Discover the ins and outs of reversing cameras and why you should consider one.
Reversing cameras aren’t anything new, but they can certainly make backing up much less stressful when your view is blocked. While large side mirrors are essential when towing and reversing, a reversing camera provides extra reassurance by covering blind spots. With many newer vehicles, a reversing camera is a standard accessory, but that’s not always the case with RVs and trailers.
Let's dive into the ins and outs of reversing cameras, plus how fitting one as a DIY project can help you reverse confidently, with full visibility of what's behind you.
HARD-WIRED UNITS
These are the reversing cameras built into a vehicle’s factory head unit. While these cameras are available as aftermarket accessories, fitting them can be a bit of a mission. That’s not to say it can’t be done, but you’ll need to set aside a good few hours for running wire and cables under the vehicle’s dash to the tow bar, then more cable snaking underneath your RV or trailer. The system also needs a 12V power supply, fuses and a way to hook everything up between the RV and vehicle. If that’s not a job you’d like to tackle, then getting a professional to do it can be pricey. Not only that, but you’ll end up with a dedicated system that’s only ever going to work with that specific RV and vehicle combo.
WIRELESS UNITS
Wireless reversing cameras have become an increasingly popular option as they’re a costeffective alternative to their hard-wired aftermarket counterparts. Better still, they’re also a quick DIY project. The camera itself is mounted on the rear of the vehicle or RV, while a monitor is located in the cabin and generally attached to the windscreen with a suction cap. Then, depending on which model you purchase, the unit might need to be hooked up to a power source, or simply recharged every now and then (yes, with yet another USB cable).
Another reversing camera option that’s come onto the market utilises an app for the screen rather than a traditional monitor. However, if you’re using it on the open road, you’ll need to make sure your device can pick up the camera’s signal, and that your device is mounted hands-free (so you stay on the right side of the law). You’ll also need to keep it plugged into power to avoid ending up with a flat battery. The catch is that if someone else is driving they’ll either need to use the app on your device, or download the app to their own device and pair it with the camera. This type of monitor system can be pretty handy, but isn’t quite as flexible when compared to having a separate display.
PURCHASE CONSIDERATIONS
There are various brands and models of reversing cameras on the market. Here are six features to consider when making your purchase:
- Display - Choose between using your own device or a separate dash screen (check the display clarity and definition).
- Video - Ensure the video has a minimum of HD1080p with a fast refresh rate to spot obstacles quickly.
- Camera Power Supply - Consider whether you want rechargeable or a unit with an integrated solar panel.
- Camera Angle - Make sure the camera has a minimum of 110 degrees to cover a wide area and eliminate blind spots.
- Signal Strength - Ensure the signal is strong enough to reach from the RV’s rear to the cabin display.
- Night Vision - Look for units that display a clear image in low-light conditions.
THE DIY PROJECT
For our latest project, we went with a wireless reversing camera unit from Oricom. Out of the box, it has a 5-inch colour display with a suction cup mounting bracket and a cig socket cable to power the display. The camera comes with a mounting bracket and solar panels located on either side of the camera for charging. A USB cable is also supplied to supplement the solar input if required.
To fit the camera, attach the bracket to the number plate or another location at the rear of the RV or trailer. Then securely attach the screen to the suction cap mount before mounting onto the windscreen. Finally, connect the power cable from the screen to an accessory cig socket.
The display has an on/off and menu buttons, with a range of additional controls, enabling users to configure and customise reversing settings to their preferences.
