Transcend DrivePro 550 Dashcam User Manual

1. Package Contents

The DrivePro dashcam package includes the following items:

• DrivePro 550
• Suction Auto Mount
• microSD memory card
• Car adapter
• Quick Start Guide

2. Getting Started

2-1 Overview

The DrivePro 550 has the following components:

• Mounting Socket
• Microphone
• Front Lens
• Speaker
• Infrared LED
• Rear Lens
• 2.4" LCD Display
• Reset Button
• Record LED Indicator
• Power Button
• Emergency Button
• Function Buttons
• micro USB Port
• microSD Slot

2-2 Inserting a microSD Memory Card

Before you can start recording, you must insert a microSD memory card into the DrivePro.

1. Insert a microSD memory card into the DrivePro's card slot.
2. WARNING: Always format new memory cards in the DrivePro before use. To format a new memory card, press the Settings button during recording and select 'Format Card'.
3. Ensure the unit size of the microSD card is 32KB or larger. If not, the DrivePro will format the card before recording.
4. Formatting will erase all data on the memory card.
5. The DrivePro 550 only supports the FAT32 file system, not exFAT/NTFS.
6. To remove the memory card from the slot, push the memory card in.
7. WARNING: Do not remove the memory card while powering off to prevent damage to the memory card and loss of recorded videos.

Transcend recommends High Endurance microSD cards or MLC-based memory cards for the best recording performance.

2-3 Mounting the DrivePro

1. Insert the mounting bracket into the top of the DrivePro and slide sideways until you hear a click.
2. Clean and dry the area of the windshield where you will mount the DrivePro. Place the DrivePro in the center of the windshield close to the rearview mirror for the best view.
3. Push the suction cup lever down to securely attach the DrivePro to the windshield.
4. Turn the adjustment knob counter-clockwise to release the DrivePro and adjust its position.
5. Once the DrivePro is in the correct position, turn the adjustment knob clockwise to ensure the DrivePro is securely fixed.

2-4 Connecting to Power

1. Connect the micro-USB cable from the car charger adapter to the DrivePro.
2. Plug the other end of the adapter into your car's power outlet.
3. After the car engine starts, the DrivePro will automatically turn on and begin recording.
4. After the car engine is turned off, the DrivePro will automatically save the current recording and turn itself off.

• Note: Insert a microSD memory card into the DrivePro before connecting it to your car's power outlet.
• Car power outlets on some vehicle types will continue to supply power after the car engine is turned off. If your car is of this type, unplug your dashcam from the car's power outlet to prevent unnecessary power consumption and unexpected problems.

2-5 Function Buttons

The DrivePro 550 has the following function buttons:

• Power/WiFi Button (A): Press and hold for 3 seconds to turn the DrivePro on/off.
• Browse Files Button (B): Press and hold to quickly turn the microphone on/off.
• Settings Button (C): Press and hold to quickly open the Time Lapse menu.
• Snapshot Button (D): Press to take a snapshot.

WiFi is only connected when the DrivePro is connected to power.

2-6 LED Indicator

Note: WiFi is only connected when the DrivePro is connected to power.

2-7 Setting Date and Time

Configure the date, time, and UTC time zone settings to ensure accurate recording times.

1. Press the Settings button.
2. Use the Up/Down arrows to select 'Date/Time' and press OK.
3. Use the Up/Down arrows to adjust the values and press OK to move to the next block.
4. Repeat step 3 until the date/time and time zone settings are complete. Press OK to confirm the settings.

3. Recording Videos

3-1 Normal Recording

When the car engine is turned on, the DrivePro will automatically turn on and start recording. By default, one video file is saved for every 3 minutes of recording. To adjust the recording length, go to the Settings menu.

When the car engine is turned off, the DrivePro will automatically save the current recording and turn off.

• Screen Display:
• 1. Recording status indicator
• 2. Video length
• 3. Video resolution / Frame rate
• 4. WiFi connection indicator
• 5. GPS connection indicator
• 6. Microphone recording status
• 7. Battery status
• 8. Date / Time

3-2 Emergency Recording

30% of the storage space is used for emergency recording. Video files recorded in Emergency Recording mode are protected from overwriting.

• Manual Emergency Recording: Press the Emergency button on the side of the DrivePro during recording to manually activate Emergency Recording mode. A warning will appear on the screen when emergency recording is activated.
• G-Sensor Emergency Recording: During video recording, the DrivePro automatically activates the emergency recording function when it detects a collision.
• If the G-Sensor sensitivity is set too high, even the slightest shock will activate the emergency recording mode.
• If the G-Sensor sensitivity is set too low, only significant shocks will activate the emergency recording mode.

G-Sensor sensitivity can be adjusted in the Settings menu.

Note: Loop recording is enabled by default, meaning the DrivePro automatically overwrites the earliest emergency files with the latest recorded files.

3-3 Parking Mode

After the car engine is turned off, the DrivePro automatically activates parking mode. Any movement or collision will be recorded. Parking mode is disabled by default and can be enabled via Settings.

Note: Enabling parking mode after turning off the car engine may drain the DrivePro's built-in battery.

When parking mode is enabled, the LCD screen will be turned off and the LED indicator will remain solid red in standby. If the DrivePro detects a collision or vehicle movement, it will record for approximately 15 seconds and the display will turn on while the LED flashes red. If no movement is detected within 15 seconds, the display will turn off again. When the engine is turned on, the DrivePro will resume normal recording mode.

Transcend's car adapter does not supply power after the engine is turned off. If continuous recording in parking mode is required, use an external power source. Manually activate parking mode by long-pressing the Power button during normal recording mode. To turn off the DrivePro, long-press the Power button again.

Low Battery

Charge the DrivePro immediately upon receiving the low battery warning to prevent system time errors. Avoid using the built-in battery for direct video recording.

Note: If you plan to use the built-in battery for recording, ensure it has sufficient power.

4. Playing Videos and Browsing Photos

4-1 Playing Videos / Browsing Photos

1. During recording, press the Browse button.
2. Use the Up/Down arrows to select Normal, Emergency, or Snapshot, and press OK.
3. Use the Up/Down arrows to select the desired video file and press OK for a preview.
4. Press the Back arrow to return to the list of video files.

4-2 Deleting Videos/Photos

1. Press the Delete button to delete photos and videos.
2. The message "Delete?" will appear. Use the Up/Down arrows to cancel or confirm the deletion of the video/photo file, and press OK.

4-3 Securing Videos

1. Press the Lock button to secure the video file.
2. The message 'Lock?' will appear. Use the Up/Down arrows to select the desired option and press OK.

5. Settings

In the Settings menu, you can adjust video resolution, recording time, and G-sensor sensitivity. You can also configure date and time settings, change the interface language, format the memory card, and perform firmware upgrades.

1. During recording, press the Settings button.
2. Use the Up/Down arrows to select the desired menu option and press OK.
3. Change the value using the Up/Down arrows and press OK.
4. Press the Back arrow to return to the Settings menu.

5-1 Menu Options

Driving Assistant

System

5-2 Firmware Upgrade

1. After downloading the firmware from the Transcend website, decompress the folder and place it in the “SYSTEM” folder on the microSD memory card.
2. Insert the microSD memory card containing the latest firmware version into the DrivePro's card slot.
3. Connect the DrivePro to an external power outlet. Select 'Upgrade Firmware' in the Settings menu, and press OK to start the firmware detection process. The DrivePro will automatically find the latest firmware file. Select 'Confirm' to complete the firmware upgrade process.

Note: The firmware upgrade takes approximately 1-2 minutes. Do not turn off the DrivePro during the upgrade. The DrivePro will automatically restart after the upgrade is complete.

WARNING: NEVER remove the power cord or microSD memory card while the firmware is being updated.

If the DrivePro cannot be turned on due to a failed firmware upgrade, please contact Transcend customer service for technical support.

6. Using the DrivePro App

With the free downloadable DrivePro app, available for iOS (iPhone/iPad) and Android devices, you can wirelessly view live video footage during recording, manage DrivePro functions, and play back videos on your smartphone or tablet.

• DrivePro App: Download from the App Store or Google Play.

6-1 Downloading and Installing the DrivePro App

1. Search for "DrivePro" in the App Store or Google Play.
2. Download and install the DrivePro App. The App will appear on your device's home screen once installation is complete.

Refer to the DrivePro instructions before using the App.

6-2 Connecting to the DrivePro

Connect your mobile device to the DrivePro using one of the following methods:

• Option 1: Scan the WiFi QR code on the dashcam. Press the Power button on the DrivePro. Scan the QR code on the DrivePro's screen with your mobile device.
• Option 2: Select the WiFi signal. On your mobile device, go to Settings > Wi-Fi. Select the WiFi network with DP550 in the SSID. (The default password is 12345678)

2. Tap the DrivePro App icon on your mobile device and connect to the DrivePro 550.
3. The above image will be displayed when you connect to the DrivePro.

Note:

• We recommend changing the DrivePro's Wi-Fi password when you first connect with the app.
• To change the default SSID and password, go to Settings in the DrivePro app.

Visit the DrivePro FAQ for detailed operating instructions.

7. DrivePro Toolbox Software

The DrivePro Toolbox, developed for Windows and macOS, features a user-friendly interface that allows you to select and play videos recorded on your DrivePro. Recorded routes are displayed on a map without requiring separate code installation.

System Requirements for Connecting the DrivePro to a Computer:

• A desktop or laptop with a working USB port
• Microsoft Windows 10 or later
• macOS 10.12 or later

1. Download the installation files from: https://www.transcend-info.com/support/software/drivepro-toolbox
2. Install the DrivePro Toolbox software on your computer.

Functions

8. Transferring Files to a Computer

Remove the microSD memory card from the DrivePro and insert it into a compatible card reader to transfer files to your computer.

Note: After manually deleting files from your memory card in macOS, these files may temporarily exist as hidden files on the memory card, taking up space. Empty the Trash or format the memory card to fully free up space.

9. Troubleshooting

If you encounter a problem with your DrivePro, please check the following instructions before sending your DrivePro for repair. If you cannot find a solution to your question, please consult your point of sale customer service or the local Transcend office for further assistance. You can also visit the Transcend website for "Frequently Asked Questions" and "Technical Support". For any hardware issues, please refer to the DrivePro user manual.

• DrivePro buttons are unresponsive. (The dashcam crashes or operates with delay.)
  • Try unplugging the car adapter and reconnecting it to your DrivePro.
• Cannot play videos stored on my memory card.
  • Edited videos may not display correctly on your DrivePro.
• Nothing happens when I press the "Emergency Button."
  • "Emergency Recording" only works in recording mode.

10. Safety Precautions

These usage and safety guidelines are IMPORTANT! Please follow them carefully to ensure your own safety and protect your DrivePro from potential damage.

• General Use
  • For in-car use only.
  • For your own safety – and that of others – it is important not to operate the DrivePro or the DrivePro App while driving.
  • Avoid extreme temperatures.
  • Avoid water splashes or other liquids on the DrivePro and accessories.
  • Do not use the DrivePro in an environment with strong magnetic fields or excessive vibration.
  • Use only the car adapter supplied by Transcend. Other adapters may not be compatible with the DrivePro.
  • Some vehicles have power outlets that remain active even when the engine is turned off. If your car is of this type, unplug your dashcam from the car's power outlet to prevent unnecessary power consumption and unexpected problems.
  • The GPS system is subject to changes that may affect its accuracy and performance. Transcend does not guarantee the accuracy of GPS data and it should not influence your personal judgment while driving.
  • The GPS system does not provide a signal in buildings. The accuracy of GPS data depends on the environment, weather, and location of use (e.g., tall buildings, tunnels, underground parking garages, and forests).
  • WiFi is only available when the DrivePro is connected to power.
• Mounting Location
  • Never place the DrivePro in the driver's line of sight or in front of an airbag where it could be obstructed.
  • Mount the DrivePro within the reach of the windshield wipers to ensure clear images when it rains.
  • WARNING: If the DrivePro is mounted on a tinted window, carefully remove the DrivePro to avoid damaging the tint film.
• Data Storage
  • Transcend is NOT responsible for any loss of data or damage during the use of the DrivePro. We strongly recommend making regular backups of the data on your memory card.

WARNING: Rechargeable batteries can leak under extreme conditions. Improper use or abuse can lead to the following hazards:

• Overheating
• Fire
• Explosion
• Smoke development

11. Specifications

DrivePro 550

12. EU Declaration of Conformity

Transcend Information hereby declares that all CE-marked Transcend products with radio equipment functionality comply with Directive 2014/53 / EU.

The full text of the EU Declaration of Conformity is available at the following internet address: https://www.transcend-info.com/eu_compliance

13. Recycling and Environmental Protection

For more information about product recycling (WEEE) and battery disposal, please refer to the following link: https://www.transcend-info.com/about/green

14. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Declaration

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 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 causes 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 of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
• Connect the equipment to 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.

Information on RF Exposure (SAR)

This equipment complies with the FCC limit for portable RF exposure established for an uncontrolled environment. The exposure standard for wireless devices using a measurement unit is known as the Specific Absorption Rate or SAR. The SAR limit set by the FCC is 1.6 W/kg.

This equipment can be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 0 cm between the radiator and your body.

• Any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user's authority to operate the equipment.
• This device and its antenna must not be co-located or operated in conjunction with any other antenna or transmitter.

Transcend Information Inc (USA)
1645 North Brian Street, Orange, CA 92867, U.S.A
TEL: +1-714-921-2000

15. Warranty Policy

The warranty period for this product can be found on the packaging. For more information about warranty terms and periods, please refer to the link below: https://www.transcend-info.com/warranty

16. GNU General Public License (GPL) Disclosure

Visit https://www.transcend-info.com/legal/?no=10 for more information on open-source licenses.

17. End-User License Agreement (EULA)

Please refer to the following link for more information on software license terms: https://www.transcend-info.com/legal/gpl-disclosure-eula

18. Eurasian Conformity Mark (EAC)

EAC EAC