V.I.O. POV.1 digital video recorder
V.I.O. offers the digital POV.1, the leading wearable recording technology. Some users choose V.I.O.'s Analog Adventure Cams, which work in conjunction with any video recording device with an analog input, such as, a camcorder, a VCR, or a recording deck. Most analog customers use a Mini DV camcorder. It is also important to remember that your camcorder must be in VCR mode (play/edit) in order to record the image from the helmet cam.

Commonly asked questions about both the POV.1 and our Analog Cameras are listed below.

POV.1

Hardware
How much video can be stored on a 1GB SD card?
What is the largest SD card I can use?
Why did you choose to use 'AA' Batteries?
How long will the batteries last?
How far away from the POV.1 can I be to use the remote control?
How does the TAG feature work?
How does LOOP mode work?
Why did you choose to have a separate recorder and camera head?
Can I upgrade my POV.1?
Can I change the lens to get a wide angle or telephoto shot?
Can I zoom?
Is the recorder HD? When will you offer it?
Does the POV.1 shoot in widescreen?
Is this DVD quality video?
Can I use your camera head with other recorders?

Software and Sharing
Where can I download the latest version of the POV Manager?
When will it be available for my Mac?
Is there a cost to post or share my videos for friends to see?
Can everyone view my video, or is it private?
Can I delete the video from your server?
How long will the video link be active?


Analog Cameras
Is my camcorder compatible?
What are the specs on the Adventure Cam 3?
What are the specs on the S.C.O.U.T Cam?
What are the specs on the Adventure Cam II?
What are the specs on the Adventure Cam H2O?
What are the specs on the Adventure Cam Classic?
How do I connect my camcorder to my helmet cam?
Can I use the LANC remote?
What kind of plug do I need?
Why are my remote's lights going nuts?
My picture is blurry / How do I focus my helmet cam?
What happened to the Adventure Cam Classic?
How Do I get my camcorder into the correct mode?
What does "special" refer to in the compatibility list?
How can I calculate shipping?
I am having difficulties focusing my Adventure Cam 3 or SCOUT Cam - Can you help?



POV.1

How much video can be stored on a 1GB SD card?
Video yield rates per GB are listed below. If you are using a 2GB card, simply double the times.
  • highest settings (720x480, 30fps, high quality) yields 43 minutes
  • default settings (640x480, 30fps, high quality) yields 48 minutes
  • lowest settings (320x240, 15fps, low quality)yields 472 minutes (7.8 hours)

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What is the largest SD card I can use?
Currently the POV.1 is limited to a 2GB card size. We are working towards expanding our capabilities. Also, remember, that when using the POV.1 in LOOP mode, you can get a day's worth of great shots on one card.
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Why did you choose to use 'AA' Batteries?
It is important for all of our customers, including commercial & tactical, to be able to power this device anywhere around the world at anytime. Different types of AA batteries may be used including:
  • Lithium for longer use time
  • Rechargeable NiMH for an environmentally friendly solution

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How long will the batteries last?
Battery use time is dependent on several factors, including internal settings and external environment. With that understanding, standard alkaline should last about 4-5 hours and the Energizer(tm) Lithium will last about 10 hours.
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How far away from the POV.1 can I be to use the remote control?
The remote control is designed for close range use, such as, remote on handlebar or wrist and recorder in pack or on belt. If you want to stretch it to its limits, it will work to about 15 feet away depending on your environment.
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How does the TAG feature work?
The TAG feature of the POV.1 is used to highlight certain important points in your video when using our POV Manager software.
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How does LOOP mode work?
Recording in LOOP mode allows you to save captured video of events after they have happened. When in LOOP mode, POV.1 keeps a video clip in its memory (length of clip is set in the settings menu) and will write the clip only if the user requests by pressing the TAG button. If the TAG button is not pressed, the file is not saved.
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Why did you choose to have a separate recorder and camera head?
Although an all-in-one concept is compelling, our research has shown that its industrial design limits features and functionality and are heavier on your head than a tethered system provides.
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Can I upgrade my POV.1?
Yes - one of the great features of the POV.1 is its ability to upgrade firmware. This means our customers will have access to new features as soon as they become available.
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Can I change the lens to get a wide angle or telephoto shot?
  • We ask that you do not open the head to change the lens as it could degrade its waterproof status.
  • We created the POV.1 with flexibility in mind and new heads and mounts (and other accessories, for that matter) for specific purposes will be available soon to optimize your experience.

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Can I zoom?
Not yet - our first head is optimized for wearable functionality, especially when you are moving. We will continue to explore different ways to add flexibility in FOV options.
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Is the recorder HD? When will you offer it?
Not yet - The POV.1 is does not shoot in HD, but at its highest settings, it records at 720 x 480. HD is another feature we will explore in future product iterations.
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Does the POV.1 shoot in widescreen?
Yes, the POV.1 has wide aspect ratios, so you can integrate your POV footage with your HD content.
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Is this DVD quality video?
Yes. We know our customers are looking to record the best footage possible, so we have created the POV.1 to meet your video quality needs.
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Can I use your camera head with other recorders?
No - our camera head is digitally optimized to work with our recording device.
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Where can I download the latest version of the POV Manager?
Install the version of the POV Manager from your CD and launch the software. If a new version is available, you will be prompted to download and install it.
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When will it be available for my Mac?
We hope to have Mac compatibility before June 2008.
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Is there a cost to post or share my videos for friends to see?
Nope. This is a complimentary feature built into our POV Manager software.
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Can everyone view my video, or is it private?
When you choose to distribute your video via our POV Manager software, it is exclusive to those who receive your email. However, your clip may get forwarded to another party. If you have an incredibly compelling clip you want to share with everyone, check the "Add to V.I.O. Gallery" box, we’ll review it and perhaps post it to our site. The POV Manager also makes it easy to post to your favorite Internet site, making the world your audience.
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Can I delete the video from your server?
Once shared, video cannot be deleted from the server unless it is automatically deleted by V.I.O.
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How long will the video link be active?
Video links will be active for a minimum of 30 days, although V.I.O. presently has no plans to remove video from the server
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Analog Cameras

Is my camcorder compatible?

You can use our Adventure Cams with any device that has A/V Input (analog) capabilities. Most owners' manuals will list this information under the Specifications section. If you can record from an outside source (e.g. your TV or VCR) to your camcorder, then you will be able to use our Adventure Cams. If you are unsure, you can contact the dealer where you bought your camcorder or consult your owners' manual. Most manuals are available online.

We have compiled a list of camcorders and their compatibility information. You can find out more here.

If you need further assistance, please call us at 888.579.2267 or e-mail customer.care@vio-pov.com.
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What are the specs on the Adventure Cam 3?

PICK UP ELEMENT 1/3" CCD IMAGE SENSOR
PICTURE ELEMENTS H x V NTSC: 811 x 508 - PAL: 752 x 582
HORIZONTAL RESOLUTION 520 TV Lines
SYNCHRONIZATION INTERNAL
SENSITIVITY 0.2 Lux F 2.0
S/N RATIO 50 dB
ELECTRONIC SHUTTER Auto, Up to 1/100,000 / sec.
GAMMA

0.45

LENS 3.6mm lens
FIELD OF VISION 72.5 degrees
VIDEO OUTPUT 1 Vpp, 75 Ohms
AUTOMATIC GAIN CONTROL Auto
POWER SUPPLY 12 VDC (+/- 10%)
POWER CONSUMPTION 1.2 W (+/- 10%)
DIMENSIONS 22mm X 80 mm
WEIGHT 105 g
STORAGE TEMPERATURE -20 to +60 degrees celsius
OPERATING TEMPERATURE -10 to +50 degrees celsius

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What are the specs on the S.C.O.U.T?

PICK UP ELEMENT 1/3" CCD IMAGE SENSOR
PICTURE ELEMENTS H x V NTSC: 811 x 508 - PAL: 752 x 582
HORIZONTAL RESOLUTION 520 TV Lines
SYNCHRONIZATION INTERNAL
SENSITIVITY 0.2 Lux F 2.0
S/N RATIO 50 dB
ELECTRONIC SHUTTER Auto, Up to 1/100,000 / sec.
GAMMA

0.45

LENS 3.6mm lens
FIELD OF VISION 72.5 degrees
VIDEO OUTPUT 1 Vpp, 75 Ohms
AUTOMATIC GAIN CONTROL Auto
POWER SUPPLY 12 VDC (+/- 10%)
POWER CONSUMPTION 1.2 W (+/- 10%)
DIMENSIONS 22mm X 80 mm
WEIGHT 105 g
STORAGE TEMPERATURE -20 to +60 degrees celsius
OPERATING TEMPERATURE -10 to +50 degrees celsius

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What are the specs on the Adventure Cam II?

PICK UP ELEMENT 1/4" CCD IMAGE SENSOR
PICTURE ELEMENTS H x V NTSC: 510 x 492 - PAL: 500 x 582
HORIZONTAL RESOLUTION 380 TV Lines
HORIZONTAL SYNC. FREQUENCY NTSC: 15.750 kHZ - PAL: 15.625 kHZ
SCANNING SYSTEM 2:1 INTERLACE
SENSITIVITY 1 Lux F 2.0
SYNCHRONIZATION INTERNAL
S/N RATIO More than 48 dB
ELECTRONIC SHUTTER Auto, Up to 1/100,000 / sec.
GAMMA

0.45

LENS 2.9mm lens
FIELD OF VISION 90 degrees
VIDEO OUTPUT 1 Vpp, 75 Ohms
AUTOMATIC GAIN CONTROL Auto
POWER SUPPLY 12 VDC (+/- 10%)
POWER CONSUMPTION 130 mA (+/- 10%)
DIMENSIONS 22mm X 76 mm
WEIGHT 80 g
STORAGE TEMPERATURE -30 to +60 degrees celsius
OPERATING TEMPERATURE -10 to +45 degrees celsius

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What are the specs on the Adventure Cam H2O?

PICTURE ELEMENTS H x V NTSC: 510 x 492 - PAL: 500 x 582
HORIZONTAL RESOLUTION 480 TV Lines
HORIZONTAL SYNC. FREQUENCY NTSC: 15.750 kHZ - PAL: 15.625 kHZ
SCANNING SYSTEM 2:1 INTERLACE
SENSITIVITY 0.05 Lux (F 2.0) (AGC On)
SYNCHRONIZATION INTERNAL
S/N RATIO More than 50 dB (AGC Off)
ELECTRONIC SHUTTER Auto, Up to 1/100,000 / sec.
GAMMA

0.45

LENS 3.6mm lens
FIELD OF VISION 93 degrees
VIDEO OUTPUT 1 Vpp, 75 Ohms
AUTOMATIC GAIN CONTROL Auto
POWER SUPPLY 12 VDC
POWER CONSUMPTION 3W
DIMENSIONS 110mm(L) x 32mm(DIA)
WEIGHT 7oz
STORAGE TEMPERATURE -20 to + 70 degrees celsius
OPERATING TEMPERATURE -10 to + 50 degrees celsius

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What are the specs on the Adventure Cam Classic?

V.I.O. Adventure Cam Classic
Pick up element 1/4" Panasonic Color CCD image sensor
Number of Pixels 512(H) x 492(V) NTSC / 512(H) x 582(V) PAL
Resolution 380 TV lines
Min.Illumination 2 Lux / F2.0
S/N Ratio More than 48dB (AGC off)
Electronic Shutter 1/60 (1/50) to 1/100,000 sec.
White Balance Auto white balance
Auto Light Control 3 windows detec
Load impedance 75 ohms
Standard Board Lens f3.6mm / F2.0
Lens Angle 70 degrees
Power Source DC12V +/- 10%
Current Consumption 80 mA
Dimension (mm) 26 (diameter) x 87 (length)
Weight 305g

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How do I connect my camcorder to my helmet cam?

We have created a section on our website dedicated to answering this question. Find out how to hook up your Adventure Cam here.
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Can I use the LANC remote?

Select Sony and Canon camcorders are LANC equipped. LANC is a protocol for controlling the camera -- making it great for remote controls. If you find a LANC input on your camera or if your manual specifies that it is LANC compatible, then you can use our remote. You can also contact the manufacturer / dealer where you bought your camcorder to find out if it is LANC equipped. We have also compiled a list of camcorders and their compatibility information. You can look up your camcorder here. Also, some camcorders don't function properly with the LANC remote version 1.3, so they require the use of the 1.6 version. Please refer to our LANC information page for more details and a list of specific camcorder models and known incompatibilities.
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What kind of plug do I need?

Your plug type depends on the country where you'll be using our AC Adapter to power your Adventure Cam or to charge your battery pack. Please see the plug diagram below if you are unsure.


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Why are my remote's lights going nuts?

When you load a new tape into the camcorder, it will send out a signal on the LANC bus that the tape is in its top position. This "top of tape" signal is interpreted by the remote and shown with a quick red flash and steady green light. By recording just a second (or even less) the tape will move out from its top position and the camcorder stops sending the signal and the light on the remote returns to its normal behavior (the start stop recording function is not affected at all of this). It's always recommended that you move the tape out of its top position before recording as the image quality in the first frames might be degraded. Also, some camcorders don't function properly with the LANC remote. Please refer to our LANC information page for more details and a list of specific camcorder models and known incompatibilities.
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My picture is blurry / How do I focus my helmet cam?

For the Adventure Cam 3 and Adventure Cam Classic:
If the picture you're recording is blurry and seems out of focus, you may just need to focus your helmet cam. To start, set your camera up where it's plugged into a TV or camcorder so that you can see the image in real-time. For best results, find a subject to focus on that is approximately 4-5 feet away. A friend / family member works well here, or you can also focus on a piece of text. Then remove the lens cover by unscrewing it. Be careful not to touch the glass or the lens in this process as the oils in your skin that come in contact with the glass on the lens cover or the lens itself can make the image blurry. Once the lens cover is removed, make minor adjustments by twisting the lens left or right until the subject is crisp, sharp, and in focus. Then, put the lens cover back on tight to ensure a water resistant seal.

For the Adventure Cam II and the Adventure Cam H2O:
If your picture is blurry, please contact us. There is no adjustment you can make on these cameras to focus the camera. If you succeed at opening the lens cover, the warranty will be voided.
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What happened to the Adventure Cam Classic?

The Adventure Cam Classic was discontinued in October 2003. However, we still provide high quality accessories and support for the Adventure Cam Classic.
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How Do I get my camcorder into the correct mode?

Please contact customer support.
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What does "special" refer to in the compatibility list?

If the input type is indicated as 'special' on our compatibility list, you need to use our RCA Super A/V Cable with our RCA Female / Female adapter with the special cord supplied by your camcorder manufacturer with your camcorder.
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How can I calculate shipping?

The best way to figure the cost of shipping is to go to our website www.vio-pov.com and follow the buying process through step 2 of the checkout. After you register your shipping address, the system will calculate the cost of shipping. No worries, you won't place an order until you enter your credit card information and click the SUBMIT button. Please note - all customs and brokerage fees charged for International shipping will be your responsibility to pay.
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I am having difficulties focusing my Adventure Cam 3 or SCOUT Cam - Can you help?

Here are some tips that will help with lens focus issues:
  • When removing the lens, loosen the set screws only to the point where they will allow the lens to be removed. It is best to loosen them slightly, so they continue to have a very slight bit of pressure on the lens.
  • Do not overtighten the set screws. Overtightening the screws could cause the lens to come out of focus.
  • If the tension spring is causing issues, try focusing the lens without the spring. If it will remain in focus without the spring, then it is ok to use only the set screws to hold the lens in place. If it will not focus without the spring, widen the circumference of the spring at the bottom.

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