Connect and Power the Dashcam

WARNING: Ensure that all wiring and installation steps do not interfere with any airbag systems or the vehicle’s normal operation.

To use all features of the AI-14 dashcam, including Standby mode, connect it to a constant 12V or 24V power source with a minimum of 2A. For OBD-II installations, this is achieved by connecting the AI-14 OBD-II Power Only Cable to the vehicle’s OBD-II port.

The OBD-II port is located in the driver’s compartment, typically under the dashboard near the driver’s knees, or behind a small access panel. The images below show left-hand drive (LHD); right-hand drive (RHD) is the reverse.

NOTE: Some vehicle manufacturers now require an open OBD-II port. The AI-14 OBD-II Power Only Cable uses a Y-cable design to keep the port accessible.
NOTE: While in standby mode, you can retrieve recordings from the dashcam. This will activate full power consumption, which may affect vehicle battery storage.

Connect to the Vehicle’s OBD-II Port

1. Locate the on-board diagnostic port, usually found in the driver area, at or below knee level.
   
    
2. Select the correct adaptor for your vehicle type and slide it over the female OBD-II port on the Power Only Y-Cable. Insert the metal ‘C’ clips by hand. To remove the clips, use the tool shown below.
   
    
3. Connect the OEM OBD-II female port to the 16-way male port on the Power Only Y-Cable and secure with cable ties.
   
    
4. Route the AI-14 OBD-II Power Only Cable (Molex plug) from the vehicle’s OBD-II port to the dashcam’s mounting area. Ensure the connected Molex plug remains accessible for future maintenance.
    
5. Temporarily connect the female Molex plug on the Power Only Cable to the male Molex plug on the dashcam. 
   • Do not route the Molex plug behind panels at this stage. The temporary connection is for validating the mounting position. 
     
      
6. Route the power cable to avoid all SRS (Supplemental Restraint System) components, including airbags. Secure with cable ties every 30 cm (12 in) along its length.
   
    
7. Route the cable away from sharp edges and moving parts. Do not route cables where they could be pinched, such as in door jambs or check straps.
    
8. Confirm the connected Molex plug is accessible for future maintenance.
    
9. Secure cables with cable ties at regular intervals (every 30 cm / 12 in) so that cables are held firmly in place without sagging. 
   • Do not loop excess cable. Form a flat, elongated bundle shape and secure with cable ties.
     
      
10. Start the vehicle to test the dashcam.
     
11. Validate the dashcam’s mounting location using the Live View function (see Mount the Dashcam).
     
12. Secure all installed components and cable runs. Replace any vehicle panels that were removed.
     
13. Complete the installation and test all components.