Configure GoPro for spatial data acquisition
This article explains how to properly set up the GoPro Max 1st-gen 360-degree camera, including hardware preparation, camera parameter configuration, physical installation requirements, and environmental checks, to ensure high-quality data collection for EasyAR Mega spatial mapping.
Hardware preparation
GoPro MAX 1st-gen 360-degree panoramic action camera
GoPro camera adapter
120cm selfie stick (the official GoPro Max selfie stick is recommended)
Ensure minimal obstruction of the scene by the collector.
SanDisk 256G action camera memory card (purchase SanDisk Extreme or equivalent cards from other brands)
- Must use a memory card with V30 or UHS-3 speed class or higher
- Recommended capacity: 256G
Reason: 5.6K panoramic video requires high write speeds. Low-speed cards may cause recording interruptions or dropped frames, rendering the data unusable.
GoPro MAX original battery (comes with the panoramic camera)
- Panoramic recording consumes battery quickly. Prepare at least 1-2 extra batteries or use a high-capacity power bank for direct power supply.
- Note: Do not replace the battery during a single acquisition session. Extra batteries are for multiple acquisition sessions.
- Summer tip: Remove the battery and use only a power bank for outdoor acquisition in summer (using a battery in summer may cause the GoPro MAX to overheat and shut down).
GoPro Max lens cover
Power bank
Dual-ended Type-C fast-charging cable
GoPro max camera settings
GoPro Max 360 camera comes with a built-in screen for touch operation. Please turn on the camera, swipe down on 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.
Gnss positioning settings
Mega service relies on GNSS (GPS, BeiDou, etc.) data to determine the geographic coordinate system of the spatial map. Please ensure the GPS status is ON.
Must-read before collection: GNSS lock confirmation
Before clicking the record button, make sure to wait stationary for 1-2 minutes in an open outdoor area. Observe the GPS icon on the screen turning bright/solid (indicating satellite lock).
Note
Mega's positioning service can still function properly when collecting indoors or in basements (without GNSS signal).
Set anti-flicker
The anti-flicker setting is 50Hz.
Set video format
Check and set the video format to 360-degree video, RES|FPS: 5.6k|25.
Physical installation and environment check
Check and clean the lens
Check that the lens must not have any wear. Lens wear causing blurry images will directly affect mapping.
Clean the device lens before acquisition. Do not clean the lens during the acquisition process.
Note
The panoramic camera lens is very prominent and easily collects fingerprints. Oil stains on the lens can cause flare under strong light, directly damaging image features and leading to "ghosting" in mapping or positioning drift.
Remember to remove the lens cover before acquisition.
Camera installation and holding method
Camera orientation: The side of the camera without a screen faces forward, while the side with the screen faces you. Remove all lens covers.
Selfie stick adjustment: Extend the selfie stick by about 4 sections, ensuring it is one head-length above your head.
Holding posture:
- Keep the stick vertical at all times, close to your ear to ensure the camera is as directly above your head as possible. Do not rest it on your shoulder.
- Hold the selfie stick with both hands. During the capture process, grip the device steadily and move smoothly to keep the camera stable, while avoiding obstructions to the lens.
- Do not use your phone while walking.
- Avoid rotating in place or making sudden, large movements during the capture process.
- If the panoramic camera is bumped or dropped during the capture process, re-secure it and restart the capture from the beginning.
Device connection: Place the power bank connected to the GoPro via a data cable in your pocket.
Installation height
- Mount the camera at the top of the selfie stick.
- Raise the selfie stick so the camera height remains between 1.5m-1.8m (the height of the camera on the end user's phone or XR glasses when in use).
- Keep the selfie stick vertical to minimize the presence of the collector's body in the frame.
Height requirements for different environments
| Environment type | Recommended height range |
|---|---|
| Outdoor environment | 1.6m ~ 1.9m |
| Indoor open environment | 1.6m ~ 1.8m |
| Indoor enclosed low-ceiling environment | 1.55m ~ 1.65m |
Important
Outdoor collection:
When collecting outdoors, the camera should be held slightly above the head, about 20cm, to prevent the operator from occupying a large area in the frame, which would affect the final mapping results.
Indoor enclosed low-ceiling environment collection:
For environments like offices, corridors, or exhibition halls, appropriately lower the selfie stick height to ensure the GoPro does not exceed 1.65m in height. This prevents the operator's body from occupying too large a proportion in the frame, which could impact mapping results.
The higher the GoPro installation height during collection, the worse the positioning effect will be.
Next steps
After the device configuration is complete, please continue reading the relevant considerations for data collection: