Table of Contents

Configuring GoPro for spatial data acquisition

This article explains how to properly configure the first-generation 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 mapping.

Hardware preparation

Device list

  1. GoPro MAX 1st generation 360-degree panoramic action camera

  2. GoPro camera adapter

  3. 120cm selfie stick (GoPro Max's official selfie stick is recommended)

    Ensure minimal obstruction of the view by the collector.

  4. SanDisk 256G sports camera memory card (purchase SanDisk Extreme or equivalent cards from other brands)

    • Must use V30 or UHS-3 or higher speed class memory card
    • Recommended capacity: 256G

    Reason: 5.6K panoramic video has enormous write demands. Low-speed cards cause recording interruptions or frame drops, rendering data unusable.

  5. GoPro MAX original battery (comes with the panoramic camera)

    • Panoramic recording consumes power quickly. Prepare at least 1-2 batteries, or power directly via a high-capacity power bank.
    • Note: Batteries cannot be changed during a single acquisition session. Extra batteries are for multiple sessions.
    • Summer tip: Remove batteries during outdoor collection in summer and use only a power bank (batteries cause GoPro MAX to overheat and shut down).

  6. GoPro Max lens cover

  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 the touchscreen to enter the control panel, and ensure it is in 360 Video Mode.

Check system firmware version

Ensure the firmware version is 2.0.

Check firmware version

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.

GPS

Must-read before acquisition: GNSS lock confirmation

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

Note

Mega positioning services work normally even during indoor or basement collection (without GNSS signal).

Set anti-flicker

Set anti-flicker to 50Hz.

Set anti-flicker

Set video format

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

Set video format

Physical installation and environmental checks

Check and clean lenses

  1. Ensure lenses have no scratches. Blurry images from lens wear directly impact mapping.

    Blurry lens

  2. Clean device lenses before acquisition. Do not clean during collection.

    Note

    Panoramic camera lenses protrude significantly and easily collect fingerprints. Oil stains on lenses create glare (flare) under strong light, directly destroying image features and causing "ghosting" or positioning drift in mapping.

  3. Remove lens protectors before acquisition.

Camera installation and holding method

Panoramic camera installation

  1. Camera orientation: Screenless side faces forward, screen side faces you, all lens covers removed.

  2. Selfie stick adjustment: Extend selfie stick by about 4 sections, one head-height above you.

  3. Holding posture:

    • Hold vertically throughout, near the ear to position the camera directly above the head. Do not rest on shoulder.
    • Hold the selfie stick with both hands. Move steadily during collection to maintain camera stability and prevent lens obstruction.
    • Do not use phones while walking.
    • Avoid rotating on the spot or sudden large movements during collection.
    • If the panoramic camera is bumped or dropped during collection, re-fix it and restart acquisition.

  4. Device connection: Place the power bank connected to GoPro via data cable in your pocket.

Installation height

  • Mount the camera on top of the selfie stick.
  • Raise the selfie stick to maintain camera height between 1.5 meters - 1.8 meters (typical height of end-user's phone or XR glasses camera).
  • Keep the selfie stick vertical to minimize the collector's body proportion in the frame.

Height requirements for different environments

Environment type Recommended height range
Outdoor environment 1.6 meters ~ 1.9 meters
Indoor open environment 1.6 meters ~ 1.8 meters
Indoor enclosed low-ceiling environment 1.55 meters ~ 1.65 meters
Important

Outdoor collection:
Position the camera slightly above your head during outdoor collection (about 20cm) to prevent the collector from occupying excessive frame area and affecting mapping results.

Indoor enclosed low-ceiling environment collection:
In spaces like offices, corridors, or exhibition halls, lower the selfie stick height appropriately. Ensure GoPro height does not exceed 1.65 meters to prevent the collector's body from occupying excessive frame area and affecting mapping.
Higher GoPro installation heights during collection worsen positioning accuracy.

Next steps

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