[JoshMachine]

DDPAI Z40 Dual Channel dashcam

Finally, took the plunge and brought this nice dashcam over the weekend. Its been only couple of days yet, so my observations will evolve over a period of time as usage and exploration increases.

Very sleek and compact packaging:



I bought the GPS version, there's one available without it also. Although from what I have seen so far, it doesn't look like a real-time tracker (like GMaps) but just a logger. Not sure if there is a feature to turn on tracking as well.

The packaging contents:-





Among other things, during the initial research, I came across this important feature in the Z40. I would think its very important to have this capacitor given the high temp prevalent everywhere in our country:



The form factor is quite compact and unobtrusive for both front and rear cameras:-



The talking point of the camera, the high quality SONY sensor:-



As per DDPAI, the sensor with the 1944P resolution + 5 MP front camera delivers clearer and sharper images. On basis of Sony IMX 335 sensor, video quality is significantly enhanced, even in low-light conditions, with little-to-no over-exposure across the image. "Discover a world rich in detail with high resolution and sharp out-lines", is the USP.

Well, not getting completely enamored by this euphemism, but I found the image and video quality quite good.

Coincidentally, the first pic that I clicked via the dashcam was that of a A4 . Debadged fully, as it shows.

This picture taken at 12.45 pm, reflects the harshness of the overhead sun light, but otherwise looks decent. Unedited image, uploaded here without any filter:-



Here's another pic taken this morning, showing the impressive wide (almost 140 degree) angle view:-



Now, here's another pic of the same scene albeit with a fancy but interesting set of parameters. DDPAI calls this "Sense Reality 2.0" or SR for short:-



It shows altitude + time traversed since start + GPS location + current speed (either km/h or miles/h) + gyro reading and G-sensor reading.
Quite the list, I must say!

Apart from providing the laundry list, the SR pic somewhat crops up the image at corners rendering a better frame visually.

Now coming to the videos, here are a couple of them, shot at night:-

https://youtu.be/_tBr7HL4e7s

And here's the same video with the fancy SR feature activated:-

https://youtu.be/zrni2PxSsxg

The mobile app, is decent in terms of the UI/UX layout + response time.

Shows the connectivity (green tick mark) to the cams:



Have stuck to the default settings, mostly.
Microphone recording, have kept off.





The app allows for full control and preview of the camera (both front & rear). Has the option to share pics and video to social media (the usual contenders) directly from the app. Insta lovers will like it.

Well, that's the initial preview for now. Will try & upload more videos.

[JoshMachine]

Originally Posted by JoshMachine

DDPAI Z40 Dual Channel dashcam

--
Will try & upload more videos.

Continuing with the earlier post, now with some installation pictures and sample videos.

Actually, the installation process was a breeze. Took just 15 mins to stick the front and rear cameras + use the trim tool to insert the wire properly along the sides. No wire splicing, no cutting anywhere.

As mentioned earlier, the dashcam form factor is very good/compact. The front camera (somewhat like a squarish block in shape) fits in nicely just behind the rear-view mirror:-



As seen from outside, it blends in well and doesn't protrude or bulge out:-





And the rear camera is even smaller. Its shape is cylindrical and again nicely fits in the allotted space:-



When I look in the rear-view mirror, this is how it appears at the back. Hardly any obstruction of the view behind:-



And if I turn around and have a look:-



As seen from behind/outside the car:-



The only electrical contact of the dashcam with the car, is via this 12v socket, making it easy to hide and tuck away the unnecessary wiring. Literally plug n play:-



Manage to capture some videos also for reference.

First-up, here's one from the rear cam during daytime. Recorded during mid-day, colors and details captured decently:-

https://youtu.be/LfvphWUrl4g

Next, this is a video from the rear cam during night. Quite adequate to make out what's happening behind:-

https://youtu.be/OPbPHuYLr24

And, a sample video from the front cam during daytime. Quite a wide angle (approx 140 deg, as per OEM) and sufficient clarity, I would think:-

https://youtu.be/tAGmrUdo_z8

The whole contraption made my wallet lighter by 12.3k including the 128 GB Samsung SD card. Bought it from Nexdigitron's official store at Hinjewadi Wakad road, Pune at this place.

[R2D2]

Congrats to you and the family! Lovely car! The A4 looks so much nicer now. Really happy for you mate. And thanks so much for sharing the pre and post purchase experience

[the_skyliner]

Originally Posted by JoshMachine

DDPAI Z40 Dual Channel dashcam

Finally, took the plunge and brought this nice dashcam over the weekend. Its been only couple of days yet, so my observations will evolve over a period of time as usage and exploration increases.

Looks neat.

Where did you buy it from? I planning to get something similar for my A6. The installation seems pretty straight forward with this one so might as well get the same product.

Please do share the link/store details.

[JoshMachine]

Originally Posted by the_skyliner

Looks neat.

Where did you buy it from? I planning to get something similar for my A6. The installation seems pretty straight forward with this one so might as well get the same product.

Please do share the link/store details.

Yes, the installation is quite simple and the results (dashcam pictures & videos) are quite good.

As mentioned in the my previous post, I got this from Nexdigitron's official store located on the Hinjewadi Wakad road.

[JoshMachine]

The A4 is almost 9 months old, with close to 10k on the odo.

After the trip to Sahyadris early this month, the A4 had accumulated red dust at quite a few places. Warranted a good cleaning treatment.
Besides, we are about to start another long road trip so thought of getting a proper interior session done.

The trusted team at Glosswerkz did a fabulous job, yet again!

They started in great earnest, what with the staff wearing headtorches et al:-





Took them almost 3-4 hours, and the results speak for themselves.

The slanting rays of the late afternoon reflecting the beautiful shade of the Terra Grey colors:-





And those classy interiors, looking even more so:-









Cheers.

[jkrishnakj]

I’m thinking of one too for my A6. I’ve to find out where the 12V slot is. Don’t recall seeing it.

How was the rear cam installed? Did you have to buy the wiring or does DDPAI provide this.

[JoshMachine]

Originally Posted by jkrishnakj

I’m thinking of one too for my A6. I’ve to find out where the 12V slot is. Don’t recall seeing it.

Yes, having a dashcam will have definite advantages, with clear proof of the action in front and behind the car.
I read about your unfortunate accident in the A6. Hope all well now and you are back in the seat taking her out!

How was the rear cam installed? Did you have to buy the wiring or does DDPAI provide this.

The rear cam installation is actually straightforward, like the front camera.
I ran the rear cam wire along the left side of the roofliner and then tucked it just above the rear stop light.
The wire length is adequate to cover the entire car and is provided in the box from DDPAI, not required to buy separately.

[Cresterk]

Congrats on the new car! A bit odd that you thought the Superb was too big but the camry was almost perfect. The camry is actually longer than the superb.

[jkrishnakj]

Originally Posted by JoshMachine

Yes, having a dashcam will have definite advantages, with clear proof of the action in front and behind the car.
I read about your unfortunate accident in the A6. Hope all well now and you are back in the seat taking her out!
.

Thanks.

The car will be back with me on 7th Jan. Waiting for the arrival of the Lamp assembly. Rest all is done and is looking in good shape already. Can’t wait. Missing the car heaps.

[s4ch]

Originally Posted by JoshMachine

DDPAI Z40 Dual Channel dashcam

Finally, took the plunge and brought this nice dashcam over the weekend. Its been only couple of days yet, so my observations will evolve over a period of time as usage and exploration increases.

Sweet ride! A few questions on the dashcam:

Would you be able to confirm the power input for the dash cam? Is it via mini usb? I ask as I already have a hard wired dash cam but would like to upgrade to this, without having to redo the wiring.

Also how does the rear camera connect to the front one? Is it one single cable to the front unit for power and video or separate cables?

Thanks for confirming.

[penpavan]

hi guys, took delivery of A4 -Technology last Saturday. White exterior+ okapi brown interiors. Mine is MY2023 car. It has new flat bottom steering and a B&O 19speaker audio.

Everything else is as expected except for the music system itself. It is nowhere a match to the Canton we find on the Superb. I am not at all impressed. May be I am missing some settings but I searched around. Google is full of people underwhelmed by the B&O. The clarity is top notch but the bass and immersive-ness is missing.

Anyway, thanks to Joshmachine & GNV18 for all help while buying. I am enjoying the car though I feel 360 degree camara is thoroughly missed.

The drive mode I keep is "comfort" all the time and boy, does it eat up all bad roads!

One question to you guys, do the drive modes change suspension setting also? It for sure appears like it does. In some reviews I saw they mention it does not. But I can feel the difference.

[JoshMachine]

Originally Posted by s4ch

Would you be able to confirm the power input for the dash cam? Is it via mini usb? I ask as I already have a hard wired dash cam but would like to upgrade to this, without having to redo the wiring.

The power input for the dash cam is via the car cigarette lighter/12v socket. You can keep the dash cam plugged in this socket or remove it anytime just like that.

Also how does the rear camera connect to the front one? Is it one single cable to the front unit for power and video or separate cables?

The rear camera is connected to the front camera/console by a micro-USB connector. No separate power connection or supply required for the rear camera.

Originally Posted by penpavan

hi guys, took delivery of A4 -Technology last Saturday. White exterior+ okapi brown interiors. Mine is MY2023 car. It has new flat bottom steering and a B&O 19speaker audio.

Congrats Pavan on bringing home the wonderful Tech A4

Would love to see some pictures!
The Okapi Brown with the flat-bottom steering seems like a super cool combination!

Anyway, thanks to Joshmachine & GNV18 for all help while buying.

The pleasure's all mine, glad I could be of help

The drive mode I keep is "comfort" all the time and boy, does it eat up all bad roads!

Comfort mode is the way to go! I have been using this almost from day 1, and the 5-link suspension does everything on all roads - be it the highway, city, or any other road.

One question to you guys, do the drive modes change suspension setting also? It for sure appears like it does. In some reviews I saw they mention it does not. But I can feel the difference.

I don't think the India A4 has the damping system to be able to electronically control or alter the suspension settings on the go, in a selected drive mode.

The difference, I believe, is in the "weightedness" of the electromechanical steering assist for our India variants.

[s4ch]

Originally Posted by JoshMachine

The power input for the dash cam is via the car cigarette lighter/12v socket. You can keep the dash cam plugged in this socket or remove it anytime just like that.

Thanks, but I meant to ask is the connector on this charging cable that goes into the camera mini usb or usb c?

[JoshMachine]

Originally Posted by s4ch

Thanks, but I meant to ask is the connector on this charging cable that goes into the camera mini usb or usb c?

Hi, its a USB-C type charging cable.