What To Know
- This guide will walk you through the process of how to hard reset GoPro Hero 4, and help you get your action camera back in top shape.
- Using a small object like a paperclip or a pen, press and hold the reset button for about 10-15 seconds.
- Once the GoPro powers on, you’ll know the reset was successful if the camera displays a welcome screen or a message indicating that it has been reset.
Are you experiencing issues with your GoPro Hero 4? Maybe it’s freezing, not recording properly, or you just want to start fresh. Whatever the reason, a hard reset might be the solution you need. This guide will walk you through the process of how to hard reset GoPro Hero 4, and help you get your action camera back in top shape.
Why Would You Need to Hard Reset Your GoPro Hero 4?
A hard reset is a powerful tool that can resolve many issues with your GoPro Hero 4, including:
- Freezing or Unresponsive Camera: A hard reset can help revive a camera that’s frozen or not responding to commands.
- Software Glitches: If your GoPro is experiencing software issues, a hard reset can often fix them.
- Incorrect Settings: A hard reset will restore your GoPro to its factory default settings, which can be helpful if you’ve accidentally changed something.
- Preparing for Sale: Before selling your GoPro, a hard reset ensures that all your personal data is removed.
How to Hard Reset Your GoPro Hero 4: Step-by-Step Guide
Here’s a detailed guide on how to hard reset your GoPro Hero 4:
1. Power Off Your GoPro: Start by turning off your GoPro Hero 4. If it’s frozen and won’t respond, try holding down the power button for a few seconds until it turns off.
2. Locate the Reset Button: On the side of your GoPro Hero 4, you’ll find a small button labeled “Reset.” It’s usually located near the battery compartment.
3. Press and Hold the Reset Button: Using a small object like a paperclip or a pen, press and hold the reset button for about 10-15 seconds.
4. Release the Button: After holding the reset button for the required time, release it. Your GoPro will automatically power on.
5. Confirm the Reset: Once the GoPro powers on, you’ll know the reset was successful if the camera displays a welcome screen or a message indicating that it has been reset.
Important Considerations Before Hard Resetting
- Back Up Your Data: Before performing a hard reset, ensure you back up any important footage or settings you want to keep.
- SD Card Removal: While not always necessary, removing the SD card before performing a hard reset can sometimes help with the process.
Troubleshooting Tips
- Battery Level: Ensure your GoPro has sufficient battery power before attempting a hard reset.
- Clean the Reset Button: If the reset button is dirty or obstructed, clean it with a soft cloth.
- Try Different Reset Methods: If the above method doesn’t work, there are other hard reset methods available online. Consult your GoPro’s user manual or search for specific instructions for your model.
What Happens After a Hard Reset?
Once you’ve hard-reset your GoPro Hero 4, it will be restored to its factory default settings. This means:
- Settings Reset: All your customized settings, including video resolutions, frame rates, and Wi-Fi settings, will be reset to their defaults.
- Data Deletion: Any footage, photos, or other data stored on the SD card will be deleted.
- Software Update: Your GoPro may automatically download and install the latest software update.
When Should You Consider a Hard Reset?
Here are some common scenarios where a hard reset might be helpful:
- Camera Freezing: If your GoPro freezes and becomes unresponsive, a hard reset can often fix the problem.
- Software Issues: If you’re experiencing software glitches or errors, a hard reset can resolve them.
- Incorrect Settings: If you’ve accidentally changed settings and can’t revert them, a hard reset can restore them to the factory defaults.
- Preparing for Sale: Before selling your GoPro, a hard reset ensures that all your personal data is removed.
Alternatives to a Hard Reset
If you’re hesitant about performing a hard reset, consider these alternatives:
- Power Cycle: Turn your GoPro off and then back on again. This can sometimes resolve minor software glitches.
- Software Update: Check for and install the latest software update for your GoPro. Updates often include bug fixes and improvements.
- SD Card Formatting: Format your SD card in your computer. This can resolve issues related to the SD card itself.
Wrapping Up: A Fresh Start for Your GoPro
Hard resetting your GoPro Hero 4 can be a valuable tool for resolving various issues and giving your camera a fresh start. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily restore your GoPro to its factory defaults and potentially fix any problems you’re encountering. Remember to back up your data and consider alternatives before resorting to a hard reset.
Answers to Your Questions
Q: Will a hard reset delete all my footage?
A: Yes, a hard reset will delete all footage, photos, and other data stored on your GoPro’s SD card. Make sure you back up any important files before performing a hard reset.
Q: What if the hard reset doesn‘t work?
A: If a hard reset doesn‘t resolve the issue, there might be a hardware problem with your GoPro. Contact GoPro support for further assistance.
Q: Can I hard reset my GoPro Hero 4 without an SD card?
A: Yes, you can perform a hard reset without an SD card. The reset process itself doesn’t require the SD card.
Q: What if I can’t find the reset button?
A: The reset button on the GoPro Hero 4 is usually located on the side of the camera, near the battery compartment. Consult your GoPro’s user manual for specific instructions.
Q: Is there a way to hard reset my GoPro Hero 4 remotely?
A: Unfortunately, there’s no way to hard reset your GoPro Hero 4 remotely. You need to physically access the reset button on the camera.
