As a car owner, one of the most significant concerns is the safety and security of your vehicle, especially when it’s parked and unattended. With the rise of car theft, vandalism, and hit-and-run incidents, it’s essential to have a reliable way to monitor and protect your vehicle. One solution is to install a car camera that records while parked. In this article, we’ll explore the benefits, features, and options available for car cameras that record while parked.
Benefits of a Car Camera that Records While Parked
A car camera that records while parked offers several benefits, including:
- Deterrent to thieves and vandals: A visible camera can deter potential thieves and vandals from targeting your vehicle.
- Evidence in case of an incident: If your vehicle is damaged or stolen, the camera footage can serve as valuable evidence to help identify the perpetrator and recover your vehicle.
- Peace of mind: Knowing that your vehicle is being monitored can give you peace of mind, especially when you’re away from your vehicle for an extended period.
- Insurance benefits: Some insurance companies offer discounts to car owners who install a dashcam or car camera that records while parked.
Types of Car Cameras that Record While Parked
There are several types of car cameras that record while parked, including:
- Dashcams with parking mode: Some dashcams come with a parking mode feature that allows the camera to continue recording even when the vehicle is turned off.
- Parking cameras: These cameras are specifically designed to record while parked and are usually installed in the rear or front of the vehicle.
- 360-degree cameras: These cameras provide a complete view of the vehicle’s surroundings and can be useful for monitoring the vehicle while parked.
- Smartphone apps: Some smartphone apps, such as dashcam apps, can turn your smartphone into a car camera that records while parked.
Key Features to Look for in a Car Camera that Records While Parked
When shopping for a car camera that records while parked, look for the following key features:
- Resolution and video quality: Look for a camera with high resolution (at least 1080p) and good video quality, especially at night.
- Field of view: A wider field of view (at least 120 degrees) can capture more of the vehicle’s surroundings.
- Night vision: A camera with good night vision can capture clear footage even in low-light conditions.
- Motion detection: A camera with motion detection can start recording when it detects movement, which can help conserve memory and battery life.
- Wi-Fi connectivity: A camera with Wi-Fi connectivity can allow you to view live footage and receive notifications on your smartphone.
- Battery life: Look for a camera with a long battery life or one that can be hardwired to the vehicle’s battery.
Top Car Cameras that Record While Parked
Here are some top car cameras that record while parked:
- BlackVue DR900S-2CH: This dashcam comes with a parking mode feature and can record up to 4K resolution.
- Ring Stick Up Cam: This parking camera is wireless and can be installed in the rear or front of the vehicle.
- Garmin Dash Cam 66W: This dashcam comes with a parking mode feature and can record up to 1440p resolution.
- Viofo A129 Plus: This dashcam comes with a parking mode feature and can record up to 4K resolution.
Installation and Maintenance
Installing a car camera that records while parked is relatively straightforward, but it’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Here are some general installation and maintenance tips:
- Choose a location: Choose a location for the camera that provides a clear view of the vehicle’s surroundings.
- Mount the camera: Mount the camera securely to the vehicle using the manufacturer’s recommended mounting system.
- Connect to power: Connect the camera to the vehicle’s battery or hardwire it to the vehicle’s electrical system.
- Test the camera: Test the camera to ensure it’s working correctly and adjust the settings as needed.
- Regularly update software: Regularly update the camera’s software to ensure you have the latest features and security patches.
Tips for Using a Car Camera that Records While Parked
Here are some tips for using a car camera that records while parked:
- Park in a safe location: Park your vehicle in a safe location, such as a well-lit and secure parking lot.
- Keep the camera clean: Keep the camera clean and free of debris to ensure clear footage.
- Check local laws: Check local laws and regulations regarding the use of car cameras that record while parked.
- Use the camera’s features: Use the camera’s features, such as motion detection and night vision, to customize your recording experience.
Conclusion
A car camera that records while parked is an excellent investment for any car owner. With its ability to deter thieves and vandals, provide evidence in case of an incident, and offer peace of mind, it’s a valuable addition to any vehicle. When shopping for a car camera that records while parked, look for key features such as high resolution, wide field of view, and motion detection. By following the installation and maintenance tips and using the camera’s features, you can get the most out of your car camera and protect your vehicle.
What is a car camera that records while parked?
A car camera that records while parked is a type of dashcam that continues to record footage even when the vehicle is stationary and the engine is turned off. This feature is designed to provide an added layer of security and protection for the vehicle, as it can capture any incidents or events that may occur while the vehicle is parked.
These cameras are typically equipped with a parking mode feature, which allows them to continue recording even when the vehicle is turned off. This feature is usually powered by the vehicle’s battery or an external power source, and it can be set to record continuously or only when motion is detected.
How does a car camera that records while parked work?
A car camera that records while parked works by using a combination of hardware and software to capture and store footage. The camera is typically mounted on the windshield or dashboard of the vehicle, and it is connected to the vehicle’s power source. When the vehicle is turned off, the camera enters parking mode, which allows it to continue recording footage.
In parking mode, the camera can be set to record continuously or only when motion is detected. If motion is detected, the camera will start recording and will continue to do so until the motion stops or the vehicle is turned back on. The footage is then stored on a memory card or other storage device, where it can be reviewed later.
What are the benefits of using a car camera that records while parked?
Using a car camera that records while parked can provide a number of benefits, including added security and protection for the vehicle. If the vehicle is damaged or broken into while parked, the camera can capture footage of the incident, which can be used to identify the perpetrator and provide evidence to the authorities.
Additionally, a car camera that records while parked can also provide peace of mind for the vehicle’s owner. Knowing that the vehicle is being monitored and recorded can help to reduce stress and anxiety, especially in high-crime areas or when parking in unfamiliar locations.
Can a car camera that records while parked be used as evidence in court?
Yes, footage from a car camera that records while parked can be used as evidence in court. If the vehicle is damaged or broken into while parked, the footage can be used to identify the perpetrator and provide evidence of the incident.
However, it’s worth noting that the admissibility of the footage as evidence will depend on the specific laws and regulations in the jurisdiction where the incident occurred. It’s always a good idea to check with local authorities to determine the specific requirements for using dashcam footage as evidence.
How long does a car camera that records while parked typically record for?
The length of time that a car camera that records while parked will record for will depend on the specific model and settings. Some cameras may be set to record continuously, while others may only record when motion is detected.
Typically, a car camera that records while parked will record for several hours or even days, depending on the capacity of the memory card or other storage device. Some cameras may also have a loop recording feature, which allows them to overwrite older footage with new footage when the memory card is full.
Can a car camera that records while parked be powered by the vehicle’s battery?
Yes, a car camera that records while parked can be powered by the vehicle’s battery. Many dashcams are designed to be powered by the vehicle’s 12V electrical system, and they can continue to record even when the engine is turned off.
However, it’s worth noting that the camera’s power consumption will depend on the specific model and settings. Some cameras may consume more power than others, and they may drain the vehicle’s battery if left on for extended periods. It’s always a good idea to check the camera’s power consumption and adjust the settings accordingly.
Are car cameras that record while parked worth the investment?
Yes, car cameras that record while parked can be a worthwhile investment for many vehicle owners. These cameras can provide added security and protection for the vehicle, and they can also provide peace of mind for the owner.
While the cost of a car camera that records while parked may seem like an added expense, it’s worth considering the potential benefits and savings. If the vehicle is damaged or broken into while parked, the camera can capture footage of the incident, which can be used to identify the perpetrator and provide evidence to the authorities. This can help to reduce the cost of repairs and insurance claims, and it can also help to prevent future incidents.