optional loop recording durations: 1 / 2 / 3 / 5 / 10 minutes.
3. When the memory card is full, new recording files will automatically overwrite the oldest files in sequence.
4. Loop recording files are stored in the `DCIMMovie` folder on the memory card.

Emergency Recording

Automatic Emergency Recording

When the dashcam is recording and detects sudden braking or severe bumps, it will automatically lock the current video to prevent it from being overwritten by loop recording.

Manual Emergency Recording

During recording, press the [Confirm/Lock] button to lock the current segment. Once locked, the video will not be overwritten by loop recording or deleted.

Note: You can adjust the collision sensitivity in System Settings -> "Collision Sensitivity" option. Locked videos are stored in the `DCIMMovieRO` path.

Turning Audio On/Off

Short press the [MIC] button to turn audio recording on or off. The [MIC] indicator light will turn blue when on and off when muted.

Parking Surveillance

The dashcam supports three different parking surveillance recording modes:

1. Motion Detection

When this mode is selected, the dashcam will automatically start recording if it detects moving objects within its monitoring range. If no new motion is detected, the dashcam will stop recording.

2. Time-Lapse Recording

Time-lapse recording captures video at a low frame rate of 1/2/3/5/10 frames per second (fps). This mode continuously records video but without audio.

3. Low Bitrate Recording

In this mode, the dashcam records video at a low bitrate of 4MB/s (including audio), resulting in smaller file sizes.

Note: Parking mode monitors the vehicle when the engine is off. Parking surveillance requires continuous power supply. To prevent draining the car battery, VIOFO recommends purchasing the VIOFO HK4 hardwire kit.

Video Playback and Management

Playback on the Dashcam

1. In standby mode (non-recording state), press the [Confirm/Lock] button to enter the playback list.
2. Use the [Previous/Record] and [Next/Mic] buttons to select a video, then press the [Confirm/Lock] button to play it.
3. Press the [Menu] button to exit playback.

Note: The dashcam's default video resolution is 2560 x 1440P 30fps.

Playback on a Smartphone

Long press the Wi-Fi button on the dashcam to enable Wi-Fi. Open the VIOFO App and select "Connect Device" to connect to the dashcam. The VIOFO App will then enter the real-time preview interface. You can stop recording, enter the menu, control the dashcam, modify settings, and play back videos through the App. Refer to the "Smartphone Operation and Playback" section in the App guide for more details.

Playback on a PC

1. Remove the memory card from the dashcam. Ensure the dashcam is turned off before removing the memory card.
2. Insert the memory card into a card reader, then insert the card reader into your computer to read the files.
3. Open the `DCIM` folder and use a video player like VLC or other compatible players to play back the videos.

Video Storage Paths

Smartphone APP Playback and Operation

Connecting to the Application

The dashcam can connect to the VIOFO APP on your smartphone for real-time preview of the recording screen, setting menu parameters, and downloading/playing back videos.

Android Devices

Android phone users can download the APP from the Google Play Store or directly from the official VIOFO website: https://www.viofo.com/content/13-app

iOS Devices

iOS phone users can search for "VIOFO" in the App Store to download the APP.

Connecting to the VIOFO APP

Open the menu and enable Wi-Fi, or long press the [Wi-Fi] button to activate Wi-Fi. The dashcam screen will display a Wi-Fi status icon, Wi-Fi name (SSID), and password.

1. Step 1: Connect your phone to the A119 MINI 2's Wi-Fi network. Once successfully connected, the Wi-Fi indicator light on the dashcam will turn solid blue.
2. Step 2: Open the VIOFO APP and tap "Connect Device" to automatically enter the real-time preview screen.
3. Step 3: From the real-time preview screen, you can tap different buttons to enter menu settings or view recorded videos.

APP Interface Overview

Tap "Connect Device" to control the dashcam with your phone.

Live View Interface Elements:

1. Real-time preview
2. Recording status
3. Switch camera video source (not applicable for this model)
4. Take video snapshot
5. Video file list
6. Start/Stop recording
7. Enter menu settings

Playback Preview Interface Elements:

1. Video file list
2. Download video file
3. Delete video file

Main Menu Elements:

1. Menu
2. Home
3. Local Video
4. VIOFO Facebook Page
5. After-sales Support
6. Firmware Update
7. VPN Connection

Installing Optional Accessories

Installing the CPL Filter

The CPL (Circular Polarizing Lens) filter is used to reduce reflections from the windshield and dashboard, which can degrade image quality. Similar to polarized sunglasses, it helps achieve more saturated and natural video effects.

When installing the CPL, locate the buckle position, then align the CPL with the buckle and snap it onto the dashcam's lens.

Connecting the Bluetooth Remote Control

The Bluetooth remote control has an adhesive backing, allowing it to be attached to any suitable position on the car's dashboard. When you press the Bluetooth remote control button, the dashcam will lock the current video file and take a video snapshot, securely protecting important videos from being overwritten.

Pairing with the Dashcam

• Turn on the dashcam.
• Long press the Bluetooth remote control button for 3 seconds to initiate pairing.
• Once successfully paired, the Bluetooth remote control indicator light will turn blue.

System Settings

Press the Menu button to access settings. Please stop recording before entering the menu.

• Video Resolution: Set the video recording resolution. Options include:
  • 2592 * 1944P 30fps
  • 2560 * 1600P 30fps
  • 2560 * 1440P 30fps / 60fps
  • 2560 * 1080P 30fps / 60fps
  • 2304 * 1296P 30fps
  • 1920 * 1080P 60fps / 30fps
  • 2304 * 1296P 30fps
• Video Bitrate: Low / Medium / High. You can set the video bitrate. A high bitrate improves video quality and clarity but uses more memory card storage space. A low bitrate saves storage space and records more video.
• Loop Recording Time: Off / 1 / 2 / 3 / 5 / 10 minutes. After the dashcam powers on, it will automatically start loop recording. The default file length is 3 minutes. When the memory card is full, the newest recording files will automatically overwrite the oldest files.
• Exposure Compensation: Adjust the EV value to achieve better shooting results under different lighting conditions. The exposure value range is from -2.0 to +2.0, with a default setting of 0.0.
• HDR (High Dynamic Range): On / Off / Custom HDR. Default is "Off". High Dynamic Range technology provides a wider dynamic range and more image details, automatically balancing exposure in overly bright and overly dark areas, effectively preventing overexposed license plates.
• Parking Surveillance: There are 3 modes available for parking surveillance:
  • ① Motion Detection: When parking, if the dashcam detects moving objects within its monitoring range, it will automatically start recording. If no new motion is detected, it will stop recording.
  • ② Time-Lapse Recording: In time-lapse recording mode, the dashcam records video at a low frame rate of 1/2/3/5/10fps, allowing for continuous video recording without audio.
  • ③ Low Bitrate Recording: In this mode, the dashcam records video at a low bitrate of 4MB/s (including audio), resulting in smaller file sizes.

  Note: Parking surveillance requires long-term power supply. To avoid draining the car battery, VIOFO recommends purchasing the VIOFO HK4 hardwire kit.

• Delayed Parking Surveillance: Sets a timer for entering parking mode. (Only applicable with hardwire cable; this function will not work if you use an external battery.) "Off" means the dashcam will enter parking mode immediately when the engine is turned off. "90 seconds" means the dashcam will enter parking mode 90 seconds after the engine is turned off.
• Parking Surveillance Duration: Sets the duration for parking surveillance. "On" means the dashcam will continue recording until the hardwire kit cuts off power below the protection value. "1 hour" means the dashcam will stop recording 1 hour after entering parking mode.
• Parking Surveillance G-sensor: When the gravity sensor detects a vehicle impact or collision, emergency recording will be triggered. It is recommended to set the parking surveillance mode to high sensitivity.
• Parking Surveillance Motion Detection Sensitivity: Selecting "Low" sensitivity for motion detection can prevent invalid recordings triggered by minor movements, such as wind or rain.
• Time-Lapse Recording: Off / 1 / 2 / 3 / 5 / 10 fps. Sets specific time intervals to capture frames and combine them into low-frame-rate video clips, saving storage space and shortening video viewing time. This recording mode is off by default.
• Motion Detection: When this function is enabled, if the dashcam detects a moving object within its front field of view, it will start recording. Once no motion is detected for 60 seconds, recording will stop, and it will switch back to detection mode. If the device detects new motion, it will start recording again.
• GPS: You can enable or disable the GPS information tag function of the dashcam. If disabled, the dashcam will no longer record speed and location, nor will it synchronize time/date (only effective with GPS signal). Use "Dashcam Viewer" on a computer to play back videos and view location and speed.
• Disable GPS in Parking Mode: On / Off. You can disable GPS in parking mode.
• Speed Unit: Set the speed unit to Kilometers per Hour (KPH) or Miles per Hour (MPH).
• Collision Sensitivity: You can set "Low", "Medium", "High" for sensitivity. This setting determines the force required to trigger emergency recording. When emergency recording is triggered, the dashcam will automatically lock the current video to prevent the file from being overwritten by loop recording. VIOFO recommends setting the G-sensor sensitivity to "Low".
• Wi-Fi: Can be set to On / Off. Long press the [Wi-Fi] button for 3-5 seconds to quickly enable Wi-Fi. VIOFO recommends selecting 5GHz mode.
• Date Stamp: Displays date and time in the video.
• GPS Info Stamp: Displays GPS coordinates and speed information in the video.
• Brand Model Stamp: Displays the dashcam model in the video.
• Audio Recording: Turn the microphone on/off. You can also press the [MIC] button during dashcam recording to turn the microphone on or off.
• Screen Saver: Set the automatic screen off time. The screen will enter sleep mode.
• Delayed Power On: The dashcam will delay powering on after power is connected. Options: Off / 5 seconds / 10 seconds.
• LED: Turn LED indicators on/off.
• Date / Time: Set the date and time for the dashcam.
• Time Zone: Set the current time zone for GPS time and date calibration. Note: Daylight saving time switching needs to be adjusted manually.
• System Language: Screen language. Available languages include English, Traditional Chinese, French, etc.
• Voice Notification: Turn voice notifications on/off.
• Voice Control: Turn voice control on/off. When voice control is enabled, you can control the dashcam using voice commands. Use voice to control the dashcam to take photos, turn off Wi-Fi, start recording, and other operations. Voice recognition follows the system language setting.

Voice Control Commands:

• "Take Photo"
• "Turn off screen"
• "Record"
• "Lock Video"
• "Turn on audio"
• "Turn on Wi-Fi"
• "Turn off audio"
• "Turn off Wi-Fi"
• "Turn on screen"

• Light Source Frequency: Light source frequency adjustment settings can minimize flicker and banding in recorded videos. VIOFO recommends setting it to 50Hz.
• Image Rotation: Can set image to flip vertically.
• Image Mirror: Can set image to flip horizontally.
• Format Memory Card: This operation will delete all data on the memory card. Note: After formatting the memory card, all information will be deleted and cannot be recovered. Please back up all important files before formatting.
• Format Reminder: Set the interval for the format reminder.
• Factory Reset: Restore the dashcam to its factory default settings.
• Car Plate Number: A customizable 11-digit number displayed in the video for adding car plate information or identification features.
• Custom Text: Custom text displayed in the video.
• Version Info: Displays current firmware version information.

Firmware Upgrade

Enter the following link to access the official website's firmware page. Follow the instructions on that page to download and complete the firmware upgrade:

https://www.viofo.cn/product-support

Important:

• Before upgrading the firmware, ensure the memory card is formatted to FAT32 to ensure accurate reading by the dashcam.
• During firmware upgrades, ensure a stable power supply. Do not unplug the power midway to avoid the dashcam failing to start.

Customer Service

Thank you for choosing VIOFO!

All VIOFO products come with a 12-month warranty from the date of purchase, and all accessories have a 3-month warranty. VIOFO provides lifetime technical support to all users. VIOFO strives to ensure 100% satisfaction with its products and services.

Feedback

If you have any suggestions on how VIOFO can improve, please contact via email at support@viofo.com or add VIOFO on WeChat to get in touch.

How to Contact VIOFO?

• Email: support@viofo.com
• Phone: 0755 8526 8909
• QQ User Group: 893968675
• QQ Official Group: 759600594
• Business Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 AM to 6 PM.
• WeChat: Search for "VIOFO Dashcam" or scan the QR code provided in the original document.

Video Sharing

Share videos recorded with your VIOFO dashcam. Let's share your wonderful moments! Send them to marketing@viofo.com or contact via WeChat, and you will have a chance to receive a mystery gift.