Where is the appropriate location to install the ETC device?

[JasperLee]

The ETC device is generally installed on the upper middle part of the front windshield for passenger vehicles, while for large vehicles such as trucks and buses, it is installed on the lower middle part. The suitable installation position should be no lower than 1.2 meters and no higher than 2.5 meters, with an installation angle between 30 to 90 degrees. For vehicles with pre-installed or aftermarket explosion-proof film, which may affect the signal transmission of the microwave communication link, the device should be installed on the microwave sunroof strip. ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection. To apply for ETC, the vehicle owner must provide their valid ID card and the original and photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate. If the application is made by a proxy, the proxy's valid ID card is also required. The photocopy of the vehicle registration certificate should include the page with the most recent annual inspection stamp. Additionally, a bank card for deducting highway tolls is needed, and the vehicle must be registered under the name of an individual aged between 18 and 60. For company vehicles, the required documents include: An introduction letter from the vehicle owner (with company seal); photocopy of the organization code certificate or business license (with company seal); original ID card of the proxy; original vehicle registration certificate; and the vehicle for which ETC is to be applied. Here are some considerations 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 inclined windshield, which can reduce the driver's field of vision. If ETC is installed without considering this, it may increase the driver's blind spot. Installing it behind the rearview mirror on the right side can help avoid obstructing 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 built-in solar panel 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-removal lever connected to a switch. After installation, the windshield will press the anti-removal lever in. If the device is removed arbitrarily, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. In such cases, the user must visit an ETC service point to unlock it. This mechanism is designed to prevent multiple vehicles from sharing one device. When using ETC, note the following: The ETC transaction sensing range is 8 meters. To prevent the ETC device of the vehicle in front from malfunctioning, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the vehicle ahead to avoid automatic toll deduction for the preceding vehicle. The ETC lane recognizes vehicles at a speed of 20 kilometers per hour; driving too fast may result in failure to read the vehicle's device information, leading to toll deduction failure. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause toll deduction failure.

[McViolet]

I usually drive to and from work, and installing an ETC has saved me a lot of time. The best position is on the upper inner side of the windshield, near the rearview mirror area. Once, I placed it incorrectly by putting the ETC in the lower left corner, and it often failed to be detected at toll booths. A professional technician later explained that it was because the position was too low, and the signal was blocked. Placing it in the higher middle area ensures stable signal reception, doesn’t obstruct the view while driving, and prevents it from being scratched by the wipers. Remember to choose a clean spot on the glass without any stains and secure it firmly with strong adhesive so it won’t shake on the highway. If placed incorrectly, not only is it inefficient, but you might also get stuck at the toll gate, causing delays. When installing, wipe the glass with alcohol to make the adhesive stick better. From my experience over the years, placing the ETC in the right position maximizes its effectiveness and truly makes life much easier.