Dashcams have become an essential accessory for vehicle owners, offering a sense of security and evidence in case of accidents. However, not all dashcams are created equal. Premium models boast a feature known as Parking Mode, providing a layer of protection even when your car is stationary.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of Parking Mode on dashcams, exploring its functionality, advantages, and how to make the most of this innovative feature.
What is Parking Mode on Dashcams?
Parking Mode is more than just a buzzword in the dashcam world. It refers to the capability of recording events while your engine is off and your vehicle is parked. This feature goes beyond capturing collisions, offering surveillance that can prove invaluable in scenarios like hit-and-runs or vandalism.
How Does the Dashcam Record in Parking Mode?
The Mechanism Unveiled
Dashcams equipped with Parking Mode are designed to conserve energy when your vehicle is parked. The camera enters a state of hibernation but awakens when it detects movement or senses an impact through its accelerometer. This intelligent activation ensures that only relevant events are recorded, such as someone colliding with your parked car or attempting theft.
Advantages of Parking Mode over Normal Mode
Efficiency and Resource Management
Parking Mode operates with precision, recording footage only when triggered by motion or impact. This not only minimizes the risk of overwriting crucial footage but also reduces stress on the microSD card. Additionally, the decreased battery consumption and GPS deactivation contribute to a more efficient and focused recording process.
Can the Parking Mode be Turned Off?
Customizing Your Dashcam Experience
Yes, Parking Mode is not a constant. Users have the flexibility to deactivate it in the camera’s settings. Once turned off, the dashcam seamlessly transitions to Normal Mode when the vehicle is running, ensuring adaptability to diverse recording needs.
How to Install a Dashcam with Parking Mode?
Setting Up for Optimal Performance
While most dashcams come with a standard power supply, Parking Mode necessitates additional considerations. The inclusion of a Hardwire Kit or Battery Pack becomes crucial for enabling this feature effectively.
Hardwire Kit Installation
Installing a Hardwire Kit involves connecting it to the vehicle’s power supply through the Fuse Box. Choosing a fuse that remains “Always On” ensures continuous recording when Parking
activated. This not only powers the dashcam during Parking Mode but also provides a convenient solution for continuous surveillance.
Many Hardwire Kits offer an added benefit—a low battery cut-off feature. This feature monitors the vehicle’s battery voltage continuously. If the voltage drops below a predetermined threshold, the supply to the dashcam is cut off, preventing the car battery from reaching critical levels. This feature ensures that you return to a vehicle with a functioning battery.
Battery Packs: Alternatives to Hardwire Kits
For those wary of potential battery drainage with extended Parking Mode sessions, an external Battery Pack emerges as a viable alternative. This pack ensures the dashcam remains powered as long as the vehicle’s battery maintains sufficient voltage to start. When the voltage drops below the cutoff value or the preset timer expires, the Battery Pack stops powering the dashcam, preserving the vehicle’s battery.
Installing an external Battery Pack requires a bit of familiarity with the vehicle’s fuse panel. However, it offers a stealthy installation with no visible cables, providing a clean and discreet appearance. Advanced configurations, such as setting a timer or custom cutoff values, add a layer of customization for users seeking a tailored Parking Mode experience.
Conclusion
Parking Mode on dashcams elevates the level of security and protection for your vehicle, extending surveillance beyond your time on the road. Whether it’s capturing a hit-and-run incident, deterring vandalism, or simply providing peace of mind, this feature is a valuable addition to any dashcam. By understanding how Parking Mode works and making informed choices in terms of installation and setup, you can maximize the benefits of this innovative technology.
Yes, installing a dashcam with Parking Mode is often a DIY-friendly task. However, for optimal performance, following manufacturer guidelines and recommendations is crucial.
While prolonged use of Parking Mode may pose a risk of battery depletion, features like low battery cut-off in Hardwire Kits and external Battery Packs help mitigate this concern.
Motion-activated Parking Mode records when the camera detects movement, while impact-activated mode triggers recording upon sensing an impact or vibration.
✓ 4K Ultra HD front camera recording
✓ Dual-channel (front & rear) coverage
✓ H.265 video compression for efficient storage
✓ Enhanced night vision with Sony STARVIS sensor
✓ Wide dynamic range for clear night footage
✓ Integrated Wi-Fi for easy access to footage
✓ Cloud backup and storage
✓ GPS and GLONASS for accurate location tracking
✓ Built-in impact and motion sensors
Top-Tier 4K Excellence with Enhanced Night Vision.
Experience the pinnacle of dashcam technology with 4K Ultra HD recording, enhanced night vision, and Cloud connectivity. The DR970X delivers outstanding image quality and comprehensive security features, making it a top-tier choice for protecting your vehicle.
✓ Excellent 4K Front, Full HD Rear video quality
✓ Sony STARVIS 2 sensor
✓ Dual-channel coverage
✓ Wi-Fi connectivity
✓ Motion Detection
✓ Up to 512GB microSD support
✓ Decent night vision
✓ App connectivity for remote access
✓ Anti-Glare CPL Included & Voice Notifications
Experience top-notch 4K video quality and dual-channel protection with the Viofo A139 Pro.
Elevate your security with the Viofo A139 Pro 2 Channel dashcam. Boasting a 4K front camera and dual-channel coverage, it's your premium choice for clear video and comprehensive monitoring.
Video Quality
9
Coverage
8.5
Connectivity
8.5
Advanced Features
8.5
Storage
8.5
Night Vision
8.5
Build and Design
8
Price and Value
8
PROS:
Dual-channel coverage (front and rear).
Excellent 4K front camera video quality.
Sony STARVIS 2 Sensor.
Upto 512GB SDCard Storage
Parking mode with motion detection.
Supports up to 256GB microSD card.
GPS included.
Competitive pricing.
Decent night vision capability.
Mobile app connectivity for remote access.
CONS:
Build and design could be more discreet.
No LCD Screen to quickly review footage.
May not have as many cloud connectivity features as high-end BlackVue models.
✓ 4K Ultra HD front camera recording
✓ Dual-channel (front & rear) coverage
✓ H.265 video compression for efficient storage
✓ Wide dynamic range for clear night footage
✓ Integrated Wi-Fi for easy access to footage
✓ Cloud backup and storage
✓ GPS and GLONASS for accurate location tracking
✓ Built-in impact and motion sensors
4K Ultra HD Surveillance, Precision, and Control. Best Night and Day Video Clarity and Cloud connectivity.
Elevate your surveillance with 4K Ultra HD recording, dual-channel coverage, and efficient H.265 video compression. The DR900X combines exceptional video quality with Cloud backup and precise location tracking, ensuring you're always in control.
✓ Triple-channel coverage
✓ Excellent 4K Front and Full HD Rear and Cabin Interior video quality
✓ Sony STARVIS 2 sensor
✓ Dual band Wi-Fi connectivity
✓ Motion Detection
✓ Up to 512GB microSD support
✓ Voice Notifications
✓ Decent night vision
✓ App connectivity for remote access
Triple-channel protection, 4K UHD video, and a budget-friendly price make the Viofo A139 an ideal choice for all-around security.
Get all-around protection with the Viofo A139 3 Channel dashcam. Covering the front, rear, and interior, this dashcam offers 4K UHD resolution, motion detection, and a budget-friendly price.
Video Quality
8.5
Coverage
9
Connectivity
8
Advanced Features
8
Storage
8.5
Night Vision
8
Build and Design
7.5
Price and Value
8.5
PROS:
Triple-channel coverage (front, rear, interior).
First-in-the-industry Sony STARVIS 2 image sensors.
4K UHD + 1080p Full HD + 1080p Full HD.
Parking mode with motion detection.
Built in GPS module.
Supports up to 512GB microSD card.
Dual Band WiFi.
Voice Notifications and CPL filter Included.
Decent night vision capability.
Super slim coaxial cables.
Mobile app connectivity for remote access.
CONS:
Build and design could be more discreet.
Quite a few wires to accommodate, with the interior camera unit separate.
No LCD Screen to quickly review footage.
Lacks some advanced cloud features like live reporting, compared to BlackVue models.
