Garmin VIRB Ultra 30 Owner’s Manual OM EN

User Manual: garmin VIRB Ultra 30 - Owner’s Manual Free User Guide for Garmin Camcorder, Manual

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VIRB ULTRA 30
®

Owner’s Manual

August 2016

190-02069-00_0A

All rights reserved. Under the copyright laws, this manual may not be copied, in whole or in part, without the written consent of Garmin. Garmin reserves the
right to change or improve its products and to make changes in the content of this manual without obligation to notify any person or organization of such
changes or improvements. Go to www.garmin.com for current updates and supplemental information concerning the use of this product.
Garmin , the Garmin logo, ANT+ , fēnix , and VIRB are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries, registered in the USA and other countries. G-Metrix™ is a
trademark of Garmin Ltd. or its subsidiaries. These trademarks may not be used without the express permission of Garmin.
®

The Bluetooth word mark and logos are owned by the Bluetooth SIG, Inc. and any use of such marks by Garmin is under license. Mac is a trademark of
Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. microSD™ and the microSDXC logo are trademarks of SD-3C, LLC. Wi‑Fi is a registered mark of Wi-Fi
Alliance Corporation. Windows is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and other countries. Other trademarks and trade names
are those of their respective owners.
®

This product is ANT+ certified. Visit www.thisisant.com/directory for a list of compatible products and apps.
®

Table of Contents
Introduction.....................................................................1
Camera Overview ....................................................................... 1
Status LEDs ........................................................................... 1
Installing the Memory Card and Battery ..................................... 1
Charging the Battery ................................................................... 1
Turning On the Camera .............................................................. 2
Turning Off the Camera ......................................................... 2
Turning the Camera On and Off Using the Recording
Switch .................................................................................... 2
Viewfinder Overview ................................................................... 2
Status Bar Icons ..................................................................... 2
Opening the Camera Case ......................................................... 2
Camera Case ......................................................................... 3
Installing an Anti-Fog Desiccant Pack ................................... 3
Attaching the Device to the Mount .............................................. 4

Voice Control.................................................................. 4
Turning Voice Control On or Off ................................................. 4
Controlling the Camera Using Voice Commands ....................... 4
Voice Control Tips ...................................................................... 4

Video................................................................................ 4
Recording a Video ...................................................................... 4
Video Settings .............................................................................4
Video Modes .......................................................................... 5
Field of View Settings ............................................................ 5
Setting the Video Format ....................................................... 5
Pro Settings ........................................................................... 5
Video Mode Specifications ..................................................... 6
Pausing Video Recording Automatically ..................................... 6
Recording a Video Loop ............................................................. 6
Connecting a Cabled External Microphone or Audio Source ..... 6

Photos ............................................................................. 7
Taking a Photo ............................................................................ 7
Photo Settings ............................................................................ 7
Photo Modes .......................................................................... 7
Photo Exposure Types ........................................................... 7
Taking a Delayed Photo ............................................................. 7

Time-Lapse Photos and Video...................................... 7
Recording a Time-Lapse Video .................................................. 8
Taking Time-Lapse Photos ......................................................... 8
Taking Extended Time-Lapse Photos ........................................ 8
Taking Time-Lapse Photos at Night ........................................... 8
Capturing a Road Trip Using the Travelapse Feature ................ 8

Presets ............................................................................ 9

Setting Up a Wi‑Fi Access Point .......................................... 11
Connecting to a Wi‑Fi Network ............................................ 11
ANT+ Devices and VIRB Remote ............................................. 11
Controlling a VIRB Camera Using ANT+ Wireless
Technology .......................................................................... 11
Enabling the Remote Wake Up Feature .............................. 11
Controlling Multiple VIRB Cameras Using ANT+ Wireless
Technology .......................................................................... 12

ANT+ Sensors............................................................... 12
Pairing ANT+ Sensors .............................................................. 12
Removing Paired ANT+ Sensors ......................................... 12

Bluetooth Devices........................................................ 12
Connecting a Wireless External Microphone ............................ 12
Connecting an OBD-II Device ................................................... 12
Removing Paired Bluetooth Devices ........................................ 12

VIRB Edit....................................................................... 12
Device Information....................................................... 13
Camera Setup ........................................................................... 13
Inverting the Camera Orientation ......................................... 13
System Settings ........................................................................ 13
Date and Time Settings ....................................................... 13
Erasing Your Memory Card ................................................. 13
Viewing Regulatory and Compliance Information ................ 13
Display Settings ........................................................................ 13
Viewfinder Modes ................................................................ 13
Device Care .............................................................................. 13
Cleaning the Device ............................................................. 14
Caring for the Removable Camera Case ............................. 14
Support and Updates ................................................................ 14
Connecting the Device to Your Computer ................................ 14
File Types ............................................................................ 14
Specifications ............................................................................ 14

Troubleshooting........................................................... 14
My camera does not turn on ..................................................... 14
My camera feels warm while it is operating .............................. 15
There is fog, mist, or water inside the camera case ................. 15
Some G-Metrix data is missing ................................................. 15
My video recordings do not look smooth .................................. 15
My device turns off when I stop recording video ...................... 15
Extending the Battery Life ........................................................ 15

Appendix....................................................................... 15
Software License Agreement ................................................... 15
Symbol Definitions .................................................................... 15

Index.............................................................................. 16

Saving a Preset .......................................................................... 9
Applying a Preset ........................................................................ 9
Copying Presets to Another Camera .......................................... 9
Managing Presets ....................................................................... 9

Playback.......................................................................... 9
Viewing Videos and Photos ........................................................ 9
Filtering Videos and Photos ................................................... 9
Marking Favorite Photos and Videos .......................................... 9
Deleting Videos or Photos .......................................................... 9
Wirelessly Playing Video on Another Device ............................ 10
External Displays ...................................................................... 10
Connecting to an HDMI® Display ........................................ 10
Connecting to a Composite Video Display .......................... 10

G-Metrix......................................................................... 10
G-Metrix Data ........................................................................... 10

Remote Operation and Garmin VIRB Mobile App..... 10
Operating the Camera Using the Garmin VIRB App ................ 10
Wi‑Fi Networks and Devices ..................................................... 11
Table of Contents

Introduction

LED
Color

LED Action

Status

WARNING
See the Important Safety and Product Information guide in the
product box for product warnings and other important
information.
It is your responsibility to use the device in a safe manner.
Garmin will not be responsible for any property damage, injuries
or deaths resulting from any use of this device in any activities.

Off

Off (while connected
to external power)

The camera is turned off, and the
battery is fully charged.

Red

Solid (top LED only)

The battery is charging.

Red

Flashing

The camera is recording video.

Red

One or more short
flashes, and then solid
for up to several
seconds

The camera has captured one or
more photos. The LEDs remain
solid red until the camera has saved
all photos to the memory card.

Camera Overview

Green or
red

Flashing rapidly

The battery is below a 10% charge
level, or the memory card has less
than 10 minutes of recording time
remaining.

Blue

Flashing intermittently The Wi‑Fi radio is turned on, or the
remote wake-up feature is enabled.

Installing the Memory Card and Battery
WARNING
This product contains a lithium-ion battery. To prevent the
possibility of personal injury or product damage caused by
battery exposure to extreme heat, store the device out of direct
sunlight.
You must install a compatible microSD™ memory card to use
your device. For more information about compatible memory
cards, go to garmin.com/VIRBcards.
1 Slide the latch À to open the battery compartment door.

À
POWER

Hold to turn the device on or off.
From the viewfinder, select to open the main
menu.
Select to scroll through sensor status screens,
data screens, and menu items.
Hold to turn the Wi‑Fi radio on or off.
From the viewfinder, select to open the main
menu.
Select to scroll through sensor status screens,
data screens, and menu items.
®

Á
WI-FI

Photo and action From the viewfinder, select to take a photo.
key
From the viewfinder, hold take a series of photos
in burst mode.
From the menus, select to choose a menu item.

Recording
switch

Move the switch to start or stop recording video
(Recording a Video, page 4).

Touchscreen

Touch to select on-screen items.
TIP: You can use the touchscreen even while the
camera is installed in the included camera case,
but the touchscreen sensitivity may be reduced.

Speaker

Plays audio during on-device playback.

Microphones

For the best audio quality, do not touch or cover
the microphone area, except with an approved
case.

Status LEDs

Indicate status information about the camera and
features (Status LEDs, page 1).

Å
Æ

Status LEDs
The LEDs on the front of the camera indicate the camera status.
LED
Color

LED Action

Status

Green

Flashing

The camera is turned on, but not
recording.

Green

Solid

The camera is connected to a
computer in USB mass storage
mode.

Off

Off (while not
The camera is turned off.
connected to external
power)

Introduction

2 Insert the memory card Á into the slot, and press it in until it

clicks.
TIP: The memory card label must face the inside of the
compartment.
3 Insert the battery Â into the compartment.

4 Close the battery compartment door and press it until it
clicks.

Charging the Battery
The status LEDs flash rapidly when the battery charge level is
low. You can charge the battery using a standard wall outlet or a
USB port on your computer. The camera is powered by a
removable lithium-ion battery.
You can also charge the battery using a battery charger
accessory. Go to www.garmin.com/VIRB to purchase
accessories.
1

NOTE: The battery will not charge when outside the approved
charging temperature range (Specifications, page 14).
1 Turn off the camera.
Most power sources do not provide enough power to charge
the camera while it is on.
2 Plug the small end of the USB cable into the USB port À on
the camera.

À
Á
Â
3 Plug the large end of the USB cable into an AC adapter or a
computer USB port.
When you connect the device to a power source, the top
status LED turns solid red.
NOTE: The battery may charge slowly when using a
computer USB port. Some portable computers may not
provide enough power to charge the battery.
4 Charge the camera completely.
When the camera is fully charged, the status LED turns off.

Turning On the Camera
Hold POWER.
The status LEDs flash green when the camera is on.

Turning Off the Camera
NOTICE
To prevent loss of data, always turn off the camera before
removing the battery.
NOTE: You cannot turn off the camera while recording video.
1 If necessary, move the recording switch backward to stop
recording video.
2 Hold POWER.
The camera saves your data and turns off.
If you need to remove the battery, wait until the screen and
status LEDs turn off before removing the battery.

Turning the Camera On and Off Using the Recording
Switch
You can use the recording switch to turn the camera on and
immediately start recording video. If you turn the camera on
using the recording switch, it turns off automatically when you
stop the recording using the recording switch. This feature
allows you to start and stop recording quickly, while
automatically turning off the camera to conserve battery power
when you are not recording.
NOTE: The camera does not turn off using the recording switch
unless you use the recording switch to turn it on.
1 With the device turned off, move the recording switch
forward.
The device turns on and starts recording video.
2 When you are finished recording, move the recording switch
backward.
The device stops recording and turns off.

Viewfinder Overview

Ã
Ä

Æ
Ç
È

Displays the remaining memory card space for video recording.
Displays the remaining memory card space for photos.
Displays the status for sensors, GPS, Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth , and battery
capacity.
Swipe down to pair sensors and enable or disable wireless features.
®

Swipe right to change the photo and video modes.
While using the preview viewfinder mode, touch the background to
zoom.
While using a G-Metrix™ viewfinder mode, touch the background to
change the viewfinder settings.
Swipe left to change the pro settings (Pro Settings, page 5).
NOTE: This menu is available only when pro settings are enabled.
Displays the active video mode.
Displays the active photo mode.
Select to open the main menu.

Status Bar Icons
Status icons appear at the top of the viewfinder. A flashing icon
means the device is searching for a signal. A solid icon means
the signal was found or the sensor is connected.
GPS status
Wi‑Fi technology status
Bluetooth technology status
ANT+ sensor status
®

Battery level

Opening the Camera Case
NOTICE
The camera is not water resistant when it is not installed in a
water resistant case. Not all VIRB ULTRA cases or case doors
provide water resistance. Do not immerse or expose the camera
or battery to water or other liquids.
You must open the camera case to remove the camera or install
the anti-fog desiccant pack.
1 Press the latch release À.

2 While pressing the release latch, pull open the front of the
latch Á.

The viewfinder provides at-a-glance details about the remaining
memory card space and current settings of your device.

Introduction

Changing the Camera Case Door

1 Open the camera case door À completely.

3 Unhook the back of the latch Â.

2 Pull the camera case door away from the camera.
The door releases from the quick-release hinge Á.
3 Align the other camera case door with the quick-release
hinge, and press it toward the camera until it snaps into
place.
4 Verify the gasket Â is fully seated in the groove.
5 Close and latch the camera case door.

Installing an Anti-Fog Desiccant Pack
4 Open the camera case door Ã.
Camera Case
NOTICE
You must perform proper care and maintenance for the camera
case (Caring for the Removable Camera Case, page 14).
Failure to perform proper care and maintenance may cause
damage to the removable camera case or gasket and allow
water to leak into the case during use. Exposing the camera to
water will cause permanent damage to the camera and battery,
which may present a risk of fire, chemical burn, electrolyte leak,
and/or injury.
The included camera case provides rugged protection for your
camera, and it provides water protection when used with the
watersports camera case door.
Two camera case doors are included in the package.

The watersports door À is installed on your camera case by
default. The altimeter door Á is included in the box. You can
quickly change the camera case door based on your activity.
While the watersports door is installed, the case is waterresistant up to 40 m and is suitable for many water activities,
including swimming, snorkeling, and high-speed watersports.
The altimeter sensor does not function while the watersports
door is installed.
While the altimeter door is installed, your device records more
accurate elevation and grade data, and additional G-Metrix data,
including jump height and vertical speed. The altimeter door
provides an IEC 60529 IPX7 water rating suitable for rain and
light splashes. The altimeter door is not suitable for watersports,
immersion, or other exposure to water or other liquids.
Go to garmin.com/waterrating for more information about water
ratings and suitable water activities.
Introduction

WARNING
Do not eat desiccant packs. Desiccant packs contain silica,
which may cause irritation in your digestive system. Desiccant
packs are harmful if swallowed by an infant or pet and pose a
choking hazard.
For the best clarity and image quality, you should install an antifog desiccant pack to reduce fogging inside the camera case or
on the camera lens. A desiccant pack kit is included in the
product box. Go to www.garmin.com/VIRB to purchase
additional desiccant packs.
NOTE: When using the camera case in water or in humid
environments, it is normal for some fog to form inside the case,
especially after the camera has been in use for an extended
time. In very cold or humid environments, some fog may appear
even while the desiccant pack is installed.
1 Open the camera case.
2 Insert the desiccant pack À between the camera and the
case.

3 Close and latch the camera case.
Anti-fog Desiccant Pack Storage and Maintenance
• To preserve the effectiveness of the desiccant packs, you
should seal them in the included foil bag when they are not in
use. You should store the included humidity indicator card in
the bag with the desiccant packs.
• If the dots on the humidity indicator card turn green while
stored with the desiccant packs, the desiccant packs are
saturated. When saturated, the desiccant packs lose their
effectiveness, and you should dry them before using them
again.
• If the desiccant packs become saturated, you can heat them
at 85°C (185°F) for 60 minutes to dry them for reuse.
3

Voice Control

Attaching the Device to the Mount
NOTICE
To prevent product loss or damage, do not use the adhesive
mounting base when the temperature is below -15°C (5°F).
The permanent mounting adhesive is extremely difficult to
remove after it is installed.
Before you can install the adhesive mounting base onto a
surface, the ambient temperature must be from 21° to 38°C
(from 70° to 100°F).
Your device includes an assortment of mounting bases and
arms, which can be used in many configurations. These
instructions provide an example of one possible configuration.
You can also purchase additional mounts for your device, such
as wearable mounts, vehicle mounts, or a tripod mount. Go to
www.garmin.com/VIRB for more information.
1 Thoroughly clean and dry the mounting surface using water
or alcohol.
The mounting surface must be free of dirt, debris, wax, or
coatings.
2 Remove the film from the adhesive mounting base À, and
press the base firmly onto the mounting surface.
You can use either the flat base or the curved base,
depending on the contour of the mounting surface.

The voice control feature allows you to control your camera by
saying words and commands in English.
NOTE: The voice control feature is available only in English.
You can use this feature while the interface is set to a different
language, but you must speak the commands in English.

Turning Voice Control On or Off
From the main menu, select

> Voice Control.

Controlling the Camera Using Voice
Commands
1 Say OK, Garmin to activate the voice control feature.
The camera plays a tone and starts listening for a command.

2 Say a command:
• To take a photo, say Take a Photo or Take a Picture.
• To start recording video, say Start Recording.
• To stop recording video, say Stop Recording.
NOTE: You can stop recording using a voice command
only if you started recording using a voice command.
• To place a bookmark in the video while you are recording,
say Remember That.
This option allows you to mark key moments in the video
as they occur so that you can find them easily while
editing the video.
The camera plays a tone when it recognizes your command.

Voice Control Tips

3 Allow the base to bond to the mounting surface for at least 24

4
5
6
7

hours.
TIP: For the best results, you can place a large book or other
heavy object on the mounting base during the 24-hour
bonding period. This applies pressure to the adhesive and
can help improve the strength of the bond.
Insert the adapter Á into the base.
The lever Â must be in the open position.
Snap the lever to the closed position to lock the adapter into
the base.
The lever must be flush with the base.
Insert the camera mount Ã into the top of the adapter.
The device should be horizontal for the proper aspect ratio
when recording video.
Insert a thumbscrew Ä into the larger opening of the joint,
and tighten the thumbscrew to lock the angle of the joint.
NOTE: The metal fitting indicates the smaller opening of the
joint.
If necessary, insert the included hex wrench into the end of
the thumbscrew to adjust the tightness of the joint.

• Speak in a normal voice directed at the device.
• Reduce background noise to increase the accuracy of the
voice recognition.
• Before each command, say OK, Garmin.
• Listen for a tone to confirm that the camera successfully
recognized a command.
• Watch the status LEDs to confirm the camera recognized the
command.
The LEDs flash green twice to indicate the camera
recognized the command. The LEDs flash red twice to
indicate the command was not recognized.

Video
Recording a Video
NOTE: If the battery power becomes very low while recording
video, the device automatically stops recording, saves the video,
and safely turns off. The status LEDs flash rapidly when the
battery charge level is low.
1 Move the recording switch forward to start recording video.
NOTE: For the best audio quality, do not touch or cover the
microphone area, except with an approved case.
If the device is off, it turns on automatically. The device starts
recording video immediately, and the red light turns on.
2 Move the recording switch backward to stop recording video.
The video is saved on the memory card as an .mp4 file. The
G-Metrix sensor data is saved on the memory card as a .fit
file.

Video Settings
From the main menu, select Video.
NOTE: Not all settings are available for all video modes.

Voice Control

Mode: The active video mode appears at the top of the Video
menu. You can touch it to change the video mode (Video
Modes, page 5). Additional settings vary based on the
active video mode.
Resolution: Sets the width and height of the video, in pixels.
Interval: Sets the time interval for time-lapse mode.
FPS: Sets the frame rate in frames per second (fps).
Field of View: Sets the zoom level (Field of View Settings,
page 5).
Playback Speed: Sets the speed for slow-motion playback.
Lens Correction: Corrects wide-angle barrel distortion and
reduces the field of view.
Low Light Boost: Enables automatic adjustment for low light.
Stabilizer: Turns on image stabilization to reduce shaky video.
Loop: Enables loop recording and sets the number of minutes
of video to store when recording a video loop (Recording a
Video Loop, page 6).
Auto Pause: Sets the camera to record video only while it is
moving (Pausing Video Recording Automatically, page 6).
Pro Settings: Enables advanced video settings (Pro Settings,
page 5).

Video Modes
You can change the video mode to change the resolution,
aspect ratio, frame rate, and speed of recorded video. The
resolution is the width and height of the video, in pixels. The
aspect ratio is the ratio of the video width to the video height.
Standard widescreen televisions use a 16:9 aspect ratio, and
standard full-screen televisions use a 4:3 aspect ratio. The
frame rate is expressed in frames per second (fps). The
playback speed indicates the speed of action in the video
compared to real time.
From the main menu, select Video, and select the active video
mode À.

From the main menu, select Video > Mode > Expansive >
Type.
Tall: In tall expansive mode, the camera uses the full camera
sensor to capture additional vertical area in a 4:3 aspect
ratio. For example, a 2.7K video in tall expansive mode
records 2028 pixels vertically instead of the standard 1524
pixels. This mode is useful when wearing a chest mount or
recording activities where it is essential to capture vertical
movement, such as snowboarding, skateboarding, or
climbing.
Wide: In wide expansive mode, the camera captures the same
expanded vertical area as tall expansive mode and a slightly
expanded horizontal area. The camera dynamically stretches
the video image fill a 16:9 aspect ratio. The image is
stretched only at the edges, and the center of the image is
not modified. This mode can be useful for capturing close-up
action shots or sweeping panoramic shots.

Field of View Settings
You can change the field of view to capture more or less of your
surroundings. This feature is not available for all video modes.
From the main menu, select Video > Field of View.
Wide: Captures a wide view of your surroundings. Use this
option for open areas, close-range video, and to capture as
much of your viewing area as possible.
TIP: To capture an extra-wide field of view, you can use the
expansive video mode.
Zoom (1.5x): Captures a tighter view. Use this option for
medium-range video.
Ultra-Zoom (2x): Captures a very focused view. Use this option
for long-range video and closed or covered surroundings.

Setting the Video Format
You can set the video standard for your region. The video
standard affects the available video frame rate options (FPS).
1 From the main menu, select > System > Language and
Region > Format.
2 Select NTSC or PAL.

Pro Settings

Expansive: Enables you to capture an expanded viewing area,
similar to the effect of using a wide-angle lens. This is useful
for close-up action shots and when using a chest mount.
Video: Enables you to capture high-speed action shots. 1080p
works well as a default setting when you need high-resolution
shots. 4K allows you to capture the maximum amount of
detail.
Slow-Mo: Enables you to capture slow-motion playback with up
to 300 frames per second in standard definition or 120
frames per second in 1080p resolution.
Time-lapse: This high-resolution mode enables you to capture
slow-moving or long-term action that is ready for playback or
sharing immediately (Recording a Time-Lapse Video,
page 8).
Expansive Mode
In expansive mode, the camera captures an expanded viewing
area, similar to the effect of using a wide-angle lens. Compared
to standard video mode, a video shot in expansive mode
appears to be zoomed out further. The effect of lens distortion
may be more noticeable in expansive mode, especially at the
edges of the video frame.
You can capture two types of viewing areas using expansive
mode.
Video

From the video or photo settings, select Pro Settings, and
select the toggle switch to enable pro settings.
TIP: While pro settings are enabled, you can swipe left from the
viewfinder to quickly view or change the current pro settings.
Exposure Bias: Sets the exposure bias. Exposure bias
affects the level of brightness.
ISO Limit: Sets the maximum level of sensitivity and image
noise. The camera automatically uses the best ISO level for
the lighting conditions, up to this maximum. Higher ISO
values have more visible noise or grain. Higher ISO values
are best for use in low light environments or indoors. Lower
ISO values are best for use in sunlight. You can use the 6400
option for brighter video in low light, the 1600 option for
moderate brightness in low light, or the 400 option for darker
video in low light.
Color Palette: Sets the color palette. You can use the Vivid
option for a more vibrant color palette, or the Flat option for a
more neutral color palette.
Sharpness: Sets the level of sharpness. You can use the
High option for a sharper look, the Medium option for
moderate sharpness, or the Low option for a softer look.
High Bitrate: Records video at a higher bitrate for some
video modes. This feature may improve the quality and
smoothness of the video, especially when recording fast
motion or high contrast scenes. Enabling high bitrate mode
may decrease the amount of recording time available on your
memory card.

White Balance: Adjusts the color tone based on your
surroundings. The device can automatically adjust the white
balance, or you can manually adjust the white balance. You
can use the 2800K option for incandescent light, the 4000K
option for fluorescent light, the 5000K option for daylight, the
6500K option for sunny conditions, or the 7500K option for
cloudy conditions.
Spot Metering: Enables spot metering mode instead of the
default average metering mode. This feature sets the
exposure level based on the center of the frame instead of

the whole frame. This is especially useful for scenes with
high contrast or a large variation in lighting conditions. When
using spot metering, the most important content or subject
should be centered in the frame.
Exposure Lock: Enables or disables exposure lock for
videos. You can enable exposure lock to ensure consistent
light sensitivity in your video capture. When recording a timelapse video, this helps eliminate stray frames with slightly
brighter or darker images.

Video Mode Specifications
Mode

Resolution
(pixels)

Aspect Ratio

NTSC Frame Rate PAL Frame Rate
(fps)
(fps)

Field of View (fov) Speed

Video

4K (3840 × 2160)

16:9

Slow-Mo

Time-lapse,
Travelapse

Expansive (Tall)

Expansive (Wide)

30, 24

Wide

2.7K (2704 × 1524) 16:9

60, 48, 30, 24

50, 25

Wide, Zoom (1.5x)

1080p
(1920 × 1080)

16:9

96, 90, 72, 60, 48,
30, 24

100, 75, 50, 25

Wide, Zoom (1.5x), 1x
Ultra-Zoom (2x)

720p (1280 × 720)

16:9

60, 30

50, 25

Wide, Zoom (1.5x), 1x
Ultra-Zoom (2x)

1080p
(1920 × 1080)

16:9

120

100

Wide,Ultra-Zoom
(2x)

1x, 1/2x, 1/4x

720p (1280 × 720)

16:9

240, 120

Wide

1x, 1/2x, 1/4x, 1/8x

480p (848 × 480)

16:9

300

Wide

1x, 1/5x, 1/10x

4K (3840 × 2160)

16:9

Wide

Varies

4K Expansive
(3840 × 2160)

16:9

Wide

Varies

2.7K (2704 × 1524) 16:9

Wide, Zoom (1.5x)

Varies

2.7K Expansive
(2704 × 1524)

16:9

Wide

Varies

2.7K Tall
(2704 × 2028)

4:3

Wide

Varies

1440p
(1920 × 1440)

4:3

Wide

Varies

1080p
(1920 × 1080)

16:9

Wide, Zoom (1.5x), Varies
Ultra-Zoom (2x)

1080p Expansive
(1920 × 1080)

16:9

Wide

Varies

2.7K (2704 × 2028) 4:3

30, 24

Wide

1440p
(1920 × 1440)

4:3

80, 72, 60, 48, 30,
24

75, 50, 25

Wide

960p (1280 × 960)

4:3

200, 120

Wide

4K (3840 × 2160)

16:9

Wide

2.7K (2704 × 1524) 16:9

30, 24

Wide

1080p
(1920 × 1080)

16:9

80, 72, 60, 48, 30,
24

75, 50, 25

Wide

720p (1280 × 720)

16:9

200, 120, 60, 30

200, 120, 50, 25

Wide

Pausing Video Recording Automatically
You can set the camera to record video while it is moving and
pause recording automatically while it is still. This feature allows
you to conserve space on your memory card by recording only
the important parts of your activity. This feature is not available
for all video modes.
1 From the main menu, select Video > Auto Pause.
2 Move the recording switch forward.
The camera records video only while you are moving.
This feature automatically enables GPS in the system settings.

Recording a Video Loop
Loop recording allows you to record video continuously but save
only the most recent video footage. You can select the number
of minutes of video to save. This enables you to save storage
space when you want to capture key moments but do not want
to save all footage of an activity. This feature is useful when
6

using the device as a driving recorder or when you want to save
only the highlights of an event.
The saved video loop is split into multiple files of equal length.
This allows you to delete unwanted portions of the video easily.
1 From the main menu, select Video > Loop.
2 Select the number of minutes of video to save.
3 Start recording video.
4 When finished, stop recording.
The most recent footage is saved on the memory card, up to the
number of minutes selected in step 2.

Connecting a Cabled External Microphone or
Audio Source
Before you can connect an external microphone or audio
source, you must purchase the VIRB microphone cable
accessory or the VIRB A/V cable accessory.
Video

When you connect an external microphone or line-in audio
source, the device records audio from the external source
instead of the built-in microphone.
1 From the main menu, select > Microphone.
2 Select an option:
• To switch automatically between the internal and external
microphones when you connect or disconnect the
microphone, select Auto.
TIP: The device detects most microphones automatically.
The Auto option may not detect line-in audio sources and
some microphones when using the VIRB A/V cable
accessory.
• To enable only the external microphone or line-in audio
source, select External.
TIP: You should select this option when using a
microphone that is not detected automatically, or when
using a line-in audio source.
• To enable only the built-in microphone, select Internal.
3 Connect the accessory cable to the mini-USB port on the
camera.
4 Connect the microphone or line-in audio source to the
accessory cable.

Interval: Sets the time interval between photos for time-lapse
mode, or the distance interval between photos in
Travelapse™ mode. For standard time-lapse mode, you can
select a preset interval or enter a custom interval.
Duration: Sets the duration for burst and time-lapse modes. For
extended time-lapse mode, you can shoot continuously, or
set a custom duration.
Start Time: Sets the start time for extended time-lapse mode.
You can start shooting now, or set a custom start time.
Aspect Ratio: Sets the ratio of the photo width to the photo
height. Standard film uses an aspect ratio similar to 4:3.
Digital displays use an aspect ratio similar to 16:9.
Self Timer: Sets the timer to delay taking a photo.
Lens Correction: Corrects wide-angle barrel distortion and
reduces the field of view.
Time Stamp: Adds a time stamp to your photo.
Pro Settings: Enables advanced photo settings (Pro Settings,
page 5).

Photo Modes
From the main menu, select Photo, and select the active photo
mode À.

Photos
Taking a Photo
Your device provides several methods for taking a photo.
• Aim the camera using the viewfinder, and select the camera
key to take a photo.
• While recording a video, select the camera key.
Photos taken while recording a video always use single photo
capture. Photo time-lapse or burst settings are ignored while
recording video. You cannot capture a photo while recording
video at a resolution higher than 1080p.

Photo Settings
From the main menu, select Photo.
Mode: The active photo mode appears at the top of the Photo
menu. You can touch it to change the shooting mode for
photos (Photo Modes, page 7).
NOTE: Additional settings vary based on the selected mode.
Type: Sets the exposure type for single photos (Photo Exposure
Types, page 7), and the exposure and interval types for
time-lapse photos (Time-Lapse Photos and Video,
page 7).
Exposure Time: Sets the exposure time when taking photos at
night (Photo Exposure Types, page 7) or time-lapse
photos at night (Taking Time-Lapse Photos at Night,
page 8).
ISO Limit: Sets the maximum level of sensitivity and image
noise. The camera automatically uses the best ISO level for
the lighting conditions, up to this maximum. Higher ISO
values have more visible noise or grain. Higher ISO values
are best for use in low light environments or indoors. Lower
ISO values are best for use in sunlight. You can use the 6400
option for brighter video in low light, the 1600 option for
moderate brightness in low light, or the 400 option for darker
video in low light.
Bracket EV Step: Sets the amount of variation above and below
the standard exposure value for bracketed photos. A larger
value creates more variation in the brightness of bracketed
photos.
Photo Count: Sets the number of frames taken in burst mode.

Photos

Single: Enables you to take a single photo using automatic
exposure.
Burst: Enables you to rapidly take multiple images over a set
number of seconds. This mode is ideal for capturing photos
of people or objects in motion.
Time-lapse: Enables you to capture a series of photos at set
time or distance intervals.

Photo Exposure Types
You can use several photo exposure types to take single
photos.
Standard: Takes a single photo at standard exposure. This
option is useful for most daytime photos.
Night: Takes a single, extended-exposure photo. This option is
useful for capturing photos in low light conditions.
Bracket: Takes three consecutive photos automatically, using
three different exposure values (exposure bracketing). This
option is useful for composing high dynamic range
(HDR) photos.

Taking a Delayed Photo
You can delay taking a photo using the self timer. This allows
you to join or adjust a shot before the photo is taken.
1 From the main menu, select Photo > Self Timer.
2 Select a delay time.
3 From the home screen, select the camera key.
The countdown timer displays the remaining time until the
photo is taken, in seconds.

Time-Lapse Photos and Video
You can use several time-lapse modes to take a series of
photos or video frames at a set interval.
Standard: Standard time-lapse mode takes a series of photos
or video frames at a set time interval. This mode is useful for
7

most daytime time-lapse photos or videos, and for when you
want to start and stop time-lapse recording manually.
Extended: Extended time-lapse mode takes series of photos at
a longer time interval, with an optional automatic start time
and duration. While using extended time-lapse mode, the
camera goes into low power mode between shots to extend
the battery life. This mode is useful when you want to capture
time-lapse photos over an extended time period, or when you
cannot attend the camera to start and stop time-lapse
recording manually.
NOTE: This mode is available for photos only.
Night: Night time-lapse mode takes a series of extendedexposure photos at a set time interval. This mode is useful for
capturing time-lapse photos in low light conditions, or for
capturing a series of extended-exposure photos at a fixed
location.
NOTE: This mode is available for photos only.
Travelapse: Travelapse mode takes a series of photos or video
frames at a set distance interval, in kilometers or miles. This
mode is useful for capturing a series of photos during a long
road trip.

Recording a Time-Lapse Video
Time-lapse mode captures individual video frames at longer
intervals and creates a video that plays much faster than real
time. You can use time-lapse mode to record movements,
changes, or events that take place over a long period of time.
Time-lapse videos play at 30 frames per second. The length of
the video depends on the amount of time between video
frames. For example, if frames are recorded at a one-second
interval, each second of video covers 30 seconds of real time. If
frames are recorded at a 60-second interval, each second of
video covers 30 minutes of real time.
1 From the main menu, select Video > Mode > Time-lapse.
2 Select Interval, and select a time interval between video
frames.
3 For the best results, mount the device so it does not move
while recording.
4 Record a video.

Taking Time-Lapse Photos
1
2
3
4

From the main menu, select Photo > Mode > Time-lapse.
Select Type > Standard.
Select Interval, and select a time interval between photos.
From the viewfinder, select the photo key.

3 Select Start Time, and select the time of day when the

4
5

6
7

camera should start taking time-lapse photos.
If you select Now, the camera starts taking pictures
immediately after you select the photo key.
Select Interval, and select a time interval between photos.
Select Duration, and select the amount of time for which the
camera should continue taking photos.
If you select Continuous, the camera continues taking photos
until you stop it manually.
Aim the camera at the subject of the time-lapse photos.
From the viewfinder, select the photo key.
At the start time, the device takes a series of photos at the
selected interval. The camera stops taking photos
automatically after the selected duration has elapsed.
NOTE: The camera appears to be off while taking extended
time-lapse photos. The screen, LED, and other features are
disabled to save power, but the camera continues to take
photos.
To manually stop taking photos, hold POWER to turn on the
camera, and select the photo key.

Taking Time-Lapse Photos at Night
When taking time-lapse photos at night, you should attach the
camera to a stable mount and allow time to test your photo
settings.
1 From the main menu, select Photo > Mode > Time-lapse.
2 Select Type > Night.
3 Select Interval, and select a time interval between photos.
4 Select Exposure Time, and select an exposure time for each
photo.
You should select a longer exposure time for darker lighting
conditions, or if you want to capture motion blur in your
image.
5 Select ISO Limit, and select an option appropriate for the
lighting conditions.
6 Attach the camera to a stable mount, or set the camera on a
stable surface.
Preventing the camera from moving helps to reduce blurring
in photos with longer exposure times.
7 From the home screen, select the photo key.
The device takes a series of photos at the selected interval
and exposure time.
8 Check the first several photos to verify the photo settings are
correct for the lighting conditions (optional).
9 Select the photo key to stop taking photos.

Capturing a Road Trip Using the Travelapse
Feature

The camera takes a series of photos at the selected interval.
The screen displays the elapsed time À, the remaining
number of photos the camera can take Á, the time in
seconds until the next photo is taken Â, and the number of
photos the camera has taken in this time-lapse session Ã.
5 Select the photo key to stop taking photos.

Taking Extended Time-Lapse Photos
1 From the main menu, select Photo > Mode > Time-lapse.
2 Select Type > Extended.

The Travelapse feature takes photos or video frames at a set
distance interval. For example, you can capture one photo or
video frame for every kilometer or mile you travel on a road trip.
This allows you to share a short video or photo series of the
places you traveled.
1 Use an appropriate mount accessory, such as the VIRB Auto
Dash Mount or the VIRB Handlebar Mount, to mount the
camera in your vehicle.
Go to www.garmin.com/VIRB to purchase mount
accessories.
2 From the main menu, select Photo or Video.
3 Select Mode > Time-lapse.
4 Select Type > Travelapse.

Time-Lapse Photos and Video

5 Select Interval, and select a distance interval between

photos or video frames.
6 Select an option:
• To take Travelapse photos, from the viewfinder, select the
photo key.
• To record a Travelapse video, move the recording switch
forward.
The camera takes a series of photos or video frames at the
selected distance interval.
7 To stop recording, select the camera key, or move the
recording switch backward.

Presets
You can save your current camera settings as a preset. Saved
presets include all camera settings except for the Wi‑Fi and
Bluetooth settings.
This feature allows you to save and quickly apply settings for a
specific scenario, such as an activity, location, or shooting style.
You can also copy presets to multiple compatible VIRB
cameras.

Saving a Preset
You can save your current camera settings as a preset.
1 From the main menu, select Presets > .
2 Select an option:
• To save your current settings as a new preset, select
Create New, enter a name, and select .
• To replace the settings in an existing preset with your
current settings, select Overwrite, and select the preset to
overwrite.
NOTE: Overwritten presets cannot be restored.

Applying a Preset
You can apply a preset to load all the settings values from the
preset to your camera.
NOTE: Applying a preset overwrites all settings values on the
camera. If you want to save your current camera settings, you
should save them as a new preset before applying the saved
preset.
1 From the main menu, select Presets.
2 Select a preset.
3 Select Apply.

Copying Presets to Another Camera
Using the same preset on multiple VIRB ULTRA cameras can
help you record consistent videos and photos on all your VIRB
ULTRA cameras.
You can export presets to your memory card, and import them
from the memory card to another VIRB ULTRA camera.
1 From the main menu, select Presets.
2 Select a preset to copy.
3 Select Export Preset to SD.
The preset is exported to the Garmin/Presets folder on your
memory card.
4 Repeat steps 2 and 3 for all the presets you want to copy.
5 Turn off the camera, and remove the memory card.
6 Install the memory card in a second VIRB ULTRA camera.
7 Turn on the second camera.
8 On the second camera, from the main menu, select Presets.
The copied presets appear in the list. Presets stored on the
SD card are indicated by .
Presets

9 Select a preset stored on the SD card, and select Import

Preset to Device.
The preset is copied to the camera's internal storage.
10 Repeat steps 8 and 9 for each of the presets you want to
import.

Managing Presets
1 From the main menu, select Presets.
2 Select a preset.
3 Select an option:
• To rename the preset, select Rename.
• To delete the preset, select Delete.
• To move the preset up or down in the list, select Move Up
or Move Down.

Playback
Viewing Videos and Photos
You can view your photos and recorded videos on the device
screen or on a connected external display.
1 From the main menu, select Playback.
2 Select a video or photo to play.
3 Select an option:
TIP: You can drag the control bar left or right to view
additional controls.
• To view the previous or next item, select or .
• To play or pause a video, select or .
• To mark the item as a favorite, select .
• To view the video on an external wireless display, select
.
• To delete the photo or video, select .

Filtering Videos and Photos
> Show.
1 From the Playback screen, select
2 Select All, Favorites, Videos, or Photo.
The list of photos and videos is filtered to show only the
selected category.

Marking Favorite Photos and Videos
You can mark your favorite photos and videos to find them again
easily.
• While viewing the photo or video, select or .
The item is marked as a favorite when is filled.
• From the Playback screen, select
> Favorite, select
multiple items to add or remove from your favorites, and
select .

Deleting Videos or Photos
NOTICE
Deleted items cannot be recovered.
> Delete.
1 From the Playback screen, select
2 Select an option:
• To delete specific photos and videos, select Select, select
the items to delete, and select .
• To delete all photos and videos on your memory card,
select All.
• To save your favorite items and delete all other items,
select All But Favorites.

Wirelessly Playing Video on Another Device
You can view video wirelessly on a compatible display or device,
such as a smart TV, media player, or streaming media stick.
Depending on your device, this feature may be called
"casting," "wireless display," Wi‑Fi CERTIFIED MiraCast™, or
another name.
1 Turn on the display or device, and enable the wireless
display option, if necessary.
For more information, see the owner's manual for your
device.
2 On your camera, open a video, and select .
A list of nearby compatible devices appears.
TIP: If your device does not appear, you should move closer
to the device and verify the wireless display option is enabled
on the device.
3 Select your device.
4 If necessary, enter the PIN.
The video plays on your display or device. You can control video
playback using the controls on the camera screen.

External Displays
You can display the contents of the camera screen on an
external display. This allows you to view videos and photos on
the external display or use the external display as a viewfinder.

Lap times
Lap count
Jump height
Hang time
Jump distance
GPS location
Track shape and position

Your camera can record these types of G-Metrix data using
optional external sensors.
G-Metrix Data

Required Sensor

Heart rate

Compatible ANT+ heart rate monitor

Cadence

Compatible ANT+ bicycle cadence sensor

Power output in watts

Compatible ANT+ power meter

Temperature

Compatible ANT+ temperature sensor

Automotive data

Compatible Bluetooth OBD-II sensor

Remote Operation and Garmin VIRB
Mobile App
You can use several methods to operate your VIRB camera
remotely. Each method provides different features.
Features

VIRB
Remote

Garmin
Device
(ANT+)

Garmin
Device
(Wi‑Fi)

Garmin
VIRB App

Wireless
technology

ANT+

Wi‑Fi

Start or stop
recording

Yes

Take a photo

Yes

Change camera
settings

Some
devices

Yes

Real-time remote
viewfinder

Yes

View photos

Yes

Play recorded
videos

Yes

View battery and
sensor status

Yes

Edit videos

Yes

Add G-Metrix
overlays

Yes

Share videos on
social networks

Yes

Connecting to an HDMI Display
®

To connect to an HDMI display, you must have a micro HDMI to
HDMI cable.
port
1 Connect the micro HDMI end of the cable to the
on the camera.
2 Connect the large end of the cable to an available port on
your external display.

Connecting to a Composite Video Display
Before you can connect to a composite video display, you must
purchase the VIRB A/V cable accessory. You must also have an
RCA composite video cable.
1 Connect the accessory cable to the mini-USB port on the
camera.
2 Connect an RCA composite video cable to the VID OUT
connector of the accessory cable and to an available port on
your external display.

G-Metrix
Using the built-in GPS receiver and sensors, your camera can
detect G-force, altitude, speed, orientation, and many other
performance metrics. This data is saved automatically as GMetrix data. You can capture even more G-Metrix data by
wirelessly connecting external ANT+ sensors, other Garmin
devices, and compatible Bluetooth sensors, such as OBDII sensors.
You can use the Garmin VIRB mobile app or the VIRB Edit
desktop application to overlay G-Metrix data onto your video
using gauges, graphs, and more. You can play and share your
edited videos to show your speed, acceleration, heart rate, and
other sensor data in real time.

G-Metrix Data
Your camera can record these types of G-Metrix data using the
built-in sensors.
Speed
G-force
Pace
Distance
10

Rotations
RPM
Altitude
Bearing

Orientation
Elevation
Grade
Pitch
Roll
Vertical speed
Vertical distance

Operating the Camera Using the Garmin
VIRB App
The free Garmin VIRB app allows you to control most functions
of one or more VIRB cameras using a compatible mobile device.
You can control video and photo recording, change video and
photo settings, view a real-time remote viewfinder, and view
battery and sensor status information. You can also view
recorded videos and photos, edit videos, add G-Metrix overlays,
and share video clips on social media. To download the Garmin
VIRB app or for more information, go to garmin.com/VIRBapp.
1 From the application store on your mobile device, install the
Garmin VIRB app.
2 Select an option:
• Create a Wi‑Fi access point using your camera (Setting
Up a Wi‑Fi Access Point, page 11).
• Connect your camera and your mobile device to the same
Wi‑Fi network (Connecting to a Wi‑Fi Network, page 11).

G-Metrix

NOTE: To control the camera using an existing Wi‑Fi
network, the network must be set up to allow connected
devices to see and communicate with each other.
3 Connect additional cameras to the Wi‑Fi access point or
network (optional).
4 On your mobile device, start the Garmin VIRB app.
The app searches for cameras and connects automatically.
From
the Garmin VIRB app, select an option:
5
• Use the on-screen controls to control recording or change
settings.
• Use the drop-down list to switch to another camera.
NOTE: This option is available only when multiple
cameras are connected.
• Use the tabs to switch between recording and playback
mode.

You can connect your camera to an existing 2.4 GHz Wi‑Fi
network. This could be a home network, a business network, or
a NMEA 2000 marine network.
1 From the main menu, select Wireless > Wi-Fi > Status to
turn on Wi‑Fi wireless technology.
2 Select Mode > Connect.
3 Select Add New.
The camera searches for nearby Wi‑Fi networks.
4 Select a Wi‑Fi network.
5 If necessary, enter the network password.
The camera connects to the wireless network.
6 If necessary, connect your mobile device or Garmin device to
the same network to control the camera.
The camera remembers the network information and connects
automatically when you return to this location.

Wi‑Fi Networks and Devices

Managing Wi‑Fi Networks
1 From the main menu, select Wireless > Wi-Fi > Status to
turn on Wi‑Fi wireless technology.
2 Select Mode > Connect.
3 Select a saved network.
4 Select an option:
• To delete the network, select Forget.
The network information is deleted. To connect to this
network again, you must manually connect to it and enter
the network password.
• To change the password stored for the network, select
Change Password.

The Garmin VIRB app and some Garmin devices, such as a
compatible chartplotter, can control the camera using a Wi‑Fi
connection. These devices can control recording, change
camera modes and settings, and play or edit recorded videos
and photos.
Your can establish a Wi‑Fi connection by enabling your camera
to broadcast a Wi‑Fi access point. You can also connect your
cameras and devices to an existing network.
For more information about controlling your camera using a
compatible Garmin device, see the owner's manual for the
device.

Setting Up a Wi‑Fi Access Point

Your camera can broadcast a Wi‑Fi access point to create a
network for your devices. You can connect your mobile device,
Garmin device, or other VIRB cameras to the access point. This
is useful for most recording situations, when you do not have
access to an established wireless network.
NOTE: Creating an access point allows you to control one or
more cameras using Wi-Fi technology, but it does not provide
other networking services or access to the Internet.
1 From the main menu, select Wireless > Wi-Fi > Status to
turn on Wi‑Fi wireless technology.
2 Select Mode > Create.
Your camera broadcasts a Wi‑Fi network. The network SSID
name and password appear on the camera screen.
3 Connect your mobile device, cameras, or other devices to the
new Wi‑Fi network.

ANT+ Devices and VIRB Remote

Wi‑Fi Access Point Settings
You can change the wireless access point settings for your
device.
From the main menu, select Wireless > Wi-Fi > Status to turn
on Wi‑Fi wireless technology, and select Mode > Create.
Name: Sets the SSID, which identifies your wireless network on
other devices.
Password: Sets the password used to connect to your wireless
network.

These instructions allow you to enable the remote control
feature for one camera or for your main camera. If you have
multiple cameras, you should follow the instructions for
controlling multiple cameras remotely (Controlling Multiple VIRB
Cameras Using ANT+ Wireless Technology, page 12).
1 On your camera, from the main menu, select Wireless >
Remote > Status to turn on remote operation.
Select
No.
2
The remote control settings appear, with the camera set as
the main VIRB camera.
3 Select an option:
• On the ANT+ device, launch the VIRB app or feature. See
the owner's manual for the device for more information.
• On the VIRB remote, follow the pairing instructions in the
accessory manual.

Connecting to a Wi‑Fi Network
NOTICE
Connecting to a public or unsecured network may expose your
video and sensor data to others. Use caution when connecting
to an unsecured network.
To control the camera using an existing Wi‑Fi network, the
network must be set up to allow connected devices to see and
communicate with each other.

Remote Operation and Garmin VIRB Mobile App

You can start recording, stop recording, and take pictures on
your VIRB camera using another compatible Garmin device with
ANT+ wireless technology, such as watches, activity trackers,
navigation devices, or the VIRB Remote accessory. For more
information about VIRB camera compatibility, see the owner's
manual for your Garmin device.
The VIRB Remote accessory is a portable, mountable remote
that can control your VIRB camera using ANT+ wireless
technology. It has tactile buttons that allow you to start
recording, stop recording, or take a photo without looking at the
remote. Go to www.garmin.com/VIRB to purchase a VIRB
Remote accessory.

Controlling a VIRB Camera Using ANT+ Wireless
Technology

Enabling the Remote Wake Up Feature
The Remote Wake Up feature enables your camera to remain in
a low-power state instead of turning off. This allows your remote

control device to wake the camera to start recording or take a
photo.
NOTE: This feature consumes some battery power when the
camera is off. To avoid draining the battery, you should disable
this feature when you are not using the camera, or when you
store the camera overnight or for a longer time period.
Select Wireless > Remote > Remote Wake Up.
When you turn off the camera, it enters remote wake-up
mode. The status LED flashes blue intermittently while the
camera is in remote wake-up mode.

Controlling Multiple VIRB Cameras Using ANT+
Wireless Technology
You can control multiple VIRB cameras using one main VIRB or
an ANT+ device.
When controlling multiple cameras, you must choose a main
VIRB camera. This camera controls all of your other cameras,
which are called extended VIRB cameras. When you start
recording or take a photo on the main camera, the extended
cameras start recording or take a photo at the same time.
When you use an ANT+ device to control multiple cameras, the
ANT+ device controls only the main camera. The main camera
passes commands received from the ANT+ device to the
extended cameras.
1 Bring all of your VIRB cameras within 3 m (10 ft.) of each
other.
2 On your main camera, from the main menu, select Wireless
> Remote > Status to turn on remote operation.
A prompt appears, asking whether you have additional VIRB
cameras.
3 Select Yes, and wait while until the search screen times out.
After 30 to 60 seconds, the search screen times out and the
remote settings page appears, with the VIRB Type setting set
to Main VIRB.
4 On each of your other cameras, select Wireless > Remote >
Status > Yes.
Each camera searches and connects to the main camera.
The remote settings page appears, with the VIRB Type
setting set to Extended VIRB.
TIP: If one of your cameras is set to the incorrect VIRB type,
you can select VIRB Type to switch between the Main VIRB
and Extended VIRB options.
5 After all of the cameras are connected, select an option:
• Use the recording switch on your main camera to start and
stop recording on all of your cameras.
• Select the photo key on your main camera to take a photo
from all of your cameras.
• Use an ANT+ device or VIRB remote control accessory to
control all of your cameras.

ANT+ Sensors
Your device can be used with wireless ANT+ sensors. For more
information about compatibility and purchasing optional sensors,
go to http://buy.garmin.com.

Pairing ANT+ Sensors
When you pair a compatible ANT+ sensor with your device, the
sensor data is recorded as G-Metrix data.
1 Put on the heart rate monitor or install the sensor.
2 Bring the device within 3 m (10 ft.) of the sensor.
3 From the main menu, select Wireless > Sensors > Add
New.
4 Select an option:
12

• Select Search All.
• Select your sensor type.
5 Select the sensor to pair.
After the sensor is paired with your device, the sensor status
changes to Connected.
After you pair the first time, your camera automatically
recognizes and connects to the ANT+ accessory each time it is
activated and within range.

Removing Paired ANT+ Sensors
1 From the main menu, select Wireless > Sensors.
2 Select a sensor.
3 Select Remove > Yes.

Bluetooth Devices
Connecting a Wireless External Microphone
You can connect a Bluetooth hands-free device with your VIRB
camera.
1 From the main menu, select Wireless > Bluetooth > Status
to turn on Bluetooth wireless technology.
2 Select Add New.
3 Select the wireless device to pair.
After the wireless device is paired, the device status changes
to Connected.

Connecting an OBD-II Device
Your VIRB camera can pair with a compatible Bluetooth
ELM327 on-board diagnostics (ODB-II) device to record
automotive data from your OBD-II compliant vehicle.
NOTE: Different vehicles provide different data. Not all vehicles
and OBD-II devices are compatible with the camera.
1 Install your ELM327 compatible OBD-II device in the OBD-II
port of your vehicle.
TIP: See the owner's manual for your vehicle and your OBDII device for information about locating the OBD-II port and
installing the OBD-II device.
2 If necessary, enable pairing mode on your OBD-II device.
TIP: See the owner's manual for your OBD-II device to
enable pairing mode.
3 From the VIRB camera main menu, select Wireless >
Bluetooth > Status to turn on Bluetooth wireless technology.
4 Select Add New.
5 Select the OBD-II device to pair.
TIP: If your OBD-II device does not appear in the list, confirm
that it is still in pairing mode and search again.
After the OBD-II device is paired, the device status changes
to Connected.

Removing Paired Bluetooth Devices
1 From the main menu, select Wireless > Bluetooth.
2 Select a wireless device.
3 Select Forget > Yes.

VIRB Edit
The VIRB Edit application provides easy access to these tools
and services for your device.
• Review and edit recorded videos
• Add G-Metrix gauges, graphs, and more
• Add titles and transitions
ANT+ Sensors

• Multi-camera support
• Update software and features
The VIRB Edit application is available for Windows and Mac
computers. Go to garmin.com/VIRBEdit for more information.
®

Device Information
Camera Setup
NOTICE
From the main menu, select .
Voice Control: Allows you to use your camera by saying words
and commands (Voice Control, page 4).
Record Light: Turns the recording light on or off.
Tone Volume: Adjusts the volume of camera tones.
Playback Volume: Adjusts the video playback volume.
Orientation: Sets the camera to capture correctly oriented video
and photos with the screen facing up or down (Inverting the
Camera Orientation, page 13).
Microphone: Enables the internal or external microphone.
TIP: If wind noise is an issue when recording video, you can
select Off to record video without audio.

Inverting the Camera Orientation
You can change the camera orientation of your device to easily
access the keys during an activity. Some mounting
configurations require you to change the camera orientation. For
example, if using a chest mount while cycling, you can mount
the camera upside down and tilt it upward to compensate for
forward lean.
1 From the main menu, select > Orientation.
2 Select an option:
• To automatically set the camera orientation, select Auto.
NOTE: After recording starts, the camera orientation is set
and cannot be automatically adjusted.
• To manually set the camera orientation, select Right Side
Up or Upside Down.

System Settings
From the main menu, select > System.
Regulatory Info: Displays regulatory and compliance
information.
GPS: Enables the camera to receive GPS satellite signals.
NOTE: Your camera records GPS position data at all times
when GPS is on. This data is not collected by Garmin.
Language and Region: Sets the on-screen text language, units
of measure, and video standard (Setting the Video Format,
page 5).
Date and Time: Sets the time and date formats (Date and Time
Settings, page 13).
Auto Off: Turns off the camera automatically when it has not
been used for five minutes.
External Power: Sets the camera to turn on when connected to
external power, or enter charging mode automatically. In
charging mode, the screen and all other features turn off
(Charging the Battery, page 1).
TIP: You can use this setting to keep the camera turned off
while connected to power, especially when used with Auto
Off enabled.
Reset: Restores the default settings. You can use the Settings
option to clear all user data, or the Factory Reset option to
restore all settings to the factory default values.
Format Card: Erases all data from the installed memory card
(Erasing Your Memory Card, page 13).
Device Information

About: Displays important software information and your unit ID.

Date and Time Settings
From the main menu, select > System > Date and Time.
Time Format: Sets the device to show time in a 12-hour or a
24-hour format.
Date Format: Sets the device to show dates in a MM/DD/YY or
a DD/MM/YY format.
Time: Sets the time manually or automatically based on your
GPS position.
Time Zone: Sets the time zone for the device. When you set the
time automatically, the time zone is set based on your GPS
position.
Daylight Saving: Indicates whether daylight saving time is
observed in your region. The Automatic option sets daylight
saving automatically based on your GPS position.

Erasing Your Memory Card
NOTICE
Erased data cannot be restored.
You can erase all photos, videos, and other data on the memory
card installed in your device.
From the main menu, select > System > Format Card >
Yes.

Viewing Regulatory and Compliance Information
From the system settings, select Regulatory Info.

Display Settings
From the main menu, select Display.
Viewfinder: Sets the viewfinder mode (Viewfinder Modes,
page 13).
Screen Timeout: Sets the length of time before the screen turns
off and enters standby mode.
Lock Screen: Locks the touchscreen to prevent inadvertent
screen touches.
Brightness: Adjusts the screen brightness.

Viewfinder Modes
You can use the viewfinder to set up shots, view status
information, or view data from the device sensors. Sensor
information appears as a grouping of data fields, charts, or
graphs, and provides real-time and historical views of the sensor
data recorded on the device.
From the main menu, select Display > Viewfinder > Mode.
Preview: Displays the camera viewfinder and provides
additional options.
Grid: Turns on grid lines to frame and balance your shot in
preview mode.
Overexposure: Highlights overexposed areas of the shot in
preview mode.
Speed: Displays the current speed, average speed, and
maximum speed.
NOTE: All minimum, maximum, and average data resets
after you turn off the device.
Distance: Displays the total distance traveled.
Elevation: Displays the current elevation, elevation graph, and
time scale.

Device Care
NOTICE
Avoid chemical cleaners, solvents, and insect repellents that can
damage plastic components and finishes.

Do not store the device where prolonged exposure to extreme
temperatures can occur, because it can cause permanent
damage.

1 Plug the small end of the USB cable into the USB port À on
the device.

Cleaning the Device
NOTICE
Do not use chemicals, alcohol, solvents, or other cleaners to
clean the camera.
1 Wipe the outer casing and lens with a clean, dry, nonscratch, lint-free cloth.
2 If the dry cloth does not fully clean the camera, remove the
camera battery, and lightly dampen the cloth with a small
amount of water.
NOTICE
The camera is not water resistant. Use only a very small
amount of water. Verify the camera is off and the battery is
removed before using a damp cloth to clean it. Avoid using a
damp cloth near the ports and keys.

3 Allow the camera to dry fully before you replace the battery or
turn it on.

Caring for the Removable Camera Case
NOTICE
Failure to perform proper care and maintenance may cause
damage to the removable camera case or gasket and allow
water to leak into the case during use. Exposing the camera to
water will cause permanent damage to the camera and battery,
which may present a risk of fire, chemical burn, electrolyte leak,
and/or injury.
Do not expose the camera or battery to water or other liquids.
These care instructions apply only to the removable camera
case.
You must follow these steps after each use to help preserve the
water protection, lens clarity, and mechanical functions of the
removable camera case.
1 Remove the camera case from the camera.
2 Carefully remove the gasket from the camera case door.
3 Thoroughly rinse the camera case and gasket with fresh
water.
This is especially important when the camera case has been
exposed to salt water, chlorine, or other chemicals. Extended
exposure to chemicals may damage the case, including
fogging of the case and lens, and corrosion of the hinge and
latch materials.
4 Verify the gasket and gasket groove are free of debris.
Even very small debris can prevent the gasket from sealing
properly and compromise the waterproof seal.
5 Replace the gasket onto the camera case door, and verify
the gasket is seated fully into the groove.
6 Allow the case to air dry.
You should not dry the case or gasket with a cloth. Lint or
debris from the cloth may compromise the waterproof seal.

Support and Updates
Garmin Express™ (garmin.com/express) provides easy access
to these services for Garmin devices.
• Product registration
• Product manuals
• Software updates
• Data uploads to Garmin Connect™

2 Plug the large end of the USB cable into a computer USB
port.

3 If the camera is off, hold POWER to turn on the camera.
The camera enters USB mass storage mode. Your memory
card appears as a removable drive in My Computer on
Windows computers and as a mounted volume on Mac
computers.

File Types
The device supports or creates these file types.
File extension

Description

.jpeg

Photo file

.mp4

Full-resolution video file

.glv

Low-resolution video file (for on-device playback)

.thm

Video or photo thumbnail file

.fit

G-Metrix data file

Specifications
Battery type

Rechargeable lithium-ion battery

Operating temperature
range (battery power)

From -15º to 45ºC (from 5º to 113ºF)*

Operating temperature
range (external power)

From -20º to 45ºC (from -4º to 113ºF)*

Charging temperature range From 0º to 45°C (from 32º to 113°F)
Storage temperature range

From 0º to 25ºC (from 32º to 77ºF)

Input voltage

5 Vdc, 1 A

Radio frequency/protocol

2.4 GHz ANT+ wireless communications
protocol
Wi‑Fi IEEE 802.11b/g/n at 2.4 GHz
2.4 GHz Bluetooth 4.0

Camera water rating

None**

Camera case water rating
(with watersports door)

40 m**

Camera case water rating
(with altimeter door)

IEC 60529 IPX7**

*The operating temperature range is based on the default
camera settings. Several factors may impact the operating
temperature range, including the camera case, mount
configuration, video settings, and Wi‑Fi settings.
**The camera does not withstand exposure to water or other
liquids. When properly installed, the camera case with the
watersports door withstands pressure equivalent to a depth of
40 m. When properly installed, the camera case with the
altimeter door withstands incidental exposure to water of up to 1
m for up to 30 min. For more information, go to www.garmin.com
/waterrating.

Troubleshooting

Connecting the Device to Your Computer

My camera does not turn on

Before you can connect the device to your computer, you may
need to remove optional mount accessories.

• If the camera is connected to external power and the top
status LED is either off or solid red, hold POWER to turn on
the camera.

Troubleshooting

My device turns off when I stop recording
video

The camera does not turn on automatically when connected
to external power. When the top status LED is solid red, the
camera is in charging mode. When the top status LED is off,
the battery is fully charged, and the camera is off.
• Verify the battery is installed correctly (Installing the Memory
Card and Battery, page 1).
• Fully charge the battery (Charging the Battery, page 1).

If you turn on the device by moving the recording switch forward,
the device turns off when you move the recording switch
backward. This allows you to maximize battery life by turning off
the device when it is not recording (Turning the Camera On and
Off Using the Recording Switch, page 2).

My camera feels warm while it is operating

Extending the Battery Life

It is normal for the camera to feel warm during typical use,
especially while it is recording high-resolution video or
transmitting a Wi‑Fi signal.

There is fog, mist, or water inside the camera
case
When using the camera case in water or in humid environments,
it is normal for some fog to form inside the case, especially after
the camera has been in use for an extended time. The presence
of fog or mist on the inner surfaces of the camera case does not
indicate the case has a water leak.
• To help reduce fogging inside the camera case or on the
camera lens, install an anti-fog desiccant pack (Installing an
Anti-Fog Desiccant Pack, page 3).
• If a larger amount of water is present in the case, stop using
it immediately, and check the gasket for damage or debris
(Caring for the Removable Camera Case, page 14).

Some G-Metrix data is missing
Some G-Metrix data requires you to enable or pair sensors, or
use specific accessories. Some G-Metrix data may not be
available for all recording situations or when you are not
recording video.
• Install the altimeter door on the camera case to record more
accurate elevation and grade data, and additional G-Metrix
data, including jump height and vertical speed (Camera
Case, page 3).
• Enable GPS (System Settings, page 13), and go to an area
with a clear view of the sky.
Location, speed, distance, and altitude data require a GPS
signal.
• Connect additional ANT+ sensors (Pairing ANT+ Sensors,
page 12).
Some data is available only when a compatible ANT+ sensor
is connected.

My video recordings do not look smooth
• If video recordings appear shaky, from the main menu, select
Video > Stabilizer to enable image stabilization.
• If video recordings stutter or skip frames, install a
recommended, high-speed memory card.
For more information about recommended memory cards, go
to garmin.com/VIRBcards.
• Verify your playback device or software is capable of playing
the video smoothly.
For example, if your video has 4K resolution, verify the
playback device or software is capable of playing 4K video.
• Transfer the video to your computer or playback device.
Some memory card readers do not read data quickly enough
to play high-resolution video directly from the memory card.
• Use the VIRB Edit application to play and edit video.
Go to garmin.com/VIRBEdit to download the VIRB Edit
application.

Appendix

• Disable Wi‑Fi.
• Enable Auto Off in the system settings (System Settings,
page 13).
• Turn the device on and off using the recording switch
(Turning the Camera On and Off Using the Recording Switch,
page 2).
• Use automatic recording (Video Settings, page 4).
• Disable ANT+ and Wi‑Fi Remote Wake Up when not in use.
• Reduce the screen brightness (Display Settings, page 13).

Appendix
Software License Agreement
BY USING THE DEVICE, YOU AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THE
TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THE FOLLOWING SOFTWARE
LICENSE AGREEMENT. PLEASE READ THIS AGREEMENT
CAREFULLY.
Garmin Ltd. and its subsidiaries (“Garmin”) grant you a limited
license to use the software embedded in this device (the
“Software”) in binary executable form in the normal operation of
the product. Title, ownership rights, and intellectual property
rights in and to the Software remain in Garmin and/or its thirdparty providers.
You acknowledge that the Software is the property of Garmin
and/or its third-party providers and is protected under the United
States of America copyright laws and international copyright
treaties. You further acknowledge that the structure,
organization, and code of the Software, for which source code is
not provided, are valuable trade secrets of Garmin and/or its
third-party providers and that the Software in source code form
remains a valuable trade secret of Garmin and/or its third-party
providers. You agree not to decompile, disassemble, modify,
reverse assemble, reverse engineer, or reduce to human
readable form the Software or any part thereof or create any
derivative works based on the Software. You agree not to export
or re-export the Software to any country in violation of the export
control laws of the United States of America or the export control
laws of any other applicable country.

Symbol Definitions
These symbols may appear on the device or accessory labels.
WEEE disposal and recycling symbol. The WEEE symbol is
attached to the product in compliance with the EU directive
2012/19/EU on Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(WEEE). It is intended to deter the improper disposal of this
product and to promote reuse and recycling.

Index
A
accessories 12
ANT+ sensors 2, 10, 12
forgetting 12
pairing 12
aspect ratio 5

B
battery 1, 13, 14
charging 1
installing 1, 2
life 15
Bluetooth technology 2, 12
brightness 13

power (force) 10
power key 2
presets 9
product registration 14

R
registering the device 14
remote control 1, 10–12

S
settings 13
software
updating 12, 14
version 13
software license agreement 15
specifications 14
speed 10
storing data 14
system settings 13

cadence 10
camera
field of view 5
orientation 13
self timer 7
settings 2, 7, 13
viewfinder 13
camera case 2, 3
desiccant pack 3, 15
casting video 10
cleaning the device 13, 14
computer, connecting 14

temperature 10, 14
time
settings 13
zones and formats 13
time-lapse, photos 7, 8
tones 13
tracks 10, 12
transferring, files 14
Travelapse, photos 8
troubleshooting 14, 15

data, transferring 14
deleting
all user data 13
photos 9
videos 9
display settings 13

unit ID 13
USB
mass storage mode 14
transferring files 14

E
elevation 10

F
favorites 9
files, transferring 14

G
G-Metrix 10
Garmin Express
registering the device 14
updating software 14
GPS 2, 10
settings 2, 13

H
hdmi 10
heart rate 10

V
video 10
editing 12
loop 6
output 10
playing 9
recording 1, 2, 4, 6, 8
settings 2, 4–6, 9
time lapse 8
videos 9
voice control 4
tips 4

W
water rating 3, 14
Wi‑Fi 1, 2, 11
access point 11
connecting 10, 11
Wi‑Fi CERTIFIED MiraCast 10
wireless display 10

I
icons 2

K
keys 1

L
language 13

M
memory card 1, 2
microphone, connecting 6, 12
microSD card. See memory card
mounting the device 4
mounts, optional 4

P
photos 7, 9
night 8
settings 7, 9
taking 7
time-lapse 7, 8
Travelapse 8
viewing 9
16

Index

www.garmin.com/support
1800 235 822

+43 (0) 820 220230

+ 32 2 672 52 54

0800 770 4960

1-866-429-9296

+385 1 5508 272
+385 1 5508 271

+420 221 985466
+420 221 985465

+ 45 4810 5050

+ 358 9 6937 9758

+ 331 55 69 33 99

+ 39 02 36 699699

(+52) 001-855-792-7671

0800 427 652

0800 0233937

+47 815 69 555

00800 4412 454
+44 2380 662 915

+35 1214 447 460

+386 4 27 92 500

0861 GARMIN (427 646)
+27 (0)11 251 9800

+34 93 275 44 97

+ 46 7744 52020

+886 2 2642-9199 ext 2

0808 238 0000
+44 870 850 1242

+49 (0) 89 858364880
zum Ortstarif - Mobilfunk
kann abweichen

913-397-8200
1-800-800-1020

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