Configuring GoPro Max for spatial data acquisition

This article describes how to properly configure the GoPro Max panoramic camera, including key steps such as hardware preparation, camera parameter settings, physical installation requirements, and environmental checks, to ensure high-quality data collection for EasyAR Mega spatial map construction.

Note

The two lenses on the GoPro Max body are on different axes (as shown in the bottom view diagram below). Please distinguish it from the GoPro Max2 (where both lenses are coaxial). If your device is a GoPro Max2, refer to the GoPro Max2 Configuration Guide for setup.

Hardware preparation

1. GoPro Max 360-degree panoramic action camera
2. GoPro camera adapter
3. 120cm selfie stick (recommended to use the official GoPro Max selfie stick)

   Ensure minimal obstruction of the view by the collector themselves.

4. SanDisk 256G action camera memory card (purchase SanDisk Extreme or equivalent cards from other brands)
   • Must use a memory card with V30/A2 or higher, or UHS-3 or higher speed class
   • Recommended capacity: 256G

   Reason: 5.6K panoramic video requires extremely high write speeds. Low-speed cards may cause recording interruptions or dropped frames, rendering data unusable.

5. Original GoPro Max battery (comes with one when purchasing the panoramic camera)
   • Panoramic recording consumes power quickly. Prepare at least 1-2 spare batteries, or use a high-capacity power bank for direct power supply.
   • Note: Do not change batteries during a single acquisition session. Extra batteries are for multiple sessions.
   • Summer tip: Remove the battery during outdoor collection in summer and use only a power bank (batteries can cause GoPro Max to overheat and shut down).
6. GoPro Max lens cap
7. Power bank
8. Dual-ended Type-C fast charging cable

GoPro Max camera settings

The GoPro Max panoramic camera has a built-in screen for touch-based settings. Turn on the camera, swipe down on the touchscreen to access the control panel, and ensure it is in 360 Video Mode.

Check system firmware version

If your camera is a first-generation GoPro Max, ensure the firmware version is 2.0.

GNSS positioning settings

Mega services rely on GNSS (GPS, BeiDou, etc.) data to determine the geographic coordinate system of spatial maps. Ensure GPS status is ON.

Must-read before acquisition: GNSS lock confirmation

Before pressing the record button, stand still in an open outdoor area for 1-2 minutes. Observe the GPS icon on the screen becoming bright/solid (indicating satellite lock).

Note

Mega positioning services can still function indoors or in basements (without GNSS signals).

Set anti-flicker

Set anti-flicker to 50Hz.

Set video format

Check and set the video format to 360-degree video, RES|FPS: 5.6K|25.

Physical installation and environmental checks

Check and clean lenses

1. Ensure lenses have no scratches. Blurry images due to lens damage directly affect mapping.
   
2. Clean the lenses before acquisition; do not clean during collection.

   Note

   Panoramic camera lenses are highly protruding and prone to fingerprints. Oil stains on lenses create glare (flare) under strong light, directly destroying image features and causing "ghosting" in maps or positioning drift.

3. Remove lens protectors before acquisition.

Camera installation and holding method

1. Camera orientation: Face the screenless side forward (toward the direction of movement), with the screen side facing you. Remove all lens caps.
2. Selfie stick adjustment: Extend the selfie stick by about 4 sections, holding it one head-height above your head.
3. Holding posture:
   • Keep the pole vertical throughout, close to your ear to ensure the camera is directly above your head. Do not rest it on your shoulder.
   • Hold the selfie stick with both hands. Move steadily during acquisition to maintain camera stability and prevent lens obstruction.
   • Do not use your phone while walking.
   • Avoid rotating in place or making sudden large movements during collection.
   • If the panoramic camera is bumped or dropped during acquisition, re-secure it and restart the collection.
4. Device connection: Place the power bank connected to the GoPro via data cable in your pocket.

Installation height

• Mount the camera at the top of the selfie stick.
• Raise the stick so the camera height is between 1.5–1.8 meters (approximating end-user phone/XR glasses camera height).
• Keep the selfie stick vertical to minimize the collector's body appearing in the frame.

Height requirements for different environments

Environment type	Recommended height range
Outdoor environments	1.6m ~ 1.9m
Indoor open environments	1.6m ~ 1.8m
Indoor enclosed low-ceiling spaces	1.55m ~ 1.65m

Important

Outdoor collection:
Raise the camera slightly above your head (about 20cm) during outdoor collection. Otherwise, the collector's body will occupy a large area in the frame, affecting mapping results.

Indoor enclosed low-ceiling spaces:
In environments like offices, corridors, or exhibition halls, lower the stick height to ensure the GoPro does not exceed 1.65m. This prevents the collector's body from dominating the frame and impacting mapping.
Higher GoPro installation heights worsen positioning accuracy.

Next steps

After device configuration, proceed to read acquisition-related guidelines:

• Acquisition route planning
• Acquisition methods
• Large-space data acquisition methods
• Acquisition checklist
• Exporting acquisition data