Using USB to power camera

[vancanman]

I just bought a DVR207 GS. I have not yet mounted it in the car but am testing it in the house. In order to power it I am using a USB power supply. However, it will not function while the USB cable is plugged in. It will not record nor will it play back. I have it in motion detect mode and focussed on my front door (it's just a test). It will only work from the battery and with the USB cable unplugged. It is unclear from the instructions whether or not this is normal - i.e. that the USB can only CHARGE the Li-Ion battery and not be used to permanently power it. Since I have USB power connections in my car this would be my preferred method though I can live with using the 12V lighter socket - it just means dangling cables rather than a more tidy installation.

 

[Nighthawk]

I have tested a DVR-207 with a 5 Volt USB-charger connected to the round
connector (where the 12 Volt charger/power supply normally goes). No problems
at all, the details are in the FAQ. Using the USB connector on the DVR for
powering normal recording is something I have not tested. Maybe it's not
designed to work that way. Many GPS units will show up as external memory
if you connect them to a computer but work normally if connected to a
charger or power pack. The difference is if the two middle pins of the USB
connector are connected or not.