RADAR Parking Mode

What is the Thinkware RADAR on the U3000?

The RADAR (Radio Detection and Ranging) technology in our U3000 dash cam utilizes 24 GHz frequency radio waves. These emitted radio waves, traveling at the speed of light, rebound off of objects in their path. THINKWARE’s U3000’s radar sensor captures these reflected waves and measures the time it takes for them to return to the sensor. Through calculating the time delay, the dash cam can discern the object’s motion patterns, thus enabling the Parking mode’s motion detection feature.  With a wide 100-degree and 110-degree vertical detection angle, the radar sensor efficiently monitors movements,  making the U3000 an effective tool for surveillance and security.

Compatible Dash Cams

• U3000

Benefits of RADAR Parking Mode

The RADAR Parking mode is an energy-efficient recording feature that harnesses the U3000’s built-in radar system to monitor motion while consuming minimal power.

To use this mode, hardwiring or the use of an OBD II cable is required.  During RADAR Parking mode, the dash cam records specific motions and activities that fall within a predefined range.

Proper Rear View Camera Setup 

To ensure optimal functionality of the rear view camera’s radar, mount it near the top center of the rear window,  avoiding placement near the defroster grid lines, as illustrated in the image below.

To ensure proper transmission of radar signals,  securely insert the rear camera cable into the port until you hear a distinct clicking sound.

*Note: Please be aware that the range and sensitivity of detection may vary based on environmental conditions and other factors.

RADAR Sensitivity Settings

The U3000 RADAR  offers adjustable sensitivity settings, allowing customization based on vehicle types and surrounding environments.

*Note: You can independently customize settings for both the front and rear cameras.

The RADAR sensitivity can be adjusted into 5 different levels.

The specified recognition distance mentioned earlier pertains to the distance from the rear camera, not the rear of the vehicle. In the example provided, for a vehicle with a long rear, the distance from the rear camera to the vehicle's end is 1.5m. Consequently, if the recognition distance is set to the default value of Mid (3m), the effective recognition distance is only 1.5m.

To achieve an actual recognition distance of 3m for a vehicle with an elongated rear, it is advisable to adjust the radar sensitivity to High (4m) or Highest (5m). This ensures accurate recognition and aligns with the intended distance despite the vehicle's extended configuration.

How to Adjust the RADAR Sensitivity Settings 

1. Connect to the dash cam via Bluetooth with the THINKWARE Dashcam Link App.

2. Select Dash Cam Settings > Record Settings

3. Make sure to enable RADAR parking mode first. Under the Parking Mode option, select "RADAR".

*Note: Changing the Parking Mode in the Dash Cam Settings will erase all prior recorded parking footage.

4. Under the RADAR Sensitivity option, select the desired sensitivity level. 

5. To complete your modifications, tap the back arrow located in the top-left corner.

How does the RADAR Parking Mode work

The front and rear built-in radars are designed to detect moving objects, such as pedestrians or vehicles, within a predefined range that can be adjusted from 1m to 5m. Specifically designed to capture movements slower than 20km/h (12mph), this feature minimizes unnecessary recording of passing vehicles when parked,  effectively reducing power consumption.

For example, If the sensitivity level is set to the lowest (1m), then a pedestrian walking by within the selected range will be detected and recorded. 

Any pedestrians/vehicles passing by that are out of the selected range will not be recorded.

When the radar detects movement in the selected range, the dash cam "wakes up" from a low-power state and records a 20-second video clip.

Here is an example:

(1) A person is passing by within the selected range.

The dash cam starts recording the moment a person enters the range and saves a 20-second video in the Parking Recording folder (name given in the Dash Cam Link App), or folder named motion_timelapse_rec if retrieving the video directly from the memory card.

(2) A vehicle is approaching your parked car at the mall and an impact occurs 7 seconds after entering the selected range.

The dash cam detects the motion of the vehicle once it enters the selected range and detects the impact of the hit as well. In this case, the dash cam saves a 20-second video; 7 seconds before the impact and 13 seconds after the impact in the Parking Incident folder (name given in the Dash Cam Link App), or folder named parking_rec if retrieving the video directly from the memory card.

(3) A vehicle is slowly approaching your parked car at the mall and an impact occurs 17 seconds after entering the selected range.

In this case, the dash cam saves a 20-second video; 10 seconds before the impact and 10 seconds after the impact in the Parking Incident folder (name given in the Dash Cam Link App), or folder named parking_rec if retrieving the video directly from the memory card. The initial recording that had started when the car entered the radar's range (first 17 seconds in this example) is discarded to prioritize the impact recording instead.

You can refer to this table for the recording folders:

This comprehensive recording allows you to review the events leading up to and following the motion or impact, providing you with a complete record of the incident. 

Disclaimer

If the rear view camera is installed in a location other than the rear window, such as a trunk window, the RADAR's recognition distance may not work properly. 

Some UV-blocking tint films (especially the ones containing metal components) may affect the RADAR motion detection distance. 

Other electronic products that operate in the same 24GHz frequency band may cause interferences and affect the radar performance of the U3000 dash cam and its rear view camera. For the best detection results, it is recommended that the U3000 operates in an environment free of products utilizing the 24GHz band.

The distance and degree of detection can be different depending on the environment and other factors. Not every object is guaranteed to be detected.

THINKWARE Connected features are unavailable in RADAR Parking Mode as all network data functions are turned off to reduce power consumption.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your U3000 rearview camera RADAR, please reach out to us at support@thinkware.com or 1-844-865-9273.