Choosing the right power source for your dashcam is crucial for reliable performance and to avoid draining your car’s battery. This article explores options for powering your dashcam, focusing on the differences between using a cigarette lighter adapter versus an OBD2 adapter, and highlighting solutions for always-on cigarette lighters.
Powering Your Dashcam: Cigarette Lighter vs. OBD2 Port
Many dashcams come with a cigarette lighter adapter for power. However, if your car’s cigarette lighter socket remains powered even when the ignition is off, this can lead to battery drain. For vehicles with always-on cigarette lighters, a solution is using a male-to-female cigarette lighter adapter with a low-voltage cutoff switch, like the Koolatron “battery saver.” This device cuts power to the dashcam when the battery voltage drops below a certain threshold (e.g., 11.6 volts), preventing a dead battery. Then, a standard cigarette lighter to USB adapter can power the dashcam.
Alternatively, if your cigarette lighter is only active when the engine is on, you can use an OBD2 power adapter. These adapters plug into your vehicle’s OBD2 port and provide a consistent power source for the dashcam while the engine is running. They often come with similar low-voltage cutoff switches for added protection.
Another option for cars with switched cigarette lighters is to use both a cigarette lighter adapter and an OBD2 adapter. The cigarette lighter adapter would be used while driving, and the OBD2 adapter for parking mode surveillance features (like g-force or motion activation) when the engine is off.
Managing Multiple Devices and OBD2 Port Capacity
For those with always-on cigarette lighters needing to power multiple devices, a heavy-duty cigarette lighter splitter (rated at least 10 amps) can be used in conjunction with the low-voltage cutoff adapter. This allows you to power your dashcam and charge other devices simultaneously while protecting your car’s battery.
Concerns about overloading the OBD2 port are generally unfounded. Most OBD2 ports are designed to supply up to 4 amps, while even dual-lens dashcams typically draw 2 amps or less. Using an OBD2 adapter for your dashcam won’t significantly impact the port’s capacity. Furthermore, removing the adapter is simple when you need to use the OBD2 port for diagnostic scanning.
Choosing the Right Solution
Ultimately, the best way to power your dashcam depends on your vehicle’s specific power configuration and your individual needs. Consider whether your cigarette lighter is always-on or switched, your power consumption requirements, and whether you need parking mode recording. By understanding these factors, you can choose the right power solution for your dashcam, ensuring reliable operation and protecting your car’s battery.
