Hardware & Setup
ViewDrive is a software-based system built for simplicity, reliability, and scalability.
For most users, there’s no complex hardware required, just an approved Android device.
ViewDrive records, overlays, and saves videos directly on your phone, making it perfect for instructors, enthusiasts, and single-car users.
For multi-car or operator setups, ViewDrive can expand with optional network hardware to enable automated wireless file delivery.
These professional components provide high-speed transfers and stable performance in busy, high-demand environments.
Device
For the best performance, we currently recommend and support the Samsung Galaxy S23 as our approved device.
This model has been fully tested for:
Dual-camera picture-in-picture recording
Live telemetry overlay (speed, G-force, GPS)
Continuous operation in high-temperature or high-vibration environments
Fast, stable WiFi file transfer
Note: The S23 FE model is not compatible.
Device Required for all tiers (1, 2 & 3).
Network & Storage Options
For Tier 1 & 2 users (Single-Car Setups)
You don’t need any additional hardware — just your approved Android device.
ViewDrive saves each video directly to the phone, allowing you to export files manually or share them easily using standard Android options such as email, WhatsApp, or cloud upload, via either mobile data or Wi-Fi when convenient.
A simple, standalone setup — perfect for driving instructors, enthusiasts, and single-car users.
For Tier 3 Operators (Simultaneous Multi-Car or Commercial Use)
If you’re a single-car operator or driving school that’s not uploading multiple drives at once, you don’t need any additional network hardware — even if you’re using custom overlays or the Pro tier.
The following setup is only required for simultaneous uploads from multiple cars, such as at driving experience venues, track days, or pitlane environments where several vehicles need to transfer video files instantly and automatically.
To enable automated multi-car delivery, you’ll need a small local network consisting of:
Wi-Fi Network – created using Wi-Fi masts (access points) connected to a central router.
Storage Device – either a PC/Laptop or NAS drive to receive and store uploaded videos.
Optional Accessories – such as surge protection and a power backup (UPS) for network stability.
This configuration allows each in-car ViewDrive device to upload files wirelessly to your sales desk or control area — instantly, without SD cards or manual transfers.
💡 All hardware listed below is recommended only for Tier 3 multi-car operator setups and is purchased separately from the app.
Core Components for Tier 3 Operators (Multi-Car Simultaneous Uploads)
The following setup applies only to multi-car environments, such as driving experience venues, track days, or pit lane operations where several vehicles need to upload video files simultaneously and automatically for instant download and delivery.
1. Recording Device – Samsung Galaxy S23
The Galaxy S23 is our approved device for ViewDrive and is tested for full compatibility.
It provides excellent image quality, heat management, and processing power to handle dual-camera operation and real-time telemetry overlay.
Each car in your fleet should be equipped with one Samsung Galaxy S23 device running the ViewDrive app.
Note - S23 FE model is not compatible
2. WiFi Network
For automated file delivery, each in-car device connects to a dedicated local WiFi network.
This allows ViewDrive to transfer videos from the car to your sales area as soon as a drive finishes — with no cables or SD cards required.
For multi-car or outdoor operations, WiFi masts (access points) provide long-range coverage, ensuring strong connectivity along the entire pitlane.
Depending on the number of cars and track layout, multiple access points may be required to maintain consistent transfer speeds.
3. Storage Device
Operators will need one of the following to collect and store video files:
PC or Laptop: Ideal for sales desks or small-scale setups where videos are reviewed and delivered manually.
NAS Drive (Network Attached Storage): Acts as a shared hard drive connected to the WiFi network, automatically storing videos from multiple cars.
A NAS system provides centralised storage, instant playback, and fast delivery — without external drives or cables. (A NAS drive is essentially a smart, shared hard drive that sits on your local network, safely storing all videos for easy access and resale.)
Recommended Network Hardware
TP-Link Omada EAP650-Outdoor (AX3000, IP68)
A high-performance, weatherproof access point providing strong outdoor coverage and high-speed WiFi across your pitlane or event area.
Up to eight EAP650 units can be connected to a single router, creating seamless coverage for multi-car setups.
TP-Link ER7212PC Router
A 3-in-1 solution combining router, PoE switch, and controller in one unit.
It powers and manages all access points directly, simplifying setup and ensuring stable communication between cars and your central network.
Ubiquiti ETH-SP-G2 Surge Protector
Protects your WiFi equipment from lightning and electrical surges, ensuring long-term network stability and reliability.
APC Back-UPS 700VA UPS (405Watt)
Provides up to 15 minutes of backup power to allow safe shutdown of your router and WiFi equipment during power cuts.
This prevents data loss and hardware damage in outdoor or temporary setups.
| Component | Purpose | Notes | Approx. Cost (inc. VAT) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Samsung Galaxy S23 (Approved Device) | Primary recording device for dual-camera capture and live telemetry overlay. | Fully tested and approved. S23 FE model is not compatible. One phone per car required. | £200 (refurbished) – £600 (new) |
| TP-Link Omada EAP650-Outdoor (AX3000, IP68) | Outdoor WiFi access point for pitlane or multi-car coverage. | Up to 8 units can be linked to one router for extended range. | £160 each |
| TP-Link ER7212PC Router | 3-in-1 router + PoE switch + controller. Powers and manages up to 10 access points. | Core of the network; ideal for Tier 3 multi-car setups. | £195 |
| Ubiquiti ETH-SP-G2 Surge Protector | Protects network equipment from electrical surges or lightning. | Recommended for outdoor installations. | £12 |
| APC Back-UPS 700 VA (405 Watt) | Provides short-term power backup for safe shutdown during outages. | Prevents data loss or hardware damage. | £100 |
| Laptop / PC or NAS Drive | Receives and stores uploaded video files from all vehicles. | NAS = shared network drive for instant playback & archiving. | £400 – £1,000 (depending on spec) |
| Network Cabling (PoE / Ethernet) | Connects router to access points and storage. | Required for wired PoE power and stability. | £50 – £100 (typical) |
Estimated Setup Costs
| Example Setup | Description | Approx. Cost (ex. VAT) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Setup | Single recording device (Samsung Galaxy S23), one WiFi mast, router, and UPS. | From £1,200+ |
| Two-Car Operator Setup | Two phones, router, two access points, UPS & PC or NAS storage. | £2,000 – £2,500 |
| Six-to-Eight Car Pitlane | Multiple phones & masts for extended pitlane coverage and simultaneous operation. | £4,000 – £6,000 |
Notes
All hardware is purchased separately from the ViewDrive app.
Quantities and models can be scaled depending on venue size and pitlane layout.
Prices shown are guidelines only and may vary by supplier or availability.
All components are readily available from major UK technology suppliers.
Larger setups may require additional WiFi masts or power units for extended coverage and network stability.
Each additional car typically adds around £200 for an approved refurbished Samsung Galaxy S23 device.