Should the ETC card chip face outward or inward?
2 Answers
ETC card chip faces outward. The ETC installation process is as follows: Upon receiving the device, first check if the ETC card and electronic tag (OBU) are damaged. Press the anti-tamper button on the back of the OBU; the red light will briefly turn on, and the OLED screen will display "Tag Invalid" and "Please Insert Card," indicating the device is functioning properly. Clean the front windshield to ensure the surface is smooth, clean, and dry. Then peel off the adhesive backing of the OBU and attach it to the installation position. Press firmly for 2-3 minutes to remove any air bubbles. Insert the ETC card with the front facing the driver and the back facing the windshield. The chip should be inserted into the OBU device. ETC activation method: Insert and remove the ETC card twice consecutively until the electronic tag screen displays "Bluetooth On." If "Tag Invalid" appears when inserting and removing twice without the electronic tag attached, this is normal and does not affect activation. Alternatively, press the button on the top of the electronic tag to enable Bluetooth directly. Turn on your phone's Bluetooth and open the corresponding mobile app (usually a download QR code is provided on the electronic tag). Enter the device activation interface. Click "Connect Device" and wait patiently for the "Connection Successful" prompt. Once connected, upload a photo of the vehicle's front to complete activation.
As a veteran driver with over a decade of experience, I once encountered the embarrassing situation of inserting my ETC card the wrong way. When I first installed it, I thought having the chip face inward would protect it better. However, when I got on the highway, the device didn't respond, the barrier didn't lift, and the cars behind me honked incessantly. Later, I learned from experienced drivers that the chip must face outward because the device has internal contact points. Placing the metal side outward ensures direct contact with the card reader, allowing smooth signal transmission. Inserting it the wrong way leads to poor contact, causing the device light to flash red or stay off, which can result in failed deductions. Now, every time I insert the card, I feel it with my hand to confirm the metal side faces outward, and I always test to ensure the green light is on before entering the highway. Additionally, keeping the device clean to avoid dust buildup and ensuring the correct orientation can reduce delays and is crucial for driving safety. I recommend new drivers label their cards as a reminder.
