How to Prepare TF Card for RecDual Dongle?

This guide covers TF card requirements and preparation for RecDual Dongle.

TF Card Requirements

Recommended Specifications:

  • Type: Micro SD (TF) card

  • Speed Class: Class 10 minimum, U3/V30 recommended

  • Capacity: 64GB or higher recommended

  • File System: exFAT (recommended) or NTFS

Why Speed Class Matters:

RecDual Dongle records at 1080p@60fps, which requires a sustained write speed of at least 10MB/s. Lower-class cards may cause:

  • Recording interruptions

  • Corrupted video files

  • Frame drops

Storage Capacity Guide

Estimated recording time at 1080p@60fps:

Card Capacity

Approx. Recording Time

Typical Use

32GB

2-4 hours

Short sessions

64GB

5-7 hours

Daily use

128GB

10-14 hours

Extended recording

256GB

21-28 hours

Long-duration use

512GB

42-56 hours

Maximum capacity

Actual times vary based on content complexity and bitrate settings

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Check Card Compatibility

  • Verify card is Class 10 or higher

  • Check capacity is sufficient for your needs

  • Ensure card is in good condition (no damage)

Step 2: Format on Computer

Important

Always format the TF card on a computer, never on a smartphone.

Smartphones may create non-standard partitions that RecDual Dongle cannot recognize.

See How to Format TF Card for RecDual Dongle? for detailed formatting instructions.

Step 3: Insert into RecDual Dongle

  1. Locate the TF card slot on the device

  2. Insert card with contacts facing the correct direction

  3. Push gently until card clicks into place

  4. Verify REC LED turns solid green

Step 4: Verify Recognition

  • If REC LED is solid green: Card is recognized and ready

  • If REC LED remains off: Card is not recognized; try reinserting or reformatting

File System Recommendations

exFAT (Recommended)

  • Supports large files (over 4GB)

  • Compatible with Windows, Mac, and most devices

  • Best choice for video recording

NTFS (Alternative)

  • Windows native file system

  • Supports large files

  • May have read-only limitations on Mac

FAT32 (Not Recommended)

  • 4GB file size limit

  • Will cause issues with long recordings

  • Avoid using FAT32

Troubleshooting

Card Not Recognized (REC LED off):

  1. Remove and reinsert the card

  2. Try a different card slot orientation

  3. Format the card as exFAT on a computer

  4. Try a different TF card

Recording Stops Unexpectedly:

  • Card may be too slow (upgrade to U3/V30)

  • Card may be failing (try a new card)

  • Check for adequate free space

Phone Prompts to Format Card:

  • Always insert TF card before connecting phone

  • If prompted, select “Cancel” - do not format on phone

Care and Maintenance

  • Store cards in protective cases when not in use

  • Avoid extreme temperatures

  • Handle with care to avoid physical damage

  • Periodically backup important recordings

  • Replace cards showing signs of wear or errors