What To Know
- Prepare a microfiber cloth and a cleaning solution (like alcohol wipes) to clean the camera lenses and mounting surfaces.
- A common and effective position, allowing the camera to capture a wide field of view.
- Ensure the rear camera has a clear view of the road behind you, avoiding obstructions like rear window tint or cargo.
Are you ready to take your driving safety and peace of mind to the next level? The Garmin Dash Cam Tandem, with its dual-lens design, provides comprehensive front and rear-facing coverage, capturing every detail of your journey. But before you hit the road with this powerful tool, you need to know how to install it correctly. This guide will walk you through the installation process, step-by-step, ensuring a smooth and successful setup.
Before You Begin: Essential Preparations
Before diving into the installation, it’s crucial to gather the necessary materials and prepare your vehicle. Here’s a checklist:
- Garmin Dash Cam Tandem: Ensure you have the complete kit, including the front and rear cameras, power cable, mounting accessories, and user manual.
- Vehicle Power Source: Identify a suitable power source in your vehicle. Most Garmin Dash Cams use a 12V power outlet, but some models may require hardwiring.
- Cleaning Supplies: Prepare a microfiber cloth and a cleaning solution (like alcohol wipes) to clean the camera lenses and mounting surfaces.
- Patience and Attention to Detail: Installation requires careful consideration and a methodical approach. Take your time and follow the instructions closely.
Step 1: Choosing the Optimal Installation Location
The placement of your dash cam is critical for optimal recording. Here’s a breakdown of the best locations for the front and rear cameras:
- Front Camera:
- Behind the Rearview Mirror: A common and effective position, allowing the camera to capture a wide field of view.
- On the Windshield: Near the top center of the windshield, ensuring a clear view of the road ahead.
- Avoid Obstructions: Ensure the camera is not obstructed by any objects, such as the rearview mirror, sunshade, or dashboard accessories.
- Rear Camera:
- Rear Window: Position the camera near the top center of the rear window for optimal visibility behind your vehicle.
- License Plate Frame: Some models offer a license plate mount, ensuring the camera captures the view behind your car.
- Consider Visibility: Ensure the rear camera has a clear view of the road behind you, avoiding obstructions like rear window tint or cargo.
Step 2: Mounting the Front Camera
1. Clean the Mounting Surface: Thoroughly clean the chosen location on your windshield or dashboard with the provided cleaning solution and microfiber cloth.
2. Attach the Mounting Bracket: Apply the adhesive pad to the mounting bracket. For suction cup mounts, ensure the suction cup is clean and free of debris.
3. Secure the Front Camera: Carefully attach the front camera to the mounting bracket, ensuring a secure connection.
Step 3: Routing the Power Cable
1. Choose a Power Source: Select the appropriate power source for your vehicle, whether it’s a 12V outlet or hardwiring.
2. Route the Cable: Carefully guide the power cable along the roofline or dashboard, avoiding any sharp edges or areas that may damage the cable.
3. Conceal the Cable: Use the included cable clips or zip ties to secure the cable and minimize its visibility.
Step 4: Mounting the Rear Camera
1. Clean the Mounting Surface: Thoroughly clean the chosen location on your rear window or license plate frame with the cleaning solution and microfiber cloth.
2. Attach the Mounting Bracket: Apply the adhesive pad to the mounting bracket or use the license plate mount if provided.
3. Secure the Rear Camera: Carefully attach the rear camera to the mounting bracket, ensuring a secure connection.
Step 5: Connecting the Cameras to the Power Cable
1. Connect the Front Camera: Plug the front camera cable into the power cable connector.
2. Connect the Rear Camera: Plug the rear camera cable into the power cable connector.
3. Connect the Power Cable: Plug the power cable into the chosen power source in your vehicle.
Step 6: Setting Up Your Garmin Dash Cam Tandem
1. Power On: Turn on your Garmin Dash Cam Tandem by pressing the power button.
2. Follow the On-Screen Instructions: The camera will guide you through initial setup, including language selection, time and date settings, and other preferences.
3. Adjust Camera Settings: Use the camera’s menu to customize settings like recording resolution, video quality, and parking mode.
Step 7: Test and Finalize the Installation
1. Test Recording: Start recording to ensure both cameras are capturing footage correctly.
2. Adjust Camera Angles: If needed, slightly adjust the camera angles to optimize the field of view.
3. Secure All Connections: Double-check all connections and ensure the cameras and power cable are securely fastened.
Taking the Road: Enjoying the Benefits of Your Garmin Dash Cam Tandem
With your Garmin Dash Cam Tandem installed, you can now enjoy the benefits of comprehensive road safety and peace of mind. Here’s what you can expect:
- Uninterrupted Recording: The dual-lens system captures both the front and rear views of your vehicle, providing a complete record of your journey.
- Enhanced Safety: The dash cam acts as a “witness” in case of accidents, providing crucial evidence to support your claims.
- Parking Mode: Many Garmin Dash Cam Tandem models offer parking mode, which continuously records while your car is parked, protecting your vehicle from potential incidents.
- GPS Tracking: Some models include GPS tracking, providing location data and speed information.
Beyond the Installation: Tips for Optimal Usage
- Regularly Review Footage: Periodically check your recorded footage to ensure everything is working correctly.
- Format Memory Card: Format your memory card regularly to ensure optimal performance.
- Keep the Lenses Clean: Regularly clean the camera lenses with a microfiber cloth to maintain clear visibility.
- Update Firmware: Check for firmware updates to enhance features and address any known issues.
What You Need to Learn
Q: How do I access the recorded footage?
A: You can access the recorded footage by connecting your Garmin Dash Cam Tandem to your computer via USB cable. The footage is usually stored in a dedicated folder on the memory card.
Q: How long does the battery last?
A: The Garmin Dash Cam Tandem does not have a battery. It relies on a constant power supply from your vehicle’s power source.
Q: Can I use the dash cam in different vehicles?
A: Yes, you can easily transfer the Garmin Dash Cam Tandem to another vehicle. Simply disconnect the power cable and remove the cameras from their mounting brackets.
Q: What is parking mode?
A: Parking mode is a feature that allows the dash cam to continuously record while your vehicle is parked. It can be activated by motion detection or by using a dedicated parking mode kit.
Q: What are the legal considerations for using a dash cam?
A: The legality of using a dash cam varies by location. It’s important to research local laws and regulations before using a dash cam.
