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Topic: Wireless backup cameras. (Read 304 times) previous topic - next topic
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Wireless backup cameras.
The backup camera in my 2002 LD is ridiculous.
The tiny screen is located in the driver's visor.
I would like to upgrade this system without the hassle of rewiring.

Does anyone have a wireless camera? If so what are your thoughts?
Thanks,
Mark
2002 30' IB


Re: Wireless backup cameras.
Reply #2
In '02 LD did not come with a backup camera, so the previous owner apparently had it installed. If the system is wired, it may be possible to upgrade just the components. Where is your camera located, and does it have night-vision? What size is your screen? Color in daylight? Anyway, a good wired system will always have fewer issues than a comparable wireless one.

Steve
2004 FL
2013 Honda Fit

Re: Wireless backup cameras.
Reply #3
I tried this but couldn't find the answer I was looking for.

Thanks,
Mark
2002 30' IB

Re: Wireless backup cameras.
Reply #4
[quote ]
In '02 LD did not come with a backup camera, so the previous owner apparently had it installed.
[/quote]
Backup cameras were available in 2002.
We ordered our 2003 LD in early 2002 and I remember looking at LD's poor excuse of a camera then, as a possible option.
The monitor in the sun visor was just about worthless to my older eyes. I could not focus on the monitor, it was hard to tilt my head back far enough to use the 'reader' part of my glasses, to focus on the monitor.
This option was made for young eyes, not aging ones. Not too bright when you consider 95% of new LD buyers are older folks.
It must have come about before Steve's eyes develop the typical aging problem.
The camera wasn't any special either, compared to today's vastly improved cameras.

You should check to see what type of cable and end plugs are used on the Factory camera and try to match a new system to the old wire. I have ended up running new cable in most of the conversions from the Factory to an aftermarket camera and monitor.

Larry
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: Wireless backup cameras.
Reply #5
Wired is better.  Higher-definition is better, too.  Multi-camera options on larger monitors are best.  Two-way audio can be a blessing or a curse, depending of whether you're blessing or cursing the recipient.  :)  GPS display integration is good if you also need a new, bigger GPS -- but you might be constricted to proprietary cameras which will cost more.

If your existing system is wired, chances are good it uses a coaxial cable for the video, and either a separate power cable (sometimes hooked to backup lights) or it has power superimposed on the video cable.  Separate power makes it easy to re-use the video cable for other cameras, although you might need to use adaptors or new connectors.  Running a new cable isn't terrible, because there are so many access holes for various things underneath the coach.  Easy to find something to slide in beside and re-seal, and things to tie-off the cable underneath. 

To improve wireless, look at the path it takes from camera/transmitter to display/receiver.  If that path is thru aluminum skin, steel license plate, sheet steel coach flooring, frame, and various vehicle bits, decent reception is far from a given.  But that same camera/transmitter may work fine if shooting thru glass and air from a higher vantage point.  You might get a more informative view if centered high rather than the poor positioning of mine (for example) at the top of the offset license plate. 

None of this will fix display size, though.

Chip
2000 Front Lounge

Re: Wireless backup cameras.
Reply #6
Wired is better.  Higher-definition is better, too.  Multi-camera options on larger monitors are best.
If you can use the existing cable, with or without adaptors, I would suggest using a system like the one below.
It's what I have been using the last few years. It's a decent and dependable infrared camera and monitor.
Amazon.com : Rear View Safety Backup Camera System with 7" Display (Black)...

Replacing the cable is a good size job, the original cable will be abandoned and a new cable installed.
A better installation job takes several hours just to run the cable, assuming it is protected, wrapped in-split plastic and tied off, done in a similar way to LD's methods.
It's real easy to do a slop job and be done in a couple hours, it's all a matter of time and money, if you are paying for labor. 
You get what you pay for.

Each floorpan has one or more potential pathways, running either inside the coach or outside, under floor or a combination of the two. Running under the floor can be the easiest pathway in some floorpans, have the cable enter the cab under and through the plastic drivers side door's step.
LD wiring | Flickr

Larry
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Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze