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

ViewDrive can be used on a wide range of Android devices. However, camera quality, processing power, and thermal performance vary significantly between manufacturers and models.

Modern, higher-spec phones generally deliver better video quality, smoother overlays, and more reliable long-duration recording, while older or lower-powered devices may produce reduced results.

For this reason, we have selected and fully tested a mid-range, widely available device from a reputable manufacturer as our approved reference device — the Samsung Galaxy S23. We use a reference device so we can test, optimise, and support ViewDrive against a known hardware baseline, ensuring consistent performance and predictable results across different deployments.

The Galaxy S23 has been extensively tested for:

• Dual-camera picture-in-picture recording

• Live telemetry overlay (speed, G-force, GPS)

• Stable performance during continuous use

• Reliable operation in high-temperature or high-vibration environments

• Fast and consistent Wi-Fi file transfer

Using a single approved device allows us to ensure consistent results, predictable performance, and reliable support across all subscription tiers of ViewDrive.

Note: The Samsung Galaxy S23 FE model is not compatible at this stage.

If you are using a different Android device and experience issues, please let us know — we’re always keen to understand real-world performance across a wider range of hardware.

However, before contacting support, please ensure your device is capable of running the latest version of Android supported by Google, as outdated operating systems can impact stability and compatibility.

✅ An Android recording device is required for all subscriptions (Free, Driver, Pro).

💡 Other Android devices may function, but are not currently certified or officially supported.

Phone Mounting

Correct phone mounting is essential for stable footage, accurate picture-in-picture alignment, and safe operation.

Mounting requirements may vary depending on the use case, for example between driving experiences, driver instruction, and motorsport environments.

The mounting solution must hold the device securely in position throughout a session, without flex or movement under vibration or load.

Normal Windscreen / Dash Mounting

For operator deployments, we currently use and recommend the following Quad Lock mounting setup:

• Quad Lock 4×4 Car Heavy Duty Suction Mount

• Quad Lock Motorcycle 1” Ball Adaptor (required)

This combination provides a rigid, vibration-resistant mounting solution that is:

• Extremely stable under hard driving

• Fully removable for shared or rotating vehicles

• Well suited to fleet, track, and event use

Alternative mounting solutions may be used, but they must provide a secure, non-flexing installation capable of holding the device firmly in position for the duration of a session.

Motorsport Regulations & Mounting Requirements

In motorsport and track-day environments, camera and phone mounting may be subject to event-specific regulations, circuit rules, or scrutineering requirements, which can vary between organisers and venues.

Operators and drivers are responsible for ensuring that any phone or camera mount used with ViewDrive:

• Complies with the rules of the organising body or circuit

• Is securely installed and does not present a safety risk

• Is approved by event officials or scrutineers where required

In competitive or regulated environments, organisers may require hard-mounted solutions (for example, roll-cage or chassis-mounted systems) and, in some cases, secondary safety tethers.

Commonly used motorsport-style mounting systems include RAM Mounts and 67 Designs, configured with rigid mounts and approved fixing points. These are referenced as examples only, and final approval of any mounting solution always rests with the event organiser or scrutineer.

For events where suction mounts are not permitted, alternative hard-mounted or organiser-approved solutions may be required.Network & Storage Options

For Subscription “Free” and “Driver” 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 “Pro” Subscription 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 Subscription.

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 Pro Subscription multi-car operator setups and is purchased separately from the app.

Core Components for Pro Subscription 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.

Supported Hardware & Reference Stack (Pro Subscription)

The hardware listed on this page represents the ViewDrive supported reference stack, based on real-world deployments and live operator use.

Using this reference setup allows us to:

• Ensure consistent performance and reliability

• Provide faster, more effective technical support

• Validate updates against a known hardware baseline

Operators are free to source hardware independently or use alternative equipment. However, full support and guaranteed compatibility are provided only for the supported reference hardware listed.

This approach allows ViewDrive to remain flexible while ensuring professional-grade reliability for commercial operators.

1. Recording Device – Approved Android Device (Samsung Galaxy S23 Reference)

ViewDrive can run on a range of Android devices. However, the Samsung Galaxy S23 is our approved reference device and is currently used by a number of operators.

Other Android phones may be used, but where alternative devices are being considered, we recommend testing a single unit first before committing to bulk purchases.

Any device must be capable of running the latest supported version of Android and provide reliable image quality, thermal stability, and processing performance to support dual-camera picture-in-picture recording and real-time telemetry overlays.

Each vehicle should be equipped with one Android device running the ViewDrive app. The Galaxy S23 represents a mid-range, widely available option that delivers consistent results and full compatibility.

Note: The Samsung Galaxy 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

Outdoor Wi-Fi Access Points

Ubiquiti U7-Pro-Outdoor (UniFi WiFi 7 Access Point)

A high-performance, weatherproof access point designed to provide reliable outdoor Wi-Fi coverage across pit-lane and event environments.

The U7-Pro-Outdoor delivers fast, stable wireless performance for simultaneous uploads from multiple vehicles, making it ideal for Pro Subscription operators with multi-car setups where reliability and throughput are critical.

Multiple U7-Pro-Outdoor units can be deployed together to create seamless coverage across larger sites or busy operating areas.

Key specs (at a glance):

• Wi-Fi standard: Wi-Fi 7 (future-ready performance)

• Outdoor rated: Weatherproof design for permanent or temporary installs

• Capacity: Built for high-density, multi-device environments

• Power: Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) for simple installation

Exact access point selection may vary depending on site layout, vehicle count, and operating area.

Network Routing & Control (System Brain)

Ubiquiti UniFi Cloud Gateway (UCG-Ultra)

The UniFi Cloud Gateway acts as the central brain of the network, providing:

• Routing and DHCP

• Device management

• UniFi controller functionality

This allows operators to centrally manage access points, monitor network activity, and maintain stable communication between vehicles and local storage.

PoE Switching & Network Backbone

Ubiquiti USW-Pro-Max-16-PoE (180W)

This PoE switch forms the physical backbone of the system, providing:

• Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) to all outdoor access points

• High-speed wired connectivity between network components

• A single, central location for network cabling

Using a dedicated PoE switch simplifies deployment and makes fault-finding faster during live events.

Local Storage & File Collection (Relay NAS)

Synology DS925+ NAS (Diskless)

Configured with:

• 4 × 4TB NAS-rated HDDs

• RAID-6 / SHR-2 configuration

• Approx. 8TB usable storage

The NAS acts as the central collection point for all ViewDrive uploads.

It automatically receives video files from multiple cars and provides:

• Centralised storage

• Instant access for review or delivery

• Removal of SD cards, USB drives, and manual handling

This is the component that enables true instant delivery at scale.

High-Speed Internal Network Link

To prevent bottlenecks during peak upload periods:

• 10GbE internal link (Switch ↔ NAS)

• Synology E10G22-T1-Mini 10GbE network upgrade

• SFP+ to 10GBASE-T RJ45 module

• Short Cat6A patch cable (0.5–2m)

This ensures the storage system can keep up when multiple cars finish sessions at the same time.

Protection & Power Continuity

Ubiquiti ETH-SP-G2 Ethernet Surge Protectors

Installed per access-point line to protect against lightning and electrical surges in outdoor environments.

APC Back-UPS 700VA (405W)

Provides short-term backup power, allowing safe shutdown of network equipment during power loss and reducing the risk of data corruption.

Cabling & Deployment Practicalities

• Outdoor-rated Cat6 / Cat6A Ethernet runs (typically ~30m per access point)

• Short Cat6 patch leads for internal relay-box connections

For repeated deployments, cable reels are strongly recommended to:

• Speed up setup and pack-down

• Reduce cable damage

• Improve long-term reliability

Most operators also use a flight case or rugged enclosure to house the NAS, switch, router, and power equipment.

Important Notes

All hardware is purchased separately from the ViewDrive app and can be sourced from any suitable supplier.

Quantities and exact models can be scaled up or down depending on venue size, pit-lane layout, and the number of vehicles operating simultaneously. Prices shown are indicative only and may vary by supplier or availability. All components listed are widely available from major UK technology suppliers.

This infrastructure is only required for Pro subscription deployments involving simultaneous uploads from multiple cars. Single-car users on any plan do not require this hardware.

Larger multi-car setups may require additional Wi-Fi access points or power equipment to maintain coverage and network stability.

The models listed represent the ViewDrive supported reference specification. Future paid support and managed deployments will be provided only for supported hardware configurations.