Dashcams have become an essential accessory for vehicle owners, offering a sense of security and evidence in case of accidents. However, not all dashcams are created equal. Premium models boast a feature known as Parking Mode, providing a layer of protection even when your car is stationary.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the intricacies of Parking Mode on dashcams, exploring its functionality, advantages, and how to make the most of this innovative feature.
What is Parking Mode on Dashcams?
Parking Mode is more than just a buzzword in the dashcam world. It refers to the capability of recording events while your engine is off and your vehicle is parked. This feature goes beyond capturing collisions, offering surveillance that can prove invaluable in scenarios like hit-and-runs or vandalism.
How Does the Dashcam Record in Parking Mode?
The Mechanism Unveiled
Dashcams equipped with Parking Mode are designed to conserve energy when your vehicle is parked. The camera enters a state of hibernation but awakens when it detects movement or senses an impact through its accelerometer. This intelligent activation ensures that only relevant events are recorded, such as someone colliding with your parked car or attempting theft.
Advantages of Parking Mode over Normal Mode
Efficiency and Resource Management
Parking Mode operates with precision, recording footage only when triggered by motion or impact. This not only minimizes the risk of overwriting crucial footage but also reduces stress on the microSD card. Additionally, the decreased battery consumption and GPS deactivation contribute to a more efficient and focused recording process.
Can the Parking Mode be Turned Off?
Customizing Your Dashcam Experience
Yes, Parking Mode is not a constant. Users have the flexibility to deactivate it in the camera’s settings. Once turned off, the dashcam seamlessly transitions to Normal Mode when the vehicle is running, ensuring adaptability to diverse recording needs.
How to Install a Dashcam with Parking Mode?
Setting Up for Optimal Performance
While most dashcams come with a standard power supply, Parking Mode necessitates additional considerations. The inclusion of a Hardwire Kit or Battery Pack becomes crucial for enabling this feature effectively.
Hardwire Kit Installation
Installing a Hardwire Kit involves connecting it to the vehicle’s power supply through the Fuse Box. Choosing a fuse that remains “Always On” ensures continuous recording when Parking
activated. This not only powers the dashcam during Parking Mode but also provides a convenient solution for continuous surveillance.
Many Hardwire Kits offer an added benefit—a low battery cut-off feature. This feature monitors the vehicle’s battery voltage continuously. If the voltage drops below a predetermined threshold, the supply to the dashcam is cut off, preventing the car battery from reaching critical levels. This feature ensures that you return to a vehicle with a functioning battery.
Battery Packs: Alternatives to Hardwire Kits
For those wary of potential battery drainage with extended Parking Mode sessions, an external Battery Pack emerges as a viable alternative. This pack ensures the dashcam remains powered as long as the vehicle’s battery maintains sufficient voltage to start. When the voltage drops below the cutoff value or the preset timer expires, the Battery Pack stops powering the dashcam, preserving the vehicle’s battery.
Installing an external Battery Pack requires a bit of familiarity with the vehicle’s fuse panel. However, it offers a stealthy installation with no visible cables, providing a clean and discreet appearance. Advanced configurations, such as setting a timer or custom cutoff values, add a layer of customization for users seeking a tailored Parking Mode experience.
Conclusion
Parking Mode on dashcams elevates the level of security and protection for your vehicle, extending surveillance beyond your time on the road. Whether it’s capturing a hit-and-run incident, deterring vandalism, or simply providing peace of mind, this feature is a valuable addition to any dashcam. By understanding how Parking Mode works and making informed choices in terms of installation and setup, you can maximize the benefits of this innovative technology.
Yes, installing a dashcam with Parking Mode is often a DIY-friendly task. However, for optimal performance, following manufacturer guidelines and recommendations is crucial.
While prolonged use of Parking Mode may pose a risk of battery depletion, features like low battery cut-off in Hardwire Kits and external Battery Packs help mitigate this concern.
Motion-activated Parking Mode records when the camera detects movement, while impact-activated mode triggers recording upon sensing an impact or vibration.
✓ Excellent 4K Front, Full HD Rear video quality
✓ Sony STARVIS 2 sensor
✓ Dual-channel coverage
✓ Wi-Fi connectivity
✓ Motion Detection
✓ Up to 512GB microSD support
✓ Decent night vision
✓ App connectivity for remote access
✓ Anti-Glare CPL Included & Voice Notifications
★★★★★
More details +
AED479
Best-in-class two-channel 4K performance with dual Sony STARVIS 2 sensors.
The VIOFO A139 Pro 2-Channel is among the finest dual-channel dashcams available: twin Sony STARVIS 2 sensors, 4K front recording, dual-band Wi-Fi, GPS, voice control and 512 GB storage support combine to deliver exceptional image quality and feature depth at a fair price.
Video Quality
9
Coverage
8.5
Connectivity
8.5
Advanced Features
8.5
Storage
8.5
Night Vision
8.5
Build and Design
8
Price and Value
8
PROS:
4K front + 1080p rear with Sony STARVIS 2 sensors
Dual-band Wi-Fi for fast data transfer
Built-in GPS with speed logging
Up to 512 GB microSD support
Voice control
Excellent low-light and night performance
Well-built and reliable VIOFO ecosystem
CONS:
No supercapacitor (uses battery buffer), consider hardwiring in UAE heat
✓ Excellent 4K Front, Full HD Rear video quality
✓ Dual-channel coverage
✓ Wi-Fi connectivity
✓ Motion Detection
✓ Up to 256GB microSD support
✓ Decent night vision
✓ App connectivity for remote access
★★★★★
More details +
AED326
4K front and full HD rear recording with proven Sony STARVIS reliability.
The VIOFO A129 Pro Duo pairs a 4K front camera with a 1080p rear camera using Sony STARVIS sensors, dual-band Wi-Fi, GPS and supercapacitor resilience. An older-generation model but still a dependable two-channel setup at a compelling price.
✓ Triple-channel coverage
✓ Excellent 4K Front and Full HD Rear and Cabin Interior video quality
✓ Sony STARVIS 2 sensor
✓ Dual band Wi-Fi connectivity
✓ Motion Detection
✓ Up to 512GB microSD support
✓ Voice Notifications
✓ Decent night vision
✓ App connectivity for remote access
★★★★★
More details +
AED600
Triple-channel 4K protection with Sony STARVIS 2 sensors at a mid-range price.
The VIOFO A139 Pro 3-Channel delivers 4K front video with Sony STARVIS 2 imaging across three lenses, dual-band Wi-Fi, GPS, supercapacitor heat protection and 512 GB storage support, making it one of the best-value triple-channel dashcams on the market.
Video Quality
8.5
Coverage
9
Connectivity
8
Advanced Features
8
Storage
8.5
Night Vision
8
Build and Design
7.5
Price and Value
8.5
PROS:
Sony STARVIS 2 sensors across all three channels
4K UHD front + dual 1080p rear & interior recording
Dual-band 5 GHz Wi-Fi for fast footage transfer
Supercapacitor safe in UAE/GCC heat
Up to 512 GB microSD support
Built-in GPS with speed logging
Buffered parking mode with motion & impact detection
Voice control and CPL filter included
Slim coaxial cables for clean install
CONS:
No LCD screen for in-car footage review
Interior camera adds extra wiring complexity
No ADAS driver-alert features
Lacks cloud connectivity vs premium BlackVue models
