Install a Dash Cam

To install a dash cam in your vehicle, follow the detailed workflow below or review the supplemental Dash Cam (CM) Install Guide (PDF) and install video.

Dual-Facing AI Dash Cam

HD Camera Connector

To install a dash cam, you will need:

1. Identify the mounting location and thoroughly clean with the provided wipe. For optimal visibility and to ensure accurate AI Event Detection, position the camera below the rear view mirror and above the windshield sweep. For regional and AI positioning recommendations, see:

   • Dash Cam Position Recommendations for AI Detection

   • Mounting Position Recommendations for Dash Cams (US)

   • Mounting Position Recommendations for Dash Cams (UK)

2. Peel off the protective sheet and firmly press the dash cam against the windshield. Make sure there are no large bubbles between adhesive and glass.

3. Adjust the camera angle so that the camera hangs perfectly vertical, then tighten both screws using the hex key.

4. Run the cable across the top of the windshield and secure it using the cable clips or tuck it under the glass seal around the windshield.

5. Plug the camera into the USB port of the Vehicle Gateway (VG).

   For best results, the cable should not wrap around the gateway or cross the diagnostics cable.

6. After the dash cam is installed in the vehicle and connected to a VG, verify the installation:

   1. Verify that the new dash cam displays in the Samsara dashboard (settings ( ) > Devices > Cameras.

      

   2. To confirm appropriate placement, Test Dash Cam Positioning.

Note

After you complete the dash cam installation, the dash cam may require downtime for the first 24 hours for a firmware upgrade.

To ensure the camera and vehicle gateway are on the newest firmware available, there will be a temporary period of downtime during the installation while the camera upgrades. This downtime is a one-time occurrence; future firmware upgrades happen while the vehicle is not in active use.

Dash Cam Position Recommendations for AI Detection

Before you enable AI event detection, review the AI Detection Recommendations and Best Practices and consider the following recommendations for positioning:

• Ensure the dash cam line of sight to the driver is unobstructed; remove any hanging objects that obscure the driver face, hands, and torso.

• Advise the driver to remove any facial accessories, such as sunglasses or hats.

• Mount the dash cam inside the windshield to prevent glares and refraction blurs.

• Verify the mounting placement and ensure proper placement for AI Detection (see Test Dash Cam Positioning).