Dashcam update - HP F520g
by
, 17-06-2018 at 12:26 PM (3030 Views)
So, it's just over 3 years since I started using this dashcam f520g.
http://www.nsxcb.co.uk/entry.php?155...h-cam-HP-f520g
As mentioned in the above link, under this harsh environment, if it can survive 2 years, I think it's done its duty.
Also, for any devices using standard Li-ion battery, 2 years is probably the max expectation under the current technology with reasonably priced battery.
According to the battery engineers, most of the Li-ion battery on the consumer market can expect about 500 discharge/charge cycles.
After this, the battery capacity is reduced to like less than 50%.
This is the reason why your smartphone requires charging much more frequently in the 2nd year than when it was new.
Anyway, back to f520g.
Over the last 3 years, I was very happy with this device.
No abnormal shut down or loss of files, etc.
Good enough video quality in the day and night time.
The only issue I had was the damage to the micro SD card slot as I removed the card too frequently for other reasons.
Then, just now, suddenly, it shut itself down in about 30sec after going into IGSW P2.
I already saw similar phenomenon happening with many dashcam models so touched the camera body and
despite it was parked overnight inside the garage with no power, it was already fairly warm with just about 30sec operation.
So, it's the typical of internal battery getting hot.
Opened the unit and as expected, the Li-on battery has expanded and the thermal shut down circuit was activated.
The battery body should be flat but it already expanded quite a bit so glad the protection circuit operated properly.
I could just replace the dashcam with a modern model but only expecting about 2-3 years life, don't want spending a lot.
I'll probably get new one any way as over the 3 years, by moving the camera between two cars,
I noticed that the plastic material at the holder bracket got worn out and increased the vibration.
I'll probably get the one using the super cap instead of Li-ion battery this time.
Still, don't want throwing away this nice camera so tried to find small enough super cap that may fit inside the body.
There were several options available but couldn't find something thin enough so back to Li-ion replacement.
I don't know how it can be delivered under current regulations but found many users getting the replacement battery from China
so placed the order over ebay and hope it will arrive in the future.
Hope I can find something good with super cap at about £100 or less....
Kaz