Car dash cam

Types of Car Dash Cam

A car dash cam is a camera mounted on the car's dashboard that records the road ahead. It is also known as a car video recorder or a dash board camera. Most of them record the front road, while some record the front road and the inside of the car. There are many types of car dash cams; they include:

• Single-lens dash cam: this is the most common type of dash cam. It has a front camera that records the road ahead. It is very useful for tracking incidents that occur while driving. It has a simple design, which makes it easy to install and affordable.
• Dual-lens dash cam: this type of cam has both a front and rear camera. The lenses are either mounted separately or combined into one unit. The front camera records the road ahead, while the rear camera records the road behind. This is useful for getting a complete view of what happens around the car. It is ideal for high-risk drivers, like taxi drivers.
• 3-channel dash cam: this type of camera has an advanced feature that records both the front and rear roads and the inside of the car. It is ideal for getting a complete view of the environment surrounding the car. It is mostly used for rental cars and taxis, where monitoring is needed.
• 4K ultra HD dash cam: this type of dash cam has a high-resolution camera that records at 4K ultra HD. This ensures that even the tiniest details are captured. It is used by people who want high-quality videos. The downside is that it consumes more power and storage space.
• Wi-Fi and GPS dash cam: this has an inbuilt GPS that tracks the car's location and speed. The Wi-Fi allows users to connect to their smartphones or transfer video files to their computers. Some also have an app that allows users to control the dash cam from their phones.
• Night vision dash cam: this type of camera has advanced features like infrared sensors and high-sensitivity sensors that allow it to record clear video at night. They are useful for getting clear videos in low-light environments. They are mostly used for night-time driving.
• Smart dash cam: this type of dash cam has an advanced feature like voice control, collision detection, and impact sensors. The voice control allows users to control the cam with their voice. The collision detection warns the driver of an impending collision, while the impact sensors automatically save the video during an impact.

Specifications and maintenance of car dash cam

Before getting a car dash cam, it is important to understand its specifications and how to maintain it for long-term use.

• Resolution

  The resolution of a dash cam determines the clarity of recorded footage. Low-resolution dash cams may miss fine details, while high-resolution cams capture more information. Most dash cams have a resolution of 1080p, while others have 4K resolution.

• Field of View (FOV)

  Field of view refers to the extent of the area captured in the dash cam's video. A wider FOV means more of the surroundings are recorded. However, an excessive FOV can cause distortion or make objects appear smaller.

• Loop Recording

  Loop recording allows the dash cam to overwrite the oldest footage with new recordings. This ensures continuous recording without running out of storage. Users can still lock important footage to prevent overwriting.

• G-Sensor

  A G-sensor detects sudden movements or impacts. When triggered, it locks the current footage to prevent accidental deletion. This feature is useful in accidents or collisions.

• Night Vision

  Night vision technology improves visibility and recording quality in low-light conditions. Dash cams with this feature use infrared sensors or enhanced sensitivity to ambient light to capture clear footage at night.

• GPS Tracking

  Some dash cams have built-in GPS or an external GPS module. This feature tracks the vehicle's speed and location, embedding the information in the recorded footage. It can be useful for insurance claims or legal evidence.

• WIFI or Bluetooth Connectivity

  Dash cams with Wi-Fi or Bluetooth can connect to smartphones for easy access to recorded files. Users can download, share, or manage footage through a dedicated app, making it more convenient.

• Storage Capacity

  The storage capacity of a dash cam determines how much recorded footage it can hold. Most dash cams use microSD cards, and their storage capacity ranges from 32GB to 256GB. Higher storage allows longer recording time and reduces the frequency of file transfers or overwrites.

• Installation and Mounting

  Consider the ease of installation and mounting options for the dash cam. Some models come with suction cup mounts, while others have adhesive mounts. Dash cams with adhesive mounts offer better stability but require permanent installation.

It is important to maintain the car dash cam to ensure it works effectively. Here are some maintenance tips:

• Regularly clean the lens to remove dirt, dust, or fingerprints that may affect the video quality.
• Replace the microSD card according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Format the card regularly to maintain its performance and clear any corrupted data.
• Ensure the dash cam firmware is up to date. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for updating the firmware to access new features and improvements.

How to choose a car dash cam

There are many factors to consider when buying a car camera for someone else. Ultimately, it will come down to the needs and preferences of the person being gifted the dash cam. Here are some key considerations to help make an informed choice.

• Consider the mounting options: Dash cameras can be mounted on the dashboard or windshield using adhesive mounts or suction cups. Those who prefer easy installation and the potential to relocate the camera may opt for suction cup mounts. In contrast, adhesive mounts provide a more permanent solution but may be challenging to remove. Consider the mounting options available and the recipient's preferences.
• Ease of use: A dash cam with an easy-to-read screen and intuitive controls should be chosen. Some cameras offer smartphone compatibility, allowing users to view footage and adjust settings through an app. This feature provides convenience and enhances the overall user experience.
• Loop recording and G-sensor: Loop recording is a valuable feature in dash cameras. It ensures that when the memory card is full, the camera will automatically overwrite the oldest recorded footage with the newest. This feature allows for continuous recording without the need to manually delete old files. A G-sensor detects collisions or incidents and locks the recorded footage to prevent overwriting. Both loop recording and G-sensor functionality are important features to consider when selecting a dash camera.
• Battery lifespan: Most dash cams come with a built-in battery that powers the device during emergencies or when the engine is off. The battery's longevity is an essential consideration, as it determines how long the camera can operate in those situations. Some dash cameras also offer a hardwiring kit, allowing them to be connected directly to the vehicle's electrical system. This kit provides a constant power supply, ensuring the camera operates continuously.
• Night vision: Dash cameras with enhanced night vision capabilities provide clear footage in low-light conditions. Consider the recipient's driving habits and the need for a camera that can capture details at night or in dim lighting.
• Price: Dash cameras are available within a wide price range, from budget-friendly options to high-end models with advanced features. Determine the budget and find a balance between essential features and overall value. A more expensive dash cam will offer more features and better quality than a cheaper one. However, it is vital to prioritize the most crucial features within a specific budget.

How to DIY and Replace Car Dash Cam

Replacing a car camera for the dashboard is a straightforward process that can be done by following the steps below.

• Remove the old camera

  To replace an existing camera, first, disconnect the power source. This might involve removing the camera from the windshield, which can be done by gently prying it loose from the adhesive mount or by twisting it counterclockwise. After that, remove any connecting wires from the vehicle's interior. If the camera was connected to the vehicle's fuse box, follow the wires leading to the fuse box and disconnect them. If the camera was connected to the vehicle's USB port, locate the USB cable running along the vehicle's interior and disconnect it from the camera. It's important to consult the user manual for specific instructions on disconnecting the camera from the various power sources. Different cameras may have different methods for disconnecting from the power source.

• Prepare the vehicle

  Once the old camera has been removed, the next step is to prepare the vehicle for installing the new camera. This involves cleaning the windshield where the new camera will be mounted. Use a glass cleaner and a microfiber cloth to remove any residue left behind by the old camera's adhesive mount. It's also important to ensure that the area around the windshield where the new camera will be installed is free of dust and debris. This will help the adhesive mount adhere properly and prevent the camera from falling off the windshield. Additionally, route any necessary wires along the vehicle's interior, such as the power cable that will connect the camera to the fuse box or the USB cable that will connect the camera to the vehicle's USB port.

• Install the new camera

  Follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure a proper installation. Choose a location for the new camera that provides a clear view of the road ahead without obstructing the driver's view. Clean the windshield in that area, then mount the camera using the provided adhesive or suction cup mount. Route the camera's power cable along the windshield, then across the headliner, down one of the A-pillars, and along the dash to the fuse box. This will provide power to the new camera. If the camera has a data cable, connect it to one of the available USB ports on the vehicle.

• Test the new camera

  After installing the new car dash cam, turn it on to ensure it functions correctly. Check that it is recording video and that the recordings are clear. Adjust the camera's angle as needed to ensure it captures the desired view. Test the various features and settings to ensure they work as expected. For example, test the GPS function to ensure it tracks the vehicle's location accurately, and test the collision detection function to ensure it activates the emergency lock function when necessary.

Q and A

Q1: How long do car dash cams last?

A1: Car dash cams do not have a lifespan like humans. Their longevity is determined by several factors. First is the quality of the dash cam. High-quality dash cams can last for several years, while low-quality ones may last for a short period. Another factor that determines the longevity of dash cams is usage. If the dash cam is used continuously, it will wear out faster than one used intermittently. Environmental factors such as extreme temperatures and exposure to sunlight can also affect the longevity of dash cams. Lastly, wear and tear can affect the longevity of car dash cams.

Q2: Do car dash cams need to be replaced?

A2: There is no specific time to replace a car dash cam. However, there are several factors that may necessitate replacing a dash cam. One of them is a decrease in video quality. If the dash cam's video quality deteriorates over time, it may be time to replace it. Another factor is physical damage, which can limit the functionality of the dash cam. Technological advancement is another factor that may necessitate replacing a dash cam. If the dash cam is outdated, it may not have the best features.

Q3: Do car dash cams record all the time?

A3: Most car dash cams are not designed to record all the time. They have a limited recording time that varies depending on the model. Some advanced models record and overwrite the oldest footage, while others have a loop recording feature that allows them to record continuously until the storage is full. Dash cams automatically turn on and start recording when the ignition is turned on. Some have a parking mode that monitors the vehicle when parked.

Q4: Can a car dash cam be used for video calls?

A4: Car dash cams are designed for recording video while driving. They are not designed for video calls. Besides, they don't have the required specifications for video calls, such as a speaker and microphone.

Q5: Can a car dash cam record audio?

A5: Yes, it can record audio. Most dash cams are designed with built-in microphones to record audio. They can record conversations inside the car and audio from outside the vehicle. Drivers should check their local laws regarding audio recording.