Every driver loves the peace of mind a dash cam provides—recording every moment on the road and capturing critical evidence in case of an incident. But what if this peace of mind comes at a cost? What if your dash cam, meant to protect you, is putting your car’s battery at risk? Your dash cam can become a silent battery drainer without the right setup. That’s where a dash cam external battery comes in, a smart solution that keeps your dash cam running without draining your car’s battery. This article will guide you through everything you need to know about dash cam external batteries—how they work, their benefits, and why they are essential for Australian drivers.
What is a Dash Cam External Battery?
An external battery for a dash cam serves as an independent power source made exclusively for dash cams, enabling them to function without depending on your vehicle’s main battery. This battery recharges while you drive and supplies power to the dash cam when the engine is turned off, safeguarding your main battery from depletion.
Common Types of Dash Cam External Batteries
- Capacitor-Based Batteries:
These batteries store energy using capacitors instead of traditional chemical cells (like lithium-ion). They can charge quickly and release energy rapidly, making them ideal for short bursts of power.
- Advantages:
- Highly durable and reliable, especially in hot climates like Australia.
- They have longer lifespan than lithium-ion batteries because they don’t degrade as quickly.
- They are better suited for extreme temperatures because they are less prone to overheating.
- Disadvantages:
- Limited capacity, making them unsuitable for long-duration recording.
- Best used for short-term power supply (a few minutes to an hour).
- Lithium-ion Packs:
These rechargeable batteries use lithium-ion cells, similar to smartphones and laptops. They can store more energy, providing extended recording time for your dash cam. If you’re looking for a dependable option, check out the Cellink Neo 8+ external battery—a popular choice among Australian drivers.
- Advantages:
- High capacity, allowing for hours of continuous recording.
- Compact size and lightweight.
- Suitable for overnight recording or long road trips.
- Disadvantages:
- More sensitive to extreme temperatures (excessive heat can reduce battery life).
- Degrades over time with repeated charge cycles.
- Hybrid Models:
These combine the features of both capacitor and lithium-ion batteries, offering a balanced approach. They use a capacitor for quick charging and lithium-ion cells for longer recording time.
- Advantages:
- Provides the fast charging of a capacitor with the long-duration recording of lithium-ion.
- More durable than a pure lithium-ion battery because of the capacitor’s role.
- Ideal for Australian conditions, where hot weather can be a concern.
- Disadvantages:
- Slightly more expensive due to the combined technology.
- It can be larger compared to standard lithium-ion packs.
Why Use a Dash Cam External Battery?
- Prevents Battery Drain
Your car’s battery is designed to start the engine, not to power external devices for long periods. When a dash cam is directly connected to your car battery, it draws power even when the engine is off. Over time, this can drain your car’s battery, leaving you stranded. An external battery provides a dedicated power source for your dash cam, preventing any impact on your main battery.
- Ensures Continuous Recording
Dash cam external batteries provide uninterrupted recording, even when your car is parked. This is especially useful for parking mode, where the dash cam can monitor your surroundings and record any incidents, such as vandalism or theft. For example, if your car is parked in a public space in Melbourne, your dash cam can capture footage of any suspicious activity. You can learn more about the benefits of using an external battery pack for your dash cam in this detailed guide.
- Protects Your Car Battery’s Lifespan
Using your car’s battery to power a dash cam can cause it to wear out faster due to constant draining and recharging. This strain reduces the battery’s lifespan, leading to costly replacements. An external battery takes on this load, preserving the health of your car’s main battery.
- Enhanced Safety and Security
An external battery ensures that your dash cam is always active, offering peace of mind whether you drive through the city or park in a remote area. It provides continuous surveillance, protecting you from incidents like hit-and-runs, parking lot accidents, or vandalism. This is a crucial safety measure in regions with high traffic, like Sydney or Brisbane.
How Does a Dash Cam External Battery Work?
Charging Mechanism Explained
A dash cam external battery uses a sophisticated charging mechanism that allows it to charge while you drive automatically. When your car’s engine runs, the alternator generates electricity, which powers the car’s electrical systems and charges the external battery. This means the battery is constantly recharged during your drive without impacting your car’s main battery.
- Smart Charging Regulation: The external battery has a smart charging regulator that prevents overcharging and ensures longevity.
- Automatic Power Transfer: When the car engine is turned off, the external battery powers the dash cam, allowing for continuous recording even when the vehicle is parked.
Power Management System in Detail
Dash cam external batteries are designed with advanced power management systems to ensure efficient and safe operation:
- Smart Power Management: The battery intelligently manages power distribution, ensuring it only supplies power to the dash cam when the car is off.
- Overcharge Protection: This function ensures that the battery is protected from harm caused by overcharging by automatically halting the charge once it reaches full capacity.
- Low Voltage Protection: This feature detects when your car’s main battery is low and prevents further power drain, ensuring your car can always start.
- Temperature Monitoring: Advanced models include thermal sensors that prevent the battery from overheating, making them safe in hot climates like Australia.
For tips on enhancing your dash cam battery life, check out this useful article on improving dash cam battery performance.
Installation Options with Detailed Explanation
- Hardwiring Method: This involves connecting the external battery directly to your car’s fuse box. It provides a clean and permanent setup, making it ideal for drivers who want a seamless, always-on recording setup. The battery charges whenever the car is running and automatically powers the dash cam when the engine is off.
- Cigarette Lighter Connection: This simpler, plug-and-play option allows for quick installation. It is perfect for those who want a removable option or drive multiple vehicles. The external battery charges via the cigarette lighter socket and supplies power to the dash cam when the engine is off.
Choosing the Right Dash Cam External Battery
- Battery Capacity
Capacity is measured in milliamp hours (mAh). A higher mAh means a longer recording time. Select a battery with sufficient capacity to fulfil your recording requirements, particularly if you intend to use parking mode.
- Compatibility
Verify that the external battery works with your specific dash cam model. Certain batteries are universal, whereas others are tailored for particular dash cam brands.
- Safety Features
Look for:
- Overcharge Protection
- Short Circuit Protection
- Thermal Management
- Popular Models in Australia
- BlackVue B-124X: High-capacity battery with fast charging.
- Thinkware iVolt Mini: Compact, reliable, and efficient.
- Cellink Neo: Advanced safety features and long battery life.
How to Install a Dash Cam External Battery
Tools You Will Need:
- Screwdriver
- Fuse Tap Kit
- Cable Management Clips
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Choose Installation Method: Decide between hardwiring or using the cigarette lighter.
- Connect the Battery: Securely attach the battery to your car’s power system.
- Connect Dash Cam: You can link your dash cam to the external battery using the included cables.
- Test the Setup: Ensure the dash cam receives power when the car is off.
Secure Your Car’s Protection – Anytime, Anywhere!
A dash cam external battery is more than just a convenience—it’s necessary for Australian drivers who want peace of mind, whether parked in a bustling city or exploring the open roads. Don’t risk losing crucial footage or damaging your car battery.
Ready for Uninterrupted Protection?
Don’t leave your car’s safety to chance. Upgrade your dash cam setup with a reliable external battery today. To learn more about our brand’s expertise and wide range of dash cam solutions, check out the company’s story and values.
Why us?
✅ Experience 24/7 recording without battery drain.
✅ Keep your car battery protected and healthy.
✅ Choose from top-rated, Australian-approved models.
Explore our latest dash cam accessories and external batteries designed to keep your vehicle secure and your dash cam powered at all times. Your car’s security is just one click away. Act now!
