Does Installing ETC in the Black Dot Area Affect Its Usage?

[Lynda]

The ETC device can be installed on the black dot area of the windshield without affecting its functionality. As long as it does not obstruct the driver's view and can detect the toll station's equipment, it will work fine. However, installing it on the black dot area has a drawback: the solar charging capability of the ETC device may weaken, potentially leading to power loss over time. For small cars, the recommended ETC installation position is generally in the upper middle part of the front windshield, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it should be installed in the lower middle section. The ideal installation height is between 1.2 meters and 2.5 meters, with an angle ranging from 30 to 90 degrees. If the vehicle has or will have anti-explosion film, which can interfere with microwave signal transmission, the ETC should be installed in the microwave window strip. Here are some key considerations for ETC installation: 1. Avoid obstructing the driver's view: The best position is behind the rearview mirror. Many car models have windshields with a steep incline, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing the ETC behind the rearview mirror on the right side helps minimize blind spots. 2. Ensure proper charging: The ETC tag consumes power but typically doesn't require manual charging or battery replacement, as it has a built-in solar panel. Therefore, avoid installing it on the black dot area or any location that might block the solar panel. 3. Do not remove the device once installed: The adhesive includes an anti-tamper switch. If the device is removed, the switch will trigger, locking the ETC tag and requiring an unlock at an ETC service point. This feature prevents multiple vehicles from sharing one device. ETC usage tips: - The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To avoid paying for the vehicle ahead due to its faulty ETC device, maintain a distance of at least 10 meters from the car in front. - The ETC lane recognizes vehicles at speeds up to 20 km/h. Driving faster may result in failed transactions. - If using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance can also cause transaction failures.

[BeckettAnn]

Last time I installed an ETC device, I specifically asked the technician about it. He mentioned that the black dotted area on the windshield has a metal coating that can interfere with signal penetration. I once saw my neighbor install the device there, and it frequently failed to be recognized at toll stations, forcing them to reverse and try again—super embarrassing. Essentially, those black dots act like a signal-blocking mesh; the microwaves emitted by the ETC just bounce right off. But as long as you avoid that dotted area and stick it on a fully transparent part of the glass nearby, you’ll be fine. My advice: carefully feel the windshield during installation and avoid any spot with a grainy texture. I’ve had mine mounted on the clear area just below the rearview mirror on the right side, and after half a year of highway driving, it’s never failed me. Get the placement right, and you won’t even need to roll down your window at toll booths—total game-changer.