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Power/Charging Issues with the Garmin Catalyst or Remote Cam

See the Troubleshooting Steps Below if you are Having Charging or Power Issues With the Garmin Catalyst™ Performance Optimizer or Remote Cam.


If your Garmin Catalyst Loses Power when the Remote Cam is Connected:

  • Have your vehicle tested to find the level of voltage reaching the Garmin Catalyst while both devices are in use.

  • The Garmin Catalyst and Remote Cam require a range of power between 10-30V.

    • The Garmin Catalyst may show it is no longer charging if the power level drops below this range.

    • The Garmin Catalyst or Remote Cam may also turn off if the power level drops below this range.


If your Remote Cam will Not Power On:

  • Unplug the camera from the USB port in the magnetic mount, shut down and restart the Garmin Catalyst, and plug the Remote Cam back in once startup is complete. 

  • Make sure the Garmin-supplied cables, mounts, and power adapters are being used.

  • Ensure the camera cable (longer 11.5 foot cable) is plugged into the USB port on the magnetic mount.

    • Avoid plugging the camera cable into a USB port in the vehicle or another device.

    • The shorter cable is only for data transfer on a computer.


Ensure you are Using the Cables Included with the Device

  • Third-party cables will not charge the device properly or provide power to the Remote Cam.

Avoid Using a Splitter or Charging Accessory

  • The vehicle power adapter must be plugged directly into a 12V outlet.

  • Professional installation is recommended if using the Bare Wire Power Adapter.

    • The Bare Wire Power Adapter is compatible with 12V and 24V systems.


Avoid Using Third-Party Accessories or 3D Printed Mounts


Mount the Device with Distance Between the Unit and Dash when Using the Suction Cup

  • This will prevent vibration from the dash causing power and connection disruption.

  • See the Owner's Manual or video below for instructions to mount the Garmin Catalyst.

  • The Screw-Down Ball Mount can be used to mount the device on the dashboard.


Perform a Soft Reset if the Garmin Catalyst will Not Power On

  1. Ensure the Garmin Catalyst is properly connected to power in the vehicle.
  2. Press and hold the power button and slowly count to 20.
  3. The Garmin Catalyst should now turn on.

Ensure the Device Software is Up-to-Date


The Device may Not Charge Properly if the Vehicle is Outside the Charging Temperature Range

  • The charging temperature range is from 0° to 45°C (32° to 113°F).

If the Remote Cam will not power on after the above troubleshooting steps, contact Product Support


See the Video Below for More Information about Properly Powering and Charging the Device.