Minolta MNCD42 - User Manual

The Minolta MNCD42 is a compact dash cam designed for in-vehicle use, offering a range of features for capturing video and photos. Its primary function is to record driving incidents, daily life, travel, and outdoor activities, providing evidence when needed. The device integrates 1080p HD video capture and high-resolution photo capabilities, utilizing advanced video decoding technology for excellent video quality.

Function Description:

The MNCD42 operates in three main modes: Video Capture, Photo Capture, and Playback. Upon powering on, it defaults to Video Capture Mode and automatically begins recording. Users can manually start or stop recording by pressing the OK button. In Photo Capture Mode, accessible by short-pressing the Power/Mode button, the device can capture still images instantly with the OK button, or even during video recording by pressing the UP button. Playback Mode allows users to review captured video and photo files, cycling through them with the UP and DOWN buttons. Videos can be played or paused using the OK button, and files can be deleted or protected from deletion via the MENU button.

Usage Features:

The dash cam is designed for ease of use, starting with its simple setup. A MicroSD memory card (Class 10 recommended, up to 64GB) is inserted with the gold pins facing the display screen. The device comes with a windshield suction cup mount, which screws into the mount port. This mount allows for wide-angle recording when attached to the car's windshield. For power, the MNCD42 connects to the car's power port via the included auxiliary DC power adaptor and USB cable. It automatically powers on and begins recording when connected. The internal battery has limited capacity, primarily for emergency situations.

The MNCD42 offers several user-adjustable settings to customize video and photo capture. In Video Mode, settings include:

• Video Resolution: Users can choose between 1080p (highest quality), 720p (medium quality), and 480p (low quality) to balance file size and video clarity.
• Cyclic Record (Loop Recording): This feature allows setting a maximum duration for video clips (Off, 1, 3, or 5 minutes). Once the duration is reached, the camcorder seamlessly starts a new recording, preventing the memory card from filling up with long, continuous files.
• High Dynamic Range (HDR): This setting can be turned On or Off to improve color and contrast in digital images and videos, especially in challenging lighting conditions.
• Motion Detection: When enabled, the camcorder automatically begins recording if movement is detected in front of the lens. It stops recording if no further movement is detected within 10 seconds.
• Audio Recording: The built-in microphone can be set to ON or OFF to record audio with video files or capture video silently.
• Date & Time Stamp: This feature imprints the current date and time onto recorded video files, which cannot be removed once applied.
• Collision Sensitivity: This setting adjusts the sensitivity for automatic recording upon detecting a collision. When triggered, the video file is locked and protected from deletion, marked with a specific icon.
• Parking Guard (Park Mode): When the camcorder is powered off and parked, this feature automatically powers on and records a video clip if a collision is detected. The sensitivity level can be adjusted, and the recording is locked and protected. This feature relies on sufficient internal battery power.
• Headlight Monitor: This setting alerts the user to turn on their car's headlights if the road appears too dark.

In Photo Mode, settings include:

• Photo Resolution: Options range from 12 Mega Pixels (highest quality) down to 5 Mega Pixels, affecting image clarity and file size.
• Photo Burst: This allows the camcorder to take 3 consecutive pictures at once (Off or 3 Photos).
• Photo Quality: Determines the compression level, with options like Fine (highest quality), Normal, and Economy (lowest quality). Higher compression results in lower quality but smaller file sizes.
• Photo Sharpness: Adjusts the visible detail in photos, with settings like Strong (sharp, saturated), Normal (medium sharpness), and Soft (duller).
• White Balance: This setting adjusts the color of light in photos to match different lighting conditions (Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent).
• Photo Color Filter: Applies color effects to photos, such as Normal, Black and White, and Sepia.
• ISO: Controls the light sensitivity for photos (Auto, 100, 200, 400), useful in various lighting environments.
• Image Stabilization: Electronically eliminates motion blur and shake in shaky or low-light conditions (Off or On).
• Quick Review: Allows reviewing a photo immediately after it's taken before returning to Photo Mode.
• Self-Timer: Sets a delay before taking a photo (Off, 2, 5, or 10 seconds).
• Date & Time Stamp: Similar to video, this imprints the date and time onto photos.

Playback Mode also offers file management features:

• Delete: Users can delete the current file or all files. A crucial note is that deleted media cannot be recovered.
• File Lock: This feature protects selected video and photo files from accidental deletion (Lock Current, Unlock Current, Lock All, Unlock All).

General setup settings, accessible from any mode, include:

• LED Flash: Controls the LED photo light (Off, On, Auto).
• Screen Auto Shut Off: Sets the time before the LCD screen automatically turns off (Off, 1, 3, or 5 minutes) to conserve power. Any button press wakes the screen.
• Frequency: Adjusts the power frequency of the camcorder (50Hz or 60Hz), typically 60Hz for North America.
• Beep Sound: Enables or disables the sound when pressing buttons.
• Language: Allows selection from several different languages for the menus.
• Date & Time Setup: Sets the current date (MM/DD/YYYY) and time (HH:MM:SS in 24-hour format).
• Format Memory Card: Erases all video and photo files on the memory card. This action is irreversible, and previously stored files cannot be recovered.
• Reset To Default Settings: Resets all menu settings to factory defaults without deleting any media stored on the memory card.
• Firmware Version: Displays the current firmware version of the camcorder.

Maintenance Features:

To ensure optimal performance and longevity, the MNCD42 requires some basic maintenance. Users are advised not to disassemble or attempt to service the camcorder themselves. It should be protected from moisture and extreme temperatures. When moving from cold to warm environments, allow the camera to warm up gradually. The camera lens should not be touched or subjected to pressure, nor should it be exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods. For cleaning, abrasive chemicals, cleaning solvents, or strong detergents should be avoided; instead, the product should be wiped with a slightly damp soft cloth. It's normal for the camera body to feel warm during extended use. The LCD monitor should not be subjected to impact. To prevent fire or electric shock, the appliance should not be exposed to rain or moisture.

For the windshield suction cup mount, if it loses its grip over time, it should be thoroughly cleaned with soap and water, allowed to dry for two hours, and then reapplied. Before applying the mount, ensure the windshield is clean and free of dirt or debris.

Regarding the memory card, it should not be removed or inserted while recording to prevent damage or data loss. If the camcorder freezes or becomes unresponsive, a reset button is provided on the front body of the camcorder. Inserting a pointy object into this reset hole will power cycle the device and restore functionality.

Connecting the camcorder to a computer via the included USB cable allows for media transfer. The camcorder acts as a memory card reader, automatically downloading necessary compatibility drivers to sync with the PC. Files can be accessed through "Start" (or "File Explorer") as a "Removable Disk."