[CanadianDriver]

moved from technical forum:

I hope someone can share their experience / suggestions.

Project: Install a BlackVue DR400-G dash cam. Use motion detection recording while parked.
Objective: Run the dashcam daily without the battery going flat.
Possible solution: Trickle charge the battery using solar panel (no access to 110V outlet)

Hookup-up: BMW cigarette lighter ports are switched OFF by default after removing the key. If I hookup the solar panel to the "factory battery charging connector", does anyone know if this setup would work?

Solar panel: http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/brows....jsp?locale=en


photo credit @eldudo: "factory battery charging connector"

[ctuna]

Hook up to the obd 2 port its not switched . About the most you can get is
a 15 watt panel that lays across the entire dash.

[mike3000fl]

i thought that connector was for a remote disconnect, not for charging. pretty sure the other end is sitting under the rear passenger seat.

[CanadianDriver]

Originally Posted by mike3000fl

i thought that connector was for a remote disconnect, not for charging. pretty sure the other end is sitting under the rear passenger seat.

thanks mike. this route is a dead end for me then. incidentally, i found a photo of what connects to that plug prior to pdi:

Originally Posted by ctuna

Hook up to the obd 2 port its not switched . About the most you can get is
a 15 watt panel that lays across the entire dash.

thanks ctuna. seems like my only option for now. although, it would be better if the solar panel can be placed under the rear windshield so i can just set it there and forget it, and it's hooked up somewhere in the trunk area instead of OBD2 port... wishful thinking

i found a 15W solar panel and according to posts i've read, i would need a solar panel controller... this is getting more and more complicated.