There are several devices that connect to the Drive Smarter app in various capacities. Below, we'll explain these connections, what they are used for, plus tips for ensuring all goes well.
Bluetooth connection: ((Please do not connect via the phone's Bluetooth settings. Connection is done via the Drive Smarter app only)) First, when you initially connect your device to the Drive Smarter app, it will use Bluetooth to find your device and connect to it. To ensure that the Drive Smarter app can "see" the device, please make sure your Drive Smarter app settings (accessed via your phone settings/permissions menu) has either Local Network (I-Phone) or Nearby Devices (Android) toggled to on/allow. Here is the process for initially connecting your device:
- Before anything else, make sure your device is compatible with the Drive Smarter app. Currently, SC dash cams, Maxcam 360C and M2 are all compatible. More devices will be added over time.
- Turn your phone's Bluetooth ON.
- Download and install the Drive Smarter app.
- Create your profile and add your vehicle. (You may be prompted to add the device before this point, but we recommend following these steps.)
- Plug your device into its power source.
- Open the Drive Smarter app, and tap the vehicle you'd like to associate your device to.
- Choose add new device.
- The app will scan for available devices. Once the device populates, tap it to choose it.
- The app will then connect to the device and it will be added to your devices under the chosen vehicle.
- Once added, and the phone and device are in range, it will show connected. If the device is not in range, it will show "out of range" (If your device shows out of range even when plugged in and close by, simply turn off the device, then turn it back on and/or close/reopen that app. This will usually resolve the problem)
- Once connected, you can access the app settings menu.
Wi-Fi Connectivity via the device's internal Wi-Fi access point
Our devices use an internal Wi-Fi that allows connection with the phone/app so that you can access the camera's settings and data. In addition, this access point will allow firmware updates via the cell phone, provided the cell phone has an internet/data connection. When you tap the gallery or camera icon, you will see a message that the all/phone is accessing this device Wi-Fi network (the camera/detector). Once this Wi-Fi connection is established, you will be able to access the live view of the camera and the gallery of videos/pictures, etc.
*Some phones are experiencing connectivity issues with the camera. We are working on resolving this problem. Short term, you can plug the device into a computer to view/save this footage. Rest assured, the camera is always recording your drive and the footage is saved on the SD card in accordance with the product specifications.
Wi-Fi connectivity, Connected Devices
Some of our products (our connected series radar detectors, like Maxcam 360C) also connect to external Wi-Fi networks, like the vehicle's Wi-Fi, some hotspots, or home Wi-Fi networks. This is convenient for performing updates to firmware and the Defender Database. In addition, once connected to a Wi-Fi network, you can receive Live Alerts and speed limit data directly to the device, as well. (no need to use the app during your drive, if you prefer not to) It's important to note that a data package is necessary for these features to function properly.
To connect to your Wi-Fi network:
- When you connect add the device to your vehicle, you will be asked whether you intend to connect to a Wi-Fi hotspot. Click YES.
- You will be prompted to enter your Wi-Fi network's password.
- Once your device connects to the Wi-Fi network, the detector's screen, in the area where the OverSpeed/Bluetooth symbol is usually shown will turn white, and you will see -- to signify posted speed limits. (this will populate once you drive)