The term "24/7" is often used to suggest around-the-clock performance, but when it comes to dashcams, it can be misleading. Many users assume that a dashcam will remain active continuously, even when the car is parked and left unused for days. However, dashcams require power, and once the power source—either your car’s battery or a dedicated dashcam battery—depletes, the dashcam will shut down.
Unlike home devices that are plugged into a constant power source, dashcams rely on mobile power solutions when the engine is off. This is where the confusion often arises. Rather than using the term "24/7," which can imply continuous operation, the more accurate term for dashcams is "parking mode."
Parking mode refers to the dashcam's ability to monitor your vehicle while it’s parked, typically by recording only when motion or impact is detected. This mode allows the dashcam to function when the engine is off, but it still depends on an external power source, such as your car battery or a dedicated dashcam battery. However, even in parking mode, the dashcam will eventually shut down once the power source depletes.
Why Relying on Your Car Battery Isn’t Ideal?
Car batteries aren’t designed to handle the continuous, deep discharge required for parking mode. Prolonged use of your car battery to power a dashcam can significantly impact its performance and lifespan, potentially leaving you unable to start your vehicle or causing dashboard errors.
This is why dedicated dashcam batteries, like Cellink NEO batteries, are essential for maintaining reliable parking mode coverage without draining your car’s battery. A properly charged Cellink NEO battery can keep your dashcam operational for many hours after you’ve parked, depending on the dashcam’s power consumption.
How Long Can a Dashcam Really Last in Parking Mode?
This highlights the importance of understanding that "24/7" does not mean endless operation but rather extended coverage when paired with the right mobile power solution.
To better understand how long your dashcam can last in parking mode, let’s break down an example calculation:
Cellink NEO 8+S has a battery capacity of 96WH (Watt-hours).
If you’re using a typical dual-channel Full HD dashcam that consumes 3W, the formula to calculate the duration is:
Battery Capacity (WH) / Dashcam Power Consumption (W) = Operating Hours
So for the 96WH Cellink NEO 8:
96 WH / 3 W = 32 hours
This means your dashcam can run for up to 32 hours in parking mode on a fully charged battery.
If you're using a 4K dual-channel dashcam, which typically requires higher power for image processing, let’s assume it consumes around 5W. In that case, the calculation would be:
96 WH / 5 W = 19.2 hours
So, the 4K dashcam would last for approximately 19 hours in parking mode on thsi example.
Some dashcams also offer a low power mode, which conserves energy by only recording when an impact is detected, rather than continuously monitoring for motion. In this mode, the dashcam can last even longer, but it’s important to note that motion detection will be disabled, and only impact-triggered events will be recorded.
Charging Time and Practicality
Another key factor to consider is the charging time for your dashcam battery. For example, the Cellink NEO 8 can be fully charged in 50 minutes. If you need longer recording durations, you can extend the capacity by adding a NEO 7+, which will roughly double the total recording time. However, this also means the charging time will be doubled as well.
It’s important to note that Cellink batteries charge while your car is being driven. If you only drive for short periods each day, expanding your Cellink NEO capacity may not be the most practical solution. A larger battery setup will require more driving time to recharge fully. The Importance of Quality, Reliability, and Safety in Choosing a Dashcam Battery
The Cellink NEO series is highly trusted by leading car brands in Singapore, including BYD, Hyundai, Kia, Citroen, Peugeot, Maserati, Lexus, and Toyota. With advanced safety features, Cellink ensures that your dashcam operates securely without risking damage to your vehicle’s battery. The 18-month warranty further reflects the brand’s commitment to safety and reliability, providing you with peace of mind.
One of the reasons Cellink stands out in safety is its use of premium quality Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4), which is considered one of the safest materials among lithium batteries. This battery chemistry offers enhanced thermal and chemical stability, making it ideal for automotive applications. Additionally, Cellink’s expertise in R&D and its advanced battery management and charging control systems ensure safe and precise charging, further protecting both your dashcam and vehicle.
Since its launch in 2013, Cellink batteries, well made in the Republic of Korea, have built a reputation for high performance and rigorous safety standards. Whether you need your dashcam to run for a few hours or all day, Cellink’s proven track record makes it the top choice for those who value quality, safety, and reliability.
Conclusion: Keep Your Dashcam Running When It Matters
While "24/7" may sound appealing, it’s essential to understand the reality behind the term. Your dashcam will not run indefinitely, and it will shut down when its power source—whether your car’s battery or an external dashcam battery—runs out.
Investing in a high-quality external battery, such as Cellink NEO, ensures that your dashcam can provide reliable protection while parked without draining your car’s battery. With Cellink NEO, you can confidently extend your dashcam's parking mode and safeguard your vehicle when it’s left unattended.
Learn more about Cellink NEO batteries here.
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