Dash Camera Installation Melbourne

1ch, 2ch, 3ch

Dash Cam Channels Explained: What Does 1CH, 2CH and 3CH Mean?

In dash cameras, “CH” stands for channel, which refers to the number of cameras included in the dash cam system. The more channels a dash cam has, the more angles of your vehicle it can record at the same time.

Dash cam channel types explained:

1. 1CH Dash Cam (Single Channel)
   A 1-channel dash cam records footage from the front of the vehicle only. This is the most basic option and is ideal for drivers who only need forward-facing video coverage.

2. 2CH Dash Cam (Dual Channel)
   A 2-channel dash cam includes two cameras, most commonly:

   • Front camera + rear camera

   Some drivers choose to use the second camera as an interior cabin camera instead, making it suitable for rideshare drivers or fleet vehicles.

3. 3CH Dash Cam (Triple Channel)
   A 3-channel dash cam system uses three cameras to provide full coverage:

   • Front camera

   • Rear camera

   • Interior cabin camera

   This setup offers the most comprehensive recording solution, capturing activity both inside and outside the vehicle.

Choosing the right number of channels depends on how much coverage and security you want from your dash camera system.

Parking Mode

Dash Cam Parking Mode: What It Is and How It Works

Parking mode is a key feature in modern dash cameras that allows your camera to monitor your vehicle even when the engine is off. This is essential for protecting your car from accidents, vandalism, theft, or hit-and-run incidents while parked.

How parking mode works:

1. Motion Detection: The dash cam starts recording automatically when it detects movement near your vehicle.

2. Impact Detection (G-Sensor): If your car is bumped or hit, the dash cam triggers recording to capture evidence.

3. Low-Power Operation: Parking mode runs on a hardwired connection or dedicated dash cam battery, allowing extended monitoring without draining your car’s main battery.

4. Loop Recording: Old footage is automatically overwritten, ensuring continuous protection without the need to manually manage storage.

Benefits of parking mode:

• Protects your vehicle 24/7, even when parked on the street or in car parks

• Captures clear evidence in case of collisions or vandalism

• Works silently in the background without affecting your car’s operation

For drivers in Melbourne, having a dash cam with parking mode ensures round-the-clock vehicle protection, giving you peace of mind whether your car is parked at home, work, or in busy city streets.

Memory Card/Storage

Dash Cam Storage Explained: Micro SD Cards, Apps & Loop Recording

Dash cameras record video footage onto a removable micro SD card, which acts as the camera’s main storage. Most modern dash cams also include a dedicated mobile app for iPhone and Android, allowing drivers to connect wirelessly and download footage without removing the memory card.

How dash cam storage works:

1. Video footage is saved directly to a micro SD card

2. Larger memory cards store more video footage

3. More storage allows you to review events further back in time

When the memory card becomes full, dash cams use loop recording, meaning:

1. The oldest footage is automatically overwritten

2. New recordings continue without interruption

3. Important clips can be manually saved to prevent deletion

Choosing the right micro SD card size is essential for ensuring you always have access to critical dash cam footage when you need it.

Hardwire Kit

Dash Cam Parking Mode Explained: Hardwire Kits & Power Options

A hardwire kit is one of the essential components required to enable parking mode on a dash camera, and it is typically included with high-end dash cams designed for 24/7 vehicle monitoring.

Many dash cameras sold without a hardwire kit are powered by a cigarette lighter socket (12V accessory socket) as standard. While this setup works for recording while driving, it does not support true parking mode.

Key points to know:

1. Parking mode requires a dedicated hardwire kit

2. High-end dash cams often include the hardwire kit

3. Entry-level dash cams require the hardwire kit as an optional accessory

4. Cigarette lighter power only works when the vehicle is running

To use dash cam parking mode effectively, the camera must be hardwired to the vehicle’s fuse box, allowing it to record events even when the engine is turned off.

Dedicated Battery/Backup Battery

Dash Cam Power Options: Vehicle Battery vs Dedicated Dash Cam Battery

Most dash cams are powered directly by the vehicle’s main battery, but in many situations, using a dedicated dash cam battery is the smarter and safer option.

A dedicated battery pack offers several key advantages:

1. Enables extended dash cam parking mode recording

2. Keeps the dash cam independent from the vehicle’s battery

3. Helps prevent low-voltage warnings in vehicles with sensitive electrical systems

4. Reduces the risk of battery drain during long parking periods

For drivers who want reliable 24/7 dash cam protection, especially in modern or luxury vehicles, a dedicated dash cam battery provides improved performance, safety, and peace of mind.