Autosport Labs

Is it necessary to connect the 12 V power source or can we just power Race Capture Pro using a power bank (using a USB to mini USB cable). What are the differences between the 2 cases?

Its best to use the 12V power source. The 12V powers a few more additional components on the device when compared to what the USB can power. USB is also limited to 500ma by its standard and our unit needs more watts than what USB can provide power wise to be able to power the cellular antenna.

What are the additional components that can be powered only by using a 12 V power source (other than the cellular antenna)?

What are the additional components that can be powered only by using a 12 V power source (other than the cellular antenna)?

In theory the whole thing could be powered by a 5V USB power source if the USB standard was setup to support more than 500ma in current. However since this hardware doesn't support that we don't recommend powering it exclusively over the USB port. Am curious why you are interested in powering it exclusively via the USB port. In case you were unaware the power source on the rear doesn't necessarily need to be 12V. It accepts anywhere between 5 - 14V and should work just fine so long as your power supply can deliver the needed amps. Depending on the components installed the system can use as much as 10W, but this is uncommon and this is normally much lower. Hope that helps.

Is it safe to use single strand wires to power the RCP...will it produce high current that damages the RCP?

Strand wire should be fine. We use 18 gauge with no issues. I have seen people use 22 gauge and report no issues (but that was at 12v). RCP doesn't pull much power, and when it does its usually for short bursts (like synchronizing 2.5g cell modem with towers).

Thanks

Welcome. Let us know if you have any issues. Happy driving!