Does installing ETC require a power source?

[MacHarley]

Installing ETC does not require charging, as ETC uses its built-in power source. The ETC electronic tag consumes power, but during normal use, there is no need to charge the battery because there is a solar panel on the back of the battery that can charge itself. During installation, it is necessary to avoid the black areas on the windshield. The built-in power source of ETC typically has a battery life cycle of 3-5 years. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection, which means electronic toll system. To apply for ETC, you need to provide the original and photocopies of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is not made by the owner, the agent's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway tolls is required, and the applicant must be between 18 and 60 years old, with the vehicle registered under their name. How ETC works: The onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield communicates with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station. Using computer networking technology, it settles the toll with the bank in the background, allowing the vehicle to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping to pay the toll. Benefits of installing ETC: Time-saving: Eliminates the hassle of waiting in line; Green and eco-friendly: Low-carbon and environmentally friendly, as vehicles pass through toll stations without stopping, reducing noise and exhaust emissions and pollution; Cost-saving: Reduces costs by decreasing the frequency of vehicle starts and stops, minimizing wear and fuel consumption. Users can also enjoy toll discounts; Improved efficiency: The ETC lane's efficiency can theoretically increase by 2-3 times or more, making traditional ETC more updated, faster, and more high-tech. Compared to license plate payment, ETC technology is more mature and advantageous.

[OAnnie]

Installing an ETC indeed requires a power source. The ETC device, a small unit called OBU, is mounted on the windshield. Its core function is to detect signals from toll stations and automatically deduct fees, which cannot operate without electricity. Most ETC devices are connected to the car's cigarette lighter or directly to the fuse box, drawing 12V power from the car battery to ensure continuous operation. Some newer ETC models may have solar-assisted charging, but this is only a backup—the primary power supply still relies on the vehicle's wiring. Having driven for many years and installed ETC several times, I always have technicians carefully inspect the wiring. Poor or disconnected power supply can render the ETC completely non-functional, causing trouble at toll stations. I recommend not cutting corners during installation—have a professional handle the wiring to ensure a reliable power connection.

[DeEliza]

Installing an ETC definitely requires a power source; it's not something that can operate on air. During the installation process, the technician will connect the ETC's power cable to the car's electrical system, typically by wiring it into the fuse box or cigarette lighter socket, ensuring the device has a stable power supply. When I had an ETC installed in my car last time, the technician even tested the voltage, explaining that the device would enter a low-power mode when the car is turned off. However, it must rely on the power source while driving to respond in real-time at toll stations. The core of the ETC is its internal chip and antenna—without power, it can't send signals or receive commands, making it impossible to deduct fees. In daily use, as long as the power connection is secure, there won't be any malfunctions. In short, never overlook this power cable during installation; otherwise, you'll waste money on the setup, and your car won't be recognized at toll stations.

[VanAurora]

Installing ETC requires a power source, as the ETC device needs electricity to operate. During installation, the power cable must be connected to the car's cigarette lighter or fuse, enabling the device to draw power from the vehicle's battery. If the power is disconnected, the ETC won't be able to detect toll stations. With my extensive driving experience, I always ensure the power connection is secure during installation to avoid future issues.