How to Get Started by Setting up a Smartphone Dash Cam
A smartphone dashcam is a car accessory that uses the video or audio recording capabilities of a smartphone. Using a dashcam with your smartphone will render ease in cost reduction and expenses. This type of dashcam can be helpful for people who frequently travel for long hours and don’t want any mishap to occur.
Smartphone dashcams can also be used if you are afraid of getting mugged when parking your car in the streets. This security feature is also a good idea if you are a driver among road safety activists.
Process
1. Connecting The Smartphone With A Dashcam
The first step is to download the dashcam app from your smartphone. The process will also involve pairing the devices through Bluetooth. Once this is done, you get to download the dashcam application on your smartphone. It’s good to start using the dashcam with your smartphone.
2. Mounting The Dashcam
You can place the device on your windshield. This is a good option as it gives you clear digital video and audio of what transpires while driving. If you want to mount the device on your dashboard, choose the install mode.
3. Adjustment Of Settings
Dashcam apps have settings for increasing and decreasing the recording time of each video and audio. This setting is found on both the dashcam app and your smartphone app. The best thing about these video settings is the automatic recording sessions for each segment.
4. Charging Of The Dashcam
You need a USB cable to connect the smartphone to your dashcam. Make sure that you charge the dashcam fully before going out for a drive.
5. Saving The Data
Make sure that you save all the videos and audio that you have recorded. Also, make sure that you store them appropriately to avoid any loss of data or accidental deletion. You have up to 60 days to save the data.
6. Running The Dashcam
To run the dashcam, tap on the recording button on your smartphone.
7. Troubleshooting Tips
Make sure that you perform regular checkups of the dashcam and its battery. You need to make sure that everything is charging properly before going out for a long drive. Also, ensure that the device is working well. This can be checked by noting if your dashcam is recording clear videos and audio or missing important segments in its recordings.
Top Apps for Dashcams
Dash Cam App
You can automatically set your device to record when you start driving or manually press a button to start recording. The app allows you to record films in 2K and 4K definition. The video quality is impressive, and the interface is straightforward to use. It can also support up to 64GB capacity.
Waze App
Waze is a GPS app that has been associated with Google since 2013. The app combines your smartphone’s GPS with real-time information from other motorists so you can avoid traffic jams. You can also use it to notify nearby motorists of any issues like accidents or hazards. On top of that, you can also use it to find a good parking spot and share the info with other motorists on the road. This app also supports messaging and offers a carpool option as well.
GPS Dash Cam App
GPS Dash Cam is an easy-to-use app for your GPS device that records HD videos in real-time. It can automatically save your video to a specific folder on the device. You can also choose a location for saving the video clips. The app is easy to use and has a clear interface.
Dash Cam Player App
The Dash Cam Player allows you to playback videos recorded using the camera application. You can also use it as a video player for other files like movies, TV shows, etc. It seems to have a pretty good user experience, and it appears that the app is pretty stable.
Lumify Cam – Dash Cam & Driving Recorder
The Lumify Cam app is simple to use and has a clear interface. It uses motion-detecting features of your phone to record video clips whenever you are driving. It also records audio in HD and 2K definition. The video quality is impressive, and the interface is straightforward to use.
Manual Settings for Smartphones
1. Audio Recording Mode
The audio recording mode allows you to record the audio coming from your phone’s microphone or the stereo speakers. You can switch between the modes as needed. You can also use the built-in microphone in your device to record audio during trips.
2- Location Settings
Keep your device on the location settings so you can get accurate directions. You can also use these settings to share real-time information on the road.
3- Motion Detection
Use motion detection to take a picture once it notices any change in movement and saves that memory into an album. It is beneficial for proving oneself innocent in various cases or if any memorable moment needs to be captured.
Best Place to Mount a Smartphone as a Dashcam
The best place to mount your smartphone as a dashcam is usually the windshield. It’s easier to see the road and keep an eye on traffic; you need a windshield that can withstand different weather conditions and keep away moisture. Also, you can securely mount any other electronics behind your dashboard with suitable plastic mounts.
Conclusion
Dashcams are a good alternative to the traditional video systems used by fleets. They give you an insight into what is happening on your vehicle and can also be used in road accidents and insurance claims. In addition to this, dashcams also give vehicle owners a feeling of security as they can record videos and take pictures of their surroundings when they are parked.