Struggling to get your new Rexing S1 Pro dash cam set up? Trust me, you’re not alone! Getting a multi-channel dash cam like the Rexing S1 Pro properly installed might seem a bit daunting at first glance, but it’s actually a straightforward process if you break it down. Think of it as giving your car an extra set of eyes – front, rear, and even inside the cabin – to keep you safer on the road and offer peace of mind when you’re parked. This powerful little device, often featuring built-in 64GB memory, Wi-Fi, and GPS, records everything in crisp 1440p+1080p+1080p, and even includes a smart hardwire kit for parking surveillance right in the box. This guide is all about walking you through each step, from unboxing to routing cables like a pro, making sure your Rexing S1 Pro is perfectly positioned to capture every important moment. By the end of this, you’ll have your dash cam running smoothly, feeling confident that you’ve got reliable video evidence if you ever need it.
What’s in Your Rexing S1 Pro Box?
Before we get our hands dirty, let’s quickly check what you should have. It’s always a good idea to lay everything out and make sure you’ve got all the pieces. Your Rexing S1 Pro package typically includes:
- Main Front Dash Cam Unit: This is the brain of the operation, usually with a screen and controls.
- Rear Camera with Extension Cable: Essential for capturing what’s happening behind your vehicle.
- Cabin Camera often integrated with the front unit or a separate small lens: For recording inside the car, especially useful for rideshare drivers. The S1 Pro is a 3-channel system, meaning front, rear, and cabin.
- GPS Logger Module: This little guy tracks your speed and location, which can be crucial for accident evidence.
- Power Cable Cigarette Lighter Adapter: For basic, plug-and-play power.
- Smart Hardwire Kit: This is a fantastic addition, often included, allowing for continuous recording and parking surveillance without tying up your cigarette lighter port.
- Mounting Options: Usually a 3M adhesive mount and sometimes a suction cup mount.
- USB Computer Cable: For connecting to your computer if needed.
- Cable Management Tool: A small plastic pry tool to help you tuck wires neatly.
- User Manual: Always a good reference, but we’re here to simplify it for you!
Some models, particularly the “Enhanced” version, boast built-in 64GB high-speed memory, which means you don’t always need to buy a separate MicroSD card right away. If your model does have an SD card slot, ensure you have a Class 10/UHS-1 or higher Micro SD card up to 256GB ready to go.
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Before You Begin: The Prep Work
A little planning goes a long way when you’re installing a dash cam. It helps make the process smoother and ensures your camera works perfectly from day one.
Gather Your Tools
You won’t need a full workshop, but having a few basic items on hand will make this job much easier: Rexing S3 1080p: Your Ultimate Guide to Triple-Channel Dash Cam Protection
- Non-Marring Pry Tool often included: This is your best friend for tucking cables without damaging your car’s interior trim.
- Microfiber Cloth and Glass Cleaner: For cleaning your windshield where the camera will mount.
- Zip Ties or Cable Clips: For securing any excess cable.
- Circuit Tester/Multimeter if hardwiring: Essential for finding the right fuse slots in your fuse box.
- Your Car’s Owner’s Manual: Especially if you’re hardwiring, as it helps locate the fuse box.
Plan Your Placement
Choosing the right spot for your cameras is critical, not just for good footage but also for safety.
- Front Camera: The sweet spot is usually behind your rearview mirror, as centered as possible. This location gives you the widest view of the road ahead without blocking your line of sight. Remember, you want to capture as much of the road as possible. Also, make sure it won’t interfere with any existing sensors on your windshield, like those for automatic wipers or adaptive cruise control.
- Rear Camera: You generally have two main choices here.
- Inside the Rear Windshield: This is the most common and easiest. Aim for the top-center of your rear windshield, making sure its view isn’t obstructed by defroster lines or wipers. Adjust the lens so it’s level with the ground.
- Near the License Plate Exterior Mount: If your rear camera is designed for exterior mounting, placing it above the license plate can give you a clearer, wider view, especially for reverse assist. This usually involves more complex wiring to the reverse light.
- GPS Module: If your GPS is a separate module, it needs a clear view of the sky. The best spot is typically near your car’s A-pillar the pillar between your windshield and front door with the antenna side facing outwards.
A quick but important note: Always check your local laws regarding dash cam placement. Some regions have restrictions on objects mounted on the windshield.
Power Off and Insert Memory
Safety first, always.
- Turn off your car’s engine. This prevents any electrical mishaps during installation.
- Memory Card: As mentioned, the Rexing S1 Pro Enhanced usually has built-in 64GB memory. If you’re using an external MicroSD card for additional storage or if your specific model requires one, gently insert it into the slot until you hear a click. Even with built-in memory, it’s a good practice to format it within the camera’s settings during the initial setup to ensure optimal performance.
Step-by-Step Rexing S1 Pro Dash Cam Installation
Alright, let’s get to the actual installation! We’ll tackle this in a logical order, starting with the main camera. Mastering Your Rexing Dash Cam with the Smart Hardwire Kit and 360° Motion Detection
1. Mounting the Front Camera
This is the central piece, so take your time to get it right.
- Clean the Area: Use your glass cleaner and microfiber cloth to thoroughly clean the spot on your windshield where the camera will sit. This ensures the adhesive mount sticks properly.
- Apply the Mount: If you’re using the 3M adhesive mount, carefully peel off the backing and firmly press the mount onto the cleaned spot. Hold it there for about 30-60 seconds to ensure a strong bond. If you have a suction cup mount, apply it firmly and engage the locking lever. The 3M adhesive is generally more secure for long-term use.
- Attach the Camera: Slide the main Rexing S1 Pro unit onto the mount. It should click securely into place.
- Adjust the Angle: Once the camera is mounted, turn it on temporarily you can plug it into a power bank if your car isn’t on yet and check the live view on the screen or via the Rexing Connect app. Adjust the lens so it captures a clear, wide view of the road, including a small portion of your car’s hood for reference. Make sure it’s not pointing too high or too low.
2. Installing the Rear Camera
This step involves a bit more cable routing, but it’s totally doable.
- Mount the Rear Camera:
- Interior Mount: For most people, mounting it on the top-center of your rear windshield is easiest. Clean the area, apply the adhesive, and adjust the lens. Make sure it’s horizontal with the ground.
- Exterior Mount if applicable: If your rear camera is designed for exterior mounting e.g., above the license plate, follow its specific mounting instructions. These often involve drilling small holes and securing it with screws.
- Route the Rear Camera Extension Cable: This is where your cable management tool comes in handy.
- Start from the rear camera. Carefully tuck the cable into the headliner the fabric ceiling of your car where it meets the rear windshield.
- Work your way along the headliner towards one of the C-pillars the rear-most roof support. Use the pry tool to gently push the cable under the trim.
- Continue routing the cable down the C-pillar, along the door sills the plastic trim at the bottom of your car doors, and then forward towards the front of your car, where the main dash cam unit is. You can tuck it under the carpet or plastic panels.
- Bring the cable up from the passenger side, alongside the A-pillar, and connect it to the rear camera port on your front dash cam. Try to keep it as hidden as possible.
- Connect to the Front Camera: Plug the rear camera’s extension cable into the dedicated “Rear Cam” port on the main Rexing S1 Pro unit.
- Optional Reverse Trigger for exterior rear cameras: If you want your rear camera to show a live feed when you’re reversing, you’ll need to connect its small red wire to the positive wire of your car’s reverse light. This usually involves tapping into the wiring harness in your trunk. This can be a bit more complex, so if you’re unsure, it’s fine to skip this feature or consult a professional.
3. Connecting the GPS Module
The GPS module is crucial for stamping your footage with speed and location data.
- Plug It In: Connect the GPS module cable to the “GPS” port on your main dash cam unit.
- Secure It: Find a spot near the A-pillar where you planned earlier with a clear view of the sky. Use the adhesive on the GPS module to secure it. Remember, the side without the 3M adhesive the antenna receiver side should face outwards for the best signal. Route its cable neatly, tucking it into the headliner or A-pillar trim.
4. Powering Up Your Dash Cam Cigarette Lighter Method
This is the simplest way to power your dash cam, great for immediate use or if you don’t need parking mode.
- Route the Power Cable: Start from the main front camera unit. Just like with the rear camera cable, use your pry tool to tuck the power cable into the headliner along the top of the windshield.
- Work your way down the A-pillar passenger side is usually easier, then along the side of the dashboard or under the glove box.
- Bring the cable out near your car’s cigarette lighter 12V accessory socket.
- Plug It In: Insert the cigarette lighter adapter into the socket. When you start your car, the dash cam should power on automatically and begin recording.
5. Advanced Power: Hardwire Kit Installation for Parking Mode
If you want your Rexing S1 Pro to keep recording while your car is turned off – a feature called Parking Monitor – you’ll need to use the included smart hardwire kit. This provides continuous power and protects your car’s battery from draining too much. Rexing R316 4K Review: Your Ultimate Road Guardian
- Why Hardwire? The hardwire kit is essential for features like Super Night Scene and Time-Lapse video monitoring when your car is parked, giving you comprehensive coverage against bumps or attempted break-ins. Many insurance companies appreciate this extra layer of security, and it can be invaluable for evidence.
- Locate Your Fuse Box: Your car’s fuse box is typically found under the dashboard driver or passenger side, in the engine bay, or sometimes in the trunk. Consult your car’s owner’s manual if you can’t find it.
- Identify Fuse Slots: This is where the circuit tester comes in. The smart hardwire kit usually has three wires:
- Yellow Wire Constant Power: Connect this to an “always-on” fuse, meaning it provides power even when the car is off. This keeps the parking monitor running.
- Red Wire Accessory/Switched Power: Connect this to an “accessory” or “switched” fuse, meaning it only gets power when your car is on. This tells the dash cam when your car is actively driving.
- Black Wire Ground: Connect this to a metal bolt or screw on your car’s chassis, which acts as a ground point. Ensure it’s a solid, unpainted metal connection.
- Use Proper Fuse Taps: Do not simply poke wires into fuse slots. this is a common mistake and can cause electrical issues. Your hardwire kit should come with fuse taps or “add-a-circuit” kits. These allow you to safely piggyback off an existing fuse without overloading the circuit.
- Remove the existing fuse from the chosen slot.
- Insert the existing fuse into the lower slot of the fuse tap.
- Insert a new, appropriately rated fuse usually supplied with the hardwire kit, check your dash cam manual for the correct amperage into the upper slot of the fuse tap.
- Plug the fuse tap into the empty fuse slot in your car’s fuse box.
- Crimp or connect the hardwire kit’s yellow or red wire to the appropriate fuse tap.
- Route the Wires: Just like the cigarette lighter cable, route the hardwire kit’s cables discreetly from the fuse box to the main dash cam unit.
Important Note: If you’re not comfortable working with your car’s electrical system, it’s always a good idea to seek professional installation for the hardwire kit. Improper installation can lead to battery drain or damage to your vehicle’s electrical components.
Cable Management: The Art of Hiding Wires
Let’s be honest, nobody likes messy wires dangling all over the dashboard. Good cable management isn’t just about aesthetics. it’s about safety, preventing obstructions, and ensuring cables don’t get accidentally pulled or damaged.
- Utilize the Trim: Most modern cars have gaps and panels that are perfect for tucking wires. Use your non-marring pry tool to gently pry open the edges of the headliner, A-pillars, and door sills. Push the cables firmly into these gaps.
- Avoid Airbag Pathways: Be very careful not to route cables in front of or behind any airbags. Check your car’s manual for airbag locations. Cables should not interfere with their deployment.
- Secure Excess: Once the cables are neatly tucked, use small zip ties or cable clips to secure any remaining slack, especially behind the glove box or under the dashboard, keeping them away from pedals or moving parts.
- Clean and Professional: The goal is for the cables to be virtually invisible, creating a clean, factory-installed look. It takes a little patience, but the result is well worth it.
Initial Setup and Configuration
Now that everything is physically installed and powered, it’s time to get your Rexing S1 Pro configured. Rexing V1P Plus 4K Review: Your Eyes on the Road, Front and Back
- Turn on Your Car: Start your vehicle. Your dash cam should power on automatically.
- Format the Memory Card: Even if your S1 Pro has built-in memory or you’ve inserted an external MicroSD, it’s best practice to format the card directly within the camera’s settings. This ensures compatibility and optimal recording performance. Navigate to the menu settings usually by pressing the “Menu” button, then “Settings” and look for the “Format” option. Confirm your selection.
- Set Date and Time: This is super important! Accurate date and time stamps are crucial for any video evidence. Make sure these are correct in the settings menu. If your GPS module is connected, it often helps to automatically synchronize the time.
- Adjust Camera Angles Again: Do a final check of all camera angles front, cabin, rear using the live view. Fine-tune them to ensure you have the best possible coverage.
- Enable Key Features:
- Loop Recording: This is usually enabled by default, but confirm it. It ensures that when your memory card fills up, the oldest files are overwritten by new ones, so you never stop recording.
- G-Sensor Sensitivity: The G-sensor detects sudden impacts or harsh braking and automatically locks the current recording to prevent it from being overwritten. You can adjust its sensitivity e.g., Low, Medium, High in the settings. Start with “Medium” and adjust if you experience too many false positives or negatives.
- Parking Monitor if hardwired: If you’ve hardwired your dash cam, enable the parking monitor feature in the settings. You can often choose different modes like Time-Lapse recording or motion detection. The Rexing S1 Pro even lets you set a voltage cut-off e.g., 11.8V-12.5V to protect your car battery from draining excessively while parked.
Connecting to the Rexing Connect App Wi-Fi
One of the coolest features of the Rexing S1 Pro is its Wi-Fi connectivity and companion app, Rexing Connect. This lets you view footage, download clips, and even change settings right from your phone.
- Download the App: Head to your phone’s app store Apple iOS or Android and download the “Rexing Connect” app.
- Enable Wi-Fi on S1 Pro: On your dash cam, navigate to the Wi-Fi settings it might be a dedicated button or an option in the menu and turn Wi-Fi “ON”. The camera will usually display an SSID network name and password.
- Connect Your Phone: Go to your phone’s Wi-Fi settings and connect to the dash cam’s Wi-Fi network using the provided SSID and password.
- Open the App: Launch the Rexing Connect app. You should now be able to see a live view from your cameras, browse recorded videos, and manage your dash cam settings conveniently. This is super helpful for making final adjustments to camera angles and confirming everything looks good.
Testing Your Installation
Don’t skip this step! A quick test drive can save you a lot of hassle later on.
- Drive Around: Take your car for a short spin.
- Review Footage: After your drive, check the recorded footage from all three channels front, cabin, rear using either the dash cam screen, the Rexing Connect app, or by removing the memory card and viewing on a computer.
- Verify Functionality:
- Are all cameras recording clearly?
- Is the GPS data speed, location being logged accurately?
- If you hardwired for parking mode, leave your car parked for a while and then check if the parking recordings time-lapse or motion-triggered are working as expected.
- Ensure the audio is recording if you have that feature enabled.
If anything looks off, go back through the relevant steps. Sometimes it’s just a loose connection or an incorrectly adjusted angle. Understanding the Rexing R316 Series: What’s the Difference?
And that’s it! You’ve successfully installed your Rexing S1 Pro. Now you can drive with an enhanced sense of security, knowing that your journeys and your parked vehicle are being monitored.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of MicroSD card do I need for the Rexing S1 Pro?
While the Rexing S1 Pro Enhanced version comes with built-in 64GB high-speed memory, if your model has an external slot or you wish to expand storage, you should use a Class 10/UHS-1 or higher Micro SD memory card with a maximum capacity of 256GB. Make sure to format any new card in the camera before first use.
How do I enable parking mode on my Rexing S1 Pro?
To enable parking mode, you absolutely need to use the smart hardwire kit that often comes with the Rexing S1 Pro. Plug the yellow wire into an “always-on” fuse and the red wire into an “accessory/switched” fuse in your car’s fuse box, and the black wire to a ground point. Once physically installed, you can activate and configure parking monitor settings, including voltage cut-off and recording modes e.g., Time-Lapse, through the dash cam’s menu.
Can I view live footage from my Rexing S1 Pro on my phone?
Yes, you can! The Rexing S1 Pro has built-in Wi-Fi that connects to the Rexing Connect app available for iOS and Android. Just enable Wi-Fi on your dash cam, connect your phone to its Wi-Fi network, and then open the app. You’ll get a live view, can download recordings, and adjust settings right from your mobile device. Rexing R316 Review: Your Ultimate Guide to a Reliable Dash Cam
Where is the best place to mount the front dash cam?
The best spot for your front dash cam is typically behind your rearview mirror and as centered as possible on your windshield. This placement provides the widest field of view of the road without obstructing your driving visibility. Always ensure it doesn’t interfere with any existing vehicle sensors.
My rear camera isn’t showing a clear image. What should I check?
First, make sure the lens is clean and free of any obstructions, like dirt or defroster lines. Second, verify its orientation – it should be mounted horizontally with the ground. Also, check the connection cable running from the rear camera to the main front unit. ensure it’s securely plugged in at both ends. Sometimes, simply adjusting the lens angle slightly can make a big difference.
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