Where to Place the ETC Device?
2 Answers
The installation position of the ETC device for small cars is generally in the upper middle part of the front windshield, while for large vehicles such as trucks and buses, it is installed in the lower middle part. The appropriate 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 built-in or aftermarket explosion-proof film, which may affect microwave communication signal transmission, the device should be installed in the microwave sunroof strip. ETC stands for Electronic-Toll-Collection, which means electronic toll collection system. To apply for ETC, the vehicle owner needs to provide original and photocopies of their valid ID card and vehicle registration certificate. If the application is handled 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 required. The vehicle must be registered under an individual's name, and the owner must be between 18 and 60 years old. Here are some precautions for installing ETC: Do not obstruct the 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 the ETC device is installed without considering this, it may increase blind spots for the driver. 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 because it has a built-in solar panel on the back for self-charging. Therefore, during installation, avoid the black areas on the windshield and positions that may block the solar panel. Once installed, do not remove it casually: 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 casually, the lever will pop out and trigger the switch, locking the electronic tag and rendering it unusable. In such cases, you will need to 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 avoid paying for the vehicle in front due to its faulty ETC device, maintain a distance of more than 10 meters from the vehicle ahead. 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 unsuccessful toll deduction. When using a debit card linked to ETC, insufficient balance may also cause toll deduction failure.
I just installed an ETC on my new car two days ago, and the ideal location is the black dot area behind the rearview mirror on the windshield. This position neither obstructs the view nor is close to the rain sensor for convenient power supply. During installation, thoroughly clean the glass with the included alcohol wipe, peel off the protective film on the device's adhesive once and stick it straight, then press firmly for 30 seconds to ensure it's securely attached. Remember to avoid areas with dark heat-insulating film or metal film on the glass, as they may interfere with the signal. Route the wire along the upper edge of the windshield and tuck it into the ceiling gap to hide visible wiring. Finally, don't forget to activate it with a beep using the OBU label card.
