Permanent power vs switched power
Permanent Live vs Switched Live Power
Permanent live power
Power is sent to the Dash Cam 24/7.
It stays on even when the car ignition is off.
Switched live power
Power is only sent when the car ignition is turned on.
When the ignition is off, the Dash Cam powers down.
How to tell which power supply you have
If Your Dash Cam is hardwired
Look for the blue LED on your Dash Cam.
You’ll also see a lightning bolt icon in the battery symbol on the screen when it’s charging.
If you’re using the 12V power supply
Check the LED light on the cable.
If it stays lit when the ignition is off, your 12V port is permanently live.
Tip
⚠️ Some cars keep the 12V port live for up to 10 minutes after the ignition is turned off.
What's better, switched live, or permanent live?
The answer to this question usually depends on if you want to enable Smart Parking.
- Smart Parking ON - Permanent live
- Smart Parking OFF - Switched live
Why Smart Parking matters
With Smart Parking ON and permanent live power:
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The Dash Cam goes into standby after 5 minutes of no physical movement.
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It wakes if there’s an impact, using your car battery for backup.
With Smart Parking OFF and permanent live power:
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The Dash Cam records 24/7.
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This is not recommended, as it stresses the camera and SD card.
- This may cause your car battery to drain, leaving the vehicle unable to start.