Use a MultiMeter to test which fuse is constant. A fuse that is constant stays on when the car is off. Ensure you validate constant power with the vehicle door’s open and closed, and locked. Ensure that you have the correct add-a-fuse for the vehicles fuse board.
Add-a-fuse kit
Use the ATS add-a-fuse kit included in our hardwire installation kit for a more secure, long-lasting installation. (Lytx only supply an ATS add-a-fuse kit)
Note
Partner/ installer will need to supply alternative Add-A-fuse kit if the vehicle uses any of the alternatives (ATC/ Micr02/Mini) to complete the installation.
Note
Ensure you have correct type of add-a-fuse for the vehicle, make and model you are installing on, as they do vary between vehicle manufacturers. You may need to supply additional types of add-a fuse for the vehicle model being installed.
The add-a-fuse kit provides a fuse slot for the existing circuit (#2 in picture below) and another fuse slot for the new circuit for the dashcam device (#1 in picture below).
The ground wire
The ground wire is usually in the shape of a ring or a C terminal and needs to be connected to a vehicle ground point. Ensure that the metal surfaces are clean.
Note
Make sure you do not over tighten the pre-installed C terminal as it could cause intermittent ground connection in operation
To hardwire the dashcam
Warning
If you insert the Add-A Fuse in the wrong way, or the vehicles fuse in the incorrect slot, the power will not feed through, and may damage the vehicles circuit/ electrical/ electronic systems.
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Trim off some of the insulation tubing to expose the wiring on your hard-wired cable.
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Using Automotive crimp pliers, crimp the red wire (constant power) cable with the terminal crimp connector that was included in the add-a-fuse kit.
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Insert the dashcam 2amp fuse that was provided into slot 1 of the add-a-fuse.
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Remove the vehicle fuse from the tested slot.
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insert the add-a-fuse to the vehicle fuse slot you tested, ensure it is correctly orientated.
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Connect the ground wire (black) by slipping the terminal under a metal bolt or screwing into the vehicle metal structure, (ensure the metal is clean bear metal, protect the bear metal with paint or another vehicle approved product). If needed use a socket wrench to loosen the bolt.
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Insert the fuse from the vehicle fuse box into add a fuse slot 2.
The add-a-fuse kit provides a fuse slot for the existing circuit (#2 in picture below) and another fuse slot for the new circuit for the dashcam device (#1 in picture below).
Note
A loose ground wire can result in power issues for your dashcam. We recommend grounding your wire to an unpainted bare metal vehicle ground bolt. Not to a dash cover support fixing as the dash cover can cause intermittent ground connection.
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Connect the power cable to the dashcam power jack port.
Important
Once you've hardwired the power source, the dashcam starts up automatically every time the vehicle or Dashcam moves.
Note
When a dashcam is in storage, the battery gets completely drained. Before using the dashcam, you may need to charge it for an extended period, using at least a 2A power source before turning it on. This could take 2 minutes or more.
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Once you have tested/ validated the views and mounted to the windshield power off the dashcam using the power off procedure to avoid draining the dashcam battery. See (Power off procedure on page 25)
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Ensure that the Hardwire loom power convertor/ supply box is situated away from any liquid ingress but with ventilation slots away from any solid surface. Mount label side up above the fuse board as the loom is not IP rated.
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Secure the power convertor/ supply box with double side tape and Zip/cable ties.
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Route the power cable from the vehicle fuse board, up the ‘A’ pillar and along the headliner of the vehicle to the dashcam mount.
Warning
Make certain that neither the wiring cables nor your installation activities interfere with any airbag-related mechanisms or otherwise risks affecting airbag deployment. Consult the vehicle manufacturer for the location of any airbag sensors, systems, and restrictions that may apply.
Connect the AI-12 dashcam to an OBDII port for power
To utilize the full features of the AI-12 dashcam, including, the dashcam must be connected to a constant 12V or 24V minimum 2A power source using the supplied cables. You can do this by connecting the dashcam to an OBDII port. Purchase an OBDII cable from your authorized reseller.
If an installation is aborted and the dashcam has power, follow the power off procedure to avoid draining the battery.
Warning
Only a properly qualified technician should install and maintain the Surfsight powered by Lytx dashcam. Any electrical work should be performed only by a suitably trained and qualified automotive technician with qualification applicable to your country/ region/ state; and with an expertise in installing and troubleshooting advanced onboard components, including multiplexed circuits. Lytx, Inc. disclaims all responsibility for any damages arising from improper installation and maintenance of the Surfsight device.
Note
While in standby, you can retrieve recordings from the dashcam. In Standby mode, the dashcam draws a current of 32 mA.
To connect your dashcam to an OBDII port:
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Locate the engine diagnostic port.
The port is usually found in the driver area, it could be behind an easily removable panel or below dash around knee level.
Note
Connectors can vary by vehicle. If a different one is needed, contact your authorized reseller.
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Align the connector end of the OBDII cable with the engine diagnostic port.
Note
Ensure that the OBDII cable is secure and well-connected to the OBDII port. Ensure it cannot be displaced by vehicle normal operation.
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Push the connector into the port.
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Connect the OBDII cable to the dashcam.
Important
When routing the power cable near Safety restraint systems (SRS) Airbags, ensure that the cable is secured away from the deployment area. Also ensure that it does not route across the airbag.
Note
Some manufacturers now mandate that their vehicles have an open OBD port which can be achieved by using and OBD Y interface cable (not supplied).
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Route the power cable from the vehicle OBDII port, up the ‘A’ pillar and along the headliner of the vehicle to the dashcam mount.