Dashcam options

Sypher · 07-27-2016, 09:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by snaketh

I just bought and installed the A-118C. Same one as another member here mentioned and Techmoan on Youtube gave a pretty good review on it. There's a few sellers of the A-118C. Just make sure you get the capacitor version and not the battery one. Batteries fail, especially in the heat.

I also bought a Samsung MicroSD card ($10), and an Add a fuse ($6) (to tap one of my fuses). If I had a powered mirror I would have use that; way easier and cleaner.

One thing I forgot to get and bought for $8 at harbor freight was some plastic trim removal pieces. I highly recommend these for routing the wire.

https://www.amazon.com/Spy-Tec-A118-...keywords=a118c

I have the same camera in mine but bought from ebay seller estore009. I've bought a few cameras from them over the years and they're legit. Camera came in about a week, which is pretty impressive for a package from China. I have it tapped into the same fuse as the radio using an add-a-fuse.

Elvisfan · 07-31-2016, 06:33 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Regardless

Can those of us who have dashcams please share the brand and model?

I'm interested in installing one but it seems the U.S. Market hasn't really caught up with them yet.

Thanks in advance!

I have a Garmin Nuvicam. 7 inch screen,speed limits and it's also a GPS with lifetime traffic and maps. I can use the BMW display for other things while I view the maps on my Garmin. Just plugged into the lighter though.

haOo · 08-01-2016, 11:26 AM

I have a 228i base and installed my A119 dash cam (not hardwired.) If I leave it plugged in when I lock the car, the cam turns off after 30seconds - a minute or so. When I come back to the car and unlock it, the power kicks on. I just want to confirm this is the case because I don't want the dashcam to trickle drain my battery.

Anybody know for sure?

Almaretto · 08-01-2016, 12:16 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by haOo

I have a 228i base and installed my A119 dash cam (not hardwired.) If I leave it plugged in when I lock the car, the cam turns off after 30seconds - a minute or so. When I come back to the car and unlock it, the power kicks on. I just want to confirm this is the case because I don't want the dashcam to trickle drain my battery.

Anybody know for sure?

Check the footage. If it is recording the whole time you are gone, then it does not shut down.

Zooks527 · 08-01-2016, 12:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by haOo

I have a 228i base and installed my A119 dash cam (not hardwired.) If I leave it plugged in when I lock the car, the cam turns off after 30seconds - a minute or so. When I come back to the car and unlock it, the power kicks on. I just want to confirm this is the case because I don't want the dashcam to trickle drain my battery.

Anybody know for sure?

It's 3 minutes, not 30 seconds, but, yes, all BMWs behave that way.

haOo · 08-01-2016, 12:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zooks527

It's 3 minutes, not 30 seconds, but, yes, all BMWs behave that way.

Hey thank you for the fast answer.

hoppy6698 · 08-03-2016, 06:17 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Zooks527

It's 3 minutes, not 30 seconds, but, yes, all BMWs behave that way.

Unless you code this out. It starts at 3 mins, but it can be coded to power off when you open the driver's door. I did this to the radio setting, but it affects the power outlet in the front center console.

Just installed the A119 myself and really like how small and out of line of sight it is. I just wish the manual explained the buttons and other option settings better.

Elvisfan · 08-03-2016, 08:54 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hoppy6698

Unless you code this out. It starts at 3 mins, but it can be coded to power off when you open the driver's door. I did this to the radio setting, but it affects the power outlet in the front center console.

Just installed the A119 myself and really like how small and out of line of sight it is. I just wish the manual explained the buttons and other option settings better.

I like the fact that it powers on when you open the door. The Garmin is then all set to go.

haOo · 08-04-2016, 01:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hoppy6698

Unless you code this out. It starts at 3 mins, but it can be coded to power off when you open the driver's door. I did this to the radio setting, but it affects the power outlet in the front center console.

Just installed the A119 myself and really like how small and out of line of sight it is. I just wish the manual explained the buttons and other option settings better.

hmm..i'll have to research how to code. i'm a noob

hoppy6698 · 08-04-2016, 06:42 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by haOo

hmm..i'll have to research how to code. i'm a noob

Check under the coding section to learn. I found it very easy. Bought a USB-ODBII cable, had an extra windows laptop, and good to go. This thread is a good place to start:
http://www.2addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=997749

And Pikcachu is the man to talk to if you hit a stumbling block. You can't really screw it up once inside the system, since you can always just reset it.

Almaretto · 08-04-2016, 08:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hoppy6698

Check under the coding section to learn. I found it very easy. Bought a USB-ODBII cable, had an extra windows laptop, and good to go. This thread is a good place to start:
http://www.2addicts.com/forums/showthread.php?t=997749

And Pikcachu is the man to talk to if you hit a stumbling block. You can't really screw it up once inside the system, since you can always just reset it.

You need K+DCAN (USB-OBDii) for E-series and ENET for F-/I-/G-series. Different cables and software, but rather straight forward and minimal risk if you follow a few rules.

Deutsche-Broke · 08-04-2016, 09:24 PM

Blackvue DR650GW-2CH..

Pros: Incredible unit.. Beautiful, zoomable video, good interior audio, easy to install and discreet, built in wi-fi. Completely installed in less than an hour.

Cons: A tad expensive but worth it.. I think I paid $290, runs a tiny bit hot.

If on the fence, pull the trigger. I'm glad I did..

Theoneandonly · 08-04-2016, 10:25 PM

I went with the Advanced Eye. Expensive as hell but it's installed with all the wires hidden, gives me front and back video, and it manages the battery level with the car and will cut out if the level drops too low.

Grentz · 08-06-2016, 12:31 PM

I have a waylens preordered from kickstarter. They are starting to ship now.
http://www.waylens.com

hoppy6698 · 08-06-2016, 07:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Grentz

I have a waylens preordered from kickstarter. They are starting to ship now.
http://www.waylens.com

Now that is an interesting design! Please review it once you have one in hand.

siwo · 08-07-2016, 12:43 AM

I have the Spy Tech G1WH installed. Easily found on Amazon and if you really dislike it, you can return it. I didn't return it, I like it. I also would like to add that although it says 32GB max, I installed a 64GB and it works perfectly fine.

I know it's a bit bulky in a way compared to some of the smaller ones but it doesn't bother me.

siwo · 08-07-2016, 12:50 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Grentz

I have a waylens preordered from kickstarter. They are starting to ship now.
http://www.waylens.com

Yes please review!! This is truly a very interesting design. The display shows no cords but it connects via cigarette adapter which is perfect as it is in line with other dashcam options.

I'm curious of the price though.

Grentz · 08-09-2016, 02:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hoppy6698

Now that is an interesting design! Please review it once you have one in hand.

Quote:

Originally Posted by siwo

Yes please review!! This is truly a very interesting design. The display shows no cords but it connects via cigarette adapter which is perfect as it is in line with other dashcam options.

I'm curious of the price though.

Pre-order was around $250, retail MSRP I believe they said $399.

So higher on the price side, but also quite a bit different than rea lot of the typical cheap Chinese dashcam options. The OBDII connection, onboard display and editing features in addition to the (supposedly) very solid video performance should make it worth the price if it delivers.

Hoping to have mine in the next month or so.

siwo · 08-10-2016, 12:54 AM

$250 is a feasible price but dang $399 is ludicrous. I guess it doubles up as an action cam since they've compared it to the GoPro Hero4...not convinced it's an action cam though. The video quality I admit is very crisp and good on low light, but aside from security for the occupants and video recording, how often is it ever going to be accessed unless you constantly track your car and can use it as a recording piece for time?

Grentz · 08-10-2016, 11:03 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by siwo

$250 is a feasible price but dang $399 is ludicrous. I guess it doubles up as an action cam since they've compared it to the GoPro Hero4...not convinced it's an action cam though. The video quality I admit is very crisp and good on low light, but aside from security for the occupants and video recording, how often is it ever going to be accessed unless you constantly track your car and can use it as a recording piece for time?

I agree high, but there are a lot of cheaply made dashcams in that price range as well. This one adds OBDII, better build quality, and a lot better features if it truly works as advertised.

I would guess it will come down in price over time too. New startup and their first product.

SchmullisBob · 08-10-2016, 03:41 PM

Just installed the Blackvue DR650S-2CH. Great cam, this is the newly released upgrade to the DR650DW-2CH. Very small front and rear cams, very stealthy.

Many issues with the "DW" have been resolved (per my dealer).

Front and Rear camera (capacitor), power management for recording while parked, with cutoff at 12V. 128 GM micro SD.

All that = $ 489
Install = $250

Pricey, but it's one of the best.

Best to buy from a registered Blackvue dealer. I like these guys:

http://www.thedashcamstore.com/

crbalch · 08-17-2016, 10:48 PM

Anyone use the Thinkware F770? It looks amazing but slightly pricey ($425) for front, rear, and hardwire kit.

08-01-2016, 11:26 AM	#25
haOo New Member 0 Rep 18 Posts Drives: Black 228i Join Date: Apr 2016 Location: Texas iTrader: (0)	I have a 228i base and installed my A119 dash cam (not hardwired.) If I leave it plugged in when I lock the car, the cam turns off after 30seconds - a minute or so. When I come back to the car and unlock it, the power kicks on. I just want to confirm this is the case because I don't want the dashcam to trickle drain my battery. Anybody know for sure?
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-04-2016, 09:24 PM	#34
Deutsche-Broke First Lieutenant 110 Rep 393 Posts Drives: 2016 M235i Join Date: Jun 2013 Location: Northwest US iTrader: (0)	Blackvue DR650GW-2CH.. Pros: Incredible unit.. Beautiful, zoomable video, good interior audio, easy to install and discreet, built in wi-fi. Completely installed in less than an hour. Cons: A tad expensive but worth it.. I think I paid $290, runs a tiny bit hot. If on the fence, pull the trigger. I'm glad I did..
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-04-2016, 10:25 PM	#35
Theoneandonly Enlisted Member 9 Rep 33 Posts Drives: F22 218i M Sport, F48 18d xLin Join Date: Mar 2016 Location: Thailand iTrader: (0)	I went with the Advanced Eye. Expensive as hell but it's installed with all the wires hidden, gives me front and back video, and it manages the battery level with the car and will cut out if the level drops too low.
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-06-2016, 12:31 PM	#36
Grentz Second Lieutenant 58 Rep 227 Posts Drives: X5 40i G05 Join Date: May 2009 Location: Midwest, USA iTrader: (0)	I have a waylens preordered from kickstarter. They are starting to ship now. http://www.waylens.com
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-07-2016, 12:43 AM	#38
siwo Lieutenant 116 Rep 509 Posts Drives: 2016 M235i RWD 6MT Join Date: May 2016 Location: Toronto, Canada iTrader: (0) Garage List 2016 BMW M235i Coup ... [0.00]	I have the Spy Tech G1WH installed. Easily found on Amazon and if you really dislike it, you can return it. I didn't return it, I like it. I also would like to add that although it says 32GB max, I installed a 64GB and it works perfectly fine. I know it's a bit bulky in a way compared to some of the smaller ones but it doesn't bother me. __________________ 2016 M235i RWD 6MT - Current! as of July 28/16 2015 ES350 6AT - Traded In 2004 RX330 5AT - Sold 2004 Civic Coupe Si(EX) 5MT - Retired 1993 Civic Coupe Si(EX) 5MT - Retired
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08-10-2016, 12:54 AM	#41
siwo Lieutenant 116 Rep 509 Posts Drives: 2016 M235i RWD 6MT Join Date: May 2016 Location: Toronto, Canada iTrader: (0) Garage List 2016 BMW M235i Coup ... [0.00]	$250 is a feasible price but dang $399 is ludicrous. I guess it doubles up as an action cam since they've compared it to the GoPro Hero4...not convinced it's an action cam though. The video quality I admit is very crisp and good on low light, but aside from security for the occupants and video recording, how often is it ever going to be accessed unless you constantly track your car and can use it as a recording piece for time? __________________ 2016 M235i RWD 6MT - Current! as of July 28/16 2015 ES350 6AT - Traded In 2004 RX330 5AT - Sold 2004 Civic Coupe Si(EX) 5MT - Retired 1993 Civic Coupe Si(EX) 5MT - Retired
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-10-2016, 03:41 PM	#43
SchmullisBob Private 40 Rep 61 Posts Drives: M235i Coupe - 2015 Join Date: Apr 2016 Location: Gainesville, FL iTrader: (0)	Just installed the Blackvue DR650S-2CH. Great cam, this is the newly released upgrade to the DR650DW-2CH. Very small front and rear cams, very stealthy. Many issues with the "DW" have been resolved (per my dealer). Front and Rear camera (capacitor), power management for recording while parked, with cutoff at 12V. 128 GM micro SD. All that = $ 489 Install = $250 Pricey, but it's one of the best. Best to buy from a registered Blackvue dealer. I like these guys: http://www.thedashcamstore.com/
	Appreciate 0 Quote

08-17-2016, 10:48 PM	#44
crbalch The Schwab 473 Rep 1,605 Posts Drives: 2020 AW M340xi Join Date: Jun 2011 Location: Chicagoland iTrader: (2) Garage List 2017 BMW X1 [0.00] 2016 BMW M235xi [0.00]	Anyone use the Thinkware F770? It looks amazing but slightly pricey ($425) for front, rear, and hardwire kit.
	Appreciate 0 Quote