Is the ETC LCD Screen Always On?
2 Answers
Whether the ETC LCD screen is always on is explained in detail below: 1. Always On Status: The ETC screen normally remains off. 2. ETC (Electronic Toll Collection): Also known as an automatic road charging system, it is a dedicated road tolling method primarily used for toll roads, commonly seen on highways, toll bridges, or tunnels to alleviate urban traffic congestion. 3. Purpose of ETC: Through dedicated short-range microwave communication between the onboard electronic tag installed on the vehicle's windshield and the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at toll stations, it utilizes computer networking technology to perform backend settlement processing with banks, achieving the goal of allowing vehicles to pass through toll stations without stopping to pay bridge or road fees.
As a frequent ETC user, I can tell you that the LCD screen is usually not constantly lit. It remains black during normal driving and only lights up automatically when passing through the toll station's sensing area to display transaction amounts or balance information; it turns off shortly after. If you want to check your balance while parked, pressing the device's button will activate the screen for a few seconds before it turns off again. This design is primarily to conserve battery power, as most ETC devices rely on internal batteries. Keeping the screen constantly lit would drain the battery faster, leading to frequent replacements—not only inconvenient but also increasing environmental impact. Additionally, a constantly lit screen at night can interfere with visibility and compromise safety. I've noticed that if the screen stays lit unexpectedly, it might indicate a device malfunction or settings issue. It's advisable to first check if the button and position are correct, and if necessary, update the software or contact the ETC service provider for assistance. Regular maintenance can prevent these minor issues and ensure smooth highway travel efficiency.
