Sena 50C 4K Digital camera & Mesh-BT Comms System Assessment

Assessment Abstract

• The Sena 50C combines the options of a bike helmet digital camera with a bluetooth comms system.
• This can be a premium product with top-of-the-line options, like video decision in 4K and sound by Harmon Kadron. There’s additionally Video Enhanced Picture Stabilization and long-range, multi-party, multi-path Mesh 2 expertise.
• It’s a bit extra cumbersome than you would possibly assume—the unit is bigger than anticipated, the buttons will be tough to press with gloves on, and the voice command function isn’t as efficient accurately for the worth level.
• Total, that is nonetheless the very best (and solely) built-in, helmet-mounted 4K digital camera and BT/Mesh system in the marketplace.

Introduction: SENA Units Out to Impress with the 50C

Welcome to the third of three Sena merchandise evaluations on my spring-into-summer and now into fall project record.  Though utilizing the phrase ‘project’ is a little bit of a misnomer – with Sena saying that the brand new 50C was obtainable for assessment earlier this spring there was stiff lobbying between Jim Pruner and me for this one…

This robust want by each of us to get our palms on the Sena 50C falls out from the truth that each of us are very accustomed to all beforehand launched Sena Digital camera iterations by the use of particular person procurement experiences or in managing to get our dibs in early to get Sena’s newest digital camera merchandise, together with the 50C – actually an {industry} distinctive product.

With Jim dwelling out west and me residing in Jim’s former residence of Ottawa the ‘negotiations’ have been through electronic mail, not in individual; which means we didn’t must preserve a detailed eye on something new on our bikes, or helmets – hah!

So, whereas Jim was planning for, together with accessorizing and prepping his Norden 901 for the Nice Divide trip, I used to be main a extra sedate (learn no long-distance journey journeys this season) life though with a lot of nearer to dwelling using over spring and summer season and much more with an prolonged heat fall season.

And for this ATGATT rider, the gear complement features a smartphone linked to a helmet headset for communications and, a bike and/or rider mounted digital camera for highway occasion and travelogue documenting…and this brings us to the main target of this assessment – the Sena 50C.

See Additionally:

A Thank-You and Credit

Earlier than delving into the Sena 50C system, a BIG ‘thanks’ is given to Sena North America for his or her continued provision over time of just about all the things Sena produces – holding reviewers engaged, our readers knowledgeable and a few nice dialogue generated.

And to maintain the file and credit straight, the diagrams used herein are from the Sena 50C Person Information, with all the things else used produced with the Sena 50C by the reviewer for this wBW submission.

Sena 50C Historical past & Overview

Traditionally, Sena’s newest top-of-the-line built-in digital camera and communication system is advanced from the unique 10C product introduced in October 2014 at AIMExpo in Orlando and Rick (wBW founder) was among the many first to provide motorcyclists a preview of what was an {industry} first all-in-one helmet-mounted system.

See Our Different Current Sena Evaluations:

This latest model is now included below the Sena 50-series line and marketed below the Sena Quantum Collection choices initially introduced in November 2021 though widespread availability didn’t happen till late winter/early spring this 12 months.

Together with this new Sena 50C, the Quantum Collection consists of the top-tier 50R and 50S helmet techniques and the Stryker full-face and Impulse Modular Sensible Helmets; all these techniques present each Bluetooth and Mesh intercoms and, SOUND BY Harman / Kardon audio.

Two different Sena-designed for SHOEI helmets merchandise – the modular SRL-MESH and the SRL-EXT additionally make the most of the newest options and capabilities discovered within the Sena Quantum Collection merchandise together with the SOUND BY Harman / Kardon audio.

As with its predecessors this new Sena 50C bundle is multi-function and feature-rich with a 4K digital camera system together with Mesh and Bluetooth intercom options and the SOUND BY Harman Kardon parts and FW-based audio enhancements that severely up the helmet surroundings audio ante.

A well-recognized-shaped however bigger kind issue chassis is used for the 50C however in appreciating all the things that’s packed inside its not sudden – high-resolution digital camera techniques generate warmth that wants managing for sustained efficiency and longevity of the very important parts that make up this hybrid feature-rich bundle.

The built-in UHD 4K Digital camera presents 2160/1440/1080p @30fps and 1080p @60fps recording modes.  Each 1080p modes (30/60fps) are usable with or with out EIS (Enhanced Picture Stabilization). Single and burst photograph modes are additionally supplied.

The digital camera lens has a 120-degree Subject of View, an f/2.4 Aperture and 30 levels of horizontal adjustment obtainable in utilizing the small lever discovered on left facet of the lens bezel (housing), a change from the underside positioning discovered on the Sena 10C EVO.

Together with this horizontal adjustability comes a wide range of mounting bases for vertical area of view optimization.  As with earlier Sena 10C-series kits, three mounts – two clamp type and one adhesive are included.  Of the 2 clamp mounts the Gear Mount model with its 360-degree (rotational) adjustability has essentially the most flexibility.

For connectivity, two wi-fi mediums are used with the Sena 50C.  The Bluetooth v5.0 facet of issues provides machine pairing, connectivity, switching, audio providers and comms, whereas the built-in devoted digital camera WiFi gives the native (machine to machine) high-speed wide-bandwidth (2.4GHz or 5GHz) interface for the built-in digital camera system.

Sena additionally consists of their WiFi Adapter Cable that has a WiFi chip constructed into the USB-A finish of the cable permitting charging, information connectivity and firmware updating to be executed with this single cable and, it may be used with different suitable techniques together with the 50S and 50R.

Two iOS and Android platform Apps – the Sena Bikes App and the Sena Digital camera App present the 50C consumer with real-time smart-device-based interfaces for the Bluetooth and WiFi options, respectively.

And fortunately, the Sena 50C is a ‘connectable’ system, in a position for use whereas recharging or drawing energy from a suitable 5V supply (AC/DC charger, USB port on a desktop or pocket book, powerpack or an onboard USB outlet) – that is good, exceptionally good.

First Impressions of the 50C

Beginning on the entrance – the flush-mounted digital camera lens fitted right into a raised housing together with a small easy functioning lens adjuster bezel on the outer facet offering 30-degrees of lens rotation, so the optimum horizontal viewpoint angle is on the market relying on helmet placement.

Alongside the highest edge the acquainted push-in-towards-helmet-to-release Mesh antenna and small Mesh Interface Button or MIB sit alongside the highest fringe of the housing.  The simply discovered and used Cellphone Button sits centred on the again edge under the higher curve of the housing for the inner antenna.

The headset and microphone port sits angled on the rear decrease nook whereas the USB-C interface port and micro-SD card slot are discovered on the underside below a smooth silicone climate cowl.  The Digital camera Button has migrated from the highest of the housing to the underside for higher (direct) entry, though activating it’s now tougher…extra on this later.

A big and simply accessed model of Sena’s distinctive and oft-copied Jog Wheel dominates the again face floor of the module – it’s well-sized for the bigger form-factor used with the Sena 50C system and is definitely manipulated it doesn’t matter what weight of gloves are worn.

Sena 50C Options At a Look

• Business distinctive product with built-in PoV digital camera and Twin mode comms
• BT 5 platform options twin Mesh & Bluetooth intercom techniques
• BT Intercom – helps 4 customers, as much as 1.6km (1.0mi) vary
• Mesh Intercom – just about limitless customers, 2km (1.2mi) rider to rider and as much as 8.0km (5.0mi) with minimal of six riders, 9 discrete channels in Open Mesh mode
• Built-in UHD 4K Digital camera: 2160/1440/1080p @30fps; 1080p @ 60fps
• Video Enhanced Picture Stabilization at 1080p 30 or 60fps
• Nominal video recording time: 100 minutes
• Digital camera Subject of View is 120 levels, Aperture is f/2.4 and Lens Rotation is 30 levels
• Picture Mode: 12MP (4:3), Burst Shot – 8 pics per second, Time Lapse – 1/2/5/10s
• SOUND BY Harman Kardon – premium audio system & microphone, audio equalizer
• Sensible Audio Combine
• Multi-Channel communication
• Voice Activated Digital Assistant (iOS or Android)
• Voice Instructions in Eight Languages
• Onboard FM Radio
• Sena WiFi Adapter Cable – charging/information and WiFi connectivity (firmware updating)
• Sena Bikes App and Sena Digital camera App
• Battery 1450mAh Lithium polymer
  • Speak time; BT = 22hrs, Mesh = 12hrs
  • Common Recording Period = as much as 100min
  • Full cost time = ~ 2.5hrs
• Exterior MicroSD storage slot for U3 or larger, as much as 128GB (or bigger), media not included
• 3-12 months Guarantee

Sena 50C Primary Controls & Inputs

Energy ON/OFF – to energy the Sena 50C on, press the Jog Wheel and Cellphone Button for one second.  Because the system boots up, the LED flashes Blue as soon as and “Good day” is heard from the headset, adopted by one other Blue flash and Pink battery standing flashes.

Paired units which might be discovered and connectable for audio providers will likely be introduced, e.g. – “Cellphone Related” and as soon as executed the system goes into (standby) – the sluggish Blue flashing sample, except different enter is acquired.

Battery Standing – throughout the boot up course of, the second Blue flash from the LED will likely be adopted by one to 4 Pink flashes (4 = full; three = three-quarters; two = half and one = low).  When the battery wants charging throughout use, a voice announcement is heard.

Word – battery standing can be supplied below the Bluetooth Paired Profile itemizing on the sensible machine and on the principle Sena Bikes App motorbike display screen…useful references.

Machine Pairings – for first sensible machine pairing, press and maintain the Cellphone Button till “Cellphone Pairing” is heard, and the acquainted Pink/Blue LED sample flashing seen.  Be certain that the sensible machine has its BT on and is detectable.  Newer units with newer variations of BT will pair virtually immediately, with or and not using a validation or affirmation pairing safety pop-up display screen.

Different Pairings – this multi-BT-channel machine helps secondary units – one other cellphone, stand-along navigation machine, media participant, Sena SR10 two-way radio adapter, and so on. utilizing the particular ‘Cell Cellphone Pairing’, ‘Second Cell Cellphone Pairing’ and ‘GPS Pairing’ steps together with ‘Advance Selective Pairing’ options for devoted Fingers-Free or A2DP Stereo connectivity.

Digital camera ON/OFF – a fast push on the Digital camera Button has the “Digital camera On” announcement made with the LED flashing an aqua color for a couple of seconds.  Activating the digital camera additionally activates the devoted digital camera WiFi function.  To show the digital camera OFF, a fast push on each the Digital camera and Cellphone buttons is required.

In depth particulars and performance of the digital camera function are supplied within the Digital camera part later…

Sena 50C Set up

As with the unique 10C sequence built-in digital camera and BT techniques, the Sena 50C works properly with full-face, modular, and most three-quarter type helmets utilizing both of the 2 clamp-style mounts or the extra common adhesive mount and all the things wanted for (virtually) any set up is discovered packed within the package.

Headset (Audio system and Microphone) – fitment of the spherical excessive efficiency 40mm Harman / Kardon audio system with foam covers and the microphones – the thin-wire button type or new-shape increase piece shouldn’t be a difficulty with particular mounting items simplifying use of both microphone.

A number of mounting items are supplied within the Sena 50C package: the Gear Clamp Mount with its inside adjustment wheel for exact vertical angulation of the digital camera; a second easier Clamp Mount with three median angulation settings of 8, 20 or 32 levels; and the adhesive mounting plate.

Word – throughout set up of any of the mounting options, becoming the Sena 50C onto the mount and utilizing the reside view function through the Sena Digital camera App is a very efficient solution to get optimum placement of the system for the very best or desired area of view and this function makes subsequent changes or different installations simple.

Gear Clamp Mount – this offset mount has been and nonetheless is the favorite because it gives 360 levels of vertical (rotational) adjustment by merely loosening the thumb wheel positioned between the module and the mount base (thus the offsetting) permitting the consumer to attain the specified vertical angle.

Utilizing the adjustable (stress) wheel is finest executed with naked fingers however it’s easy and efficient.  It will be nice if Sena would offer an adhesive mount with this identical adjustability- this 360-degree rotational mount is likely one of the finest options ever used for a helmet-based digital camera.

On the HJC i70 full-face, the gear mount sits positioned behind the underside mounted solar visor management slider at the very best level relating to helmet shaping, total area of view and to reduce how a lot of the helmet shell exhibits up in movies and images.

Clamp Mount – this extra customary mount continues to be adjustable with three vertical angulation adjustments supplied – 8, 20 or 32 levels, executed by loosening the 2 alignment/becoming a member of screws on the again plate.  The default angle is ready at 20 levels.

To vary the vertical angulation to both 8 or 32 levels, take away the angle plate and place it up and right down to reveal the etched ‘8’ marking.  Flipping the angle plate will reveal the ‘32’ etching.

With the items reassembled utilizing both positioning, the vertical mounting angle for the digital camera engagement will now be modified by 8 or 32 levels… not as precise because the gear clamp mount, however the three settings are good medians for many helmets.

Adhesive Mount – this plastic plate with 3M VHB adhesive is a safe mounting resolution for the beefy 50C system though placement and angulation evaluation (manually or in utilizing the reside view through the Digital camera App) is sweet earlier than setting the mount into place.  Trace – warming the adhesive barely accelerates curing time though leaving it in a single day continues to be really helpful.

Fortunately, Sena has not modified this fundamental piece additionally used for the SMH5 and 10C-series merchandise, so unused mounts are usable for the 50C and different helmets nonetheless in use so adorned can host the 50C, though one loses the good thing about the Harman / Kardon headset.

Footprint and facet profile – as put in on the Gear Clamp Mount the Sena 50C sits out about 4.7cm or 1.85in from the helmet shell.  Relying on the motorbike and cockpit surroundings, its presence is felt, however its not a unfavourable issue total.

And when contemplating the offset format of the mount with its vertical adjustment wheel and resultant clearance vis-à-vis the helmet all of it works for a greater PoV (point-of-view) whereas minimizing how a lot of the helmet shell turns into a part of that view.

Profiles – admittedly the Sena digital camera mounts have at all times fitted the machine shut and securely to the helmet shell and with the bigger dimension and (weight) of the 50C, this method is an effective factor and, there are methods to maneuver the 50C out farther from the helmet or put it on prime if that’s the case desired.

Some producers use a wider profile possibility with mounting plates, an adjustable mounting arm and a cradle of kinds; this method works to supply an unobstructed view, however it may be much less steady total and simpler to bump or hit throughout use, messing up the specified view.

Having mentioned this although, and to follow-up on feedback made in different Sena digital camera evaluations, a 20 to 26 cm (0.6 to 1.0in) offset in one of many supplied mounts, or a brand new one, maybe with an extender sleeve or arm, would just about eradicate any helmet intrusion, accepting some affect on stability and safety.

Sena 50C Connectivity

In getting essentially the most from this multifaceted funding, time spent in studying its options actually pays off, significantly if (a) one shouldn’t be accustomed to an built-in multi-functional helmet-based system and (b) not accustomed to a high-resolution digital camera system.

With the Sena 50C primarily based on the Sena 50-series merchandise it has conventional performance approaches together with the superior options anticipated from technology-based motorbike or rider-worn techniques, together with a number of choices to be used, configuration and upkeep together with connectivity.

Together with the Sena Bikes App and Sena Digital camera App, this connectivity is supplied by the Sena WiFi Adapter Cable enabling firmware updates, the USB-connected Sena Machine Supervisor or Sena WiFi Docking Station accent.

Sena is arguably the, or an {industry} customary relating to legacy assist for each their branded techniques and collaborative merchandise marketed with OE branding.  Through the years their core firmware builds, and immediate iterative product releases present the means to refine and improve and add new options and capabilities – very a lot a return-on-investment state of affairs.

Sena WiFi Adapter Cable

Though the Sena 50C has built-in WiFi, this functionality is reserved for the Digital camera element (extra on this below the Sena 50C Video Part).  As such, the Sena 50C system will get its WiFi upgradeability through the use of the supplied Sena (WiFi) Adapter Cable that homes a wi-fi LAN chip inside its enlarged USB-A connector.

Utilizing a separate Wi-Fi enabled connection, supplied by the included Sena WiFi Adapter Cable serves two functions: (1) to supply a separate charging, information and firmware updating cable to be used and (2) to eradicate the necessity to have the 50C and its digital camera function (and associated native WiFi functionality) turned on throughout updating…

This extra advanced method really separates two key capabilities and as eluded to above permits the WiFi chip-equipped Adapter Cable with its three standing LEDs (Charging, Firmware Improve and WiFi) for use for different suitable product updating just like the Sena 50R and 50S techniques in use on different helmets.

Sena Bikes App

The Sena Bikes App for iOS or Android techniques, permits customers to set-up, configure, and dynamically handle virtually something to do with the Sena 50C and different suitable Sena system as this App turns into the ‘go-to’ interface for increasingly techniques.

The App is the consumer interface to setup the WiFi function of the Sena WiFi Adapter Cable, use the Sensible Intercom Pairing or SIP QR-code primarily based function to connect with different customers, dynamically handle options together with Mesh and BT modes, channels, and teams, and take real-time benefit of the Audio Equalizer for optimum optimization of SOUND BY Harman / Kardon.

Sena Machine Supervisor

The Sena Machine Supervisor is the cornerstone albeit wired interface for updating and configuring just about any Sena or Sena-produced machine in the marketplace.  This venerable program is straightforward to make use of and is on the market for downloading onto suitable Mac or Home windows system platforms.  Learn the essential educational steps and go from there.

Sena Digital camera App

With the Sena Digital camera App put in and the Sena 50C turned ON, the consumer want solely faucet the decrease Digital camera Button to energy up the digital camera, “Digital camera On” after which go to the sensible machine’s WiFi settings to get the native WiFi connection arrange.

Utilizing the digital camera’s WiFi function permits the consumer to configure the digital camera and dynamically regulate settings, use the (related) reside view for preview or watching and to handle recorded media recordsdata.  WiFi connectivity setup and utilizing the Digital camera App is described in a later part.

Completely different Choices for Powering the 50C

Fortunately, not less than for this appreciative consumer, the Sena 50C continues to be usable whether or not powered from an AC-DC converter, USB port on a pc of some type, from a 5V-based transportable energy pack or onboard USB 5V outlet, with the next situations:

• Direct Mode – if related to an exterior USB supply (energy financial institution, onboard outlet) when the 50C is ON, the supply energy is used however the inner battery shouldn’t be charged, and
• Recharge Mode – if related to the exterior supply when the 50C is OFF, you should utilize the 50C whereas the exterior supply fees the inner battery.

Sena Voice Command – “Hey Sena”

As discovered on most different Sena comm techniques the Voice Command function gives the consumer with a voice-activated means to enter or handle the system options for a comparatively hands-free surroundings.  Voice Command helps English, French, German, Spanish, Italian, Chinese language, Japanese, and Russian.

Together with with the ability to activate, shut or change settings of the commonest Intercom, FM Radio and Music options, there are additionally 5 particular instructions for the Digital camera function – On, Off, Recording, Cease Recording and Tag Video; a brief particular itemizing that covers the necessities.

Sena Voice Command enter must be triggered by the important thing phrase, “Hey Sena” with the specified motion spoken straight afterwards, like “Hey Sena, Digital camera On.”

The instance command used above is most applicable, seeing as how the Digital camera Button is so exhausting to make use of with something aside from the naked hand or a lightweight glove; the 4 digital camera associated instructions, all activated with “Hey Sena” and “digital camera on”, “digital camera off”, “recording” or “cease recording” are very a lot appreciated – when they are often invoked.

Nonetheless, regardless of some enhancements to this function over time, it could nonetheless be hit-n-miss to activate, whether or not in low or excessive noise environments (which is the place enter activation is usually optimum).  And whereas the improved Harman / Kardon microphone has been a assist, the Voice Command function continues to be missing when in comparison with the Pure Voice function utilized by Cardo.

Even at 70 to 80 % effectiveness (my subjective evaluation), Voice Command is usable, and it could decrease direct manipulation of the management buttons – not a foul factor; but it surely takes extra effort than it ought to – a function with a lot potential not but realized.

However there’s another choice…

Sena Distant Controls

Discovering the Digital camera Button isn’t a difficulty, however activating it may be, particularly with heavier gloves on and because the Voice Command function will be hit-n-miss, utilizing a Sena Distant Management is a viable possibility to realize easier (wi-fi) entry to the digital camera, and system controls.

Alas, in discovering that two three button remotes with non-replaceable rechargeable batteries (not topped up for 2 months) weren’t responding to charging (not common), it was time to seek out an expedient resolution.  Fortunately a Canadian-based reseller had a Sena RC4 four-button distant readily available and 72hrs later it was in my hand… and a brand new replaceable battery put in.

The pairing course of is straightforward though it took a number of makes an attempt, primarily as a result of the Cellphone Button is the management needing for use to activate the pairing as soon as the Sena 50C is within the ‘Configuration Menu’ and ‘Distant Management Pairing’ mode, vice the Jog Wheel enter recognized below the directions?

So, with the RC4 put into its pairing mode by an eight second push on the Plus button, pairing and connectivity is accomplished with “Distant Management Related” heard through the 50C’s headset.

From this level on, it has actually been ‘to the rescue’ for Sena 50C digital camera use – the RC4 gives 9 discrete digital camera operations together with just about all the usual inputs provided by Sena BT-based techniques.  The Sena 50C digital camera and RC4 distant is one candy efficient mixture.

Sena Digital Assistant

If enabled on the paired/related sensible machine, each Siri and Google Assistant are straight accessible through the headset microphone though a ‘wake’ phrase or phrase is required, e.g. – “Hey Siri” or “Hey Google”.  If not enabled on the machine, a single faucet of the Cellphone Button invokes the respective assistant. Functionally, this function works higher than Voice Command…

Sena 50C Communications

One thing not missing with Sena techniques, significantly these endowed with each BT and Mesh intercom options pertains to communications.  There’s a lot of flexibility, performance, functionality, and efficiency packed into Sena intercoms together with interoperability, permitting a hybrid or bridged comms surroundings to be utilized.

Mesh Intercom

Open Mesh – Sena’s Multi-Channel Open Mesh Intercom gives the industry-first channel system like FRS handhelds or CB radios, with 9 discrete channels for comms groupings and/or privateness – all selectable utilizing the Mesh Interface Button or MIB management on the system or through the App.

No configuration or different setup is required, and it helps a close to limitless variety of customers inside a acknowledged vary of as much as eight kms or 5 miles (with 5 to 6 riders at optimum separations) though solely six customers can speak on the identical time with optimum high quality.

The How-To – press the Mesh button, await a couple of milliseconds, and begin speaking – executed.  I’ve used just about all types of Mesh communications over time (client and in any other case) and the Sena implementation is arguably nonetheless the very best and it’s getting higher on a regular basis…

Group Mesh – for focus or non-public group conversations, Group Mesh Intercom mode is finest.  Every Group Mesh helps a non-public collective of as much as 24 customers, with the identical vary and dynamic community configuration options as Open Mesh; Group Mesh participation is by invitation solely…

Bluetooth Intercom

The Bluetooth or BT intercom medium could also be lengthy within the tooth (pun supposed), but it surely nonetheless is a viable comms medium, particularly as a part of a combined or hybrid surroundings the place the Mesh medium is on the market and supported.

The Sena 50C BT intercom can pair with three different customers and work in devoted BT teams of two, 3 or 4 events and incorporate Common Intercom paired units as properly inside the most allowed.  These pairings are simplified through the use of the QR-code primarily based Sensible Intercom Pairing or SIP function.

Among the best and most dynamic options of the Sena 50C, like all of the BT & Mesh succesful techniques is its skill to perform as a communications hub, permitting BT and Mesh customers to bridge into a real multi-mode, multi-user surroundings.

And as proven above, the Sensible Intercom Pairing or SIP, discovered on just about all Sena Apps, gives a one or two step QR-code-based enabler to pair up suitable techniques in seconds and add them to respective pairing lists.  Search for the small QR field icon on the app show.

Common Intercom – one other widespread function amongst good BT helmet techniques is the flexibility to assist a Common Intercom functionality, that fairly than being some black-arts magic is use of a BT machine useful resource setting, e.g. – second cell phone.

Relying on the frequency and/or channel capabilities of the techniques and BT class energy output there could also be vary and connection limitations.  However respecting these limitations, this function works and it additionally provides the means to fold an other-brand Common Intercom related consumer into the higher hybrid Mesh/BT intercom combine as properly…

Product Word – in discussing the Common Intercom function its related to level out that the Sena Meshport Blue adapter is expedient (and comparatively cheap) choice to convey different brand-users straight into the Sena Mesh medium surroundings.

Intercom Efficiency

Mesh/Mesh 2.0+ – in utilizing all of the Sena Mesh merchandise and in holding their firmware up to date, there have been vital efficiency boosts made since Sena first launched their Mesh succesful merchandise; with the latest implementation as discovered within the Sena Impulse and Sena 50C merchandise most spectacular in each approach.

In multi-rider situations with the Impulse Sensible Helmet and 50C Mesh techniques in use together with Sena SPIDER ST1 and RT1, Sena 50S and 50R, and 30K techniques on a wide range of rider’s helmets, rolling alongside multi-lane or extra secluded secondaries with foliage and mild rolling hills leads to Mesh hyperlink ranges between two customers of 1.5kms to 2.0kms (1.1 to 1.24mi) or extra.

With 5 to 6 Mesh customers within the combine, total ranges do sometimes exceed 5kms (3mi) with minimal affect from terrain or density because of the dynamic ‘best-path’ administration of the mesh community.  Over hill and over dale, the result’s dependable, quiet, clear audio; much more so with the Harman / Kardon audio system and microphone parts.

Bluetooth – typical consumer to consumer vary is 1.6 to 2.0km (1.0 to 1.2mi) below open, degree, or light terrain situations and even when using inside extra dense pure environment with some elevation adjustments, BT connectivity stays excellent within the 1.0 to 1.5km (0.62 to 0.9mi) vary though degradation of audio is regular as most vary is approached…

Customers will discover that the BT intercom will be degraded to various levels when using in built-up city areas though audio sometimes stays good, simply with extra noise on the hyperlink.

Word – all intercom ranges are verified by pace and time calculations, highway markings or intersection and GPS map distances.

Sena 50C Video – Setup & Use

The Sena 50C digital camera gives video efficiency starting from 4K @30fps to 1080p at 60fps with different settings in between with every mode individually selectable below the Sena Digital camera App.

4 1080p decision settings can be found – 30 or 60fps and 30fps with EIS and 60fps with EIS.  The (Video) Digital Picture Stabilization or EIS setting is one other new and really welcome function for this latest Sena hybrid system and it (clearly) works, including one other visible attribute to the very talked-about 1080p mode.

Picture-wise, 12MP images in Nonetheless, Burst or Time-Lapse mode are potential, besides when recording at 4K, during which case a decrease decision is supplied.

Video recording time is listed as 100 minutes, with the video file format being MP4 (H.264) and the utmost video bit fee being 60 Mb/s (4k).

Customers might discover the Sena 50C considerably missing in its vary of user-selectable options, and out of doors of its area of view changes supplied by the mounting items and lens adjustment slider, together with the video decision and photograph setting changes obtainable below the Digital camera App, it’s certainly all fundamental.

And regardless of that the present f/2.4 lens VS the previous f/2.0 lens matter (mild to sensor) continues to be with the jury, there isn’t a lacking the truth that (total) the Sena 50C digital camera function gives glorious deep wealthy vibrant video and nonetheless images.  Simplicity and ease of use is sweet, particularly when it really works.

Storage Media

Because the Sena 50C digital camera can work at 4K (3480 x 2160 decision) in addition to different settings the necessity for a high-quality high-performance micro-SD or Safe Digital (SD) reminiscence card is necessary.

Media in 128GB or 256GB with Class 10, U3 and V30 scores are good though larger rated playing cards as much as UHS-II with a V60 or V90 score sometimes provide even higher efficiency at the next price.

Excessive-performance playing cards might need good specs, however precise efficiency will be something however.  Doing a little analysis and getting enter from different customers and digital camera professionals can slim issues down though some trial-and-error testing is commonly wanted; fortunately most 128/256GB micro-SD playing cards are at a aggressive worth level.

In having used (and rejected) lots of 32GB to 1TB playing cards over time my shorter record consists of V30 to V60 rated items with the present playing cards used being SanDisk Excessive PRO or Extremely PLUS items and Samsung EVO Plus playing cards in 128 to 512GB capability.

Sena identifies that playing cards as much as 128GB are suitable, however excessive efficiency 256 and 512 GB items work simply wonderful within the 50C and enhance video capability – properly past battery time after all, except the system is powered by an always-carried USB energy financial institution or plugged into one of many put in onboard USB retailers – for steady use this skill can’t be understated.

Formatting – don’t forget to arrange the storage card – that is finest executed by inserting the storage card, contact facet up, into the media slot (residing below the left facet of the silicone climate cap) till the cardboard clicks into place.

Flip the 50C On, let it settle into Standby (sluggish Blue flashing), then maintain the Digital camera Button for 5 seconds and when “Format SD Card” is heard, faucet the Cellphone button – the LED blinks Blue.  As soon as formatting is efficiently executed, “Format SD Card Accomplished” is heard – all executed.

As with different digital camera techniques, together with Sena merchandise, removing of the marginally recessed media will be difficult.  A small pair of plastic jeweller-style tweezers works nice; I preserve considered one of them with different packed ‘assist’ items when using together with a micro-SD to USB-A adapter to carry the media card if eliminated (small = droppable = losable) and/or to hold spare media.

Digital camera Management and Connectivity

As soon as the Sena 50C is turned ON, a fast push of the decrease edge Digital camera Button turns the digital camera function on, as introduced, with the LED flashing an Aqua color for a couple of seconds.

WiFi Connectivity – relying on the sensible machine used and the Sena 50C WiFi function, it could take anyplace from 5 to 10 seconds (or extra) earlier than the ‘50C-xxxxxx’ ID is obtainable up.  Preliminary use will see a password wanted – the default is ‘sena0000’.

Deciding on the ID for the 50C ought to see the native ‘Related with out web’ standing listed below the connection itemizing; from right here the consumer can launch the Sena Digital camera App.

Once more, relying on this native WiFi connection, the App can both launch and take one other couple of seconds to speak to the Sena 50C or it could give you the connection display screen with the consumer needing to substantiate that the connection is certainly made.  If issues don’t work, shut the App, cycle the 50C, re-do the WiFi pairing and it ought to now work…see observe.

Word – the default WiFi ‘channel’ is 5GHz, but when this isn’t supported, the WiFi channel must be modified to 2.4GHz.  To toggle between 5GHz or 2.4GHz, maintain the Digital camera Button for 10-12 seconds, “WiFi Channel” is heard – for the 5GHZ setting faucet the Jog Wheel management as soon as (two Aqua-coloured flashes); for the two.4GHz setting faucet the Cellphone Button as soon as (one Pink flash).

Aside from when powering the digital camera OFF, the Digital camera Button is the only module-based management for this function:

• ON = faucet Digital camera Button as soon as, “Digital camera On”; this activates the native WiFi as properly
• OFF = press Digital camera and Cellphone buttons for one second, “Digital camera Off”
• Begin Video Recording = maintain Digital camera Button for one second, “Recording”
• Cease Video Recording = maintain Digital camera Button for one second, ‘shutter sound’
• Picture (single or burst, per App settings) = faucet Digital camera Button as soon as, ‘shutter sound’
• Video Tagging (Loop Mode) = press Digital camera Button for 3 seconds, “Video Tagging”

Auto Digital camera Sleep (On or Off, Default = On) – except modified from its default below the Digital camera App, powers the digital camera OFF after 5 minutes of inactivity.  This function shouldn’t be

enabled throughout system charging.

Battery life is certainly prolonged if the digital camera is stored off or allowed to routinely flip off after 5 minutes.  However, if the consumer needs to seize the ‘moments’ on quick discover, having to show the digital camera on after which begin recording can flip right into a five-to-ten second course of, leading to a missed second or moments.

Until simply utilizing the 50C digital camera function sometimes (not common), the Auto Digital camera Sleep mode is stored turned off below the App; this does enhance consumption a bit however gives a lot better responsiveness – a one-second push of the Digital camera Button or Distant-Management enter prompts recording with 1-2 seconds and/or permits a photograph or burst sequence of images to be taken virtually immediately.

Video Modes & Media

Of the three (or 4) video modes, the default is Regular Recording Mode the place the video runs constantly till the media card is full or the battery is low.

Word – Sena lists that the utmost dimension per video at any decision is 4GB (a FAT32 file system limitation), as soon as this dimension is reached a brand new video is began.  FWIW, SDXC playing cards utilizing exFAT should not have the identical limitation…

Just like the Sena 10C EVO or PRO, two simultaneous video recordsdata are created sharing the identical file identify, however the major (sometimes larger decision) bigger file (identify) is appended with an ‘A’, whereas the second adjunct smaller file at a set 560×340 decision is tagged with a ‘B’; this decrease decision video is ideal for playback, downloading, or offloading for different use.

The cumulative space for storing wanted for 2 recordsdata does enhance after all however for expedient assessment or vetting functions or even when handing off ‘wanted’ visible media, e.g. – EVENT recordsdata, the smaller recordsdata are simpler to handle.

Timelapse Video Mode is the place a sequence of (timed) images processed collectively right into a video is created.  The intervals obtainable below the Digital camera App are 1, 2, 5 and 10 seconds.

Loop Recording Mode – that is my default mode; it leads to extra recordsdata, however it’s far simpler, much less any video tagged recordsdata, to type, view and manipulate by three (3) minute movies to discover a particular view or sequence of views.  On this mode when the media turns into full, the oldest footage is deleted.  Utilizing small capability media can change into a difficulty right here…

Video Tagging – I confer with this because the fourth mode, although it could solely be invoked from Loop Recording Mode.  This recording situation will be the or one of the priceless sources of visible info desired or maybe wanted sooner or later in time.

Why?  Properly as a result of while you encounter an occasion price or needing saving pushing the Digital camera Button for 3 (3) seconds brings a few double beep and “Video Tagging” heard.  This motion creates an ‘Occasion’ video sequence consisting of Previous, Current and Future segments (earlier than, throughout and after) with every section being the set loop length, e.g. – three minutes.

As soon as invoked, the Video Tagging course of creates six tagged movies (Hello & Lo decision set for every time section) all saved below the ‘EVENT’ folder on the storage media (see associated display screen seize above).  After the occasion timeline runs its course, “Tagging Full” is heard except the consumer or circumstances intervene.

Video Tagged recordsdata saved within the EVENT folder are stored even when the media turns into full and might solely be erased manually.

And this functionality is why I preserve the Sena 50C, like all of the motorbike or gear mounted video units used set in a loop recording mode.  Through the years, whether or not near dwelling or afar, saved media, significantly particular occasion recordsdata, have confirmed priceless in conditions to somebody; worthwhile funding – certainly.

Digital camera Modes

To take a photograph, faucet the Digital camera Button as soon as, the (shutter) sound is heard.  Single Shot Mode takes, properly, one photograph…  If the digital camera is ready for Burst Shot Mode below the App, tapping the Digital camera Button takes a burst shot of eight (8) images.

Word – if in 3840 x 2160 @ 30fps decision for recording, a photograph can’t be taken.  In any case the digital camera decision is ready to 12MP, besides when a photograph will be taken throughout different video recording resolutions, which is able to lead to a photograph decision of 8.3MP.

Audio Overlay

And as segue into the following part, the consumer has, together with the always-on direct microphone enter functionality, the choice to permit all speaker audio to be written onto the video observe as properly though cellphone conversations are excluded.

If solely direct voice enter is desired – say for singing alongside to a observe or including the odd locational or surroundings impressed remark, there are three Video Microphone Achieve settings – Low, Medium, and Excessive, selectable below the Digital camera App, for clear voice enter.

As approach of observe, an ongoing or occasional quick descriptive monologue is a terrific solution to preserve observe of the ‘the place’, when, what, particularly as there isn’t a GPS information being written to the video observe…

Lastly, the consumer can train the choice to show off the Speaker Sound Recording function – this setting can be discovered below the Digital camera App.

Sena 50C Audio with SOUND BY Harman / Kardon

Audio Sources

The multi-channel Bluetooth options together with Sena’s advanced complete firmware makes pairing, connecting, and managing multi units for concurrent or overlaid audio streams a comparatively simple job, particularly when utilizing newer sensible units operating BT v4.2+ or BT v5.0 or higher.

However even older units can have their day as a fundamental tenet of Bluetooth is to reduce the exclusion of legacy units and for essentially the most half, the latest flavours stay true to this precept.  After a few years of involvement with Bluetooth, I haven’t discovered very many units that can’t be paired and/or related to be used with Sena techniques.

FM Radio Characteristic

This audio (and data) function is commonly neglected however it may be (and has been) an asset at instances to many riders and if like myself, its considerably of a continuing companion, much more so than audio streaming, whereas using regionally or farther from dwelling, particularly when alone.

Turned ON or OFF with a one second push of the Cellphone Button, “FM On”, “FM Off” or by activating it below the Sena Bikes App, the tuner has a ten-station reminiscence that may be populated utilizing the system controls, the App, or the Sena Machine Supervisor below the ‘Different’ tab, with navigation between pre-sets executed utilizing the Cellphone Button or App function.

SOUND BY Harman / Kardon

The Quantum Collection merchandise use the SOUND BY Harman / Kardon {hardware} and software program and the sum of the components leads to the very best helmet audio surroundings skilled by this consumer and never simply in a single helmet both.

From the redesigned microphone, now reshaped to scale back noise and higher sensitivity significantly within the voice frequency vary and the ‘premium energy’ SOUND BY Harman Kardon audio system, along with the App-based five-setting audio equalizer all the things comes collectively seamlessly creating an excellent audio surroundings.

Relatedly, the customized inside and built-in parts discovered on the Sena Impulse do appear to provide it a slight edge in total really feel and atmosphere of the SOUND BY Harman Kardon audio, however the sum of the parts shouldn’t be missing with regards to the opposite helmets used.

The primary host for the Sena 50C, a brand new HJC i70 full face is a fundamental however surprisingly well-built, snug, and comparatively quiet helmet; it makes a very good platform for testing externally mounted items, together with different pre-release and newer digital camera techniques now below assessment.

Relatedly, my ideas that the Harman / Kardon audio would or could possibly be severely affected, e.g., degraded on this helmet had been shortly dispelled; kudos to HJC and naturally Sena and the Harman / Kardon collaboration.

A discount in total atmosphere is famous vis-à-vis the Impulse with its acoustic engineered focus however in transferring between Audio Equalizer settings (described within the Person Information extract under) audio within the HJC will be tailor-made for good points, particularly if there’s a particular audio focus like music streaming or ongoing intercom use.

As noise ranges construct, output quantity for essentially the most half continues to supply a ‘hearable’ listening surroundings though the decrease frequency vary continues to be diminished however not completely misplaced.  And for sustained intercom use, the ‘Voice’ setting is certainly the very best…

One other audio goodie – with the ability to transfer between the Sena Bikes App Audio Equalizer settings dynamically audibly reveals the discernable variations within the respective outputs and permit glorious for-the-ride tailoring functionality.

For many using over all kinds of terrain and noise environments the Music Stability setting is finest total though if one actually needs to maintain the beat as noise ranges construct then Music Enhanced or Bass Increase settings do the trick.  For intercom-based actions I often choose the Voice setting – its the ticket for boosted filtered audio.

Over the past 4 months of utilizing the Sena Impulse and the Sena 50C system, each with their very good Harman / Kardon audio, it was and continues to be a definite audio pleasure to make use of the intercom, steam music or take heed to the FM radio – nothing sounds dangerous in these helmets…

Audio Backside Line – WOW!  This expression is carried over from the Sena Impulse assessment and for good purpose; with validation courtesy of the Sena 50C system within the HJC i70 and now, two extra helmets, the Sena Quantum Collection SOUND BY Harman Kardon is my new helmet audio customary.

Sena 50C Perform & Efficiency Observations

As famous for the Sena 10C EVO assessment, these hybrid techniques are actually multi-faceted multi-function units and whereas not tough to make use of, customers will profit vastly from earlier Sena system possession if relevant and/or studying the Person Information, exploring the system in a sensible sense and spending time studying or watching associated evaluations…

Digital camera Management – if there’s an statement (learn situation) to boost right here it’s the Digital camera Button.  Its prime loaded placement on the Sena 10C EVO added additional attain effort however the management was findable and usable even with medium to heavy gloves worn.

There’s some appreciation for transferring this management to the underside on the Sena 50C – it has its personal actual property and will be accessed simpler however the small back and front moldings – in all probability supposed to make the management simpler to really feel whereas defending the push button are on the identical peak because the tactile button and solely serve to scale back direct efficient entry to the management.

A naked or light-weight gloved finger can discover and activate the management however utilizing the management with medium to heavy gloves is apparent irritating.

Its not a deal breaker for this long-time Sena built-in machine consumer and sure, the essential Voice Instructions might/ought to mitigate this bodily situation, however the reliability of the voice-input function shouldn’t be what it must be.  Fortunately, a suitable Sena distant management (just like the RC4) is a passable resolution; however personally, it must be a selection greater than a requirement.

Digital camera Level of View – the 120-degree wide-angle lens is an excellent median between the 160-degree (or wider) lens or slim layouts; The Sena 50C lens gives a balanced viewpoint from close to to far; some distortion is seen relying on the depth of view and objects however its not readily discernable in most movies though extra prevalent with images and grabs.

Video Efficiency – one other spotlight worthy of statement.  Sena cameras have at all times been significantly good relating to high quality, richness/color constancy and transitions, though the f/2.4 aperture (additionally discovered on the 10C EVO) does affect low mild and light-weight transition efficiency as will be noticed in a few of the video samples.

A brand new video efficiency function is enhanced picture stabilization, obtainable when utilizing the 1080p decision setting and the consumer can select between 1080p at 30 or 60fps with out EIS or the identical decision at 30 or 60fps with EIS; when enabled there isn’t a doubt on resultant video that the algorithmic-based EIS is working though typically exhausting to discern total…

Why?  Properly, rider and using place together with gear combos outcomes or can lead to lots of the bodily movement/vibration being absorbed between the surfaces being travelled and the helmet, minimizing the visuals noticed between EIS On and EIS Off at 60 or 30fps.

To see what the variations can be between helmet and motorbike mounting the CB500X hosted the 50C (sans its headset) utilizing the adhesive mount from the package, a spherical RAM-B AMPS base and quick RAM-B arm with quick runs over a bumpy with pot-holed path executed to match video from 1080p 30 & 60fps EIS On or Off settings; video samples are linked to this submission.

Battery Efficiency – with common use, specializing in digital camera operation, however with ongoing Mesh and/or BT comms, the battery sometimes exhibits 65 to 75% after 40 to 45 minutes of 4K video recording and regular Mesh comms use.  With digital camera administration, an enormous chunk of a using day is feasible on one cost for the system; your expertise after all might differ…

Even higher, except needing to particularly run the system as a self-contained unit, gear primarily based (worn) comms or digital camera techniques are sometimes related for energy throughout use or for a part of the using day to keep up the battery.  You by no means know when the inner battery is perhaps wanted for an emergency if exterior energy sources should not obtainable…

Audio – not a nit however a BIG decide.  As skilled with the Sena Impulse Sensible Helmet, the Harman / Kardon audio system, microphone, and FW-based Equalizer make for an unequaled helmet audio expertise, not less than for this consumer.

In contemplating all the things in regards to the Sena 50C and its virtually day by day use by spring, the warmth and humidity of summer season and each heat to chill to chilly fall climate, the host of selection is the complete face HJC i70; it sits in between the extra open and noisier Shoei J-Cruise II three-quarter and uber-quiet Schuberth C3 Professional helmets relating to Harman / Kardon headset efficiency.

I (subjectively) fee the Sena 50C and Harman / Kardon collaboration as excellent with the Shoei J-Cruise II, extraordinarily good (bordering on glorious) with the HJC i70, and very good with the Schuberth C3 Professional; testomony to the engineering and efficiency of this Sena and Harman / Kardon collaboration.

 

Remaining Ideas on the Sena 50C

Takeaways – the Sena 50C hybrid system, like its 10C sequence predecessors stays distinctive inside the powersports realm and secondly, Sena continues to evolve, albeit slowly, this hybrid product in a most constructive method.

Exterior of the Digital camera Button and the persevering with want for built-in GPS, there aren’t any actual points or not less than none which have arisen but after 5 + months of use; and primarily based on use of earlier Sena 10C merchandise, there possible gained’t be…

The Sena 50C is certainly bigger, heavier, and wider, however exterior of creating its presence typically felt on the helmet in uncovered cockpits, there are not any kind or match points whereas the one perform nit regards the already properly recognized digital camera button factor; partially mitigated when the Voice Command will be invoked and completely mitigated in utilizing the Sena RC4 distant management.

At $549.00 USD the Sena 50C is a wholesome funding, however argumentatively you get a number of capabilities in a single built-in product with lots of worth within the sum of the components – actually.

You need a high-resolution digital camera – examine; you need multi-device multi-channel audio streaming – examine; you need the best to make use of Mesh intercom – examine; devoted or hybrid Mesh and Bluetooth comms – examine; the very best helmet audio – examine and, all this in a single bundle – CHECK.

Sena Quantum Collection 50C Backside Line: this latest iteration of Sena’s distinctive digital camera and high-resolution comms system reveals a multi-faceted and well-rounded product with a lot of efficiency packed into its (barely) bigger housing and divided between the 4K digital camera, BT and Mesh Intercoms and BT machine interface options. Much more efficiency is packed into the brand new SOUND BY Harman / Kardon audio system and microphone with complementary audio wonderful tuning through the multi-level equalizer function – audio with a punch!  Misses – the can-be exhausting to activate Digital camera Button, hit-n-miss Voice Command functionality and, (nonetheless) lacking GPS function…  Whatever the misses although the Sena 50C is an almost-perfect mixing of a number of fascinating options and capabilities that preserve this consumer glad and smiling.

wBW Specs

• Producer:  Sena
• Value when examined: $549.00 USD
• Assembled in: China
• Guarantee:  3 years on electronics
• Assessment Date: June to October 2022

Sena 50C Video Gallery

Sena 50C, wBW Video 3, EIS Characteristic, Facet by Facet, 1080p, Motorbike Mounted from Bruce Cole on Vimeo.

Sena 50C, wBW Video 2, Fall Colors, 4K at 30fps from Bruce Cole on Vimeo.

Sena 50C, wBW Video 1, Clip Compilation of Numerous Settings from Bruce Cole on Vimeo.