Must the ETC device be affixed to the windshield?
1 Answers
The ETC device can be used without being attached to the windshield. Installing the ETC on the upper part of the windshield is intended to minimize obstruction of the driver's view while ensuring better recognition by highway toll station equipment. If you prefer not to install it on the windshield, place it in an open area where it can still be seen through the windshield. For passenger cars, the ETC is typically installed in the upper middle section of the front windshield, while for large vehicles like trucks and buses, it is installed in the lower middle section. The recommended installation height is between 1.2 meters and 2.5 meters, with an installation angle ranging from 30 to 90 degrees. If the vehicle has a built-in or aftermarket explosion-proof film, which may interfere with microwave signal transmission, the ETC should be installed in the microwave window area. Here are some important considerations for ETC installation: 1. Avoid obstructing the driver's view—installing it behind the rearview mirror is ideal: Many car models have windshields with a steep rearward angle, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. Installing the ETC without considering this may increase blind spots. Placing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side helps avoid blocking the driver's view. 2. Ensure it does not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement, as it has a built-in solar panel for self-charging. Therefore, avoid installing it on the windshield's blackened areas or any location that might block the solar panel. 3. Do not remove it once installed: The adhesive backing includes an anti-tamper rod connected to a switch. Once installed, the windshield presses the rod inward. If the device is removed, the rod pops out, triggering the switch and locking the electronic tag, rendering it unusable until unlocked at an ETC service center. This mechanism prevents multiple vehicles from sharing a single device. Additional usage tips for ETC: - The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To avoid unintended payments due to malfunctions in the vehicle ahead, maintain a distance of at least 10 meters from the preceding car. - The ETC lane recognition speed is 20 km/h. Driving too fast may prevent the system from reading the device, leading to failed transactions. - If using a debit card linked to the ETC, insufficient balance may also cause transaction failures.
