Many car owners wonder whether their vehicle’s OBD2 port remains powered continuously, especially when considering powering devices like dashcams. Understanding your car’s power system is crucial for safely and effectively utilizing accessories. Let’s delve into whether the OBD2 port is always powered and how you can use it for your dashcam and other devices.
OBD2 Power Explained
The On-Board Diagnostics II (OBD2) port is primarily designed for vehicle diagnostics and data retrieval. However, it also provides a power source. In most modern vehicles, the OBD2 port is indeed designed to be always powered, even when the ignition is turned off. This constant power supply allows the car’s computer to maintain memory and perform background checks. This feature is essential for functions like remote diagnostics and vehicle tracking systems.
Alt text: Close-up of an OBD2 port located beneath a car’s dashboard, highlighting its trapezoidal shape and pin connectors.
Powering Your Dashcam: Options and OBD2
When it comes to powering a dashcam, you typically have a few options. The traditional cigarette lighter socket is a common choice. However, many modern vehicles feature cigarette lighter sockets that are only powered when the engine is running. This means your dashcam would only record while you are driving, missing out on crucial surveillance when parked.
This is where the always-powered OBD2 port becomes a convenient alternative. By utilizing an OBD2 to USB adapter, you can tap into the constant power supply to keep your dashcam running even when your car is off.
Using OBD2 Safely for Dashcams
While the OBD2 port offers constant power, directly connecting a dashcam can potentially drain your car battery if not managed correctly. Therefore, safety is paramount. It’s highly recommended to use a low voltage cutoff switch when powering devices via the OBD2 port. This switch automatically cuts off power to your dashcam if your car battery voltage drops below a certain threshold (e.g., 11.6 volts), preventing battery drain and ensuring your car can start.
Adapters like the Koolatron “battery saver” are readily available and integrate this low voltage cutoff feature, making them a safe and user-friendly solution for powering dashcams through the OBD2 port.
OBD2 vs. Cigarette Lighter: Choosing the Right Power Source
Choosing between the OBD2 port and the cigarette lighter depends on your needs and your vehicle’s configuration.
- Cigarette Lighter: Suitable if you only need dashcam power when driving and your cigarette lighter is always powered or if you prefer a simpler setup for on-the-go charging of other devices when the engine is running.
- OBD2 Port: Ideal for continuous dashcam operation, especially for parking surveillance. Paired with a low voltage cutoff switch, it offers a safe and reliable way to ensure your dashcam is always powered without risking battery drain.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the OBD2 port is generally always powered, making it a viable option for powering dashcams and other low-power devices. However, it’s crucial to prioritize safety by using a low voltage cutoff switch to prevent battery drain. Understanding your car’s power outlets and utilizing the right accessories ensures you can effectively use your dashcam for both driving and parking surveillance.
