Where to Connect the Power Supply for a Dash Cam?
2 Answers
Dash cam power can be connected to the cigarette lighter socket or to the ACC power in the fuse box. Dash cams typically have both built-in and external power interfaces. The built-in power source is usually a lithium battery, while the external power is generally supplied through the cigarette lighter. For driving safety considerations, the capacity of the built-in battery is usually very small, as lithium battery capacity is limited. Therefore, dash cams primarily rely on external power sources. A dash cam is a device that records images, sounds, and other relevant information during vehicle operation. After installation, it can record the entire driving process in video and audio, providing evidence in case of traffic accidents. The recorded video footage from a dash cam should not be edited, as edited footage may not be useful in determining liability after an accident.
I connect my dash cam's power to the cigarette lighter socket, which is the most convenient option. Simply plugging in the dedicated cigarette lighter adapter provides direct power, and the camera automatically turns on when starting the vehicle. However, I've encountered power cuts when parked, leaving it unable to monitor collisions, so I explored alternative wiring methods. Now, I connect the power cable to a constant power position in the car's fuse box, using a voltage step-down cable to maintain 24-hour recording. During installation, I first check the vehicle manual to find a suitable fuse slot to avoid overcurrent damage to the battery. The whole process is straightforward and takes less than 20 minutes, making it suitable for DIY by average car owners. Just remember to check for loose wiring to ensure safe driving.
