Many car owners are curious about powering devices like dashcams using their vehicle’s OBD2 port. A common question that arises is: Where Does Obd2 Power Come From? Understanding the power source of this port is crucial before you consider plugging in any aftermarket devices.
The OBD2 port, or On-Board Diagnostics port, is primarily designed for vehicle diagnostics and data retrieval. However, it also provides a constant power supply. The power for your OBD2 port is drawn directly from your car’s battery.
This direct connection to the battery is why the OBD2 port remains powered even when your car’s ignition is turned off. This constant power supply is essential for several reasons:
- Diagnostic Checks: Mechanics and technicians need to access vehicle data even when the engine isn’t running. This allows for thorough diagnostics and troubleshooting.
- Memory Retention: Modern vehicles rely on computers to manage various systems. The constant power to the OBD2 port helps maintain the memory of these systems, storing important settings and learned data.
- Accessory Power: While not its primary function, this constant power source can be utilized to power low-draw devices, such as dashcams, especially when you need them to operate even when the car is parked.
However, tapping into the OBD2 port for power requires caution. Since it’s directly connected to your car’s battery, continuous draw, especially from higher-power devices, can potentially drain your battery, particularly if your car sits idle for extended periods.
To safely use the OBD2 port for powering devices like dashcams, it’s highly recommended to use adapters that incorporate a low voltage cut-off switch. These smart adapters, like the Koolatron “battery saver”, monitor your car battery’s voltage and automatically disconnect the power supply to your accessory if the voltage drops below a safe threshold (e.g., 11.6 volts). This prevents excessive battery drain and ensures your car will start when you need it.
If your car’s cigarette lighter socket is only powered when the engine is running, using an OBD2 power adapter can be a convenient solution for dashcam power, especially for parking mode recording. Conversely, if your cigarette lighter is always on, you could utilize it with a splitter and a low voltage cut-off adapter for safe and continuous dashcam operation while still retaining a charging port.
In conclusion, the OBD2 port’s power source is your car’s battery. While it offers a convenient power point, especially for devices like dashcams, responsible usage with battery-saving devices is essential to avoid battery drain and ensure reliable vehicle operation. Remember to always prioritize safe and efficient power solutions for your car accessories.
