Advanced Vehicle Voltage Detection Feature Guide

A guide to the Advanced Vehicle Voltage Detection feature of the DV6

The Advanced Vehicle Voltage Detection feature of the Rosco DV6 camera allows for a simplified installation, enabling the camera to connect to the vehicle using only the PWR (power) and GND (ground) wires. This functionality eliminates the need for the IGN (ignition) wire connection, provided that the camera is operating with firmware version 2.7.0 or higher.

This innovative feature is designed to improve the overall functionality of the device while making installation more straightforward. By leveraging vehicle voltage detection through the Microcontroller Unit (MCU), the camera can automatically power on and off without needing to connect to the ignition wire in most situations. This advancement not only shortens the installation time but also simplifies the process, particularly when technicians encounter difficulties in identifying the correct ignition wire within a vehicle. 

Key Features

1. Elimination of IGN Wire Requirements 

Simplified Installation: 

The traditional power harness options offered by Rosco include the DV673 (Hard-wiring harness), DV665 (J1939 harness), and DV672 (OBD-II harness). Previously, each of these harnesses required an ignition (Yellow) wire to activate the device when the vehicle was in operation. However, with the introduction of the new firmware, this reliance on the ignition wire has been significantly reduced, streamlining installation and enhancing usability.

Time Efficiency

Removing the ignition wire requirement accelerates the installation process and minimizes the chances of wiring errors.

2. Vehicle Voltage Detection 

Automatic Activation:

The device actively tracks voltage levels to determine the vehicle's operational status. When the ignition is switched on, a rise in voltage signals the device to power up. Conversely, a drop in voltage when the ignition is off triggers the device to shut down. Even in cases where the ignition wire is not connected, the DV6 will still activate with the ignition on and will smoothly transition to using voltage detection for parking mode.

The voltage thresholds that determine the switch between parking and driving modes in standard 12V and 24V vehicles, even when the ignition wire is not connected, are defined as follows:

Battery Type Voltage Transition
12V Below 13.1V Driving → Parking
12V Above 13.2V Parking → Driving
24V Below 26.2V Driving → Parking
24V Above 26.4V Parking → Driving

MCU Integration: 

This feature utilizes the Microcontroller Unit (MCU) to precisely monitor voltage fluctuations, thereby improving the device's overall reliability.

3. Priority RPM Detection 

Enhanced Accuracy: 

The detection of RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) is prioritized over voltage fluctuations, ensuring that the device remains operational while the vehicle is in motion.

Consistent Performance: 

By prioritizing RPM detection, the device remains operational even during brief voltage fluctuations, preventing any unintended shutdowns.

Note: It is important to note that the Advanced Vehicle Voltage Detection feature is particularly beneficial when utilizing the DV665 (OBD-II) or DV672 (J1939) harnesses during the installation of the DV6. This configuration enables the device to leverage RPM detection through CAN data, enhancing its performance and reliability.

Special Considerations

1. Dual-Mode Charging Systems

Vehicle Compatibility:

Some vehicles, particularly certain Honda models equipped with dual mode charging systems, may experience limitations in the optimal performance of the voltage detection feature.

Hardwire Ignition Necessity: 

In such instances, it is essential to maintain a hardwired ignition connection to guarantee the proper functioning of the device.

2. Continuous High Voltage Power Source for Non-Standard Voltage Vehicles

Potential Interference:

Connecting the device to a power source that consistently supplies more than 13.2V may interfere with the ignition detection process, even if the device is hardwired.

Required Manual Configuration:

In these situations, it is necessary to manually adjust the Ignition Switch Settings within the device's configuration. This will remain a requirement until this option is integrated into the profile menu on RoscoLive.

Installation Guidelines

1. Standard Installation

  • Ensure that your DV6 device firmware is updated to version 2.7.0 or higher, along with the Microcontroller Unit (MCU) version 89 or above.
  • Omit the ignition wire connection from DV6 system.
  • Connect the power harness by linking only the PWR (power) and GND (ground) wires.
  • The device will automatically activate using its voltage detection capabilities.

2. Special Case Installation

  • For vehicles equipped with dual mode charging systems or those that operate on non-standard voltage levels, it is essential to connect the ignition wire following traditional installation methods to ensure proper functionality.
  • For any adjustments to the Ignition Switch Settings in the device configuration, please reach out to the Rosco support team for assistance.

Note: Future updates to RoscoLive, scheduled for release in the second quarter of 2025, will include the addition of Ignition Switch Settings directly within the profile menu of RoscoLive. This enhancement will streamline the manual configuration process for vehicles that require special considerations.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Advanced Vehicle Voltage Detection feature is designed to enhance efficiency and usability for both installers and end-users, ensuring that our devices function smoothly across a diverse array of vehicle types.

Important Note:

It is important to note that although the procedures for omitting the ignition wire have been validated in numerous scenarios, the varying voltage outputs and types of vehicles may lead to different results. Therefore, we recommend conducting a trial of this new procedure on a single vehicle prior to implementing it across your entire fleet.