FAQ
TL;DR: 1 user reports “LEDs are flashing,” and indoor lighting triggers visible flicker on the OMNA N7 LEGEND/GoPro webcam. Likely lighting–exposure interaction, not a dead sensor. [Elektroda, zerozone, post #17008788]
Why it matters: Quick checks can separate a lighting issue from true camera failure so you fix what actually causes the flicker.
Quick Facts
- Reported only indoors; multiple rooms and locations showed the same pulsing effect. [Elektroda, michualex, post #16915639]
- Memory card choice did not affect the flashing; SanDisk Ultra microSDXC used. [Elektroda, michualex, post #16915593]
- Factory reset performed; users also ask about loading newer firmware to improve behavior. [Elektroda, dawidedziu, post #16915608]
- Some LEDs that “should not flash” still flicker and cause artifacts on camera. [Elektroda, zerozone, post #17008788]
- A separate user saw the image rotated 180° on power‑up and sought a settings fix. [Elektroda, raf175, post #17283085]
Is the flicker from high contrast or a damaged camera?
It points to lighting flicker interacting with the camera’s auto‑exposure, not a failed sensor. A user confirms indoor LEDs visibly flicker on video. Try different lighting before assuming hardware damage. “LEDs are flashing … and yet ….” [Elektroda, zerozone, post #17008788]
Does this happen outdoors or only indoors?
Reports in the thread say it happens in rooms, not outdoors. That strongly implicates artificial lighting rather than daylight. Test near a window or outside to confirm. If the issue disappears, adjust indoor lighting or camera exposure settings. [Elektroda, michualex, post #16915629]
Can glossy tiles and bright ceilings make the pulsating worse?
Yes. Reflective surfaces and bright ceilings can force rapid exposure changes, which exaggerate flicker artifacts. The poster saw strong pulsation near glossy tiles and changes when pointing at the ceiling. Reduce reflections or diffuse the light to stabilize exposure. [Elektroda, michualex, post #16915554]
Will a different microSD card fix the flashing?
No. The thread author tested with a SanDisk Ultra microSDXC and stated the card isn’t the cause. Flicker relates to lighting and exposure, not storage bandwidth. Use a quality card for reliability, but don’t expect it to remove pulsation. [Elektroda, michualex, post #16915593]
What’s the fastest way to diagnose LED‑induced flicker?
Do this: 1) Turn off room LEDs and test in daylight. 2) If flicker stops, switch to different lamps or enable anti‑flicker. 3) Update firmware and reset settings. This isolates lighting as the root cause. [Elektroda, zerozone, post #17008788]
Should I update firmware or reset to factory settings?
Yes. A reset was already tried by a user, and another suggested uploading newer firmware if available. Firmware can refine exposure control and reduce visible pulsation. Apply updates from the vendor, then restore defaults for a clean baseline. [Elektroda, dawidedziu, post #16915608]
Does the issue persist across different homes and rooms?
Yes. The original poster recorded in several rooms, including a friend’s place, and saw the same effect. That cross‑location result supports an environmental cause. Statistic: observed in at least two locations with consistent symptoms. [Elektroda, michualex, post #16915639]
Can changing scenes confuse the camera’s exposure?
Rapid scene changes under artificial light can trigger visible pulsing as exposure reacts. The user described strong pulsation near high‑gloss tiles and relief when reframing. Reduce reflectivity or lock exposure if your software allows it. [Elektroda, michualex, post #16915554]
Do some “no‑flicker” LEDs still cause banding?
Yes. One user noted LEDs that “should not flash” still flickered on camera. Edge case: even premium bulbs can show residual ripple at certain shutter speeds. “LEDs are flashing … and yet ….” [Elektroda, zerozone, post #17008788]
Is there an orientation bug? My image is upside‑down.
A user reported a 180° rotated image on startup and asked about settings. Check for a rotate/flip control in your app or driver, or rotate the stream in software. If unavailable, request firmware guidance from the vendor. [Elektroda, raf175, post #17283085]
How can I reduce flicker without changing bulbs?
Reframe away from reflective surfaces, add diffusion, and match exposure to the environment. The OP saw less pulsing when pointing at the ceiling. Softening highlights and stabilizing exposure helps keep brightness from pumping. [Elektroda, michualex, post #16915554]
Could rapid flashing be a sign of total camera failure?
Unlikely here. The behavior repeats across multiple lit rooms, which suggests lighting‑related pulsing, not a dead sensor. Rule out lighting and settings before seeking hardware service. If the effect persists in daylight, then consider repair. [Elektroda, michualex, post #16915639]
Does card class or brand impact exposure flicker?
No evidence in this thread. The author used a reputable SanDisk Ultra microSDXC and stated the card wasn’t involved. Storage affects recording stability, not LED beat frequency. Focus on lighting and firmware instead. [Elektroda, michualex, post #16915593]
Is lighting the likely culprit according to the community?
Yes. A responder immediately suspected indoor lighting, and another confirmed LED flicker on camera. “Maybe that’s the culprit?” summarizes the consensus. Swap lamps or enable anti‑flicker in software. [Elektroda, dawidedziu, post #16915632]