U s e r M a n u a l
F50
This Dashboard Camera (dash cam) is a specialized onboard device that continuously records video while the vehicle is in use.
Some features may not be available depending on installation, driving conditions, and vehicle type. The video quality might vary
for each device as a result of installed rmware.
The device DOES NOT guarantee video recording of all accidents as built-in impact sensor may not be activated due to combination
of user settings and the level of impact during the collision.
F50_UM_ENG_Rev.02
Disclaimer regarding device operation outside of Canada
This THINKWARE dash cam has been pre-loaded with a firmware and GPS data that are specific for use
within the United States and its territories. As such, THINKWARE does not recommend the use and operation
of this dash cam, along with all of its features, outside of the United States and its territories. Doing so
might result in the device not functioning properly and will void any warranties associated with this
THINKWARE dash cam.
C o n t e n t s
Before Using THINKWARE DASH CAM
TM
F50 2
FCC Statement 2
Caution 3
Getting Started
1-1. In the Package 4
1-2. Optional Accessories 4
1-3. Product Overview 5
1-4. Inserting a Memory Card 6
1-5. Vehicle Installation 7
Basic Operations
2-1. Turning the Device Power On/O 9
2-2. Road Safety Warning (Optional Accessory) 10
2-3. Recorded Files 11
2-4. Recording Videos While Driving 12
2-5. Recording Videos While Parked (Optional Accessory) 13
2-6. Manual Recording 14
2-7. Voice Recording 14
2-8. Formatting MicroSD Card 15
2-9. Upgrading Firmware 15
PC Viewer Software
3-1. Thinkware Dash Cam PC Viewer 16
3-2. PC Viewer Settings > Dashcam Setting 20
3-3. PC Viewer Settings 21
Device Information
4-1. Specications 22
01
02
03
04
2
Before Using THINKWARE DASH CAM™ F50
Under the copyright laws, this manual may not be copied, in whole or in part, without the written consent
of THINKWARE.
Every eort has been made to ensure this Guide's accuracy. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of
the contents in this document as there may be technical errors, omissions, and/or future changes.
THINKWARE reserves the right to change or modify the product and the content of this manual at any time
without prior notice for product improvements.
Images contained in this user guide are illustrations for instructional purposes only and may dier from the
actual product.
Users do not reserve the right to use the product for purposes other than as specied in this user guide.
According to the Personal Information Protection Act and other related regulations, the user/owner may be
held liable if the video and/or conversation recorded by the device are distributed without their consent.
Thus, special attention should be paid in using this product.
The MicroSD memory card should be tested for errors on a regular basis and as the memory card is a con-
sumable item, it will need to be replaced periodically.
THINKWARE shall NOT be responsible for any problems and/or damages that may occur from the use of
disingenuous, modied, or unauthorized parts and accessories.
The device and the recorded videos are intended for personal use and the recorded videos should be
used for reference only.
The device does NOT guarantee video recording of all accidents as built-in impact sensor may not be
activated due to combination of user settings and the level of impact during the collision.
FCC Statement
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1)
this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received,
including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A digital device, pursuant to
Part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful inter-
ference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy
and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio
communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If
this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by
turning the equipment o and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of
the following measures:
Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit dierent from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
FCC CAUTION: Any changes or modications to the equipment not expressly approved by the party responsi-
ble for compliance could void your authority to operate the equipment.
This Class A digital apparatus complies with Canadian ICES-003.
3
Caution
Depending on the make and model of your car,
the power may be constantly supplied to the dash
cam even with the ignition turned o. Installation
of the device to a continuously powered 12V out-
let could result in vehicle battery drainage.
This device is designed to record video while the
vehicle is in operation. The quality of the video
might be aected by weather conditions and the
road environment such as day or night, presence
of street lighting, entering/exiting tunnels, and
the surrounding temperature.
THINKWARE is NOT responsible for the loss of any
recorded video during operation.
Although designed to withstand high impact of
car collision, THINKWARE does NOT guarantee
recording of accidents where the impact may
cause the device to be damaged.
Keep the windshield and camera lens clean for
optimal video quality. Particles and substances
on the camera lens or windshield may reduce the
quality of the recorded videos.
The specied operating temperature of this prod-
uct is 14°F to 140°F (-10°C to 60°C) and storage
temperature is -4°F to 158°F (-20°C to 70°C). Ensure
that the device is kept within these temperature
ranges; otherwise, the device may not function as
designed and at extreme temperatures, perma-
nent physical damage can result which is not cov-
ered by warranty.
Avoid placing the device under direct sunlight.
Avoid using the device in extreme conditions
where the Product is exposed to high temperature
and/or humidity.
Only use genuine accessories and peripherals
from THINKWARE or authorized THINKWARE deal-
er. THINKWARE does not warrant the safety and
compatibility from use of peripherals from other
manufacturers. Use genuine parts supplied by
THINKWARE.
Do not apply excessive force when pushing the
buttons on the device.
Do not clean the Product using chemical cleaner
or solvents as it may damage plastic components.
Use soft, clean, dry fabric to gently wipe the Prod-
uct.
Do not place or store the device where it can be
accessible by children and pets.
Do not disassemble the Product as it will void prod-
uct warranty and may also damage the product.
Handle with care. Drop, shock, and mishandling
the Product may result in malfunction and/or
damage to the device.
Do not operate this device while driving.
Install this device in a location where it has unob-
structed view of the road but does not interfere
with the driver’s view. Check with your State and
Municipal laws before mounting to the wind-
shield.
The device and/or installation items have moving
parts and may shift in extreme road conditions
such as unpaved road. Check frequently to ensure
the device is positioned as instructed in this guide.
Do not operate or handle power cable with wet
hands.
Do not use a damaged power cable.
Keep the power cable away from heaters or other
hot objects.
Check that power cable with correct connector is
used and the connections are secure and rmly in
place.
Do not pull, insert, or bend the power cable using
excessive force.
Do not place heavy objects on the device and the
power cable.
Do not modify or cut the power cable.
THINKWARE does not guarantee that devices or
peripherals not authorized by THINKWARE will be
compatible with its Product.
Do not attempt to insert foreign objects into the
device or power cable.
Do not spill or spray liquid into the device as it may
cause malfunction, re, or electric shock.
This device is intended to be used inside the vehi-
cle only.
4
Main Dash Cam Unit
Mount with 3M tape
(1ea)
Car Charger
Adhesive Cable Holder
(5ea)
Hardwiring Cable External GPS Receiver
MicroSD memory card with adapter
(consumable)
Quick Start Guide/Warranty/
User Manual (stored in the MicroSD
card)
1. Getting Started
This unit was tested with shielded cables on the peripheral devices.
Shielded cables must be used with the unit to insure compliance.
1-1. In the Package
1-2. Optional Accessories
5
Getting Started
01
0,&
0,&
0,&
0,&
No. Name Description
1 Camera Lens Front facing camera for video recording
2 Mount Connector Connects to the windshield mount (refer to installation)
3 DC-IN Connects to power cable
4 Speaker Outputs voice guidance and alert/notication sounds
5 Microphone Records audio along with video
6 Memory Card Slot Location for the MicroSD memory card
7 Operation Status LED Indicates the device operating status
8 External GPS Antenna Connect the external GPS antenna (Optional Accessory Required)
9 REC Button
Short Press : Starts manual recording
Press and hold for 3 seconds : Audio recording ON/OFF
Press and hold for 5 seconds : Memory card format
1-3. Product Overview
Front view
Left view
Rear view
Under view
32
6
1
4 5
8
9
7
6
0,&
1-4-2. Installing a MicroSD Card
Do not apply excessive force on the MicroSD card or attempt to insert it in the wrong direction as it may
cause damage to the MicroSD card and the card slot.
Removing the
memory card
MicroSD card
1-4. Inserting a Memory Card
1-4-1. About Memory Cards
MicroSD card must be used with a storage capacity of 8GB Class 10 or higher.
UHS MicroSD card must be used with a storage capacity of 16GB, 32GB, or 64GB.
Device only supports MicroSD card with capacity of 8GB Class 10 or higher.
The MicroSD card should be tested for errors on a regular basis and as the memory card is a consumable
item, it should be replaced periodically.
THINKWARE shall NOT be responsible for any problems and/or damages that may occur from not using
genuine or authorized parts and accessories. It is strongly recommended that THINKWARE memory cards
are used to minimize memory card error.
Ensure that the device is completely o before removing the MicroSD card to avoid damages to the
memory card.
To prevent loss of important data, frequently copy recorded videos from MicroSD card to another storage
device such as personal computer for back up.
Cautions
Inserting the
memory card
Insert the MicroSD card into the
slot with the metal contacts facing
towards the back of the device and
push until it locks into place.
Gently apply force on the
MicroSD card until it is ejected
from the slot.
7
Getting Started
01
To ensure that the mount is safely secured, it is recommend-
ed that you separate the device from the mount after instal-
lation and press the mount towards windshield for 5 minutes
to maintain pressure. Allow 24 hours until the adhesive on
the mount has set before connecting the dash cam.
TIP
1-5-1. Connecting the Device and the
Mount
Align the mount with the connector (A), and slide it
towards (B) until it clicks into place.
Remove the protective lm from the camera lens.
1-5. Vehicle Installation
1-5-2. Installing the Device
Clean the area on the windshield where the dash
cam will be installed.
With dash cam main unit still attached to the
mount, remove the protective tape from the back
of the mount.
Attach the adhesive side of the mount on the
windshield where it has an unobstructed view of
the road but does not interfere with the driver’s
view.
The camera is located on the right side of the main unit
so install the dash cam on the right of center behind the
rearview mirror.
TIP
8
After installation, run the dash cam to record videos and
check the videos using Thinkware Dash Cam Viewer to
verify camera position. Adjust the camera angle if neces-
sary.
TIP
1-5-3. Connecting to power
Connect the power cable to DC-IN socket of
the device.
Plug the car charger adapter end of the power
cable into a 12V DC vehicle power socket.
Arrange the wire by using the adhesive cable
holders as shown below.
Adjust the camera so that the dash cam is facing
forward and is level with the road.
Preventing Vehicle Battery Discharge
Depending on the make and model of your car, the power may be supplied to the dash cam even with the
ignition turned off. This may result in vehicle battery discharge.
Some vehicles with multiple power sockets might be equipped with at least 1 outlet that does not shut off
the power with the ignition. Test each power outlet to ensure you connect to an outlet that shuts off with
vehicle ignition.
For more information on the power cable routing instruction, please visit Thinkware homepage.
(www.thinkware.com)
0,&
0,&
Hide the power cable by placing (tucking) it in the
space between the windshield and headliner.
Recommended locations for the adhesive
wire clips to arrange the power cable.
9
Basic Operations
02
2. Basic Operations
2-1. Turning the Device Power On/O
Once connected to the vehicle, the device will automatically turn on and o with vehicle ignition.
Power cable for vehicle
Red Light ON
Operation LED
10
2-2. Road Safety Warning (Optional Accessory)
This feature may not be available in some countries.
GPS may be aected by weather conditions, satellite signal, and/or surrounding geographical features.
Coated windshields can interfere with GPS signal which may result in poor or blocked GPS reception.
Other electronic devices and/or equipment may interfere with GPS signal if placed too close to the dash
cam.
Cautions
Road Safety Warning : Using GPS and database, safety camera alert will warn the driver when approaching
trac enforcement zones such as red light camera, speed camera, average speed
camera, and mobile speed zones.
Enable the Road Safety Warning feature in "PC Viewer > Settings > Dash cam Setting > Road Safety
Warning"
11
Basic Operations
02
Recorded video les are saved in the folder by date and hour in the MicroSD card.
┗ Files are created based on the time when the videos are recorded.
As a loop-recording surveillance product, the dash cam will
automatically overwrite oldest le in the memory card once
the memory is full. However, event recording and manual
recording videos are stored in separate locations and will be
protected from le overwriting.
2-3. Recorded Files
Front view
recording
Do not use the MicroSD card as an external storage device.
Do not tamper with the system les within the in the MicroSD card.
This may result in unexpected behavior during operation.
Cautions
Year Month Day Hour
Minute
Second
12
2-4. Recording Videos While Driving
2-4-2. Incident Recording During Continuous Recording Mode
When the dash cam detects an impact, it will immediately
store the 10 seconds prior and after the impact.
The 20-second impact recording is saved on the MicroSD card
under the "evt_rec" folder.
Please note that the dash cam will only detect impact as an
incident if the level of impact is greater than the sensitivity
level of the G-Sensor.
You can change these levels in the user conguration.
2-4-1. Continuous Recording Mode
Videos are recorded in 1 minute segments and saved as les
in the MicroSD card under the folder named “cont_rec”.
Red Light ON
Operation LED
Green Light ON
Operation LED
0,&
0,&
Driving over speed bumps, manholes, or uneven roads at high speeds can also be detected as an impact
and may trigger incident recording.
The device can record up to 1 minute of incident recordings in the case of continuous impacts or multiple
accidents.
The duration of incident footage recorded may vary according to the device settings.
Cautions
13
Basic Operations
02
2-5-2. Incident recording in parking mode
When the dash cam detects impact while parked, it will
immediately store the 10 seconds prior and after the impact.
The 20-second impact recording is saved on the MicroSD card
under the "parking_rec" folder.
2-5. Recording Videos While Parked (Optional Accessory)
This feature is available only when the dash cam has been hardwired directly to the vehicle battery.
Separate purchase for the hardwiring cable accessory and professional installation is required.
2-5-1. Packing Motion
When the dash cam detects motion while parked, it will immediately store the previous 10 seconds prior to
the activation of motion detection start recording video for the next 10 seconds.
The 20-second motion detection recording is then saved on the MicroSD card under the folder named
"motion_rec".
The device can record up to 1 minute for continuous impacts in the case of multiple collisions.
Cautions
14
Briey press the REC button to start recording. The device will
record video for 1 minute (10 seconds be fore and 50 seconds
after) as of the time when the button is pressed. The recorded
video will be saved under the “manual_rec” folder.
2-6. Manual Recording
In addition to recording accidents, the dash cam allows the user to initiate manual recording mode to capture
scenery and/or places while driving. This feature can also be used to save video as witness where the installed
vehicle is not directly involved in an accident. Video les saved during manual recording mode are stored in a
separate location on the memory card and will be protected from video overwriting in continuous recording
mode.
Red Light ON
Operation LED
2-7. Voice Recording
Press and hold the REC button for more than 3 seconds to turn the voice recording ON/OFF
0,&
Press and hold for 3seconds
0,&
Press briey
15
Basic Operations
02
Press and hold REC button for 5 seconds to initiate memory card format
2-8. Formatting MicroSD Card
The system will automatically be updated if the MicroSD card contains
the rmware upgrade le.
The device restarts automatically after the upgrade has been
completed.
Make sure your device is always up to date with latest rmware.
Please check back frequently at THINKWARE website
(www.thinkware.com) for the latest rmware updates.
Do NOT disconnect your device from power while it is being updated.
This will result in damage to the dash cam.
2-9. Upgrading Firmware
Red Light Blinking
Operation LED
Red Light Blinking
Operation LED
0,&
0,&
Press and hold for 5 seconds
16
3. PC Viewer Software
3-1. Thinkware Dash Cam PC Viewer
Thinkware Dash Cam Viewer for Windows/MacOS is provided which can be used to watch videos recorded
with the dash cam. The video les recorded by the dash cam are in one minute segments and the PC viewer
allows the user to watch these segments as a single continuous video.
The setup le for the Thinkware Dash Cam PC Viewer is included in the MicroSD card within the package.
Please check THINKWARE homepage(www.thinkware.com) for the latest Dash Cam PC Viewer application.
Insert the MicroSD card into the PC.
3-1-1. Installing Thinkware Dash Cam Viewer
Windows
Double-click the Thinkware Dash Cam Viewer setup
le saved in the MicroSD card to initiate program
installation.
Double-click the application icon once PC Viewer
installation completes and the application main
screen will then appear.
Cautions
System requirements :
Windows XP SP3 (32 bit), Windows 7 (32/64 bit),
Windows 8.x (32/64 bit)
17
PC Application
03
MAC
①
Move the le named “Dashcam Viewer.zip” stored in the MicroSD card to the desktop.
②
Right click on the mouse and select “Open With” > “Archive Utility” to launch the Thinkware Dash Cam
viewer application.
System requirements : MAC OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion or later (OS X 10.9 Mavericks, OS X 10.10 Yosemite)
Cautions
3-1-2. Select the Device Drive for F50
①
Click File from menu and select the drive for the
portable storage drive for the connected
MicroSD card.
②
Select any le from the list to load entire video
playlist in the memory card.
Cautions
The MicroSD card will not be recognized by the PC
Viewer until it has been used in the dash cam.
It is recommended that the user record at least one
video clip on the MicroSD card with the dash cam
unit before accessing the Thinkware Dash Cam PC
Viewer.
18
Dash cam setting / Information
Full screen
Switch between front/rear view
File open
Viewing screen
Playback
Progress
Current play time/
Total play time
Driving speed
Impact sensor value
Map
Checks the location
of the recorded
video (Enabled only
if video is captured
while connected
using GPS antenna
'optional in some
models' and must
also be connected
to the Internet)
Playlist
3-1-3. Thinkware Dash Cam Viewer Overview
No. Name Description
Play Previous Plays the previous le before the current le
Rewind by 10 Sec
Rewinds the current le being played by 10 seconds
(If selected, it continues to rewind by 10 seconds)
Play/Pause Plays the recorded le / temporarily pauses playback
Stop
Stops the le being played. The playback status resets to the starting point of
the video.
Fast-forward by 10 Sec
Fast-forwards the current le being played by 10 seconds
(If selected, it continues to fast-forward by 10 seconds)
Play Next Plays the next le after the current le
Auto Play Automatically loops the video back to beginning once the end has reached
Zoom Sets the video expansion ratio (0.5x / 1.0x / 1.5x / 2.0x)
Screen Setting Sets brightness/speed of the video
Save Saves the video in play
Volume Sets the volume of the playback
19
PC Application
03
3-1-4. View Video Playlist
Select appropriate folder (Continuous Recording, Incident Recording, Manual Recording, Parking Motion,
Parking Incident) to see the playlist for each recording mode.
Continuous Recording Playlist Manual Recording Playlist
20
3-2. PC Viewer Settings > Dashcam Setting
Memory Card Settings
Memory Partition :
Sets how storage space on the memory card will be allotted
for each recording mode (Entire memory card will be format-
ted when the memory partition setting is changed)
Formatting memory card :
Formats the MicroSD card. Formatting will completely erase
all video les stored in the memory card
It is recommended that you back up data before formatting
the memory card. Once you format the memory card, all data
will be deleted and cannot be restored. The method for
formatting a MicroSD card might vary depending on the
computer operating system.
Video Overwrite :
Sets the overwriting option which will allow new video les
to overwrite oldest video in storage reserved for each mode
Record Settings
Impact sensitivity at continuous mode :
Sets the impact sensitivity during continuous recording mode.
It is recommended that you set the sensitivity according to
vehicle type. High sensitivity setting is recommended for cars
with softer ride such as luxury sedans; while low sensitivity
setting is recommended for cars such as performance cars,
trucks, or SUVs which tends to have stier suspension settings.
Brightness :
Sets the video recording brightness for front/rear camera
Parking Mode :
Monitors vehicle ignition status to automatically convert to
parking mode when the vehicle engine is turned o. The dash
cam must be hardwired to the vehicle for the use of parking
mode.
Impact sensitivity at parking mode :
Sets the impact sensitivity during parking recording mode
Motion detection :
Sets the motion detection sensitivity during parking recording mode
Timer setting for stop recording :
Sets the timer for the dash cam to automatically shut down in parking mode to prevent from draining
the vehicle battery
Battery voltage setting for stop recording :
Sets the voltage level for the dash cam to automatically shut down in order to prevent from draining the
vehicle battery
21
PC Application
03
System Settings
Language : Sets dash cam system language
Voice guidance : Sets the volume level
Time zone : Sets the time zone
Date/Time : Sets the date/time
Daylight Saving Time : Sets the daylight saving time
Speed unit : Sets the unit for the vehicle speed
Speed Stamp : Sets vehicle speed information (tracked by
GPS) to be shown or hidden directly on video
Road Safety Warning : Sets the audible notications for road
safety warnings
3-3. PC Viewer Settings
Dashcaminfo
: Displays dash cam information
language setting
: Sets dash cam system language
Units speed
: Sets the unit for the vehicle speed
22
4. Device Information
4-1. Specications
The specications of this product may change without prior notice for product improvements.
Item Standard Note
Model F50
Size/weight
78 x 34 x 31.5mm / 42g
3.07 x 1.33 x 1.24inches / 0.09lbs
Capacity MicroSD card 8GB(class 10), 16GB, 32GB, 64GB(UHS-I)
Recording mode
Continuous Recording Mode Records in 1 minute segment
Incident Recording Mode
10 seconds before/after incident
(total 20 seconds)
Manual Recording Mode
10 seconds before and 50 seconds after
(total 1 minute)
Parking Surveillance Mode
Optional hardwiring cable and installation
are required for continuous supply of
power when vehicle ignition is o.
Audio Recording
Camera 2.12M Pixels, 1/5.78" CMOS
Viewing angle Approximately 130° (diagonally)
Video FHD (1920 x 1080) / H.264 / PCM MP4
Frame rate 1 channel (Front view) : up to 30 fps
Audio PCM (Pulse code modulation)
Acceleration sensor 3-axis acceleration sensor (3D, ±3G) Adjustable impact sensitivity (5 levels)
GPS External GPS Receiver
Optional accessory that requires separate
purchase
Input power source DC 12/24V
Current consumption 2.1W (MAX)
Notication LED LED 1ea (2 Color)
Warning sound Embedded speaker Voice (buzzer sound) guidance
Operation/Storage
Temperature
14°F to 140°F / -10°C to 60°C
-4°F to 158°F / -20°C to 70°C
