Wireless Rear View Camera Installation
For those of you who might be considering purchase of a wireless backup camera, I offer this installation example.
My original Audit system still functions perfectly, except for the rear view camera. Tank levels all work, compass, clock, outside temp, altimeter, barometer...everything works except the camera. When in "backup camera mode", I don't like the factory position for the Audit monitor, because my steering wheel blocks the screen, and it is at a bad angle and hard to see when driving. SO, I needed a useable rear view camera system, but did not want to replace the Audit monitor and it's secondary functions, or cover up the Audit screen with a stuck-on LCD screen.
Stand-alone backup cam systems can be wired or wireless. I have followed all the forum discussions on this subject - I have contacted RV Cams and got a bid on their replacement kit. I am fully aware of the pros and cons of each type of system. I decided to go wireless for the following reasons:
1. Versatility. The camera can go anywhere, and the monitor can go anywhere. You are not constrained by trying to use the existing video cable.
2. Ease of installation. Basically, all you need is a power supply at each end. Connect the power, turn it on, you're good to go!
3. Simplicity. I like the whole concept of "wireless" technology - less hardware, less hassle. I know there are limitations, but it is getting better all the time.
Wireless systems are available from many vendors. Most wireless cams have the transmitter built into the camera. (See the Voyager system sold by RV Cams, for instance) With this design, the camera antenna is outside the vehicle, and must penetrate the rear wall to connect with the receiver. The system I purchased (from Tadi Brothers) uses a camera, a monitor, and separate transmitter and receiver modules. There are several benefits to this system. The transmitter (antenna) is located INSIDE the vehicle, where it is out of the weather and has a clear shot at the receiver. You can use any camera or monitor you wish...upgrades are easy. If the wireless option doesn't work out, you could easily convert to a wired video camera system by simply unplugging the transmitter and receiver modules, and connecting the existing cable.
For my installation, I chose a HD CCD camera with 120 degree viewing angle, and a 10.5" color monitor (old eyes need a big screen). I decided to mount the monitor on the overhead panel, in the same position where a "rear view mirror" would normally be located. This is the natural place for me to look when backing up. The receiver unit was mounted on a plate which also serves to cover up the hole left by a previously removed CB radio speaker (CB is no longer used). I put a switch on the plate that controls power to both the receiver and the monitor. A red led on the receiver indicates "power on".
The camera is mounted on a aluminum plate, which covers the hole left by removal of the old camera. The transmitter is mounted to the inside of the center over-the-bed cabinet. In that position, I can see the red led power-on light, and the antenna has a perfect line-of-sight shot at the receiver antenna. The only thing standing between the two antennas is one tambour door! I used the existing 12 volt power wire, so the new camera/transmitter is turned on/off by the "MONITOR" switch on the dash. This switch also turns on the Audit monitor, but since it no longer gets a video feed, I just put the "SELECT" switch in the center position and the Audit screen is blank.
This system can be left on continuously without harm, so will be used at all times when driving. The color and definition are excellent (better than it looks in my photos). The "range" marks on the screen are selectable "ON/OFF". In the photos below, the railroad tie is 5' behind the coach, and the other pieces of wood are at 10' and 15'. I think the distance reference marks will be useful, but will decide for sure after I do some test drives.
Topic: Wireless Rear View Camera Installation