Record a Run with the Insta360 App

Overview

Create a Run with the PlanRadar Mobile App is the easier and recommended way to do this.
Alternatively, you can still do it as described here.

To record a run for PlanRadar SiteView, you must first prepare the camera and the Insta360 app. Follow the checklists and instructions below to meet all the requirements for optimal results when processing the recording after you Upload a Run in the Webapp.

Also see Hardware Requirements and Plan Requirements.

Insta360 App

While it is possible to record runs with the Insta360 X4 camera alone, we strongly recommend using the Insta360 app for convenient camera control, especially when the camera is mounted on your helmet.

To familiarise yourself with the camera and Insta360 app, go to onlinemanual.insta360.com/firstuse.

Install the Insta360 App

Install the Insta360 app from Apple App Store or Google Play Store on your phone.

Connect your Camera to the Insta360 App

For instructions on connecting your camera, go to onlinemanual.insta360.com/appconnect.

Camera Settings for Video Recording

Recommended video capture settings for SiteView:

• 4K resolution
• 30 frames per second
• Auto 360 recording mode
  (do not use single lens mode)

To change these settings in the Insta360 app:

1. Enter the camera mode
   
   
2. Select Video recording mode
3. Select Auto Mode
4. Select 4k and 30FPS
   

Alternatively you could use the camera's touchscreen to change the settings, as described here: onlinemanual.insta360.com/usingthescreen.

Checklist: Before the Recording

Choose a Good Starting Position

• A good starting position has a huge impact on the quality of the algorithm's run positioning.

Good starting positions are:
... corridors
... smaller rooms
... in dense structural areas
... more towards the centre of the plan

Bad starting positions are:
... large rooms/halls
... corridors close to large rooms
... rooms with very high ceilings
... close to outside walls of buildings
... close to outdoor areas (e.g. wall not yet built)
... close to many glass windows

• Define a precise starting position every run.

We recommend that you Create a Ticket in the PlanRadar app to find your starting position again. 

You will need to know the exact location and set it on the plan later when you Upload a Run in the Webapp.

Prepare the Location

• Ensure good lighting conditions. Bring a portable lamp if necessary.
• Open all doors to avoid interruptions during the run.

Define Starting Position

• Define a precise starting position every run.

We recommend that you Create a Ticket in the PlanRadar app to find your starting position again. 

You will need to know the exact location and set it on the plan later when you Upload a Run in the Webapp.

Prepare Equipment

• See SiteView Hardware Requirements
  
  • Camera is mounted on the helmet.
  • SD card has sufficient free space.
  • Battery has sufficient charge.
  • Lamps on the helmet (only necessary in low light conditions)
• Connect your Camera to the Insta360 App as described above.
• Check Camera Settings for Video Recording as described above.
  • For example, if you are using single lens mode, you will not be able to use the recording for SiteView.

For outdoor runs, the Insta360 app must be granted access to GPS signal and MUST NOT be put to the background during recording.

Checklist: During the Recording

Recording Duration

• Each recording should be no less than 1 minute and no more than 5 minutes.

Do NOT pause the recording during a run. It is important to have one continuous video for SiteView.

Walking

• Keep a moderate and steady pace.
  • Do not run.
  • Do not stand still.
• Do not shake your head more than necessary.
  • The camera and software can only handle a certain amount of vibration and movement.
• Do not turn your head or look up and down more than necessary.
  • You are using a 360° camera, so there is no need to point the camera in any direction.
• Your path should cover the entire room.

Do NOT change floors during a run.

For outdoor runs, do not close the Insta360 app, keep the screen on and do not make any calls, otherwise you will lose the GPS signal and have to repeat the run.

Start the Recording

Lamps on the helmet are only necessary in low light conditions.
Keep these lamps on for the entire run, even if only certain areas require extra light.

To start the recording tap the red recording button:

Stop the Recording

After you complete the run tap stop:

Next step is to Upload a Run in the Webapp.

Do NOT use the Insta360 app to share the recording.
PlanRadar SiteView needs the original .insv file copied from the camera or SD card to a computer.