Dashcams

Dashcams, short for dashboard cameras, are compact video recording devices mounted inside a vehicle to capture the view through the windshield and, in many models, the rear or cabin. They are used to document incidents, deter fraud, assess driver behavior, and support parking surveillance.

Most dashcams include a camera, a memory card, and a power supply, with a processor and sometimes GPS. Optional components include a rear-facing camera, a G-sensor to detect impacts, and sensors for motion detection when the vehicle is parked. More advanced models offer GPS logging, speed data, and cloud connectivity.

Dashcams come in single-channel (front) or multi-channel configurations, such as front-and-rear or 360-degree models. Key features include loop recording, which overwrites old footage when the card is full, parking mode, wide dynamic range, time-lapse recording, and wireless access via a smartphone app.

Video quality varies from HD to 4K, with most common formats MP4 using H.264 or H.265 compression. Storage relies on microSD cards of suitable capacity, and certain clips can be protected or archived when an incident is detected.

Installation typically involves mounting behind the rearview mirror and wiring to the vehicle power system, either through a cigarette lighter adaptor or a hardwired connection to the fuse box. Proper placement reduces obstruction of vision and ensures cable routing is safe.

Legal considerations differ by jurisdiction. Some regions regulate audio recording, required disclaimers, and data retention. Footage can be used as evidence in accidents, but privacy laws and evidence rules may affect admissibility and sharing.

Market offerings range from consumer devices to fleet-oriented models that integrate with telematics, GPS, and cloud services. Limitations include dependence on lighting and weather, potential for tampering, and costs. Trends include higher resolutions, ADAS features, and improved security.