Plus mobile digital video recording system (90 pages)
Summary of Contents for SEON Explorer
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Explorer™ EX4 Basic and Plus Mobile Digital Video Recording (DVR) System Installation and User’s Guide Manual Type *700-0042* Document part number 700-0042 R004...
Inc. that are the property of their respective owners. They are used in this User Manual for identification purposes only. User Manual Revision This is the November 2007 revision for this User Manual and is copyright, November 2007 of Seon Design Inc. All rights reserved.
Who This Guide is For The Installation and User’s Guide is intended for anyone who needs to install and operate the Explorer EX4 Basic and Plus Mobile Digital Video Recording (DVR) System (EX4 System). This Guide provides information and procedures for installing, configuring, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the EX4 System.
TR-INR Inertia Sensor Installation and User Guide 700-0041 IR Illuminator Setup Guide (models RG-IRW and 700-0053 RG-IRN) Finding Information Online You can find information about Seon Design Inc,. as well as its products and services, by visiting www.seon.com. 700-0042 R004...
HAPTER Introduction This chapter describes the product features and components of the Explorer EX4 Basic and Plus Mobile Digital Video Recording (DVR) System (EX4 System).
Introduction 1.1. EX4 System The EX4 System consists of the following components: • EX4 DVR • Lock box • Cameras • Hard drive • Cables and harnesses for power and ignition input The EX4 Plus consists of the following additional components: •...
Introduction • Ten different input signals, including CAN signals • Driver’s indicator panel • 4 different event alarm inputs 1.3. EX4 DVR 1.3.1. DVR Front Panel Features The EX4 DVR has important features on the front of the unit such as the hard drive lock, removable hard drive, wheel, indicator lights, the DVR SHUTTLE...
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Introduction Table 1-1 Front panel features Item Feature Description wheel (outer wheel) • During playback, turning the wheel clockwise speeds the play SHUTTLE SHUTTLE forward from 1× to 2×, 4×, 6×, 8×, 16× and 32× the normal speed. • During reverse playback, turning the wheel counter clockwise SHUTTLE speeds the play backward from 1×, 2×, 4×, 6×, 8×, 16×...
Introduction 1.3.2. DVR Buttons The DVR buttons on the front panel illuminates when the buttons are activated. The DVR buttons perform more than one function and are described briefly in Table 1-2. Chapter 4, “Operating the DVR” provides detailed information on using the DVR buttons.
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Introduction Table 1-2 Description of DVR buttons Button Description Pressing the button take you to the Copy menu. Exit the Copy menu by pressing the COPY COPY button. MENU While configuring in the menus, pressing the button lets you navigate to the selected ENTER TOUCH ENTER...
Introduction 1.3.3. DVR Back Panel Features The back panel of the EX4 DVR features the inputs where the DVR connects to the other components of the EX4 System. See Figure 1-2. Chapter 2, “Installation” provides detailed information on connecting to the back panel.
(For installing the DVR under a seat, use of the Underseat Mounting Bracket Kit is recommended. For installing the DVR in a vertical mount, the Vertical Mounting Bracket Kit is recommended. Contact your sales representative at Seon Design for more information.) 1.5. Cables and Harnesses The wiring connections to the EX4 System includes: •...
HAPTER Installation This chapter provides information and procedures for installing the EX4 System. The EX4 Plus configuration includes installing the Smart-Link module and other additional materials.
Installation Important note Important: If you are mounting the lock box under a seat, please contact your Seon Design sales representative or dealer for information on the Underseat Mounting Bracket Kit before starting the installation. Important: If you are mounting the lock box vertically, please contact your Seon Design sales representative or dealer for information on the Vertical Mounting Bracket Kit before starting the installation.
It is highly recommended that the Vertical Mounting Bracket Kit is used to help stabilize the lock box in a vertical installation. If you are mounting the lock box vertically, please contact your Seon Design sales representative or dealer for information on the Vertical Mounting Bracket Kit before starting the installation.
Installation Vertical mounting screw Figure 2-2 Lock box vertical installation 2.3. Step 2: Installing the DVR in the Lock Box The DVR has two brackets attached to the sides that allow the DVR to slide easily in and out of the lock box. The brackets also enable easy top-up orientation of the DVR when the unit is installed on the floor or under a seat.
Installation 2.4. Step 3: Installing the Cameras If you have purchased cameras from Seon Design, install the cameras according to the documentation that shipped with the product. If you have cameras already installed, see “2.5.2. Checking the Camera Cable Connections”.
Installation Item Feature Description Auxiliary Power jacks (2.1 mm barrels) POWER POWER Video output jack (yellow RCA style) for playback. (A video output jack is also VIDEO OUT provided on the front panel of the DVR. However, only one device at a time can be connected to either jack.) 1, 2 Audio input jacks (white RCA style) used with the two power output jacks for optional...
The camera cable should be long enough to reach from a camera mounted to the header or ceiling of a bus down to the DVR lock box. Different cable lengths can be obtained by contacting Seon Design. The camera cable can be surface run or concealed.
Installation 2.6. Step 5: Connecting the Power and Ignition Harness, Fuses and Fuse Holders The power and ignition harness uses a pair of 16 AWG power wires to connect to the vehicle battery and a 22 AWG yellow wire to connect to an ignition-switched circuit.
If you need assistance in determining a suitable location to mount the Smart-Link, contact Customer Service at Seon Design. (The dimensions for the Smart-Link are provided in “A.5. Smart-Link™ Module” on page A–4.) To install the Smart-Link module: 1.
Installation Figure 2-7 Smart-Link module Figure 2-8 Smart-Link-to-DVR connection harness (EX4 Plus) CAUTION: Power and ignition harness connection To ensure proper performance, connect the red and black power wires to points as close to the battery as possible. Never connect the ground wire (black wire) to the vehicle chassis by drilling a hole into a panel and using a sheet metal screw.
Installation 2.7.1. EX4 Plus: Connecting the Signal Harness The 5-conductor signal harness is used to connect to the various signals in the vehicle, including turn signals, brake lights, stop-arm, and warning lights, for example. Always connect through a fuse-protected circuit. The signals can be activated from 12 VDC (Active ) or 0 VDC (Active ).
“2.9. EX4 Plus Step 8: Installing the Driver’s Indicator Panel” on page 2–14. Seon Design provides several models of GPS receivers designed to work with the EX4 Plus. Contact your sales representative at Seon Design for the GPS receiver best suited for your application.
The indicator panel is supplied with a 12 inch cable and connector. A 10-foot extension cable is provided as a standard accessory with the driver’s indicator panel. Extension cables of different lengths can be ordered from Seon Design. Contact your sales representative to order a different length cable.
The EX4 DVR has a built-in CAN interface for connecting to J1939 compliant vehicle networks. J1939 is a Society for Automotive Engineers (SAE) specification for network communication in a vehicle. Seon Design can factory program the Smart-Link module to accept ten signals from the large selection available on a vehicle.
DVR must be removed. For decoy systems, the lock box and all the harness and cables are installed the same as for a live system. 2.14. Step 13: Wireless Network Contact your sales representative at Seon Design for wireless network options. 2–16 700-0042 R004...
Configuring the DVR 3.1. Configuring the DVR The EX4 DVR uses on-screen configuring to allow for easy setup of all the functions and controls. During live viewing and recording, the information displayed on the screen can include the items shown in Figure 3-1. All menus are displayed on a blue screen with white text.
Configuring the DVR 3.2. EX4 DVR Main Menu The EX4 DVR main menu lets you set the time and date, create titles, and customize other menu items. To view the main menu: 1. If the DVR is recording or playing, press the button on the front of the STOP DVR.
3.2.1. Software Version The software version in the DVR is displayed at the bottom of every menu. When contacting Seon Design about any service or operational issues, please have the software version available for Customer Service. In Figure 3-3, for example, the software version is 1.48.
Configuring the DVR 3.2.2.1. Time/Date Configuration Items Table 3-2 Time/Date configuration items Menu Item Description Values Default Set the time in 12-hour (am or pm , 24 TIME FORMAT indication) or 24-hour format. Set the time for the DVR. • 12:00:00a to 11:59:59p Not applicable TIME...
Configuring the DVR 3.2.3. Using the Titles/Display Menu Use the Titles/Display menu to set the on-screen title and other on-screen options. To view the Titles/Display menu: 1. On the main menu, turn the wheel to highlight TITLES DISPLAY 2. Press the button.
Configuring the DVR 3.2.3.1. Titles/Display Configuration Items Table 3-3 Titles/Display configuration items Menu Item Description Values Default The main title is displayed on every view • MAIN TITLE and can be up to 24 characters long. • 0 to 9 applicable.
Configuring the DVR Figure 3-5 Record menu To change a setting on the sub-menu: 1. Turn the wheel clockwise or counter clockwise to change the value. 2. Press the > button to advance through the fields. LOCK 3. Press the <...
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Configuring the DVR Table 3-4 Record configuration items Menu Item Description Values Default 1 to The camera speed can be set differently for , 7.5 CAMERA each camera. CAMERA SPEED Maximum aggregate speed of 30 FPS at 720×480 resolution across all four channels. For example, 7.5 FPS for four cameras (7.5 FPS ×...
Configuring the DVR Table 3-4 Record configuration items Menu Item Description Values Default Determines when the system starts up. The 0, 15 , 30 RECORD DELAY Delay-On options uses Smart-Start™ which , 10 ON TIME protects the DVR from transients and , 20 , 30 , 45...
If the cameras are set to record at different rates, contact Seon Design for assistance in calculating the recording capacity. The EX4 DVR processes 4 different video inputs simultaneously — the frames per second (FPS) is aggregate based on the sum of all the camera frame rates.
Configuring the DVR Table 3-7 Estimated recording time in hours with 80 GB hard drive Picture Quality and Frames per Resolution second (FPS) 360×240 360×240 360×240 720×240 720×240 720×240 720×480 720×480 720×480 1698 1280 1277 Table 3-8 Estimated recording time in hours with 120 GB hard drive Picture Quality and Frames per Resolution...
Configuring the DVR To change a setting on the sub-menu: 1. Turn the wheel clockwise or counter clockwise to change the value. 2. Press the > button to advance through the fields. LOCK 3. Press the < button to move back through the fields. DISPLAY The selected menu item is highlighted with a pale blue background.
Configuring the DVR Table 3-11 Alarm 1 settings configuration items Menu Item Description Values Default Alarm input option refers to the type of . (normally open) ALARM INPUT contact closure required to activate an activates an alarm when alarm. All of the alarm inputs are connected to ground.
Configuring the DVR Table 3-11 Alarm 1 settings configuration items Menu Item Description Values Default 1 to The EX4 DVR uses video Picture Quality 6 (High) CAMERA MPEG compression to extend the recording time CAMERA QUALITY on the hard drive. The picture quality •...
Configuring the DVR 4. Press the button to reload the default value into a field. CLEAR 5. To exit the menu, press the button. MENU 6. Repeat these steps to set the Enable timers, Day, Start, End, and Set. See Table 3-12.
Configuring the DVR 3.2.7. Using the Signals Menu The EX4 DVR using the Smart-Link module has the ability to record various signals from the vehicle. For example, when the brakes are applied, the text can be recorded on the camera picture. Use the Signals menu to configure ten different character strings to be displayed when an external analog signal or CAN message has been sent.
Configuring the DVR Table 3-13 Signal configuration items Menu Item Description Values Default (Warning lights) (Right) 6–10 Signals 6 to 10 are CAN signals and are defined by the user. See “2.10. EX4 No default. Plus Step 9: CAN Network” on page 2–15. Indicates the activation level for the signal.
• receiver • vehicle network. Set the speed display option to the desired input type. Note: All of the speed input devices are optional. Contact your sales representative at Seon Design to obtain the optimal speed solution. 3–20 700-0042 R004...
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Configuring the DVR Table 3-14 GPS/SPEED configuration items Menu Item Description Values Default If Speed is being recorded from the receiver or the SPEED UNIT network, then the desired speed display units must be (knots) selected. Selecting the speed unit to be makes the convert the signal to display speed in miles per hour.
Configuring the DVR 3.2.9. Using the Network Menu The EX4 DVR has a built-in network interface for connecting to an office network or to certain peripheral devices. Use the Network menu to set the communication parameters necessary to use the Ethernet connection on the EX4 DVR.
Configuring the DVR Table 3-15 Network configuration items Menu Item Description Values Default If a DHCP server is being used, DHCP select . To assign specific network parameters for IP Address, Subnet Mask, Default Gateway, and DNS Server, set the DHCP option to For the IP address, enter a static IP address for the DVR.
Configuring the DVR 3.2.10. Using the System Menu The System menu allows controls of system level settings and functions that should only be accessed by authorized individuals. To view the System menu: 1. On the main menu, turn the wheel to highlight SYSTEM 2.
Uses the numbers 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8. 88888888 SET PASSWORD Three sets of default settings are (factory LOAD DEFAULTS SEON available that can be changed by default) applicable the user. Three sets of default settings can...
DRIVE erased). 3.2.11. Updating the Software Program The software update must be obtained from Seon Design. Attempting to load other software will not work on the EX4 DVR. Updating the software program on the DVR involves the following steps: •...
Configuring the DVR 3.2.11.1. Beginning the Software Update To install a software update, a USB memory device must be formatted from a Windows computer using the FAT file format. Load the Program Update file onto the USB memory device. To install a software program update to the EX4 DVR: 1.
Configuring the DVR 3.2.11.3. Running the Program Update This step loads the new software onto the EX4 DVR. To run the program update: Important: Ensure the vehicle ignition is turned on. If power goes away in PHASE the DVR will be corrupt. 1.
Configuring the DVR Figure 3-15 Load defaults popup menu 4. Turn the wheel to select SEON Selecting loads Seon factory options. SEON 5. Press the button to load the default settings. ENTER The screen displays, “ ..” then “ ”.
Configuring the DVR 3.2.11.6. Formatting the Hard Drive Important: The hard drives supplied by Seon Design are pre-formatted to work in the EX4 DVR. Before formatting an existing hard drive, you may wish to create an archive file using the HD Reader. For more information, see the HD Reader User’s Guide, document part number 700-0036.
Operating the DVR 4.1. Operating and Monitoring the DVR The EX4 DVR front panel provides several features which are used to operate and monitor the status of the DVR: DVR buttons, connectors, status indicator light, wheel. During normal operation of the DVR, any of the indicator SHUTTLE lights may be illuminated to show the status of the unit.
Operating the DVR Table 4-1 Using the DVR buttons Button Description With the vehicle ignition turned , and the DVR powered off, press the button for 3 POWER POWER seconds to power up the DVR. Recording is not initiated. With the vehicle ignition turned , and the DVR still powered up in the RECORD DELAY interval, press the...
Operating the DVR Table 4-1 Using the DVR buttons Button Description • Press the button to enter the main menu of the DVR. The menus can be entered in MENU MENU Live, Record, or Playback mode. Several program options can only be changed when entering the menus from Live mode.
Operating the DVR 4.2.1. Using the SHUTTLE Wheel during Playback During playback, the (outer) wheel can be used to speed up the SHUTTLE reviewing process. The play-speed is displayed on the screen. 1. During playback, turning the wheel clockwise speeds the play SHUTTLE forward from 1×...
4.5. Extended Operational Functions 4.5.1. Reading CAN messages Contact Seon Design for assistance in setting up CAN messages for your DVR. The Smart-Link module requires programming for your specific applications. 4.5.2. Using the ONE-TOUCH Download option...
Operating the DVR Important: The red LED on the button is illuminated if there is ENTER TOUCH an error, such as a bad drive or if the drive is full. 6. Remove the drive and power the DVR off by pressing the button POWER for 3 seconds.
Operating the DVR 4.5.3.1. Searching for Recording Information BY EVENT is chosen, the fields cannot be changed. BY EVENT DATE TIME See Table 4-3. To search for recorded information BY EVENT 1. Choose the Event type. 2. Press the button to bring up a list of events, which includes both TOUCH alarms and regular recordings.
Operating the DVR 4. To move through the list of events line by line, turn the wheel clockwise or counter clockwise. 5. To search for a specific page number, press the button to bring up the SEARCH option to go to another page of events. 6.
Operating the DVR The Copy menu appears as shown in Figure 4-3. Figure 4-3 Copy menu To change a setting on the menu: 1. Turn the wheel clockwise or counter clockwise to change the value. 2. Press the > button to advance through the fields. LOCK 3.
Operating the DVR Table 4-4 Copy menu configuration items Menu Item Description Values Default , as well as the START DATE START DATE START TIME YYYY XXX and END select the length of is the 3-letter symbol for day of END DATE TIME time to be saved to the USB memory device.
Operating the DVR 4.6. Advanced Smart-Temp The EX4 System incorporates the Advanced Smart-Temp™ which monitors the temperature inside the DVR to ensure the hard-drive operates in a safe environment. In many areas, the temperature drops well below 40°F (4°C) and quite often below 32°F (0°C).
HAPTER Maintenance and Returning Product for Service This chapter provides information and procedures for performing periodic maintenance on the EX4 System and returning any part of the system for service.
DVR shutting down on a hot day due to inadequate air circulation. If you need a new fan filter, contact your dealer or Seon Design to obtain a replacement. To replace the fan filter: 1.
Maintenance and Returning Product for Service 5.2. Returning Product for Service If any part of the EX4 System is to be returned to Seon Design Inc. for service, please contact Seon, provide the model and or serial number of your unit, and ask for a Return Authorization (RA) number.
The EX4 System is designed for high reliability of operation. If, however, you have any problems with your system, read this Troubleshooting chapter. If you cannot resolve the issue, contact Customer Service at Seon Design. Symptom Possible Cause and Solution All problems.
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Troubleshooting Symptom Possible Cause and Solution The live camera picture is snowy, fuzzy, or • Check all connections inside the camera. grainy. • Is the camera cable damaged? • Check the connections inside the DVR lock box. • Is the DVR power harness connected directly to the bus battery? The playback picture is snowy, fuzzy, or •...
Appendix A Specifications This appendix provides the product specifications for the Explorer EX4 Basic and Plus Mobile Digital Video Recording (DVR) System. Note: Specifications are subject to change without notice.
Specifications A.2. EX4 DVR Functional Features Time Format 12 Hour or 24 Hour mode Date Format YYYY YYYY YYYY Daylight Saving Time (Automatic) and , Configurable Start and Stop Main Title 24 characters Camera Titles 12 characters per camera Repeat Record User selectable Record Delay-On 15 seconds to 60 minutes...
Seon. In the event of replacement, the returned product will be credited to the customer’s account and a new invoice issued for the replacement item. Seon reserves the right to refund the purchase price or to issue a credit only in lieu of replacement.
WARRANTIES OR MODIFIED WARRANTIES ARISING FROM USAGE OF TRADE OR COURSE OF DEALING Any description of the goods or services, whether in writing or made orally by Seon or Seon’s agents, specifications, samples, models, bulletins, drawings, diagrams, engineering sheets or similar materials used in connection with customer’s order are for the sole purpose of identifying the goods and/or services...
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Provisions Applicable to American Customers For those customers whose mailing address is in the United States, Seon’s offer and any agreement of sale resulting therefrom shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal and domestic laws of the State of without giving effect to the conflict of laws rules thereof.
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Seon Design Inc. Unit 111, 3B Burbidge Street Coquitlam, BC Canada V3K 7B2 Telephone 604.941.0880 Toll Free Telephone 1.877.630.7366 604.941.0870 Toll Free Fax 1.866.664.3677 Email sales@seon.com Web site www.seon.com Document part number 700-0042 R004 Printed in Canada...
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