When we get a new car, we invest a lot in the exterior and interior. The polish, the comfort; everything is needed but can be posed as useless if there is nothing to protect your car. A dash cam would rescue you from those hazards. It will watch the road on your behalf, record your driving and the road, and let you know if there is any issue with the car.
Overview of Dash Cam
A car dashboard acts like your vehicle’s command centre, offering vital information at a single glance. With user-friendly displays and controls, it helps your driving safety, allowing you to focus on the road while staying informed about your car’s performance and a trusted companion on your every journey.
What are the Types of Dash Cam and its fittings?
1. Single-Lens Dash Cam
This single-lens Dash Cam type records the road and vehicle, offering an easy solution. These are easy to install and provide basic coverage to your driving experience.
2. Dual-Lens Dash Cam
Dual-Lens Dash Cam is Equipped with two cameras. They capture both front and rear views at the same time. It requires additional installation for the rear lens, but it provides two simultaneous road footage, enhancing overall security.
Both types of dash cams typically mount on the car windshield using a suction cup or adhesive mount. Power is usually supplied through the car’s power outlet if they are hardwired, and video footage recordings are stored on a removable external SD card. Installation is user-friendly, as these dash cams are accessible.
What are the Requirements for Installing Dash Cam?
1. Mounting System
Setting up your new dash cam? If it’s suction-mounted, place it in the best spot for convenience. If it uses adhesive, choose wisely because it can get tricky. You should aim for the centerline of your car, obeying laws about obstructing your view. Ideally, place it behind or close to your rearview mirror or low near the windshield-dashboard meeting point.
For dash cams with interior cameras, a higher placement is more convenient. Ensure the rearview mirror doesn’t block any features. To ensure your dash cam captures the horizon accurately, experiment with its position, especially with adhesive mounts. Practice with tape, a wipe-off marker, and perhaps a second set of eyes before securing it in place for optimal alignment and a clear view. The mounting system should be secure, adjustable, and designed to provide a clear line of sight for the camera.
2. Power Source
To connect the power cable, you have to put it near the fuse box. Most dash cams draw power from the car’s power outlet (cigarette lighter) Usually tucked under the dashboard on the driver’s or passenger’s side, it’s quite easy to find. In many cases, it’s right below the steering column, often hidden behind a removable panel. Check out your owner’s manual for the exact spot in your vehicle. Make sure that the dash cam comes with a reliable power cable of sufficient length to reach the outlet without causing distractions or safety hazards. Once there, you’re all set to power up your dash cam hassle-free.
3. Memory Card
Dashcams usually store their recordings on a removable memory card, so it’s crucial to check for the supported card type and capacity. Opt for a high-capacity, reliable card to ensure you have ample storage for your journeys. This guarantees that your dashcam captures and retains all the important moments on the road, providing you with a record of your travels.
4. Adjustable Lens
If your dash cam’s lens is adjustable then you’ll be able to keep a perfect viewing angle. This adjustability is crucial for capturing crystal-clear footage and accommodating diverse windshield shapes and sizes. By fine-tuning the angle, you guarantee that your dash cam captures every detail.
5. G-Sensor
The G-sensor can sense abrupt movements or impacts and swiftly trigger the cam to save and safeguard the ongoing recording. This feature is essential, acting as a vigilante during accidents or incidents by preserving crucial footage. As a digital safety gadget, it captures and secures the evidence you might need for insurance claims or legal purposes.
6. Parking Mode
Certain dash cams have a parking mode that kicks in when your car is parked. This smart feature records any motion or impact, boosting security and extending coverage, offering an extra layer of protection for your peace of mind.
7. Installation Process
A user-friendly Dash Cam must come with a very easy installation process. Ideally, it comes with clear instructions, and the setup should be intuitive. Wiring should be discreet to avoid obstructing the driver’s view. If you face any problems with that you can always contact the manufacturer or a technician to help you with the gadget.
How to Install a Dash Cam?
Installing a dash cam is an easy process if you do it in the right way. A dash cam enhances your driving safety and provides footage while you are driving. Select a suitable mounting location on your windshield using a suction cup or adhesive mount. Make sure that the power cable reaches the car’s outlet without causing distractions. Insert a compatible memory card for recording, adjust the lens for the optimal view, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for any additional features. Secure wiring discreetly to maintain a clean look. With these steps, you’ll have a functional dash cam ready to capture important moments on the road.
1. Using a Cigarette Light Adapter or USB Socket
Benefits: Utilising a cigarette lighter adapter or USB socket simplifies dash cam installation, offering a convenient power source. This method is user-friendly, requiring minimal effort. The adaptability ensures compatibility with various vehicle models. Additionally, it allows easy removal and transfer between vehicles.
Risks
- This method may occupy the vehicle’s power outlet, limiting other accessory use.
- The exposed wiring might be less aesthetically pleasing.
- Some vehicles might have limited or inconveniently located power outlets.
2. Using Hardwire
Benefits: A Hardwired dash cam offers a clean setup. It hides visible cables and provides a neat appearance. Hardwiring enables continuous power, even when the vehicle is turned off, giving an option of parking mode recording. It frees up the cigarette lighter for other accessories and avoids cable clutter. Additionally, hardwiring often includes a dedicated fuse, enhancing safety and reliability.
Disadvantages or risks
- Hardwiring requires technical expertise, so if you are not familiar with the technical process then it can create issues.
- It’s a fixed solution, so it is less convenient for transfer between vehicles.
- If your car has complex wiring systems, it will complicate the hardwiring process.
- Incorrect installation may lead to damage to the car’s electronics.
3. Using OBD Port
Benefits: Utilising the OBD or On-Board Diagnostics port for dash cam power will offer you a straightforward solution. You don’t need additional wiring with the OBD port. The OBD port provides continuous power and supports parking mode recording. This method is particularly useful for users who prefer a plug-and-play setup without technical knowledge.
Risks
- The OBD port might limit its availability for other diagnostic tools or accessories.
- Some vehicles can’t support continuous power through the OBD port when the ignition is off.
4. Using Battery Pack
Benefits: Incorporating a battery pack into the dash cam installation provides a self-contained power source. This eliminates the need for vehicle power, allowing flexibility in placement and ease of transfer between vehicles. It enables continuous recording, even if the car is off, and also supports parking mode. Battery packs also give rest to the vehicle’s battery from draining during extended parking.
Risks
- Battery packs require periodic recharging, which can be inconvenient sometimes.
- Extreme temperatures can impact battery performance.
How to Install Dash Cam – FAQs
Ans: Installing a dashcam on your own is doable, and it’s laid out for you, whether you’re opting for the standard setup or going for the slightly more advanced hardwiring option. The easiest part is that you don’t even need tools. So, if you’re a tech wizard or a DIY fan, setting up the dash cam will be easier for you.
Ans: Yes! Dashcams are best at recording accidents, and capturing proof for insurance. Plus, they add fun by recording cool drives. Easy to set but has big advantages.
Ans: Setting up a dashcam, from mounting to power and cables, typically takes 15 minutes to an hour and a half. The time can vary depending on the hardwiring or wiring complexity of your car.
Ans: Yes, a hardwire kit costs more, but it’s worth it for the added reliability and durability. Those thicker cables ensure a robust setup, giving you peace of mind on the road. If budget is not an issue then Invest a bit more on these cams to enjoy a lot more assurance and security.
Ans: Installing a dashcam will typically cost around $35 to $50. For some “plug-and-play” models, it gets better; you can do the setup by yourself by plugging them into your car’s port, which can save on installation costs.
Conclusion
After such a detailed discussion, we are sure that it will be a cakewalk for you to choose a perfectly suitable dashcam for your car and it would be easier to set up in your car.
