Does ETC need to be powered?

[KayleeMarie]

ETC does not need to be powered. There are two power supply methods for ETC devices: 1. Solar power supply: During the day when there is sunlight, the ETC device has solar panels that can convert solar energy into light energy for automatic charging. Solar power supply is the more commonly used power supply method and does not require manual charging; 2. Battery power supply: Normally, the ETC battery can last for 5 years. ETC is an electronic toll collection system that does not require stopping. The ETC dedicated lane is for vehicles equipped with ETC on-board units, using electronic toll collection methods. The ETC non-stop toll collection system is a more advanced road and bridge toll collection method. Through the dedicated short-range microwave communication between the on-board electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield and the microwave antenna in the ETC lane of the toll station, and using computer networking technology for backend settlement processing with the bank, the purpose of vehicles passing through road and bridge toll stations without stopping to pay tolls is achieved.

[MadelynFitz]

I also wondered about this when I first installed the ETC. The device itself has a built-in battery and comes with a small solar charging panel, so it automatically recharges when parked in the sun. The one in my car has been working fine for three years without ever needing to plug it in. However, if left in an underground garage for too long, the device screen may dim or become unresponsive, but just driving out into the sun for half a day will revive it. I’ve heard older models might not have a solar panel and require charging via the cigarette lighter, but I’d recommend upgrading to a newer model for convenience.

[KiraLee]

I drive on the highway every day, and the ETC is practically my old partner. It doesn’t even need to be plugged in for power—the little glass panel on top is a solar panel, so it charges itself just by soaking up sunlight during daily drives. I remember one time on a road trip to Yunnan, after eight straight hours of driving, the toll gate arm still lifted at lightning speed. But if your car is often parked in an underground garage, the battery might run out after a few months, and the device will beep an alarm with a flashing red light. At that point, you either need to drive out to get some sun or visit an ETC service point to recharge it with a dedicated charger. Trying to power it yourself could fry the chip.

[DeCora]

Actually, the ETC device design is quite smart, featuring dual protection with built-in lithium battery plus solar panel. When I helped my mother-in-law apply for ETC, I specifically asked about it. The staff said unless it's kept in complete darkness for three consecutive months, no maintenance is needed. If it really runs out of power, the current smart models come with a USB-C port - just connect it to a power bank for half an hour to revive it. The older models from years ago were more troublesome, requiring removal and charging at service points. For daily maintenance, it's recommended to check annually whether the OBU's green light stays on, since it's crucial for highway access.