Integrated dashcam update...

While I highly promoted the dash cam I installed, the Jabriel from AliExpress, I discovered a serious shortcoming with this device. It shoots great video, but it turns out that unless you disconnect from any current WiFi (including CarPlay) and connect directly to the camera, every video clip it shoots resorts to a Jan 2020 datestamp and filename. And while if you want to watch the front-facing video that you see while you're driving, the review of any video footage is useless as it will take you a week to actually find the video you're looking for when someone cuts you off or smashes your SE. It's been over the time allotted for a return, since it took several weeks just to get the thing to work in the first place. I'm going to replace it with the Fitcamx which is on their website and also on Aliexpress, and they've assured me that theirs doesn't have this limitation. The model "B" fits our cars apparently. I'll update when I get it and replace. $150 isn't nothing, but it's also not obscene. I'll take the loss to get something functional and useful.

 

Ok, very happy to report an update! Despite sending back my Jabriel dash cam (they haven't acknowledged receiving it), I have since received and installed what looks like the same (cosmetically) dash cam as made by FitCamX. It has MUCH improved the physical tech (the sides of the case aren't connected by the camera wire), and it does indeed maintain the date/time for file retrieval. Video footage actually looks better (less fish-eye blurring on the sides), and the camera connects and downloads much more quickly to your phone. I went ahead and got the rear camera as well, and thanks to the plush anthracite headliner easily installed the wire to the back trunk. The camera provides 4k video at the front and 1080p to the back, which is great.

I updated my YT video,

and hope you find this useful. As with all similar cameras, you don't need them until you need them. I hope to never need it, unless I'm showing my daughter what terrible drivers there are around us.

 

It appears to still be available, but it's twice as expensive, a 1080p camera (vs 4k), and sticks on your already very small windshield. It requires wiring to the fuse box, I believe. I don't know why they wouldn't make one that is integrated into the mirror and draws power from the rain sensor, though I guess it's because not all models have that. Anyway, I'm very happy with the discrete appearance and relatively simple installation with the FitCamX.

 

I guess I forgot to mention the camera is powered from the rain sensor in the rearview mirror, and replaces the original mirror housing. If you get only the front cam there are no other wires or installation required, it's a very nice, self-contained package!

 

I just tucked it under the roof liner. You can pry off the anthracite liner to get it all the way under.


Sent from my iPhone using Inside EVs

 

Strange, my YT video stopped working. Here's another link:

 

Yes, model B. I got it from AliExpress here: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005003127829608.html?spm=a2g0o.order_list.0.0.6bed18024Qpzqr

It comes with a wire harness to draw power from the rain sensor, so if your model doesn't have that you'll need the version that wires to the fusebox.

As far as power draw, it's minimal. The camera shuts off after the car's been turned off, turns on with the car turning on.

 

Not distracting at all, barely noticeable



Sent from my iPhone using Inside EVs