Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to frequently asked questions about our helmet cameras.
Sportzshot's PVS-PRO series of helmet cameras work in conjunction with any video recording device with an analog input. The most popular recorders are Mini DV camcorders but will also work with other camcorder formats, a VCR, or a DVR. Pocket sized digital video recorders are becoming very popular as well. Remember, the camcorder must be in VCR mode (play/edit) in order to record video from the helmet cam.
How does it work?
Is my camcorder compatible?
Will I be able to use the LANC remote?
Which PVS-CABLE do I need?
How do I connect my helmet cam to my camcorder?
How do I get my camcorder into the correct mode?
My picture is blurry... how do I focus my helmet camera?
How durable is the camera itself? Will it be crushed in a hard fall?
If mounting to goggles, will the camera bounce around?
Why does my helmet camera get really warm?
How well does the helmet cam work in the cold?
What if the camera lens gets chipped or scratched?
How does it work?
Sportzshot's sport camera is pretty straight forward: It's simply a small wearable lens that connects to a recording device such as a camcorder.
Note:
recording device is not included
• Mount sport camera using one of many available mounting solutions
• Plug power jack on EZ-Connect cable into battery pack
• Plug AV jack into recording device
• Plug wired LANC remote into recording device (optional)
• Press record on recording device or simply press the button once on the optional LANC remote
That's it! You're now recording hi-resolution video hands free. The possibilities are endless...
Is my camcorder compatible?
The only requirement is that your recording device must be able to accept an analog video source. You can check for this feature on the specifications page of your recording device's manual or we have provided a list for your convenience.
Check compatibility here
Will I be able to use the LANC remote?
In order to use the LANC remote control you must have an LANC compatible recording device. For the most part the only major camcorder manufacturers that have the lanc jack are Sony and Canon. Canon has even reduced the number of LANC equipped camcorder in the last couple of years so it's getting hard to find. We have compiled a list of LANC equipped camcorders for your convenience.
Check compatibility here
Which PVS-CABLE do I need?
Check our recorder compatibility list to determine which PVS-CABLE you need. If your recorder video input is indicated as "special" then you will need to use our PVS-CABLE-RCA with our RCA female/female adaptor and the special cable supplied with your camcorder. Our goal is to provide EZ-Connect direct connect cables for all of the popular recording devices.
Check compatibility here
How do I get my camcorder into the correct mode?
The procedure varies by manufacturer. The most common mistake is not putting your camcorder in the correct mode which is usually VCR or (Play/Edit) mode. Consult your camcorder manual for the proper procedure on "recording from an external video source". If you are still having trouble please contact us through our customer support ticket system.
Open support ticket here
My picture is blurry... how do I focus my helmet camera?
First be sure your protective lens cover and lens are clean and not causing the blurriness. To focus your helmet cam remove the front metal cover, the protective lens cover and o-ring to expose the lens. Plug in your helmet cam so you can view live video. Preferably to something with a large screen that shows a lot of detail such as your TV. You will notice two small holes on the outer edge of the lens. Using a medium ball-point pen, inserting into one of the holes to turn the lens in its threads. While viewing the live image try and focus on something about 5-10ft away, preferably some large text. Turn lens slightly left or right until the text or subject is crisp, sharp, and in focus. Replace o-ring in groove above lens, place protective lens cover on top of the o-ring, finally replacing the metal front cover. Be sure to tighten securely to ensure a water-tight seal. Over tightening may result in cracking the protective lens cover... be careful.
How durable is the camera itself? Will it be crushed in a hard fall?
The camera is very durable and holds up very well to crashes and falls. Be more worried about protecting your camcorder then the helmet cam. The most vulnerable part of a helmet cam is the cable coming out the back of the camera. Make sure you always leave a stress relief loop or sag directly out the back of the camera. This will allow the cable to "stretch" without pulling on the camera. If you happen to damage the metal cover, protective lens cover, o-ring, or lens... we have replacements.
How stable is the video when using the goggle mount ?
Our mounting system is unique. The mount actually has clips that are attached to a firm yet pliable platform. The clips go around the goggle strap and lock into place. The provides a stable platform for the camera and eliminates and bouncing. This also still allows for full adjustability of the cameras angle. Also, it is important to keep your goggle straps tight and snug. Otherwise you will get "bouncing" at no fault of the mount.
Why does my helmet camera get really warm?
The helmet cam is packed full of electronics and naturally produces heat. The camera is designed to disperse the heat through the metal housing. The housing is acting as a heat-sync and this is perfectly normal.
How well does the helmet cam work in the cold?
The normal operating range of the camera is 120°F ~ -15°F. Bear in mind the helmet cam is generating quite a bit of heat on it's own as well.
What if the camera lens gets chipped or scratched?
We offer replacement lenses, protective lens covers, o-rings, and front metal covers. Replacement parts can be ordered from our accessories page.
How long does the battery pack last?
The battery pack will power the helmet cam and mic for over 8hrs at normal room temperature. As with any type of battery, this time can be significantly reduced in cold or extreme heat. When using in cold environments it's suggested to keep the battery pack close to your body or attach hand warmers to it.
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