How Does Dash Cam Work?

Imagine driving down a scenic road, the breeze blowing through your hair and the sun glowing brightly. As you take in the breathtaking views, have you ever wondered how those mesmerizing moments can be captured on camera? 

Dash cams are small cameras mounted to a vehicle’s dashboard. This camera is designed to record the view through the windscreen. Dashcams can capture accidents, incidents, or simply scenic drives. 

In this article, we will delve into the inner workings of a dash cam and unravel how it captures the view out of your windshield while driving.

How to Install a Dash Cam?

Installing a dash cam has become increasingly popular among drivers for providing an extra layer of security. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install a dash cam:

Positioning the Dash Cam:

• Link the suction cup mount to the windscreen, ideally behind the rearview mirror, for a clear view.
• Ensure the camera lens faces outward and is unobstructed by any obstacles inside the car.

Power Connection:

• Locate your vehicle’s 12v cigarette lighter or accessory socket.
• Connect the dash cam’s power cable to the camera’s power input port.

Routing the Cable:

• Conceal the power cable along the car’s interior trim, such as the edges of the windshield and door frames, to prevent it from obstructing your view or becoming a distraction.
• Use cable clips or adhesive clips to secure the cable in place.

Connecting to Power:

• Insert the other end of the power cable into the 12v cigarette lighter socket.
• Ensure the cable is not tangled or pulled tightly, allowing for comfortable movement of the steering wheel and other controls.

Securing the Cable:

• Tuck any excess cable length under the dashboard or within the centre console to keep the interior tidy.

Adjusting Camera Settings:

• Power on the dash cam and access its settings menu to configure preferences such as video resolution, loop recording, date and time settings, and parking mode (if applicable).

Testing the Dash Cam:

• Start your vehicle and ensure that the dash cam turns on automatically.
• Verify that the camera lens captures the desired field of view and the footage is apparent.

Mount Finalization:

• Adjust the dash cam’s angle if needed and lock the suction cup to prevent it from falling off.

Remember, proper installation ensures optimal performance and compliance with road safety regulations. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and consult your vehicle’s manual.

How Long Does a Dash Cam Record For?

At the heart of dash cam recording lies various elements that influence its duration, encompassing factors like recording quality and the capacity of the camera’s SD card. Delving into the realm of high-quality recording set at a pristine 1080p resolution, anticipate encountering the subsequent approximations for recording times:

Recording Times for Different SD Card Capacities:

• 8 GB: Approximately 55 minutes of recording time.
• 16 GB: Around 110 minutes (1.8 hours) of recording time.
• 32 GB: Approximately 220 minutes (3.6 hours) of recording time.

It’s important to note that these estimates are based on continuous recording. Some dash cams also offer loop recording, where older footage is overwritten as new recordings are made. The recording time can vary based on settings, format, and other factors. To ensure uninterrupted recording, regularly review and manage your dash cam’s footage and consider using larger capacity SD cards for extended coverage.

Do Dash Cameras Work When The Car Is Off?

Yes, dash cameras from brands like Momento record activity around your vehicle while your engine is not running. This advanced technology allows you to monitor your car, continuously giving you peace of mind and added security.

While it may seem unnecessary to have a dash cam recording when the car is off, there are numerous situations where it can prove extremely valuable. 

• For instance, if someone were to vandalize or break into your parked car, the dash cam would capture their actions and potentially help identify the culprit. 
• Moreover, with parking mode enabled on many dash cams today, they can automatically start recording if any motion or impact is detected nearby. This provides crucial evidence in hit-and-run incidents or accidents that occur while the vehicle is unattended.

How Do You View Dash Cam Footage?

You have several options when it comes to how to view dash cam footage:

Micro SD Card Storage:

• Retrieve the micro SD card from the dash cam.
• Insert the micro SD card into a computer’s card reader.
• Access the footage on your computer and utilize timestamps to locate specific incidents.

Wireless Dash Cam with Cloud Storage:

• If your dash cam is wireless, access footage remotely.
• The dashcam may store footage in the cloud.
• Utilize a nearby wireless connection to access and review the stored footage.

Frequently Asked Question

Can I view dashcam footage on my smartphone?

Many dashcams offer smartphone apps that allow you to connect via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. This enables you to view and manage footage directly on your smartphone.

Are dash cams legal to use?

Dash cam legality varies by region. In many places, using a dashcam for personal use is legal, but there might be restrictions on where to place it on the windshield. It’s essential to research and comply with local laws.

What factors affect the video quality of dashcam recordings?

Video quality is influenced by factors like the camera’s resolution, lens quality, and lighting conditions. Higher resolution and better lenses typically result in more precise and detailed footage.

Final Thoughts: How Does Dash Cam Work?

Dashcams are valuable gadgets that can significantly enhance our driving experiences. By providing an unbiased and accurate record of events on the road, they protect us in case of accidents or incidents and serve as a source of entertainment and documentation for scenic drives.

Through this article, we have aimed to provide users with a comprehensive understanding of how dash cams work. Whether you are a professional driver or simply someone who enjoys capturing memorable moments, consider investing in a dash cam to ensure your safety and preserve those unforgettable journeys. 

Stay safe and happy driving!