1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the ssontong Upgraded Dash Cam Hardwire Kit. This kit provides a reliable and permanent power solution for your dash camera, GPS navigator, radar detector, or other Type-C USB powered devices, eliminating the need for a cigarette lighter adapter. It features low voltage protection to safeguard your vehicle's battery and enables 24-hour surveillance for enhanced security.
This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your hardwire kit.
Figure 1.1: Broad compatibility with various Type-C USB devices.
2. Product Overview and Components
The ssontong Hardwire Kit includes all necessary components for a seamless installation. Please verify that all items listed below are present in your package.
Figure 2.1: Complete contents of the ssontong Hardwire Kit.
Package Contents:
- 1 x Type-C USB Hardwire Kit (13ft cable length)
- 4 x Fuse Adapters (Low-Profile Mini, Mini, ATO (Regular), Micro2)
- 1 x Cable Clip
- 1 x Pry Tool
- 1 x Magnetic Ring (Anti-Interfere)
- 1 x User Manual (Paper)
3. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Input Voltage | DC 12V-24V |
| Output Voltage | DC 5V |
| Output Current | 3A (Max) |
| Cable Length | 13 feet (approx. 4 meters) |
| Connector Type | Type-C USB |
| Low Voltage Protection (12V input) | Cuts off at 11.4V |
| Low Voltage Protection (24V input) | Cuts off at 23.2V |
| Protection Features | Low Voltage Protection, Anti-Interfere Magnetic Ring, Resettable Fuse |
Figure 3.1: Low-Voltage Battery Drain Protection mechanism.
Figure 3.2: Internal components ensuring stable and secure output voltage.
4. Setup and Installation
Before beginning installation, ensure your vehicle is turned off and the ignition key is removed. It is recommended to disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery for safety.
4.1 Identifying Fuse Box and Fuse Types
Locate your vehicle's fuse box. Common locations include under the dashboard, in the glove compartment, or in the engine bay. Consult your vehicle's owner's manual for the exact location and fuse diagram.
Identify an ACC (Accessory) fuse that only receives power when the ignition is on, and a Constant Power fuse that receives power even when the ignition is off (for 24-hour surveillance). If you only require power when the car is on, only an ACC fuse is needed.
Figure 4.1: Fuse adapter types and connection points.
4.2 Installation Steps:
- Connect the Ground Wire: The black wire with the U-shaped terminal is the ground wire. Connect it securely to a metal bolt or screw on the car's chassis that is part of the vehicle's metal frame. Ensure it's a clean, unpainted metal surface for good conductivity.
- Connect the ACC (Red) Wire: Using one of the provided fuse adapters, insert an existing ACC fuse from your car's fuse box into the lower slot of the adapter. Then, insert a new fuse (of the same amperage as the original) into the upper slot of the adapter. Plug the fuse adapter into the empty ACC fuse slot you identified in your car's fuse box. This wire provides power only when the ignition is on.
- Connect the Constant Power (Yellow) Wire (Optional for 24-hour surveillance): If you desire 24-hour surveillance, repeat step 2 for the yellow wire, connecting it to a constant power fuse slot in your car's fuse box. This fuse slot should provide power even when the ignition is off.
- Route the Cable: Carefully route the Type-C USB cable from the hardwire kit's power module to your dash camera. Use the included pry tool to tuck the cable neatly along the vehicle's headliner, A-pillar, and dashboard edges to conceal it. Use cable clips to secure any loose sections.
- Connect to Dash Cam: Plug the Type-C USB connector into your dash camera's power input port.
- Test the Connection: Reconnect your car battery's negative terminal (if disconnected). Turn on your vehicle's ignition to test if the dash cam powers on. If you connected the constant power wire, turn off the ignition and remove the key to verify if the dash cam remains powered (e.g., enters parking mode).
Figure 4.2: Easy installation diagram.
Figure 4.3: In-car hardwire kit installation examples.
5. Operating Instructions
Once properly installed, the ssontong Hardwire Kit operates automatically to provide power to your connected device.
5.1 Standard Operation (ACC Power)
If connected to an ACC fuse, your dash cam or device will power on automatically when your vehicle's ignition is turned on and power off when the ignition is turned off.
5.2 24-Hour Surveillance (Constant Power)
If both ACC and Constant Power wires are connected, the hardwire kit will continuously supply power to your dash cam, enabling parking mode or 24-hour surveillance features of your dash cam. This ensures your vehicle is monitored even when parked and the engine is off.
5.3 Low Voltage Protection
The hardwire kit is equipped with a sensitive voltage sensing switch. It continuously monitors your car battery's voltage. If the battery voltage drops below a safe threshold (11.4V for 12V systems or 23.2V for 24V systems), the kit will automatically cut off power to the connected device. This prevents excessive battery drain, ensuring enough power remains to start your vehicle's engine.
6. Maintenance
The ssontong Hardwire Kit is designed for minimal maintenance. Follow these general guidelines to ensure its longevity:
- Regular Checks: Periodically check the connections in your fuse box to ensure they remain secure.
- Cable Integrity: Ensure the routed cable is not pinched or exposed to excessive heat or sharp edges, which could damage the insulation.
- Cleanliness: Keep the hardwire kit and its connections free from dust and debris.
- Magnetic Ring: If you experience radio interference, ensure the included anti-interfere magnetic ring is properly installed around the cable near the power module.
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your ssontong Hardwire Kit, refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Dash cam does not power on. | Incorrect fuse connection, loose ground wire, blown fuse, low car battery voltage. | Verify fuse adapter is correctly inserted. Ensure ground wire has a solid connection to bare metal. Check both original and new fuses in the adapter. Check car battery voltage. |
| Dash cam turns off with ignition (even with constant power connected). | Constant power wire connected to an ACC fuse, or constant power fuse is faulty. | Re-check your vehicle's fuse diagram to ensure the yellow wire is connected to a truly constant power fuse. Test the fuse slot with a multimeter. |
| Car battery drains quickly. | Low voltage protection not functioning, or dash cam's parking mode consumes too much power. | Ensure the hardwire kit's low voltage protection is active (it should cut off power at 11.4V/23.2V). Adjust your dash cam's parking mode settings to be less sensitive or to consume less power. Consider a higher capacity car battery if issues persist. |
| Radio interference. | Electromagnetic interference from the power conversion. | Ensure the included anti-interfere magnetic ring is installed around the cable near the power module. |
8. Warranty and Support
ssontong provides a 1-Year Quality Protection warranty for this product, ensuring peace of mind regarding manufacturing defects and performance issues. We also offer Lifetime After-Sales Support.
For any questions, technical assistance, or warranty claims, please do not hesitate to contact our customer support team. We aim to reply within 12 hours and ensure your satisfaction.
Contact Information:
- Refer to the contact details provided on the product packaging or the official ssontong website.