The HDC400 dashcams from Halfords were a bargain a few years back when I bought one. Installation was easy and I was very impressed by the quality of the recordings.
Inevitably we changed cars and I finally got around to installing it in the new car, however this was far from the easy experience I had last time, so I am sharing what I learnt… mainly for me next time I change cars but also for anyone else in the same boat.
First problem. The original Halfords app for these cameras is nowhere to be found. If this dashcam had a screen and controls we might not need an app (note to self for future dashcam purchases), but in order to see what the dashcam can see and therefore where to affix it, you need the app.
After a lot of searching I managed to find the Ring Connect app. This app, although not offering any official support, will connect to the HDC400 dashcam, at least enough to provide a live view.
Second problem. The wireless connection to the camera needs a password. I could not find this documented anywhere in the instructions. The one suggested in the Ring Connect app did not work. Time to put my Google Fu to use again.
I found the password in the oddest of places… “The Army Rumour Service (ARRSE) is the unofficial voice of the British Army community Our members include serving people, veterans and friends!”
Someone was in a similar scenario on this thread, Halfords hdc400 dashcam | Page 2 | Army Rumour Service, where it was being discussed. After a few suggestions the password was identified!
66668888 is the default password to the dashcam Wi-Fi.
Armed with this I was able to connect to the camera and fix it in place and it is working as it did.
One thing to note. The app does not seem to be able to do much else with the dashcam besides the live view, so to view or download recordings successfully, you will need to pull out the SD card and connect it to a computer.