General Seeker DCS400, Seeker DCS495 User Manual

THE

S

EEKER

TM

400 S

ERIES

WIRELESS

VIDEO INSPECTION SYSTEMS

DCS400 and DCS495

USER’S MANUAL

GENERAL TOOLS & INSTRUMENTS

80 White Street

New York, NY 10013-3567

PHONE [phone]

FAX [phone]

TOLL FREE [phone]

e-mail: [e-mail]

www.generaltools.com

DCS400/DCS495 User’s Manual

Specifications subject to change without notice

NOTICE - NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR TYPOGRAPHICAL ERRORS.

©2009 GENERAL TOOLS & INSTRUMENTS

MAN# DCS400/495 12/09

Please read this manual carefully and thoroughly before using this product.

NOTES

19

CONTENTS

Welc ome. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Features . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Packing List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Structure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Set-Up and Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5–7

Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Basic Operation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Other Operations and Settings for the Monitor . . . . . . 9

Recording Video . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Taking a Photo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Play Video/View a Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Deleting a Video or Picture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Deleting a Folder . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Language Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Video System Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Format . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Default Set-up . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

View Version Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Frame Rate Setting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Time Stamp Setting. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Selecting the Recording Type. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Setting the Date and Time . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Event Playback . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

FCC Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Appendix A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

WELCOME

Thank you for purchasing a SeekerTM400 Series wireless data­logging video inspection camera scope. Please read this User’s
Manual carefully before using this product.

The product is designed as a remote inspection device. It can be
used to look into tight or inaccessible areas and wirelessly trans­mit real time video or still images for monitoring or recording.

Typical applications may include HVAC inspection, automotive
inspection, cable routing, automotive/boat/aircraft inspection,
etc.

OVERVIEW

DCS400

• Comes with a 17mm diameter, 3.28 ft. (1m) long camera tipped
probe with built-in, adjustable LED lighting suitable for HVAC/R,
plumbing and general inspection

DCS495

• Comes with a 9.5mm diameter, 3.28 ft. (1m) long camera tipped

probe with built-in adjustable LED lighting suitable for automotive,
electrical and other inspections that require a thinner probe

FEATURES

• The 3.5 in. (88.9mm) TFT-LCD Wireless Color Monitor, can be
detached from the unit for remote viewing up to 32.8ft (10m) away

• The 3.28 ft. (1m) Flexible, Waterproof (IP67) Obedient Probe
retains configured shape. Optional probe length: up to 18ft (5.5m)

• Records in Still Photo (JPEG) and Video (AVI), or view it live

• Records up to 3 hours continuously

• NTSC or PAL compatible

• Choices of 10 languages in the menu: English, Spanish, French,
German, Chinese, Portuguese, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, and
Russian

3

Appendix A

18

Camera Tipped Probe and Base Unit

Base Unit

EU Environmental Protection Waste electrical products should not
be disposed of with household waste.

Please recycle where facilities exist.
Check with your Local Authority or retailer for recycling advice.

17

PACKING LIST

STRUCTURE

4

Camera Tipped Probe

and Base Unit x 1

Magnetic

Base Stand

x 1

Micro

SD Card

x 1

CD ROM

x 1

USB Cable

x 1

Camera Tipped Probe and Base Unit

Base Unit

Larger images appear in

Appendix A

(page 18)

SET-UP and INSTALLATION

Install the batteries, the camera tipped probe and insert the SD card
in the monitor before using the scope. Please follow the installation

steps listed below:

NOTE! Dry your hands before installing or replacing batteries.

Installing the Batteries

1. Using a screwdriver, remove screw and cover from the base.

2. Remove the battery holder and insert four new “AA” batteries

into the proper slots of the battery holder.
Proper battery orientation is indicated on the battery holder.

3. Insert the battery holder into the handle and re-attach the battery

cover and the screw.

Installing the Camera Tipped Probe

In connecting the probe to the base unit, make sure the keyed ends
are properly aligned. Once they are aligned, tighten the knurled
knob to hold the connection in place.

5

FCC INFORMATION

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. (2) this device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause
undesired operation. Changes or modifications not expressly
approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the
user’ s authority to operate the equipment.

CAUTIONS!

• The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing and
that no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed
on the apparatus. Do not expose instrument to moisture.

• Turn off the Camera/Monitor if the system is not in use.

• The adapter is used as the disconnect device from the mains. The
adapter shall remain readily operable.

• The Camera/Monitor can only be completely disconnected from
the mains by unplugging the adapter.

• Do not cut the DC power cable of the apparatus to fit with another
power source.

• Attention should be paid to the disposal of batteries in environ­mentally-friendly ways.

• Remove the batteries when cleaning the unit.

• Remove the batteries before storing the unit for a long time.

• When necessary, replace all four batteries at the same time with
new ones.

• Use only the size and type of battery specified.

• Be sure to install the battery with the correct polarity as indicated
in the battery compartment.

16

SPECIFICATIONS

Camera

Imaging Sensor CMOS
Total Pixels 704 x 576 (PAL)/712 x 486 (NTSC)
Horizontal View Angle 50°
Transmission Frequency 2468MHz
Minimum Illumination 0 Lux
Modulation Type FM
Bandwidth 18MHz
Power Source 4 “AA” batteries
Unobstructed Effective Range 32.8" (10m)
Waterproof Capacity IP67 (only for probe head)
Dimensions (WxDxH) 7.3" x 5.7" x 1.6" (186 x 145 x 41mm)

(Excluding Flexible Tube)

Weight (about) 19oz (530g)

Monitor

LCD Screen Type 3.5" TFT-LCD
Effective Pixels 320 (R.G.B.) x 240
Video System PAL/NTSC
Transmission Frequency 2414MHz,2432MHz, 2450MHz,2468MHz
Exterior Supply Voltage 5VDC
Consumption Current (Max.) 500mA
Charge Time 3 hours
Work Time 2 hours
Picture/Video Pixels 640 x 480
Video Size 27M bytes/minute
Frame Rate 30 frames/second
Video Output Level 0.9 - 1.3VP-P@75ohm
Receiving Sensitivity -85dBm
Dimensions (W x D x H) 4" x 2.8" x 1" (100 x 70 x 25mm)
Weight (About) 5oz (140g)
Operating Temperature 14 to 122°F (-10 to 50°C)
Operating Humidity 15%~85%RH

* Actual transmission range may vary according to the weather,

location, interference and building construction.

* All the specifications are subject to minor change without prior

notice.

15

6

Installing the Accessories

The three accessories include a mirror, a hook and a magnet. All are
attached to the probe tip in the same way. Install as follows:

Make sure the stem is placed at the side facing from the arrow
mark, and tighten to secure the accessory in place.

Installing the Monitor for Wired Use

The product also supports wired use by connecting the monitor to
the base unit.

Connecting the Monitor to Magnetic Base Stand

The magnetic base stand allows the user to place the monitor
remotely on any metal surface for true hands-free wireless viewing.
Connect it to the monitor as shown in the following diagram:

Inserting the SD Card

After the SD card was inserted successfully
into SD card socket, “ ” icon will appear
on the screen; otherwise, “ ” icon will appear.

Connecting the USB Cable

Use the USB cable to connect the monitor to a
PC. The USB online icon appears on the PC.
Open My Computer, and find the Mobile Disk,
the video/picture files in SD card could be
copied/cut/played back.

NOTE! If the video files do not play on the PC normally, please
install the plug-in the enclosed CD-ROM.

Connecting Monitor Power

Connect the adapter to the monitor, the red power indicator will
light or the battery capacity icon on LCD of the monitor will flicker
which indicates charging, and will turn off after a full charge.

Video Output

Insert the video cable into the VIDEO OUT socket of monitor. Insert
the other end of the cable into the VIDEO IN jack of a TV or another
monitor. The LCD Monitor will output a high quality video.

7

Selecting the Recording Type

1. In the setting mode, press the or button to select

“RECORDER SETTING” then press the “OK” button to enter.

2. Press the or button to select “Recording Type” then press

the “OK” button to enter into the following interface:

3. Press the or button to select “STILL VIDEO” then press

the “OK” button to confirm and exit.

Setting the Date and Time

1. In the setting mode, press or button to select “Date/Time”

then press the “OK” button to enter into the Date/Time interface.

2. Press the “OK” button sequentially to select Date or Time; press

or button to modify; press button to confirm and exit.

Event Playback

1. In the setting mode, press the or button to select

“EVENT PLAYBACK” then press the “OK” button to enter.

2. Other operations see: “Play Video/Picture”,

“Delete Video/Picture”, and “Delete Folder” sections.

14

13

Default Setup

1. In the setting mode, press the or
button to select “SYSTEM SETTING” press
the “OK” button to enter.

2. Press the or button to select
“Default Setup” press the “OK” button to
enter into the following interface:

3. Press the or button to select “YES”, pressing the “OK”
button will restore defaults; NO will be to exit.

View Version Information

1. In the setting mode, press the or button to select
“SYSTEM SETTING”, then press the “OK” button to enter.

2. Press the or button to select “Version” then press the
“OK” button to enter and view the version of the product.

Frame Rate Setting

1. In the setting mode, press or button
to select “RECORDER SETTING” then press
the “OK” button to enter.

2. Press the or button to select
“Frame Rate” then press the “OK” button
to enter into interface:

3. Press the or button to select a suitable frame rate.

4. Press the “OK” button to confirm and exit.

Time Stamp Setting

1. In the setting mode, press the or
button to select “RECORDER SETTING”
press the “OK” button to enter.

2. Pressthe or button to select
“Time Stamp” then press the “OK” button
to enter into the following interface:

3. Press the or button to select “Off” or
“On” then press the “OK” button to confirm and exit.

8

OPERATION
Basic Operation

1. Roll the ON/OFF switch to turn ON the camera; the power
indicator will light up. The switch then acts as a dimmer for the
twin LED’s that surround the camera on the probe’s tip.

2. Press and hold on the Power ON/OFF button on top of the
monitor for 2 seconds; the power indicator will light-up green,
then press the button to select “CH4” (channel 4) and the
picture will display on the LCD of the monitor. Press the
button to select “record video” or “take pictures” status.

3. Roll the ON/OFF light switch for a better image effect.

4. When in use, maneuver the probe into position.

ON OFF

9

Probe: The flexible probe can be bent into a certain shape. This
may help you insert the probe into narrow areas.

5. The accessories can be used to
retrieve small items such as
dropped rings or screws.

Other Operations and Settings for the Monitor

Recording Video

1. In the real time monitoring status, press the button to enter
VIDEO status as follows:

2. Press the “OK” button to record as follows:

3. Press the “OK” button again to stop recording.

Notice!

* The Video will be automatically saved as a file every 30 minutes.
* SD card is full when the SD card icon changes to “ ”

How to enter the Setting Mode

In the real time monitoring status,
press and hold the button for about
1 to 2 seconds to enter into the “SYSTEM
SETTING” interface as indicated:

Language Setting

1. In the setting mode, press the or
button to select “SYSTEM SETTING” then
press the “OK” button to enter.

2. Press or button to select “Language”
then press the “OK” button to enter into the
“Languages” interface.

3. Press the or button to select a suitable language.

4. Press the “OK” button to confirm and exit.

Video System Setting

1. In the setting mode, press or button to select “SYSTEM
SETTING” then press the “OK” button to enter

2. Press the or button to select “Video
System”, then press the “OK” button to
enter into the “Video system” interface.

3. Press the or button to select type,
press the “OK” button to confirm and exit.

Format

1. In the setting mode, press the or button to select
“SYSTEM SETTING” then press the “OK” button to enter.

2. Press the or button to select “Format” then press the
“OK” button to enter into the “Format” interface.

3. Press the or button to select “YES”. Pressing the “OK”
button will erase all data; pressing the “NO” button will exit.

12

Taking a Photo

1. In the real time monitoring status, press the button to switch
to photo taking status as follows:

2. Press the “OK” button to take a photo.

Play Video/View a Picture

1. In the real time monitoring status,
press the button to enter into the
playback interface.

2. Press or button to
select folder, then press the
“OK” button to enter into it.

Viewing a Video:

To Play: Press the or
buttons to select video”, then
press the “OK” button to play.

To Pause: In play mode, press the “OK” button to pause; press
again to resume play.

Fast Forward: In play mode, press the button.
Fast Backward: In play mode, press the button.
Stop/Exit: press the button.

Viewing a Picture:

Press the or button to select a picture,
then press the “OK” button to display.
Press the “OK” button again to exit.

Deleting a Video or Picture

1. In the real time monitoring status,
press the button once to enter
into the following interface:

2. Press or button to select a
folder, then press the “OK” button to
enter into the following interface:

3. Press the or button to select a file,
then press and hold the button for
2 seconds to enter the following
interface:

4. Press the or button to select “YES”.
By pressing the “OK” button the file/image will be deleted.
By selecting the “NO” button you will exit the menu.

Deleting a Folder

Deleting a folder is the same as deleting a file, but make sure the
folder is empty, otherwise it will not delete and a warning interface
will appear:

11

10