How to know if your ETC is ready to use?
2 Answers
To determine if your ETC is ready to use, the method is: when passing through a toll station, use the ETC lane. If the fee is successfully deducted, the barrier will automatically lift, indicating that the ETC is successfully installed and can be used, meaning the device is operational. How ETC works: Through the on-board unit (OBU) installed on the vehicle's windshield, it communicates with the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station via dedicated short-range communication. This utilizes computer networking technology to process transactions with the bank in the background, allowing vehicles to pass through highway or bridge toll stations without stopping while still paying the required fees. Where ETC can be installed: For small vehicles like cars and minivans, the OBU device is installed on the upper middle part of the front windshield. For large vehicles like trucks and buses, it is installed on the lower middle part. ETC installation position requirements: The height should be no less than 1.2 meters and no more than 2.5 meters; the installation angle N should be between 30º and 90º (the angle between the surface of the electronic tag and the horizontal plane).
After installing the ETC device, first check the indicator light on the device—a steady green light indicates normal operation. When I first installed it, I specifically drove to an ETC lane to test it. As soon as I passed the toll booth and the system beeped, successfully deducting the fee, it meant it was ready to use. Normally, you can check your account status via the mobile app of the bank you’ve linked it to. If the deduction records are normal, you can rest assured. I also regularly check the battery life and installation position to avoid any loosening that might affect the signal. Testing it a few times ensures reliability.
