This video recorder is designed for permanent installation, so its quick reviews on the pages of specialized sites and magazines are not common. We solved this problem simply by installing the Gazer H714 in the car of one of the editorial staff. But first, about the distinctive features of this miniature new product.
Features of Gazer H714
Many motorists would not mind buying a recorder, but not everyone wants to turn the interior of their beloved car into a web of cables and wires. And a device of impressive size may confuse those who do not want to regularly dismantle the recorder in the morning and evening to avoid attracting the attention of lovers of easy money. In these cases, drivers have the desire and need to get a video recorder for permanent installation, which is the Gazer H714.
It is rightfully considered the smallest on the market. Its length is only 6.5 cm, and its width is 3.5 cm. But such compact dimensions did not prevent this video recorder from standing out with wide functionality at a low cost (about 1000 UAH). So, what can be highlighted in this model:
1. The ability to record continuously after the engine is turned off (setting the required operating time of the video recorder, setting the minimum battery voltage to avoid its discharge).
In this case, the recorder starts recording at a reduced frequency of 10 frames per second, which saves space on the memory card. The desired operating time of the video recorder is set in the menu item "Shutdown Timer". As for setting the minimum battery voltage control, it allows you to avoid its discharge. Namely, to protect the owner from the inability to start the engine, the recorder automatically turns off when the charge level reaches a critical point that is pre-set by the user.
2. Parking mode.
This function is designed for security video recording in a parked car. When parking mode is enabled, after the ACC power is turned off, the video recorder stops recording video and enters standby mode. But it automatically resumes recording when the impact sensor is triggered. In this case, a video clip lasting 60-90 seconds is recorded at 30 frames per second, after which the recorder returns to standby mode. The sensitivity of the impact sensor can be set by yourself using the menu item "Impact Sensor", where 10x is the maximum sensitivity and 2x is the minimum.
3. G-sensor.
The G-sensor is activated during sharp accelerations, turns, and braking. When the G-sensor is triggered, protection against overwriting is set on the current files, implying that these files are of the greatest importance. Also, protection against overwriting can be set manually using the button on the video recorder body. Protected files are recorded within 30% of the memory card capacity. At the same time, files protected by the G-sensor trigger are recorded cyclically, and by pressing the button - without the possibility of overwriting (you can delete them manually).
4. Gazer Player software.
The Gazer H714 has its own Gazer Player software, which is automatically installed on the memory card upon first use (at the time of its formatting). Gazer Player provides tools for convenient work with video files:
- setting a password to launch the program, which will ensure access to recorded video files only to you;
- removing file protection from overwriting;
- rotating the image by 180° (relevant when installing the recorder in an "inverted" state);
- displaying G-sensor operation;
- recovering files damaged by incorrect shutdown of the recorder;
- converting video to AVI format and creating screenshots.
One of the important advantages of the H714 model, like other Gazer recorders, is the UkrSEPRO certificate. Its presence is very important because it allows using video as evidence - to give legal force to the recorded materials when presented in court.
Basic equipment and installation
In addition to a copy of the legally important certificate, the Gazer H714 package also includes:
- Gazer microSDHC memory card with a capacity of 8 GB with SD adapter;
- cable for connecting power and composite RCA video output;
- additional strip of 3M tape;
- user manual with warranty card and two stickers "Video recording in progress";
In theory, the Gazer H714 can be installed by yourself, but we would recommend trusting this to specialists. But in any case, we will describe a mini-installation guide based on our experience:
1) Choosing a location. The most optimal location for mounting the recorder is behind the rearview mirror.
2) We route the wire from the recorder under the headliner.
3) We route the second long cable (3 wires and video output) through the roof, the right front pillar, and the dashboard - to the car's power wires.
4) We connect the connectors according to the instructions:
- black wire (GND) - to the car's ground;
- yellow wire (BATT+) - to the battery terminal;
- red wire (ACC)
- to the car's ACC power line +12V;
- connect the "tulip" plug to the image output device, if available (for example, to the car's head unit or car monitor).
5) Turn on the ignition - the recorder will turn on and enter operating mode, and the monitor will display the picture from the video recorder.
6) Focusing on the image from the video recorder, we try on the turned-on recorder to determine the place where it will be mounted.
7) When the mounting location is clearly determined, degrease the glass and glue the recorder on the tape (included). After installing the recorder, it remains to enter the necessary settings and enjoy the right choice of a recorder that is both inconspicuous and provides high-quality video.
Video quality from the Gazer H714 recorder
At the beginning of the year, we tested the Gazer F121 and Gazer F525, so we have something to compare the H714 with in terms of image quality. As our tests showed, the tested model provides a good viewing angle, which confirms the stated characteristics (viewing angle - 140°), and decent recording resolution (1280x720). In our opinion, there are no problems with image clarity. In different weather conditions and times of day, the Gazer Н714 allows identifying license plates on cars driving nearby.
Conclusions
The Gazer Н714 is invisible to outsiders, does not require installation/removal, and does not need to be connected to the cigarette lighter. In fact, you get a camera in the car that even in your absence monitors the surrounding environment. The lack of a built-in display is not a problem, since you can always view video recordings on a computer. And if your car has a head unit with a screen or a car monitor that can display video, the Gazer Н714 recorder will be the best choice.
