Dashcam, adding a usb power bank

[bobfather]

My dashcam is USB powered and power is via the ignition supply. I'm thinking that, if I were to add a usb power bank in-line, this would keep the camera operating when the ignition is off and replenish its charge when the car is in use. Am I missing something or is it really that simple to have a permanent camera without risking the car battery

[Om]

It should be fairly simple, but bear in mind that some usb powerbanks don't do passthrough charging (charge at the same time as giving power).

This means that when it is being charged it may not power the dashcam, which is not ideal... Others may power what is plugged into them but not charge the powerbank so worth making sure you get a suitable powerbank that does passthrough charging.

[RGG]

Yes,

It's that simple.

Depending on capacity, you don't need a big one, it'll power overnight easily.

Ideal for overnight recording or if it's left out for the day somewhere.

You don't really need to have it being charged in line.

I use a couple and swap them over.

[bobfather]

Cheers for that, I was worried there would be a problem as Google is doing its usual 'No no, you mustn't do that, but I couldn't see any factual argument against doing it other than the blocks can get hot during their charge cycle