What is ETC at highway toll stations?

[McSawyer]

Highway ETC (Electronic Toll Collection) translates to electronic toll collection, which is a non-stop toll collection system. Highways are equipped with one or more ETC lanes. ETC toll collection method: Through microwave-dedicated short-range communication between the on-board RFID tag installed on the vehicle's windshield and the microwave antenna in the ETC lane at the toll station, the system uses networked technology to conduct background settlement processing with the bank. This achieves the purpose of vehicles passing through bridge and road toll stations without stopping to pay toll fees. Banks install this type of ETC express card with a 'pass first, pay later' approach. ETC application requirements are as follows: Provide the original and photocopy of the vehicle owner's valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. The photocopy of the driver's license must include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Fill out a bank debit card application form, which will be used to bind the ETC card. After obtaining the card, you can go to a designated bank branch to receive and install the ETC on-board device for free, with no additional charges. Applicants must be between 18 and 60 years old and own a vehicle registered under their name. Documents required for company vehicles: An introduction letter from the vehicle owner (with official seal); photocopy of the organization code certificate or business license (with official seal); original and photocopy of the agent's ID card; original vehicle registration certificate; the vehicle that needs to apply for ETC. Precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the driver's view. It is best to install it behind the rearview mirror: Many car models have a steeply angled windshield, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If ETC installation does not consider this, it may increase blind spots. Install it on the right side behind the rearview mirror to avoid blocking the view. Do not interfere with charging: The ETC electronic tag consumes power but generally does not require charging or battery replacement, as it has a solar panel on the back for self-charging. Therefore, during installation, avoid the blackened areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. Once installed, do not remove it arbitrarily: The button in the middle of the adhesive is an anti-tamper lever connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield will press the anti-tamper lever in. If removed arbitrarily, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. You will then need to visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This feature is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device.

[Penny]

I'm a regular driver who frequently uses highways for daily commutes and weekend trips. Since installing ETC, passing through toll stations has become much easier. There's no need to stop and queue for payment; the car can just drive through at around 20 km/h, and the system automatically deducts the fee, saving a lot of time. Installation was also simple—I got it done at the bank. A small device is mounted on the windshield, and after linking it to a bank card, it's ready to use. It's advisable to regularly check the balance to ensure there are enough funds and avoid malfunctions. ETC also helps reduce vehicle idling, making it more environmentally friendly and energy-efficient. The government is actively promoting ETC, and with features like app-based transaction tracking, it's becoming more and more user-friendly. For those who often drive on highways, installing ETC early can significantly improve convenience in daily life.

[DelTravis]

As a novice driver experiencing the highway for the first time, I find ETC absolutely amazing. It stands for Electronic Toll Collection, which is essentially an automatic payment device. The toll station has equipment that communicates with the small box in your car, deducting the fee directly from your bank card without needing to stop. When I installed it, I applied at a service point—quick, free, and just required linking a bank card. It's especially great for beginners, eliminating the hassle of fumbling for change or dealing with toll booths. Nowadays, many highways use it, significantly improving traffic flow. I also noticed that linking it to a mobile app allows for easy and transparent transaction tracking. I recommend all drivers give it a try, especially during holiday traffic jams where its advantages are most apparent.

[McLuna]

From a technical perspective, let's discuss ETC, which operates via radio signals. The OBU device installed in vehicles contains a built-in chip that communicates with antennas at toll stations to verify identity and complete payment. The speed is set at a moderate level, allowing vehicles to pass through safely at a constant speed. The entire process is swift, with data encryption ensuring privacy protection. Users only need to install the device and bind their cards, while the rest is handled automatically. It enhances efficiency and reduces congestion, offering a hassle-free and highly efficient personal experience.