Kenwood Dash Cam DRV-N520 Manual

The Kenwood DRV-N520 is a high-quality dash camera featuring Full HD 1080p recording, wide 140-degree viewing angle, built-in GPS, G-sensor for impact detection, loop recording, night vision capability, parking mode, and Wi-Fi connectivity for smartphone control. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting to Smartphone 7. Recording Modes 8. Memory Card Management 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dash camera unit, windshield mount, car charger, USB cable, GPS module.

FeatureDescription
Video ResolutionFull HD 1080p at 30fps
Lens Angle140-degree wide angle
GPSBuilt-in GPS with speed and location tracking
G-SensorImpact detection and emergency recording
Wi-FiWireless connectivity for smartphone control
Night VisionWDR technology for low-light recording
Loop RecordingContinuous recording with automatic file overwrite
Parking ModeMotion detection when vehicle is parked
Display2.7-inch LCD screen
StorageMicroSD card support up to 128GB

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose optimal mounting location.

  1. Mount camera: Clean windshield area, attach mount with suction cup, secure camera.
  2. Route power cable: Connect car charger to camera, route cable along windshield and pillars.
  3. Connect GPS module: Attach to windshield near camera if separate module included.
  4. Plug into car power outlet.

WARNING! Do not mount in driver's line of sight. Ensure mount is secure before driving.

First-Time Setup

Power on dash cam; follow initial setup prompts.

  1. Insert memory card: Use Class 10 or higher MicroSD card, format in camera.
  2. Set date and time: Access SYSTEM menu to configure current date/time.
  3. Adjust recording settings: Set resolution, loop recording interval, G-sensor sensitivity.
  4. Connect to smartphone: Download Kenwood app, enable Wi-Fi on camera.

CAUTION! Format memory card in camera before first use for optimal performance.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menu via MENU button. Front buttons: POWER, REC, MENU, UP/DOWN, OK.

Mobile App: Live view, playback, settings adjustment, file download.

Recording: Resolution (1080p/720p), loop recording (1/3/5 min), exposure compensation. System: Date/time, language, format card, default settings. G-Sensor: Sensitivity (High/Medium/Low/Off). Wi-Fi: SSID and password setup. Parking Mode: Enable/disable motion detection.

Connecting to Smartphone

Wi-Fi connection for live view and file management.

  1. Enable Wi-Fi on camera through menu settings.
  2. Download "Kenwood Dash Cam" app from App Store or Google Play.
  3. Connect smartphone to camera's Wi-Fi network.
  4. Launch app to access live view and recorded files.

Tip: Camera creates its own Wi-Fi network; internet access unavailable during connection.

Recording Modes

Supports continuous recording, emergency recording, and parking mode.

  1. Normal recording: Auto-starts when powered on, continuous loop recording.
  2. Emergency recording: Manual trigger via REC button or auto by G-sensor impact.
  3. Parking mode: Motion detection recording when vehicle is off (requires hardwiring).
  4. Photo capture: Single press of photo button for still images.
  5. Audio recording: Built-in microphone records audio with video.

WARNING! Emergency files are protected from overwrite; regularly review and save important footage.

Memory Card Management

MicroSD card requirements and maintenance.

Care & Maintenance

Regular cleaning and maintenance procedures.

  1. Lens cleaning: Use microfiber cloth and lens cleaning solution.
  2. Windshield cleaning: Keep mounting area clean for secure attachment.
  3. Memory card: Format monthly for optimal performance.
  4. Cable inspection: Check power cable for damage regularly.

CAUTION! Do not use alcohol or abrasive cleaners on lens. Avoid extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE certified for European market. Copyright © 2023 Kenwood Corporation. For technical support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663. GPS functionality subject to local regulations.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
Camera not powering onPower connectionCheck car charger connection; verify power outlet working
No recordingMemory card issuesEnsure card properly inserted; format card in camera
Poor video qualityLens/settingsClean lens; adjust resolution settings; check exposure
Wi-Fi not connectingNetwork settingsReset Wi-Fi settings; reinstall mobile app; check compatibility
GPS not workingSignal receptionEnsure clear view of sky; check GPS antenna connection

Reset: Menu > System > Factory Reset to restore default settings.

Service: 1-800-536-9663; www.kenwood.com

Kenwood Dash Cam DRV-N520 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025