BlackVue DR400G HD II - Installation, Test Videos and Review
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BlackVue DR400G HD II - Installation, Test Videos and Review
I recently purchased the DR400HD II 16GB from Blackvue USA (a vendor on this forum)....
Communication: Matt was great to work with. He responded to PM's instantly. I sure hope his after sales support is the same way
Shipping: Shipping was quick and I got the product in couple days.
I ordered the DR400G HDII and the Power Magic Pro connector.
The following came in:
DR400G HD II
16GB MicroSD card
SD Card adapter
USB - SD Card Adapter
Power Cord
Multiple attachments and double sided tape
Power Magic Pro
Connector cable
Owners Manual/Installation guide for both
Unboxing - kinda
Installation:
Installation was very simple. Installed in 2 cars in less than 1 hour. Will upload pix tomorrow.
All you need is, 1 always positive wire, 1 ground wire/frame ground bolt and 1 IGN wire....
For the Positive wire, I took the WHITE wire from behind the stereo...(since I am gutted, and using the wire before for power, it was an easy find)
For IGN, wire to fuse #32. Add a fuse and done. I put a 5Amp fuse.
For ground, I wired the cable to the ground frame bolt.
Connect the cable to the power magic pro module, connect the power supply for the cam to the module and you are done....that simple
I took it for a test drive and came back, changed some settings (basically time zone/etc) and was done....
Application installation
1> Take the micro SD card that comes with the camera, attach it to your computer and format it (recommended but not needed)
2> Insert it into the camera and turn the car on....make sure you insert the card first before you power the car on
3> The camera will initialize the card and start recording. Once it starts turn the car off
4> Once the camera has powered down, remove the power connector, remove the Micro SD Card
5> Connect the SD card to you laptop
6> Explore SD Card on your laptop and go to the following folder path:
E:\Software
7> Double click the "BlackVueSetup(HD)_E_v2.021.exe" file and install the application on your laptop.
8> Done
To Change the Camera Settings/Profile
1> Open the Blackvue application you just installed
2> On the top right corner, under the 'X' to close the app, you will see the settings menu
3> Click on it. Here you can change various settings
You can also hit on the MAP tab to see on the map where you were as this little sucka does have GPS
Some Test Videos
PLEASE NOTE: None of the videos were edited. None were stabilized using Youtube. I started the radio to show the sound quality in some of the videos. For the night time, I mentioned when I turn on or off the high beam
Night time tests
Day Time tests:
Dusk
Well, as you can see, the videos are very clear, I like the form factor of the camera as well.
Pros: Re-read the full post above
Couple notes:
1> I felt the MIC could have been a tad bit more sensitive. I would have liked it if I could hear the indicator blinking noise in the videos. But in some videos where I have the music on, I felt a more sensitive MIC would have really distorted the sound. So I guess its not really a compromise....
2> Recording time: The unit allows you 1/2/3 minutes of recording per file. So if you take a 30 minute drive, it will have either 30 videos or 15 videos of 10, depending on the setting. At first I thought WTF. But when uploading the videos, it was so simple. Searching them was super easy and I didnt have to trim the videos....
Overall, I am very very pleased with this unit and do recommend it....
You can buy this at:
http://www.blackvueusa.com/Our-Products.html
Use coupon code "swoosh" at checkout for a discount
Communication: Matt was great to work with. He responded to PM's instantly. I sure hope his after sales support is the same way
Shipping: Shipping was quick and I got the product in couple days.
I ordered the DR400G HDII and the Power Magic Pro connector.
The following came in:
DR400G HD II
16GB MicroSD card
SD Card adapter
USB - SD Card Adapter
Power Cord
Multiple attachments and double sided tape
Power Magic Pro
Connector cable
Owners Manual/Installation guide for both
Unboxing - kinda
Installation:
Installation was very simple. Installed in 2 cars in less than 1 hour. Will upload pix tomorrow.
All you need is, 1 always positive wire, 1 ground wire/frame ground bolt and 1 IGN wire....
For the Positive wire, I took the WHITE wire from behind the stereo...(since I am gutted, and using the wire before for power, it was an easy find)
For IGN, wire to fuse #32. Add a fuse and done. I put a 5Amp fuse.
For ground, I wired the cable to the ground frame bolt.
Connect the cable to the power magic pro module, connect the power supply for the cam to the module and you are done....that simple
I took it for a test drive and came back, changed some settings (basically time zone/etc) and was done....
Application installation
1> Take the micro SD card that comes with the camera, attach it to your computer and format it (recommended but not needed)
2> Insert it into the camera and turn the car on....make sure you insert the card first before you power the car on
3> The camera will initialize the card and start recording. Once it starts turn the car off
4> Once the camera has powered down, remove the power connector, remove the Micro SD Card
5> Connect the SD card to you laptop
6> Explore SD Card on your laptop and go to the following folder path:
E:\Software
7> Double click the "BlackVueSetup(HD)_E_v2.021.exe" file and install the application on your laptop.
8> Done
To Change the Camera Settings/Profile
1> Open the Blackvue application you just installed
2> On the top right corner, under the 'X' to close the app, you will see the settings menu
3> Click on it. Here you can change various settings
You can also hit on the MAP tab to see on the map where you were as this little sucka does have GPS
Some Test Videos
PLEASE NOTE: None of the videos were edited. None were stabilized using Youtube. I started the radio to show the sound quality in some of the videos. For the night time, I mentioned when I turn on or off the high beam
Night time tests
Day Time tests:
Dusk
Well, as you can see, the videos are very clear, I like the form factor of the camera as well.
Pros: Re-read the full post above
Couple notes:
1> I felt the MIC could have been a tad bit more sensitive. I would have liked it if I could hear the indicator blinking noise in the videos. But in some videos where I have the music on, I felt a more sensitive MIC would have really distorted the sound. So I guess its not really a compromise....
2> Recording time: The unit allows you 1/2/3 minutes of recording per file. So if you take a 30 minute drive, it will have either 30 videos or 15 videos of 10, depending on the setting. At first I thought WTF. But when uploading the videos, it was so simple. Searching them was super easy and I didnt have to trim the videos....
Overall, I am very very pleased with this unit and do recommend it....
You can buy this at:
http://www.blackvueusa.com/Our-Products.html
Use coupon code "swoosh" at checkout for a discount
Last edited by swoosh; 01-22-2013 at 11:01 PM.
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swoosh (01-22-2013)
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^^^ Magic pro is awesome !!!
about the Mic, I think its good, not really something than needs modding ya know....if it was a lot more sensitive, and you listen to loud music, then your videos are gonna be messed up....
either way, do keep me and this thread updated bro...
about the Mic, I think its good, not really something than needs modding ya know....if it was a lot more sensitive, and you listen to loud music, then your videos are gonna be messed up....
either way, do keep me and this thread updated bro...
#5
Safety Car
Glad you are happy. After a lot of researching got this model below due to better clarity, deign, mic, and features.
ITB-hd100
http://www.radardetectorforum.org/sh...904#post191904
Sample video from mine of a guy coming over into our lane. I adjusted the camera up a little since then so it focuses better.
ITB-hd100
http://www.radardetectorforum.org/sh...904#post191904
Sample video from mine of a guy coming over into our lane. I adjusted the camera up a little since then so it focuses better.
Last edited by pimpin-tl; 01-23-2013 at 06:29 AM.
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but all you really need is a multimeter....I also installed this on the wifey's lexus. I found all 3 wires (+12V, GND, IGN) in the sun roof console. Just remove it, go at it with a multimeter to get your wires, tap into it, done
Glad you are happy. After a lot of researching got this model below due to better clarity, deign, mic, and features.
ITB-hd100
http://www.radardetectorforum.org/sh...904#post191904
Sample video from mine of a guy coming over into our lane. I adjusted the camera up a little since then so it focuses better.
http://youtu.be/5guHul0iOsk
ITB-hd100
http://www.radardetectorforum.org/sh...904#post191904
Sample video from mine of a guy coming over into our lane. I adjusted the camera up a little since then so it focuses better.
http://youtu.be/5guHul0iOsk
#7
Thanks for the review Swoosh!
Our unit truly does shine in terms of its unique feature set that provides a complete solution for anyone interested in a dash camera.
Check out our website for more information:
www.BlackvueUSA.com
Our unit truly does shine in terms of its unique feature set that provides a complete solution for anyone interested in a dash camera.
Check out our website for more information:
www.BlackvueUSA.com
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#8
riding low and steady
iTrader: (3)
^^^ Magic pro is awesome !!!
about the Mic, I think its good, not really something than needs modding ya know....if it was a lot more sensitive, and you listen to loud music, then your videos are gonna be messed up....
either way, do keep me and this thread updated bro...
about the Mic, I think its good, not really something than needs modding ya know....if it was a lot more sensitive, and you listen to loud music, then your videos are gonna be messed up....
either way, do keep me and this thread updated bro...
Last edited by dontTL'em'nothing; 01-23-2013 at 11:50 AM.
#9
Safety Car
Since then mine is adjusted up so where I only see the edges of my hood now. It also focuses on the road/cars instead of the hood/dash.
Will, if you were local, I would have definitely helped you buddy....
but all you really need is a multimeter....I also installed this on the wifey's lexus. I found all 3 wires (+12V, GND, IGN) in the sun roof console. Just remove it, go at it with a multimeter to get your wires, tap into it, done
Maybe, I should adjust it a little bit down then for better focus. The reason, I have a little higher coz if you see your video, you see half the screen is filled with the dash/hood....I wanted to have it seeing a little bit up.....
but all you really need is a multimeter....I also installed this on the wifey's lexus. I found all 3 wires (+12V, GND, IGN) in the sun roof console. Just remove it, go at it with a multimeter to get your wires, tap into it, done
Maybe, I should adjust it a little bit down then for better focus. The reason, I have a little higher coz if you see your video, you see half the screen is filled with the dash/hood....I wanted to have it seeing a little bit up.....
#10
damn i've been wanting a dash cam but now my compliance bushings and winter tires. and rear inner tire issues with load, camber kit and front caster (wtf?) and front camber
crap.
crap.
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Will,
I think that camera is still couple months out....by the time we get the firmware in english, it will be a little bit longer (i would think)....
just like a phone/computer/cars/any electronic or any item, a newer model is around the corner, if you keep waiting, you will never own one
I think that camera is still couple months out....by the time we get the firmware in english, it will be a little bit longer (i would think)....
just like a phone/computer/cars/any electronic or any item, a newer model is around the corner, if you keep waiting, you will never own one
#13
Racer
Will,
I think that camera is still couple months out....by the time we get the firmware in english, it will be a little bit longer (i would think)....
just like a phone/computer/cars/any electronic or any item, a newer model is around the corner, if you keep waiting, you will never own one
I think that camera is still couple months out....by the time we get the firmware in english, it will be a little bit longer (i would think)....
just like a phone/computer/cars/any electronic or any item, a newer model is around the corner, if you keep waiting, you will never own one
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Its something similar to the GoPro....but has features like it displays speed/time/etc on the screen....
you can run it as a dedicated dash cam (I am running it that way for the wifey)....with the way people drive now a days i rather be safe than sorry
besides, you can record your sexy exhaust note and share it
you can run it as a dedicated dash cam (I am running it that way for the wifey)....with the way people drive now a days i rather be safe than sorry
besides, you can record your sexy exhaust note and share it
Last edited by swoosh; 01-26-2013 at 02:31 PM.
#16
Safety Car
Yep. Like my video was a good example. What if the guy ran into us? I have it on video and we can go back to it for plates, or whatever else. Or if you T-Bone someone and they said you ran the red light, when it was actually green and they ran it. Your proof is on your video.
#18
Instructor
you dont need power magic, you can simply plug it into the cig lighter but with power magic you can have the camera running 24/7. without it you cannot run it 24/7
i have the dr400g and its great!
i have the dr400g and its great!
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1> your camera will be on until the battery drops to a certain level....so it wont drain your battery
2> you can have it powered in, so when the unit senses shock (so if someone backed into you) the camera will start up and record for (1-3 minutes depending on your settings)...
its not needed, but recommended
buddy, I have been procrastinating....I will have a DIY for ya tomorrow....Since my interior is stripped out, it was easier to find wires LOL
#22
Safety Car
When you install, look for a open fuse slots in the fuse box. I did on my 4th gen and found one that had constant power and just used a fuse tap into it. Worked like a charm. It's own dedicated circuit.
#23
I have 2 of these (the 400 and the 380) and love them.
Altho I couldn't get the LEDs on the side button to stay off when the unit is turned on or off so i cut some vinyl to cover it
Altho I couldn't get the LEDs on the side button to stay off when the unit is turned on or off so i cut some vinyl to cover it
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I was wrong about the 500GW HD...its coming out sooner
Originally scheduled to be released Mid-March to April for the North American market but has arrived early!
This unit is not a replacement to the DR400G-HD II but rather a new line that adds Wifi functionality to our every popular dash camera unit.
With the Wifi hotspot feature enabled you can transfer files from your dash camera wireless to any Apple iOS or Google Android device.
In addition to being able to transfer files you can now monitor your vehicle remotely within a range of approximately 15-20 m.
Formatting your SD card has also never been easier as it can now be done directly through the device.
Let's see how many people are interested in terms of finalizing this group buy and getting units out there to all those interested parties.
We would like to announce the early arrival of the BlackVue WiFi DR500GW-HD.
Originally scheduled to be released Mid-March to April for the North American market but has arrived early!
This unit is not a replacement to the DR400G-HD II but rather a new line that adds Wifi functionality to our every popular dash camera unit.
With the Wifi hotspot feature enabled you can transfer files from your dash camera wireless to any Apple iOS or Google Android device.
In addition to being able to transfer files you can now monitor your vehicle remotely within a range of approximately 15-20 m.
Formatting your SD card has also never been easier as it can now be done directly through the device.
Let's see how many people are interested in terms of finalizing this group buy and getting units out there to all those interested parties.
#25
BANNED
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very cool. glad i waited to purchase one!
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if you wait a little bit longer they are coming out with DR600-'G'. It features front and rear camera's, wifi, bluetooth and NFC to beam straight to your android device
See thats the thing with technology buddy, the minute you buy something a newer model will come and replace it....you have had first hand experience with the GoPro...but if you wait, would you have bought it at all?
See thats the thing with technology buddy, the minute you buy something a newer model will come and replace it....you have had first hand experience with the GoPro...but if you wait, would you have bought it at all?
#28
Anyone interested in the camera can get it on for $90 less ($309) or at one Blackvue Canadian distributor (http://artofspeedracing.ca/index.php/blackvue-dr500g-wifi-1080p-dash-camera-blackbox-accident-recorder.html) for $110 less ($290).
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lights (02-08-2013)
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Sorry guys I have been really strapped up at work....I will have detailed installation in a couple days...
#30
What settings do you have for your Power Magic Pro?
I have a Power Magic (non pro) and the settings aren't so clear...I have it set to cut off at 11.8V and the timer set to 1 hr but it seems to record continuously until it reaches 11.8V.
Is this what yours does?
I set the Normal Recording to OFF
I set the sensitivity for the motion detector to very sensitive but whenever i wave my hand in front of the lens it doesn't start recording. The LED just stays SOLID, instead of blinking.
I have a Power Magic (non pro) and the settings aren't so clear...I have it set to cut off at 11.8V and the timer set to 1 hr but it seems to record continuously until it reaches 11.8V.
Is this what yours does?
I set the Normal Recording to OFF
I set the sensitivity for the motion detector to very sensitive but whenever i wave my hand in front of the lens it doesn't start recording. The LED just stays SOLID, instead of blinking.
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^^^ let me post a picture of the manual that came with it to show you the options it provides
I have mine set to 11.8v
I have mine set to 11.8v
#33
A6 and TL
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You might wanna change the SD card to a class 10 card. I bought a 32GB class 10 sandisk micoSD card for $14 at BB. MUCH BETTER quality recordings/sound with the class 10 as compared to the class 6 16GB card that came with my 400G HDII.
Last edited by Aretardedorange; 02-09-2013 at 03:33 AM.
#35
It may be faster, but nothing else.
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Thanks Dan....I still have to do a write up....these are just reviews LOL...
Did you format the SD card? when you format the card and put it in the Camera it gets loaded with everything you need from the camera....if you bought it from this vendor the firmware is in english....
#38
From my experience, video is only choppy under certain video viewers. I noticed that if you watched Full HD videos with the Blackvue player it is a bit choppy at times but if you use Windows Media Player it's fine.
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I have been working on couple projects on my car....
Let me take some pix of the cam installed on my wifey's car....this will give you an idea of how it will look and where to install....
Let me take some pix of the cam installed on my wifey's car....this will give you an idea of how it will look and where to install....