Are you looking to keep your Garmin dash cam running even after you’ve turned off your engine? The Garmin OBD2 Constant Power Cable might be the solution you need. This simple, plug-and-play adapter connects to your vehicle’s OBD-II port, providing continuous power to your compatible Garmin dash cam for around-the-clock protection. Let’s dive into the features and benefits to see if this adapter is the right choice for you.
One of the standout features of this adapter is its dual USB output. This clever design allows you to power not just one, but two Garmin dash cams simultaneously. Imagine having a Garmin Dash Cam 57 monitoring the road ahead and a Garmin Dash Cam Mini 2 capturing events at the rear – all powered by a single OBD2 adapter. This dual-camera setup provides comprehensive coverage and peace of mind, knowing you’re recording from multiple angles.
The Garmin OBD2 Adapter also offers adjustable power modes, catering to different user needs and preferences. You can choose from three distinct settings:
- 10 Minute Mode: Ideal for short stops, this mode keeps your dash cam powered for 10 minutes after you switch off the ignition. It’s perfect for capturing those brief moments after parking and automatically powers down to conserve battery.
- 24 Hour Mode: For extended surveillance, the 24-hour mode ensures your Garmin dash cam remains active for a full day after parking. Intelligently, it includes a low battery detection feature that automatically shuts off the camera if your car battery voltage drops below 12V. This crucial feature prevents battery drain and ensures your vehicle will start when you need it.
- Always On Mode: This mode provides continuous power to your dash cam, keeping it running at all times. Like the 24-hour mode, it also incorporates low battery protection to prevent draining your car battery, shutting down if voltage dips too low and restarting when the engine is running again.
The built-in timer within the OBD2 adapter is designed to be smart and responsive. It automatically resets whenever it detects motion, an impact, a door opening, or when the engine is running. This ensures continuous monitoring of relevant events around your vehicle.
Furthermore, the low battery protection is a key safety feature. The Garmin OBD2 Constant Power Cable is engineered to protect your vehicle’s battery by automatically shutting down power within 10 minutes if the voltage drops below 12.0V. This prevents excessive battery discharge and gives you confidence in using constant power without the worry of a dead battery.
A simple red status LED indicator provides clear information about the adapter’s operation:
- Solid Red: Indicates that the adapter is currently supplying power to your connected Garmin dash cam(s).
- Flashing Red: Signals that the set timer has expired, and the adapter is no longer providing power.
- Off: Indicates that the adapter is receiving less than 12V of power, meaning the low battery protection is active and has turned off power output to protect your car battery.
Compatibility is broad, covering a wide range of Garmin dash cam models, including the popular:
- 6 Series
- 7 Series
- Mini Series
- Tandem Series
- Live LTE Series
- X Series
It’s important to note that while compatible with most passenger vehicles, this Garmin OBD2 adapter is not compatible with commercial vehicles that use a J1939 connector. Always verify your vehicle’s compatibility before purchasing.
In conclusion, the Garmin OBD2 Constant Power Cable offers a convenient and reliable way to enable parking mode and 24/7 surveillance for your compatible Garmin dash cam. With its dual output, adjustable power modes, and essential low battery protection, it’s a worthwhile accessory for anyone seeking continuous dash cam recording and enhanced vehicle security. If you value constant protection and ease of use, this OBD2 adapter is definitely worth considering.
