Dash cams are increasingly popular for their ability to record driving events, providing crucial evidence in accidents or capturing scenic routes. But a common question arises: how does a dash cam continue to function, especially its recording capabilities, when the car is turned off? The answer lies in the power source and the cam's settings.
While some dash cams completely shut down when the car is off, many modern models offer parking mode functionality. This feature allows the camera to continue recording even when the ignition is switched off. However, this isn't powered by the car's battery directly, as that would quickly drain it. Instead, several methods are used:
How Dash Cams Power Parking Mode
1. Hardwiring to the Car's Electrical System:
This is the most common and often the most reliable method. A professional installation typically involves connecting the dash cam to the car's fuse box, tapping into a power source that's only active when the car is off but still provides power. This is often referred to as a "parking mode power source." Crucially, this setup is designed to prevent draining the car's battery. The hardwired system usually incorporates a low-voltage cutoff (LVC) feature. This means that if the car's battery voltage drops below a certain threshold (typically around 11.8V), the dash cam will automatically shut down to protect the battery from being completely drained. This ensures the car will still start in the morning.
2. Using a Battery Pack:
This is a simpler alternative to hardwiring but offers less consistent power. A portable battery pack is connected to the dash cam. The pack charges while the car is running and then provides power to the dash cam in parking mode. The battery pack's capacity will determine how long the dash cam can record while the car is off. Be aware that these external battery packs need to be charged regularly to avoid running out of power.
3. Motion Detection:
Most parking modes utilize motion detection. This means the dash cam only starts recording when it detects motion in front of the lens. This is a significant power-saving measure, preventing constant recording when the car is stationary. The camera remains in a low-power standby mode until triggered by motion.
What Happens During Parking Mode Recording?
When in parking mode, the dash cam typically records in a loop. Older models may overwrite older footage continuously; newer models often offer options like event recording, which prioritizes saving files triggered by motion or impact. Regardless, this continuous looping system ensures that memory space is efficiently utilized.
Common Parking Mode Questions:
How long can a dash cam record in parking mode?
The length of recording time depends heavily on the power source (hardwired vs. battery pack) and the capacity of the battery or the chosen recording settings (resolution, frame rate, etc.). Hardwiring usually provides significantly longer recording times. A battery pack's capacity and the dash cam's power consumption will dictate the recording duration.
Can a dash cam drain my car battery in parking mode?
Properly installed hardwired systems with a low-voltage cutoff (LVC) are designed to prevent battery drain. However, improperly installed systems or using a battery pack that's too small can potentially drain the car's battery.
What happens if my dash cam runs out of battery power in parking mode?
The camera will simply stop recording. It will resume recording once power is restored (either when the car is turned on or the battery pack is recharged).
Does my dash cam need a specific parking mode setting?
Yes, most dash cams with parking mode capabilities require activation of this feature through the device's settings menu. Check your dash cam's user manual for instructions on activating and configuring parking mode.
Choosing the right dash cam and understanding its parking mode features is essential for maximizing its functionality and safety benefits. Always consult your dash cam's manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
