DashCam hardwire question
 

I've been reading the threads regarding hardwiring your dash cam but have a question I'm not too sure about and don't want to blow anything.. From what I understand the DashCam uses a 12V signal; do you just take the wire that comes with the dash cam, cut the male side to expose the wires and tap/solder to a 12V wire/ground or are one of these required: http://www.ebay.com/itm/DC-Converter...-/251009862646. If I wanted to attach it with a fuse tap to the fuse box would it be required?

oh and I am considering this one (GT300W):
http://dashcamtalk.com/ls300w/

thanks.

Don't need that. Just get a tap-a-fuse and two fuses to go in it. One to replace an existing fuse and one for the new camera. Positive to the tap ground to the grounding bolt on the fuse box.

Sent from my Nexus 4 using Tapatalk 2

Does the fuse rating matter? I have a few 3A ones lying around I'd like to use if possible =)

I just checked the specs on that camera - Looks like it uses USB to power it, not a standard 12V connection as USB is 5V. You will need that converter, or just get a cigarette lighter USB charger and plug your camera into that (so long as you're OK with it being on only when the car is powered). It has its own battery so you just need to plug it in to charge it.

Yeah I had a feeling. DashCamTalk forums has a section on this model and someone mentioned it. So from what I understand it will go like this:

Dashcam -> female usb cable -> strip male side to expose 2 wires (red/black) -> solder to converter 5v to 12v -> connect 12V wire to tap-a-fuse and put in fuse box -> connect black ground to nut?

Is there supposed to be a third wire? Should I be fuse tapping a constant power source (brake light) or an ignition one?

Just two wires. As for constant or accessory power - depends, does this camera's battery last long enough to stay on for your usual parking duration? If so, then I guess you could just charge it whenever you're driving under accessory power.

It's only 500mah so not too good or bad. Guess I gotta look into if it has an autooff when the voltage drops to make sure I don't end up with a dead battery.

Could get one of these to auto off for you: [ame="http://www.amazon.com/electronics/dp/B008B8ERIO"]Amazon.com: Power Magic Pro BlackVue vehicle Battery Discharge Prevention for Parking Mode (for BlackVue DR350, DR300G and DR400G HD): Car Electronics[/ame]