Welcome to our latest blog post on BlackboxMyCar, where we’ll be discussing an important question for any dash cam owner: which battery pack output cable do you need? As an experienced provider of dash cams, we understand that the right accessory can make all the difference in ensuring that your device operates smoothly and reliably. That’s why we’ve put together this detailed guide to help you navigate the complex world of dash cam battery packs and find the right output cable for your needs. So, if you’re looking to improve your dash cam experience and keep your footage safe and secure, read on to learn everything you need to know about choosing the right battery pack output cable.
Which Dash Cam Battery Pack Output Cable Do I Need? | BlackboxMyCar
Are you planning to install a dash cam that needs a battery pack? Have you looked into the different types of output cables available and what is suitable for your dash cam? A dash cam battery pack is an excellent alternative for those who need uninterrupted power supply during parking mode. However, installing a battery pack can be a bit tricky if you’re unfamiliar with the types of output cables required. In this article, we’ll explore different types of dash cam battery pack output cables to help you pick the right one for your dash cam.
Introduction
Installing a battery pack enables 24/7 continuous recording for your dash cam. But what happens when your vehicle is parked, and there is no power source available? Your parked vehicle could still be vulnerable to incidents such as hit and runs, vandalism, or even theft. That’s where the battery pack comes in, providing the continuous power supply to your dash cam.
To ensure the battery pack operates efficiently, you must choose the right output cable for your dash cam. Here, we discuss different output cable options and their suitability for your dash cam.
Cigarette Socket Output Cable
The 12-volt cigarette socket output cable is commonly used for BlackVue dash cams and other cameras that switch to parking mode using the G-sensor. The output power is supplied to the dash cam through the 12-volt cigarette socket in your vehicle. It’s an easy-to-use option for beginners, with no splicing involved.
If you own a BlackVue dash cam or a camera with a similar function that requires the G-sensor to activate parking mode, this cable is the right choice. However, keep in mind that parking mode can drain the battery quickly.
Spliced Hardwiring Kit Output Cable
Thinkware and FineVu dash cams require a power output cable with a spliced hardwiring kit to activate the built-in voltage meter. The spliced hardwiring kit output cable enables the dash cam to access the battery pack’s voltage meter information, allowing the dash cam to use parking mode with voltage cutoff.
If you have a Thinkware or FineVu dash cam, this cable is an ideal option to use and protects your vehicle’s battery from draining.
Spliced Output Cable
BlackVue X and X Plus series dash cams can use a spliced output cable instead of the 12V socket cable for immediate parking mode activation. For this, you require either a BlackVue Power Magic Pro or an Advanced Parking Mode Cable. With a BlackVue Power Magic Pro, your BlackVue dash cam can switch smoothly to parking mode once your vehicle’s ignition is turned off.
The Advanced Parking Mode Cable, on the other hand, allows your dash cam to stay on continuously for a specified amount of time when your vehicle’s ignition is turned off. The spliced output cable is suitable for those who want to activate parking mode immediately after parking their vehicle.
What If You Already Have a Three-Wire Hardwire Kit?
If you already have a hardwire kit with three wires: red (ACC), yellow (BATT), and black (GROUND), you can get a non-spliced output cable. The non-spliced output cable can be used to connect your dash cam to your battery pack directly.
When connecting the non-spliced output cable, ensure that you connect the red wire to the battery pack’s positive output terminal and the black wire to the negative output terminal. The yellow wire can be left unconnected.
Selecting the Appropriate Power Output Cable
Choosing the right power output cable depends on the dash cam you use and the parking mode type you prefer. While selecting the power output cable, look into the following:
- The dash cam’s parking mode type
- The dash cam model
- The availability of pre-spliced or non-spliced output cables
If you’re unsure about which power output cable to choose, you can always contact an expert in the field. A specialist such as BlackboxMyCar can provide you with professional advice.
FAQs
- What is the difference between the cigarette socket output cable, spliced hardwiring kit output cable, and spliced output cable?
- The 12-volt cigarette socket cable is commonly used for BlackVue dash cams and other cameras with a similar function that activates parking mode through the G-sensor. Spliced hardwiring kit output cable is designed for Thinkware and FineVu dash cams to cut-off voltage mode parking. Spliced output cables are suitable for BlackVue X and X Plus series dash cams, offering immediate parking mode activation.
- Which output cable is suitable for BlackVue dash cams?
- For BlackVue dash cams, the 12-volt cigarette socket cable or the spliced output cable is the best option, depending on your parking mode preferences.
- Do Thinkware dash cams need a spliced hardwiring kit output cable?
- Yes, Thinkware dash cams require a spliced hardwiring kit output cable to activate the built-in voltage meter and parking mode with voltage cutoff.
- How can I connect my dash cam to the battery pack when I already have a three-wire hardwire kit?
- You can connect your dash cam to the battery pack through a non-spliced output cable. Ensure that you connect the red wire to the battery pack’s positive output terminal and the black wire to the negative output terminal.
- Can I contact a professional to know which power output cable to choose?
- Yes, BlackboxMyCar specializes in dash cam installation and professional advice. You can contact them to get help selecting the appropriate power output cable for your setup.
Conclusion
Dash cam battery packs are an excellent solution for continuous 24/7 recording. However, selecting the appropriate output cable can be confusing at times. Depending on your dash cam and parking mode preferences, any of the above-listed output cables can be suitable. It also helps to consult a specialist such as BlackboxMyCar for professional advice. Ensure that you choose the right output cable to make the most out of your battery pack and dash cam setup.
