Honda Drive Recorder - User Manual

This document describes the Honda Drive Recorder (DVR), a multi-function device designed to record video and sound while driving, provide evidence in case of accidents, and capture scenery. It offers various features for recording, protection, and interaction with smartphones and external displays.

Function Description

The Honda Drive Recorder is primarily a video recording device for vehicles. It automatically starts recording when the vehicle is started and continues for 3 minutes after the vehicle is turned off before shutting down. Video files are stored on a memory card in MOV format, with each file having a maximum length of 1 minute. Older files are overwritten in a loop once the memory card is full, unless they are manually locked.

The DVR is equipped with an acceleration sensor (G-sensor) that detects unexpected acceleration values, triggering a video protection logic to lock the video data. Up to 10 locked video files can be stored, with new locks overwriting the oldest locked file if the maximum is reached.

For parking monitoring, the DVR detects external impacts or strong vibrations while in standby mode and initiates a 1-minute video recording. It can store up to five parking monitoring video files, overwriting the oldest when the limit is reached.

A "Forward Vehicle Start Alert" feature detects the motion of the vehicle in front in real-time. In situations like traffic light junctions or traffic jams, the DVR will alert the driver with a sound if the vehicle in front moves and the driver has not followed within 3 seconds.

The DVR also supports smartphone interaction through a dedicated app called "DVR-Link." This app allows for real-time preview of recordings, file playback, and adjustment of DVR system settings. The device is compatible with most Apple and Android phones.

Additionally, the DVR has an HDMI interface, enabling users to connect it to a vehicle display device to play back recorded images. Operations like previous/next, play/pause, and return can be controlled using buttons on the DVR.

Usage Features

The DVR can be powered on and off in conjunction with the vehicle's ignition or manually via a button. When the vehicle is started, the DVR automatically enters general mode and begins recording. When the vehicle is off, it records for an additional 3 minutes before powering down. Indicator lights (orange for power, blue for wireless status) provide visual feedback on the device's status. An internal buzzer provides audible prompts for various events, such as button presses, forward vehicle start alerts, collision protection, and firmware upgrades.

Button functions on the DVR allow for various operations:

• Wireless ON/OFF | Start/Stop recording: A short press activates/deactivates wireless or starts/stops video recording. A long press starts/stops audio recording. In HDMI mode, this button functions as enter/play/stop.
• Back/video protection: This button is used for video file lock. In HDMI mode, it acts as a cursor to the left.
• Memory card: Unplugging the memory card during power on will force the DVR to power off. Plugging it back in resumes general mode. It is crucial not to unplug the memory card during recording to avoid damaging the current video file.

Gesture induction via infrared sensing is also available:

• Move to left/right gestures: In general mode, these gestures can be used to take photos or activate recording protection. In HDMI mode, they function as cursor left/right.

Smartphone interaction through the "DVR-Link" app offers extensive control:

• Connectivity: Users can connect their smartphone wirelessly to the DVR by activating the wireless function on the DVR, selecting the DVR's SSID ("HONDA_DVR_xxxxxx") in their phone's wireless settings, and entering the password ("DVR-xxxxxx," with the last six digits matching the SSID's last six digits). The system time automatically updates upon successful connection.
• File Management: The app allows users to view a remote file list, play back video files, switch between front and rear-view mirror camera files, delete files, and download them to their mobile phone. Video files are categorized into "ordinary video," "collision protection," "manual protection," and "parking monitoring."
• Real-time Viewing: The app provides a live view of the camera feed, allowing users to start/stop video recording, take photos, and enter full-screen mode. It's recommended to turn off the smartphone's Bluetooth function for optimal streaming performance.
• Settings: Users can adjust various settings through the app, including microphone on/off, white balance (Auto, Daylight, Cloudy), exposure value, HDMI output resolution, time synchronization, forward motion detection sensitivity, collision protection sensitivity (Low, Medium, High), parking monitoring sensitivity, gesture function on/off, formatting the DVR's storage card, and changing wireless connection settings (SSID and password). The default video player for playback can also be selected.

Maintenance Features

Regular maintenance is crucial for the optimal performance of the Honda Drive Recorder:

• Memory Card Management: It is recommended to format the memory card every 3 months to prevent fragmentation, which can slow down the DVR. The TF card is a consumable item and should be changed regularly. Before inserting or removing the memory card, ensure the DVR is fully turned off and the LED is off to prevent damage. When inserting, ensure metal contacts face upwards. Using non-original memory cards may cause abnormal functions.
• Cleaning: The camera lens and front windscreen should be cleaned with a clean cotton cloth to ensure clear image quality.
• Software Updates: Install the latest version of the "DVR-Link" app when available. Firmware upgrades are indicated by 5 beeps from the internal buzzer.
• Troubleshooting: The manual provides a Q&A section with common failure symptoms and their possible solutions, such as checking SD card and power cable connections, activating wireless functions manually, checking smartphone compatibility, reconnecting HDMI, clearing phone cache, adjusting display resolution, and performing factory resets for forgotten wireless passwords.
• Calibration: After installation, calibrate the DVR with the "DVR-Link" app to ensure the vehicle motion detecting function works correctly.
• Environmental Considerations: Avoid using the DVR for extended periods when the engine is off to prevent battery drain. Do not use the device in high-temperature conditions without cooling the car first, as this can cause malfunctions. Do not subject the equipment to pressure.
• Security: For user privacy, it is recommended to change the DVR's wireless SSID name and/or password after the first use. If the connection password is forgotten, a factory reset procedure is available.

The DVR is designed for professional installation by an authorized Honda dealer to ensure correct setup and functionality.