Dash cams, short for dashboard cameras, are specialized video recording devices designed for vehicles. They continuously capture footage of the road ahead while you drive. This technology has become an essential tool for drivers, offering an extra layer of security and peace of mind. In the case of an incident or dispute on the road, a dash cam provides concrete evidence that can protect the driver from wrongful liability. Moreover, they can be instrumental in capturing memorable journeys or unexpected events that occur while driving.
Types of Dash Cams
There are a variety of dash cams to depending needs and preferences. The most popular types include:
Single-Lens Dash Cams: These are the most common type, recording the view through the front windshield. They are compact and easy to install.
Dual-Lens Dash Cams: Also known as front-and-rear dash cams, these devices have two cameras to record both the front view and the rear view of the vehicle, providing comprehensive coverage.
Cabin View Dash Cams: Particularly popular among ride-share drivers, these dash cams record the interior of the vehicle as well as the road ahead.
Mirror Dash Cams: These devices double as your rearview mirror, with a built-in screen to display the camera feed. They offer a sleek design that integrates well with the vehicle's interior.
Advanced Dash Cams with GPS: These come with built-in GPS to log the vehicle's location and speed, which can be vital information for insurance claims or legal purposes.
Each type of dash cam offers different features, such as night vision, motion detection, and automatic incident detection, which can be crucial for capturing clear footage in various driving conditions.
How to Choose Dash Cams
When looking for a dash cam for your car, consider the following factors:
Video Quality: Look for cams with high-resolution recording capabilities, such as 1080p or 4K, to ensure clear and detailed footage.
Field of View: A wider field of view will capture more of the periphery, but be mindful that extremely wide angles can distort the image.
Storage Capacity: Dash cams use memory cards to store footage. Ensure the device supports a sufficient amount of storage for your needs, and consider models with loop recording that overwrite the oldest files when full.
Ease of Use: The dash cam should be user-friendly, with straightforward installation and operation. Look for intuitive interfaces and quick access to important functions.
Reliability: Since dash cams are designed to record continuously, they should be durable and able to withstand various temperatures and conditions.
Additional Features: Some dash cams offer extra features such as Wi-Fi connectivity for easy file transfer, parking mode for monitoring your vehicle when it's parked, and driver-assistance features like lane departure warnings.
Dash Cam FAQs
What is the purpose of a dash cam?
A dash cam is a digital video recorder designed to be mounted inside a vehicle. Its primary purpose is to record footage of the road while driving, providing evidence in the event of an accident, capturing unexpected occurrences, and enhancing driver security.
Can dash cams record when the car is turned off?
Some dash cams come with a feature known as parking mode, which allows them to continue recording even when the car is turned off. This requires the dash cam to be hardwired to the vehicle's battery or equipped with an internal battery.
How does a dash cam get power?
Dash cams typically get power through the vehicle's 12V power outlet (also known as the cigarette lighter) or can be hardwired directly to the car's battery. Some models also come with built-in batteries for short-term use without external power.
Do dash cams record sound?
Many dash cams are capable of recording sound along with video. This feature can be turned on or off according to the user's preference. It's essential to be aware of local laws regarding recording audio without consent.
How long can a dash cam record?
The recording time of a dash cam depends on the storage capacity of the memory card used and the recording quality. Higher resolution videos take up more space. Most dash cams use loop recording, which overwrites the oldest files when the card is full, ensuring continuous recording.
What happens to dash cam footage after an accident?
After an accident, the footage captured by a dash cam can be used as evidence to determine what occurred. Many dash cams have a feature called G-sensor that detects collisions and automatically saves the relevant footage in a protected file, preventing it from being overwritten.
Will a dash cam drain my car's battery?
When installed correctly, a dash cam should not significantly drain your car's battery. Models with a parking mode feature are designed to shut off automatically if the battery level drops below a certain point to prevent draining the battery.
Is it legal to use a dash cam?
In most regions, it is legal to use a dash cam as long as it does not obstruct the driver's view of the road. However, the legality of recording conversations and sharing footage can vary, so it's important to check local laws.
How do I install a dash cam?
Dash cams can be mounted on the windshield or dashboard using a suction cup or adhesive mount. The power cord is typically run along the edge of the windshield or under the interior trim to connect to the power source. Some users may opt for professional installation, especially for hardwiring or rear-view camera setups.
Can I use my smartphone as a dash cam?
Yes, there are apps available that can turn your smartphone into a dash cam. However, dedicated dash cams are generally more reliable and offer better recording quality, especially in extreme temperatures and lighting conditions.
Are dash cams weather-resistant?
The main unit of a dash cam, which is mounted inside the vehicle, is not exposed to weather conditions and therefore does not need to be weather-resistant. However, if the dash cam includes an exterior rear camera, it is typically designed to be weather-resistant.
How do I view footage from my dash cam?
Footage from a dash cam can be viewed by removing the memory card and inserting it into a computer or by connecting the dash cam directly to a computer via USB. Some models offer Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing users to view and download footage via a smartphone app.