QuestionI would like to permanently wire my USB charger (cigarette lighter type, 12V to 5VDC output), which will keep my dash camera's battery constantly charged (it is a miniature keychain camera mounted with velcro in front of the driver side visor). I have the camera installed and working, except for the power source going to its usb port.
The problem I have encountered is that the cigarette lighter output does not shut off with the vehicle's ignition, nor does it shut off with the Retained Accessory Power after 10 minutes. I do not want the camera to drain the vehicle's battery when I am parked. The 10 minute time out on RAP would be sufficient as the camera does not draw much power.
I would like to keep it as simple as possible and ideally I want to power the 12v->5v USB adapter from a RAP source. I do not have access to wiring diagrams for the vehicle, so I would like to know where I can safely connect to the RAP output, preferrably without cutting any wires or taking apart too much of the dashboard.
Thank you.
AnswerHi Matthew,
I have this exact setup in my car. But it is on a constant circuit and powered 24h/day. A dash camera draws so little power, it's highly unlikely it'd drain your car battery unless it was left sitting for in excess of a week.
That said, I don't have any wiring diagrams for an '03 Montana, but I can tell you is it's very easy to find a wire you're looking for. Just get a multi meter/DC Voltmeter, and find a wire that has 12V to ground when the car is on, and 0V when it's off.
Good places to look are near the moonroof controls if you have one, the overhead light circuit, any power accessories in your rear view mirror, etc.
Justin
