The dashboard mount is a mounting option for the Motive AI Dashcam when the windshield mount is not being used, and it is intended for light-duty vehicles. This guide walks you through installing your Motive AI Dashcam using the optional Dashboard Mount, testing it, and ensuring it is functioning properly.
Installation notices
- Vehicle Modification: The Dashboard Mount requires a backplate to be installed under the dashboard surface and bolts drilled into the dashboard. Ensure the customer consents to drilling into the dashboard before proceeding.
- Safety Equipment: Do not install the Dashboard Mount over any airbags or other safety equipment. Installing the mount on top of safety equipment could lead to injury in the event of a collision.
What comes in the box?
- RAM U-bolt (RAM-B-231ZU) with plastic pad
- Size-B RAM ball mount (RAP-B-379U)
- RAM socket arm (RAM-B-201U)
- Niceyrig Flush Mount
Installing the dashboard mount
- Locate a mostly flat area of the dashboard that is at least 2 inches in diameter and provides an optimal view.
- Ensure the baseplate is on the center-right side of the dashboard and outside of the driver’s immediate forward view.
| Note: The camera bracket will shift the camera’s placement a couple of inches to the left of the mount. |
- Ensure the mount is near the front of the dashboard, away from the windshield, to maintain a clear view of the driver from the waist up.
- Access the underside of the dashboard near the mounting location identified above.
- You may be able to easily gain access by removing the radio/headunit, HVAC vents, front fascia, or a tray/cover on top of the dashboard.
- Ensure there are no components directly below the mounting location.
- Drill 4¼-inch holes in the dashboard using the pattern on the size-B RAM baseplate (RAM-B-347) to mark the holes.
- Cut and remove the corners of the adhesive under the baseplate to open the screw holes.
- Wipe down the dashboard using the included alcohol wipe to ensure optimal adhesion.
- Peel the adhesive protector from the baseplate.
- Place the backplate under the dashboard and screw it into the baseplate using the silver screws.
- Remove the standard windshield mount from the back of the Dashcam using the provided Allen key.
- Screw the size-B RAM ball mount (RAP-B-379U) onto the bottom of the camera bracket in the hole furthest from the camera.
- Tighten the mount using a wrench, vice grips, or needle-nose pliers.
- Screw the camera bracket onto the back of the Dashcam.
- Tighten the screw using the Allen key included with the bracket.
- Attach the Dashcam to the baseplate using the medium RAM socket arm (RAM-B-201U).
| Note: Ensure the arm is straight up away from the dashboard to optimize the view. |
- Adjust the Dashcam angle, then firmly tighten the socket arm.
Verifying installation in the Fleet App
After mounting and connecting your dashcam, verify setup using the Motive Fleet App:
- Open the Motive Fleet App
- Go to Devices and select Vehicle Gateway
- Search the Vehicle Gateway serial number and select a Vehicle Gateway
- The details about the selected Vehicle Gateway appear on the screen. Scroll to the Dashcam section and tap the arrow. This shows the images captured by the Dashcam to ensure proper alignment.
- Make necessary adjustments to the Dashcam for clearer images if required. Tap refresh to display the updated images.
Verifying installation in the Driver App
- Log in to the Driver App and tap Logs.
- Tap Current Vehicle.
- Tap Manage dashcam.
- If the camera is detected, it shows a Connected status and gives you the option to take a test image.
- Tap View Images to ensure the camera has a clear view of the driver and road.
- A new screen appears where you can view your images.
- If the Dashcam is dual-facing, you can see both images together.
Correct setup
- The road-facing view should be clear, with the road ahead visible and the sky occupying the top 15-20% of the frame.
- The hood should barely be visible.
- If the mirrors are mounted on the hood, they should be completely visible within the road-facing image.
- If the vehicle does not have a hood, the area immediately in front of the vehicle should be visible.
- There should be no obstructions to the camera such as window tint, wipers, window frames, etc.
- The driver-facing view should show the driver from the top of their head to their lap.
| Note: Partially obstructed views may lead to missed events, such as distracted driving, phone use, and drowsiness. |
Incorrect setup
The road-facing camera does not have a clear view of the area in front of the driver. In the event of an incident, this could limit the critical footage needed for exoneration.
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