Is the port on the ETC used for charging?
3 Answers
The port on the ETC is not used for charging. That port is a data interface specifically designed by the manufacturer for testing equipment. Therefore, do not use that port for charging, as it not only cannot charge but also carries the risk of damaging the ETC. The ETC is a device that can be charged via solar power. If the ETC runs out of power, there are two possible reasons: first, when it is newly installed, long-term storage and transportation time may lead to insufficient battery power; second, the solar charging panel of the ETC may be blocked by the car's heat-insulating window film, preventing the ETC from receiving solar power. The installation height of the ETC device should be no less than 1.2 meters and no higher than 2.5 meters. For small vehicles such as cars and minivans, the OBU device should be installed in the upper-middle part of the front windshield. For large vehicles like trucks and buses, it should be installed in the lower-middle part. For vehicles with factory-installed or aftermarket anti-explosion film, since the film contains metal ions that may interfere with microwave communication signals, the ETC should be installed in the microwave window area or a rectangular area of 8cm x 10cm should be cut out from the anti-explosion film.
Having driven for decades, I've seen all kinds of car accessories. The port on the ETC device is usually not for charging. It connects to the car's cigarette lighter or power system to provide continuous power, and the device has a small internal battery to manage power, so there's no need to worry about running out of juice. That small hole is mainly for data transfer, such as connecting to a computer for account activation. If you mistakenly think it's a charging port and plug in a charger, you might damage the circuit or interfere with the signal. During safe driving, a properly functioning ETC is crucial—check if the cigarette lighter is working and clean the port to prevent dust buildup, ensuring smooth passage through toll stations on highways. Remember, don’t treat it like a phone charging port—save time and avoid malfunctions.
I'm passionate about tinkering with vehicle electronics and understand that the ETC port is generally not for charging. It serves power input or data connection purposes, relying on the car's 12V system to power the device. Plugging in a charger is not only useless but may also cause overheating issues. It's best to trust the original wiring and regularly check the cigarette lighter plug for any looseness. ETC is ingeniously designed with built-in lithium batteries that charge via the car's power supply, eliminating the need for extra hassle. Additional knowledge: Many car models now integrate ETC functionality without standalone devices, removing port concerns. While driving, pay attention to power stability and avoid frequent plugging/unplugging to extend lifespan.
