Table of Contents

Export spatial data collected by GoPro Max

This article explains how to export raw video data collected by the GoPro Max 1st generation panoramic camera from the memory card to a local computer hard drive after data collection is completed. It also covers organizing and verifying files to prepare for subsequent mapping processes. To ensure smooth mapping tasks later, it is essential to understand GoPro's file naming rules and confirm that files are neither lost nor mixed up.

Connection and access

It is recommended to prioritize using a high-speed card reader for data transfer to achieve better efficiency and stability.

  1. Remove the MicroSD (TF) card from the GoPro Max.
  2. Insert it into a card reader and connect it to the computer.
  3. Open File Explorer and navigate to the memory card drive.
  4. Locate the directory: DCIM > 100GOPRO.

GoPro Max file naming rules

Before starting the export, first understand GoPro Max's file naming rules to help manage captured video files correctly.

Raw video files shot by GoPro Max in spherical mode (360-degree video) have the suffix .360. Due to file system limitations, when a single recording is lengthy (file exceeds 4GB, approximately 8 minutes), GoPro Max automatically splits the video into multiple files (segments). Simultaneously, GoPro Max creates corresponding .LRV low-resolution preview files with identical names.

Filename structure

GSxxaaaa.360、GSxxaaaa.LRV

Component Meaning Example explanation
GS GoPro Spherical Fixed prefix, indicating a 360-degree panoramic video file
xx Segment number 01 represents the first segment, 02 the second, and so on. Identifies continuous clips belonging to the same recording
aaaa File ID Unique ID identifying a recording task. All segments from the same recording share this ID
.360 File suffix GoPro's proprietary raw panoramic format
.LRV File suffix GoPro's proprietary compressed panoramic format

Export operation steps

  1. In the 100GOPRO folder, locate the .360 and .LRV files corresponding to this collection based on modification time or file ID.

    Tip: Ignore files with the same name but the .THM (thumbnail) suffix.

  2. Create a new project folder on the computer's local hard drive, e.g., Shanghai_Museum_ZoneA.

    • Place the project folder on the computer's local hard drive (not recommended on the system drive). Check for sufficient disk space before copying data.
    • Name the folder using the full pinyin of province/city + full pinyin of scenic/commercial area name + zone number. Ensure the name contains only Chinese characters, English letters, numbers, and hyphens/underscores (-_). Avoid other special characters.

  3. Create two subfolders under Shanghai_Museum_ZoneA:

    • 360 (for storing .360 files)
    • lowres (for storing .LRV files)

  4. Copy the selected .360 files to the 360 folder and the .LRV files to the lowres folder.

Important
  • Videos from a single continuous collection session should be stored together separately. Do not mix videos from other collection sessions.
  • Choose copy, not cut: Use the copy operation. Retain the original data on the memory card until mapping succeeds as a safety backup.
  • Do not operate directly on the memory card: When uploading data later, always use files from the local hard drive to avoid data corruption due to poor card reader contact.

Verify exported data

After copying, perform basic checks:

  • File size: Confirm local file sizes match those on the memory card.
  • File count: For long recordings, ensure all segments like GS01..., GS02... are present without missing any middle segments.
  • File grouping: If multiple videos were recorded, confirm that organized videos belong to the same collection task. Avoid mixing files from different sessions.
  • Preview video files: Before uploading, play the .360 or .LRV video files on the computer to ensure they play smoothly without issues like black screens or garbled frames.

Playing 360 video files

Raw video files generated by GoPro Max have the .360 suffix. You can play them using the official GoPro Player software.

  • Required software: GoPro Player (Windows / macOS)
  • Download links:
  • Hardware recommendation: Due to the high GPU demands of panoramic video rendering, a computer with a dedicated graphics card is recommended.
  • Alternative method: You can also play the corresponding .LRV file (GoPro Max's low-resolution preview), which can be previewed directly on a computer without additional software.

Next steps

After data export and verification, proceed to the mapping chapter to learn how to upload collected data to build a Mega Block map.