Dash Camera

A dash cam or dash camera is mounted on a vehicle's dashboard. It is typically used to record video of the road ahead. Dash cams provide evidence in case of an accident and can help reduce insurance claims fraud. Some key benefits of dash cams include:

• Record video evidence of vehicle accidents or road incidents in case of a dispute over who is at fault. The footage can help settle insurance claims quickly.

• Provide video proof to support insurance claims. The recorded footage can help ensure that questionable claims are not fraudulently made against you.

• Record reckless driving by other vehicles on the road. The footage can be provided as evidence to the police to take action against reckless drivers. 

• Capture scenic drives or interesting events on the road. Some people use dash cams primarily as action cameras to record their driving adventures. 

• Record road conditions and alert other drivers to potential hazards like accidents or traffic jams ahead. The footage can be uploaded to vehicle accident reporting websites and apps.

• Provide surveillance footage of a parked vehicle. Some Dash cams have a parking mode to record any activity around a parked vehicle.

• Ensure security and capture evidence of vandalism or theft of a vehicle. Dash cam footage can help identify perpetrators. 

• Remind drivers to maintain safe driving habits. A visible dash cam may make drivers more mindful of their speed and behavior on the road.

• Optional features like GPS tracking, loop recording, night vision mode, etc. More advanced dashcams provide additional useful features for drivers.

A dash camera works by continuously recording video footage of the road ahead using a camera mounted on the windshield of a vehicle. It typically consists of the following main components:

• Camera sensor - The most common types are CMOS and CCD sensors. CMOS sensors are more affordable and compact, but CCD sensors generally provide better image quality, especially in low light. 

• Lens - A standard lens provides a wide field of view, typically 160-170 degrees, to capture as much of the road as possible. Some dash cams also have a night vision lens for better night recording.

• Memory card - Most dash cams utilize microSD cards to store recorded video footage. The card storage determines videos the dash cam can store. Cards with bigger storage space mean longer recording times between overwrites.

• GPS module (optional) - Some dash cams have an integrated GPS receiver to automatically tag recorded videos with location data, speed, G-forces during accidents, route information, etc. This additional data can be useful as evidence. 

• Power source - Dash cams run on either the vehicles or a dedicated rechargeable battery. Battery-powered models are more discreet but limited in recording time. Hardwire kits allow dash cams to constantly draw power from the vehicle's battery for 24/7 recording.

• Recording triggers - Basic motion detection, impact detection (G-sensors), manual recording buttons, and continuous loop recording modes are common options to trigger when the recording starts and stops.

• Display (optional) - A few dash cams have a built-in LCD screen to preview and playback footage, change settings, view vehicle sensors, etc. But most lack a display to keep the size and cost down. Settings are configured through the dash cam's mobile app.

• Storage modes - Common options include continuous recording, event recording (motion/impact triggered), and parking mode. The mode can be set according to driving conditions for optimal storage usage. The footage is continually overwritten when the memory card is full.

• File formats - The most popular formats for dash cam footage are MP4 and MOV video files. Some dash cams can also record in AVI format.

Here are the main types of dash cameras based on camera positioning:

1. Front-facing dash cameras: These are the most common type. They have a single camera mounted on the windshield facing forward to record the road ahead. They provide a standard wide-angle view of the drive. Nearly all dash camera options are front-facing. Front-facing dash cams are ideal for most drivers to capture reckless driving by other vehicles and record road accidents or incidents.

2. Rearview dash cameras: Some dash cams have a camera mounted facing backward to record activity behind the vehicle. Rearview dash cams provide a rear view of the road and can capture the license plate numbers of vehicles around you. They are useful for monitoring vehicles that may be tailgating, following too closely, or harassing other drivers on the road. However, rearview footage is more limited and prone to obstructions than a forward-facing view. 

3. Dual-facing dash cameras: For the most comprehensive coverage, some dash cams have dual cameras - one facing forward and one facing rearward. Dual-facing dash cams, or multi-channel dash cams, provide both front and rear views simultaneously. They record the maximum amount of footage from all directions around the vehicle. However, dual cameras require more power, larger memory cards, and higher costs than single-camera dashcams. They also have a more complex setup with additional lenses, sensors, cables, and housings. 

Some other points to note about the different types:

• Rearview and dual-facing dash cams typically have wider angle lenses to fit more in the frame, given the shorter viewing distance behind the vehicle. 

• Night vision capability and low light performance may be compromised for rear-facing cameras relative to forward-facing cameras. 

• Continuous recording, event-based recording, and parking mode functions are available for all types, but the triggering conditions would differ based on camera placement. 

• Dual-facing dash cams provide the most footage for insurance claims or assessing liability in an accident scenario by capturing the key events from multiple perspectives. 

• Chest-mounted or mirror-mounted rearview cameras may obstruct less of the rearview but require more installation effort. An integrated rear-facing camera is more discreet.

• Dual 4K or 5K dash cams will provide the highest resolution output but also at a higher cost. Resolution options depend on the specific model and the number of cameras.

Here are some key dash camera features to consider:

1. Video Quality: Dash cameras typically record full HD (1080p) video, which is sufficient for most drivers. Some options provide 4K or 4K+ ultra high definition for even better clarity. H.264 and H.265 are common codec standards that provide good quality while managing file sizes. Consider the video resolution, codec, and details like frame rate that meet your needs. 

2. Storage Capacity: The memory card size determines how long your footage is stored before overwriting. Larger capacities of 64GB up to 512GB are typical. Look for a minimum of 1-2 hours of recording time per gigabyte of space as a good rule of thumb. MicroSD cards are used and should be rated for at least Class 10 for reliable performance in a dash cam. 

3. Motion Detection: Motion detection automatically turns on recording when motion is sensed in the field of view, which can be due to other vehicles moving into the frame or pedestrians crossing the road. Consider the sensitivity and areas of motion detection that suit your needs. Motion detection provides convenience but also the potential for false positives, so adjust the settings accordingly. 

4. GPS: GPS tagging provides location data, speed, the direction of travel, and G-force information on your recordings, which enhances the context and usefulness, especially for insurance claims or emergencies. However, GPS modules add to dash cameras' cost, bulk, and power draw. Determine if GPS is essential for your needs or a nice-to-have feature. 

5. Nighttime Recording: If frequently driving at night, consider a dash cam with an enhanced night vision mode. Night vision uses a larger aperture, higher gain, and slower shutter speed to let in more light and prevent too dark footage. Night vision capability varies significantly between budget, mid-range, and premium dash camera options. Check the specifications for details on the night vision range and quality of any model you evaluate. 

Besides these key features, also consider options like:

• Continuous vs. event-based recording: Continuous recording provides full coverage, while event recording only saves clips around detected impacts or motion. 
• Buffering: Records a few seconds before and after detected impacts for more context. 
• Emergency recording: This can trigger recording even when the dash cam is parked and not actively recording. 
• Parking mode: Monitors the area around a parked vehicle and automatically records any detected impacts or motion. 
• Primary vs. dual camera: A single forward view camera or dual front/rear cameras capture views in multiple directions. 
• Manual override: Ability to manually start/stop recording as needed in addition to auto-detection features.

Here are the basic steps to install a dash camera:

1. Select a mounting position. The two most common spots are:

• Middle of the windshield: Provides a central view of the road. Some dash cams come with a mount fitted for the mid-windshield position.

• Top center of the windshield: Provides a wide view of the road, but the mount may partially obstruct your view of the rearview mirror. 

• Side of the windshield: High viewpoint but a narrower field. The side mount position can be bracket mounted or use a strong adhesive mount.

2. Clean and dry the mounting surface. Wipe away any dirt or debris on the windshield and ensure the area is fully dry to seal any adhesive mount well.

3. Connect the power cable. The dash cam must be constantly powered on, so you'll need a hardwire kit to connect the cable to your vehicle's fuse box. Follow the kit instructions carefully to connect the fuse tap properly. 

4. Install any additional camera cables (dual camera only). Connect the additional camera and cable before mounting the unit if your dash cam has dual cameras. 

5. Attach the mount to your dash cam. Whether adhesive, suction cup, or bracket mount, securely attach it to the base of your dash cam according to the included instructions. 

6. Stick the mount to the windshield (adhesive mount only). For an adhesive mount, remove the backing tape and firmly stick the mount to the adhesion surface on the windshield. 

7. Connect the video cable (some models only). Connect one end of the video cable to the video out port of your dash cam and the other to the video in the port of your vehicle's video input (if equipped). 

8. Connect the audio cable (some models only). Connect one end of the audio cable to the audio out port of your dash cam and the other to the audio in port of your vehicle's video input (if equipped).

9. Test your installation. Ensure all cables are securely connected, the mount firmly adheres, your dash cam is recording properly, and has a clear view of the road ahead before driving. 

10. Format the memory card and adjust settings as needed. Once installed, you may need to format the memory card on your dash cam and adjust settings like motion detection, impact triggers, recording modes, etc., to meet your preferences.

 1. Are dash cameras legal?
Using dashboard cameras is legal in many regions worldwide, including North America.

 2. Can I use a dash camera to record audio?
In some states or territories, recording audio from inside your car may be an offense without permission from all parties involved. It's best to check your local laws before purchasing a dash camera that records audio.

 3. Will using a dash camera affect my insurance premiums?
Some insurance providers offer discounts for customers who have dash cameras installed in their vehicles as they may help prevent false claims or fraud.

 4. How do I know if my dash camera is recording?
Most dash cameras will display an indicator light when recording. You can also confirm the recording by checking the device's icon or status on the camera screen.

 5. Can dash cameras be used for other purposes besides recording driving footage?
Yes, dash cameras can be used as security cameras to monitor your car when parked or as backup cameras to improve your visibility when reversing your vehicle.