Back-up Camera-Latest thoughts

bluedog225 · 05-09-2009, 11:01 AM

Hi all

I am preparing to purchase this back-up camera:

http://www.amazon.com/VR3-Wireless-Back ... roduct_top

Does anyone have a better recommendation or a warning to stay away from this product? I have read lot's of posts on the subject but wanted to check the latest thinking (and I'm really getting tired of all the research associated with all the mods customizing my new van is requiring...

I'm willing to pay more for a good clear image and possible a GPS option. I don't know if it is a good idea to mix up the two functions. I plan on having the rear view on all the time as I prefer to be aware of what is going on behind me.

Thanks in advance.

Tom

NRL · 05-09-2009, 11:26 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by bluedog225

Hi all

I am preparing to purchase this back-up camera:

http://www.amazon.com/VR3-Wireless-Back ... roduct_top

Does anyone have a better recommendation or a warning to stay away from this product? I have read lot's of posts on the subject but wanted to check the latest thinking (and I'm really getting tired of all the research associated with all the mods customizing my new van is requiring...

I'm willing to pay more for a good clear image and possible a GPS option. I don't know if it is a good idea to mix up the two functions. I plan on having the rear view on all the time as I prefer to be aware of what is going on behind me.

Thanks in advance.

Tom

I used both versions of the Boyo camera and bought off of ebay a rearview mirror 7 inch monitor combo with two inputs. Its been sweet.
I seldom use the front camera but that's also hooked up to my security system motion sensing dvr and is on all the time. The back boyo has been good for 2 years holding up to weather and car washes.
Boyo has two or three types of camera so depending on if you want a full license plate version or not. I wanted a good wide camera view with good resolution.
I keep the gps seperate and use a fujitsu stylistic tablet for gps navigation.
I thing I paid 175 for the 7 inch monitor/ rear view mirror and 100 for each of the Boyo cameras.

jage · 05-09-2009, 06:25 PM

I've heard the wireless cameras are garbage (quality & resolution) and that many people return them for wired versions- is boyo the exception or is this just hogwash?

neeemo · 05-09-2009, 08:29 PM

I have a wireless Audiovox and the reception is not great, but it's usable. I figure there's 9000 lbs of steel between the camera and receiver which blocks the signal. Works better with the rear doors open.

Tom

cellularSTEVE · 05-10-2009, 12:56 AM

I very much like my hardwired Pioneer Camera (rear) connected to my Alpine deck which has a 6" screen. i have it on at all times and it is so helpful when lane changing, parking, seeing tailgaters.

My front camera is not so good but I only use if for parking and rock crawling. I can't remember the name but if you do a search i may have posted something previously.
steve

**BroncoHauler** · 05-10-2009, 10:59 AM

I have a SMBw installed backup camera, and I also have a Costco wireless camera.

The Costco camera I only use for hooking up my trailer. The camera is installed on the Aluminess rear bumper, which has a slight downward angle. That, coupled with the wide angle lens, limits it's usefulness. That's why I only use it for hooking up the trailer, for which it's perfect. I do get some interference on the screen.

The SMBw installed camera uses the much larger AV system display, is color, and does not have nearly the fish-eye distortion of the wireless camera. Based on it's installed location (upper, inner rear window frame) it is not very useful for hooking up the trailer, but it is GREAT for seeing what's behind you when backing up.

Herb

NRL · 05-11-2009, 05:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jage

I've heard the wireless cameras are garbage (quality & resolution) and that many people return them for wired versions- is boyo the exception or is this just hogwash?

The Boyo Cameras I got where the license plate versions (not wireless). VTL300 in back and VTL, and VTL420 in Front.

They do have wireless cameras also. I personally didn't go with the wireless and ran the wires since I wanted the best picture possible with no wireless interference.

The new wireless versions look intriguing though:
Here is Boyo's website: http://www.boyovta.com/products/index.html

Scalf77 · 05-11-2009, 05:50 PM

I purchased a hard wired camera here:
http://www.rockyamericas.com/usa/produc ... a_086.html.

It is a great camera and the night vision infrared works very well. A added plus to this camera, is you have a jumper for mirrored or non-mirrored setting.

Greg

bluedog225 · 05-24-2009, 02:14 PM

Thanks for all the input. I have to go with this one:

CCD Color EXTRA Heavy Duty Commercial Grade Night Vision Infrared Wide View Angle Vehicle Rear View Backup Camera (Model Number: CW134086CI, CW134086CAI (audio model)).

That's the best title for a product I have seen for a while. Everything but Xray and cutting laser.

Now I need to find a stereo. I'm from the era when 8 tracks were an expensive addition. Now they don't even call them stereos. They are "head units." Single or double "din." Huh? Can I get an MP1? I really don't need 3......

Who's in charge? I want to file a complaint.

Greg In Austin · 05-24-2009, 03:11 PM

This was a big decision for us too during our build, BUT I have found that I hardly use it. I bet I don't use it 5% of the time when backing up. It has definitely come in handy, don't get me wrong.
Ours (front and rear) are license plate frame mounted wired cameras and the monitor is hidden under the driver's visor.

AND, as the wife drives more, she may want/need to use it more often.