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What is Memory Partitioning?

How your dash cam optimizes your storage in your dash cam

How Memory Partitioning Works

A popular feature of premium dash cams like Thinkware, the Memory Partitioning feature in dash cams refers to the ability of a dash cam to separate video files based on the type of recording, so that only the same kind of files can overwrite each other.

With memory partition, dash cams like Thinkware separate your files according to their recording mode, within folders for Continuous, Continuous Incident, Manual Recording, Motion Detection or Parking Incident.

What are the Benefits of Memory Partitioning in Dash Cams?

The most important advantage of Memory Partitioning is how it safeguards crucial video footage by reserving a dedicated portion of the memory card for different event recording types. This ensures that vital evidence is protected and not overwritten during the regular loop recording process, making it easier to retrieve and use when the situation arises.

Beyond that, Memory Partitioning also simplifies data management, reducing the need for manual checking of footage. This feature includes automatic event marking, which is often triggered by G-sensors, so it also streamlines the process of preserving the dashcam videos.

Aside from convenience and peace of mind, the memory partitioning feature also enhances the storage and lifespan of the micro SD card. With a portion of the memory card dedicated to events, drivers can maintain a longer record of their drives without the risk of losing clips. Plus, Memory Partitioning offers the flexibility to focus different recording types, ensuring that the camera is holding onto what footage you value.

How SD Cards Work

Dash cams record video footage onto a microSD card, meaning that total memory capacity is based on the size of this card.

Most dash cams today accept up to 128 and 256 GB microSD cards which translate to roughly 10 to 30 and 40 to 50 hours of recording respectively, depending on the dash cam system.

This means that after this amount of recording, the earliest data recorded will begin to be overwritten with the latest footage.

Folders Type A Type B Type C

Continuous

60.6%

36.3%

53.6%

Incident Recording

20%

15%

15%

Parking Motion

5%

5%

15%

Incident Parking

3%

3%

5%

Manual

10%

40%

10%

How should I partition the memory card?

For Thinkware Dash cams, there are 3 different options for Partitioning, Continuous, Manual, and Parking. Which mode you should choose, depends on your purpose for using the Dash Cam.

  • Type A (Continuous) - save most space for Driving Footage
  • Type B (Manual) - save the most space for Manual Recordings
  • Type C (Parking Mode) - save most space for Parking Mode

How do I change the Memory Partition settings in my Thinkware dash cam?

All Thinkware dash cams like the U3000, F70 Pro, Q1000, and F200 Pro have memory partitioning. If you wish to configure its settings, here’s what you need to do:

    1. Connect to the Dash Cam via WiFi or Hotspot.
    2. Select Dash Cam Settings > Memory Card Settings
    3. Select your preferred Memory Partition.
    4. Tap the back arrow in the top-left to save your changes.

Please note that changing the partition will automatically format the micro SD card.

Need help in finding the right micro SD card storage for you?

Thinkware dash cams offer three partition types. We recommend C type for the most parking mode recording