What does the M button on a dash cam mean?
4 Answers
The M button displayed on a dash cam stands for the main menu. The M button is an abbreviation of the English word 'menu,' so pressing the M button will take you to the main menu. Generally, dash cams have very few buttons on their display screens. Besides the M button, there are also the OK button, P button, up and down triangle buttons, and the PWR button. Things to note after purchasing a dash cam: 1. The first step is to adjust the time to ensure the timeliness of the recorded footage, which can provide strong evidence in case of a traffic accident or a fraudulent claim. 2. Next, adjust the duration of video recordings. Typically, setting the video duration to 5-8 minutes is ideal. Too short a duration can result in fragmented footage, leading to electronic waste, while too long a duration can make it cumbersome to search for specific clips. 3. After adjustments, proceed to install the dash cam. Ensure it is securely fixed during installation to prevent it from falling off while driving, which could cause unnecessary trouble. 4. When installing, pay attention to the angle of the recorded footage, ideally centering the front of the car in the frame. 5. Finally, make sure the installation position of the dash cam does not obstruct the driver's view while driving to avoid potential safety hazards.
The M button is quite commonly used on dash cams. It stands for Manual Control Button. Pressing it manually locks the currently recorded video clip to prevent it from being overwritten by automatic loop recording. For example, when encountering a traffic accident or seeing a stunning view on the road, pressing the M button ensures the dash cam specifically saves that segment of the video, making it easier to find during playback. Some models also use the M button as a menu button—holding it down allows access to the settings interface to adjust resolution or toggle audio recording. I often remind my friends that the user manual usually provides detailed instructions. Since functions vary by brand, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the operations before driving to avoid confusion during critical moments.
If you accidentally press the M button, don't panic. It may have triggered recording mute or menu mode, and the screen will briefly display changes. First, check the user manual to confirm the function key definitions. Most dash cams allow customizing the M button behavior in settings, such as changing it to emergency recording or turning off the sound. I once experienced missing an important event due to accidental operation. The solution was to power off and restart to restore defaults or reset via connected software. Remember to operate buttons only after safely parking to minimize distractions and ensure driving safety.
The core function of the M button is to prevent evidence from being overwritten or lost. Manually pressing it sets the video as a read-only file stored on the memory card. When using it, ensure the vehicle is stationary before pressing to avoid accidents caused by operation while driving. I've seen many beginners mistakenly use the menu button as the recording button, which instead confuses the settings. Developing a habit of regularly checking files can improve device reliability.
