Here to Help

We’re always here to help. Join our Discord community for technical troubleshooting, product guidance, animation tips, and more.

Enter your BMW chassis code to find the fuse box location and fuse number.

Troubleshooter

Hi! I can help troubleshoot Dot issues and answer your questions. What can I help you with today?

Frequently asked questions

What comes in the box?

The standard package includes:

  • Dot display
  • Control box
  • Power cable
  • Two display cables
  • ATO fuse tap
  • 12V adapter

Check that every component is present and undamaged before installation.

Where can I download the official app?

Use only the official App Store or Google Play version.

Do I need a professional installer?

A professional installer is recommended if you are uncomfortable removing trim, routing cables, drilling the trunk, or checking for factory wiring and cameras.

What drill-bit size should I use?

For installations that require drilling, support recommends a 5/8-inch drill bit (16mm). Inspect behind the drilling location first. Do not drill where factory wiring, cameras, release mechanisms, or structural components could be damaged.

In what order should Dot be connected?

The connection order is important:

  1. Turn off and disconnect power.
  2. Connect both display cables to the Dot.
  3. Push each connector in firmly and confirm that its latch is engaged.
  4. Connect the display cables to the control box.
  5. Route and secure the cables so they cannot be pinched or pulled.
  6. Connect power to the control box last.
  7. Wait for Dot to boot before opening the app.

The control box may not boot completely if it does not detect the display and HDMI connection during startup.

How should the screen receive power?

The screen should receive its connection and power through the control-box setup. Make sure both display cables are connected firmly before powering the control box.

What power source can I use?

Dot can use:

  • The included adapter connected to a vehicle’s 12V outlet
  • A USB-C source providing a stable 5V/3A

An unstable or underpowered USB source can cause slow loading, freezing, rebooting, or a blank display.

Why is Dot slow or freezing when switching animations?

Check the following:

  • The newest Dot app is installed.
  • DotOS is updated.
  • The correct power cable is being used. (USB-A to Micro)
  • The power supply can provide stable power.
  • Both display connections are fully seated.

If the issue remains, record a video showing the delay and send it to support.

Can I upload my own animations?

Recommended video format:

  • Resolution: 480 × 480
  • Frame rate: 60 FPS
  • Format: MP4
  • Codec: H.264
  • Audio: None
  • Opening frame: Black
  • Closing frame: Black
  • Target: approximately 3 MB

For an animation pack, also provide:

  • A 1080 × 1080 transparent PNG cover image
  • A start animation moving from black into the pose
  • An end animation beginning from the same pose and returning to black

The final frame of the start animation should match the first frame of the end animation.

Can I use the 12V outlet in my trunk?

Yes. Use the included 12V adapter and confirm that the outlet supplies stable power.

Should I glue the connectors in place?

Do not apply glue directly to the ports or connectors unless Vusi Studios specifically instructs you to do so. The connectors should be fully inserted and held by their latches. Use removable automotive cable management for strain relief, leaving enough slack to avoid pulling on the ports.

Why does Dot have power but show a black screen?

Disconnect power and check the following:

  1. Both display cables are fully inserted.
  2. The connector latches are engaged.
  3. The HDMI cable is seated correctly.
  4. The display was connected before the control box received power.
  5. The correct power cable and a stable power source are being used.

Reconnect everything, then supply power to the control box last.

Why can I see the backlight but no image?

A backlight without an image usually means that power is reaching the screen but the video connection or startup sequence has failed. Reseat the HDMI and display-power connections, then restart with the control box powered last.

Why can’t the app find Dot?

Dot may not appear in the app if the control box did not detect a functioning, properly connected screen.

Disconnect power, reseat both display connections, and power the control box last. Wait for startup to finish before trying the app again.

Do I need to connect to Dot through Wi-Fi settings?

No Wi-Fi password or manual Wi-Fi connection is required. Use the official Dot app.

Do I need to pair Dot manually in Bluetooth settings?

Normally, discovery and control should happen through the Dot app. If Dot does not appear, check the display connections and restart in the correct order before troubleshooting the phone.

How do I check or update DotOS?

Open the Dot app and go to Settings → Version. Install any available update before troubleshooting performance or animation problems.

Why does the image change when I move the cable or display?

Movement-related flickering usually indicates a loose connection, damaged cable, damaged port, or physical screen defect. Stop moving the unit repeatedly, record a short video of the problem, and contact support.

When is a replacement screen likely required?

Contact support if the display remains blank after:

  • Verifying the correct startup sequence
  • Reseating both display connections
  • Using the correct power cable
  • Testing stable power
  • Updating the app and DotOS

A screen fault can also prevent the control box from becoming discoverable in Bluetooth or the app.

What should I send when asking for technical help?

Include:

  • Order number
  • Vehicle year, model, and chassis code
  • Phone type and operating system
  • Dot app version
  • DotOS version from Settings → Version
  • Power source and cables being used
  • Clear photos of every connection
  • A short video showing the connection sequence and the problem
  • A description of what the control-box lights and screen do

Do not send passwords, payment information, or unnecessary personal documents.

What should the troubleshooting video show?

Show:

  1. Dot with power disconnected
  2. Both display connections being inserted firmly
  3. The connector latches
  4. The control-box connections
  5. Power being connected last
  6. The screen during startup
  7. The app attempting to discover Dot
  8. The actual flickering, freezing, or blank-screen problem

This helps support distinguish among a power, cable, screen, control-box, or software issue.