Installing a Wired or Wireless RV Backup Camera (The Easy Way)
Anyone who has driven an RV knows that the blind spots in an RV are much larger than in your typical car or SUV. Yet many cars, trucks, SUVs, and vans are coming equipped with backup cameras, while RVs are lagging behind. In fact, all light vehicles sold in the US will have backup technology built in by the year 2018.
This has led to serious demand for aftermarket RV backup cameras. Simply put, a few hundred dollars spent on a backup camera makes driving a vehicle with far more horsepower and blind spots than a normal car much safer to drive. With RV-specific backup cameras, prices range from just a few hundred bucks to the high hundreds for premium models. You can choose from a variety of options that are either wired or wireless.
Installing them these cameras is a different story. Depending on your purchase decision, installing your backup camera can be as simple as connecting a few wires, or it can be a day’s work of planning, prep and installation. We’ll guide you through the basics of installation for both wired and wireless backup cameras to make your setup a breeze.
Installing A Wired RV Backup Camera
Wired backup cameras provide a bright and stable picture, over the long haul, most consider them to be the better deal. An added bonus of wired cameras is that they don’t require their own power source, as wireless cameras do. But they do require a longer installation process than their wireless counterparts.
If you’re able to and comfortable with removing some interior panels of your RV to route wiring, installing a wired RV backup camera may be well worth the hassle. Here’s how it works.
Installation Instructions
First, understand that taking the time to plan a wired installation is critical. You’ll need a power drill, a ¾” drill bit, silicone sealant and an afternoon (about 2 to 4 hours should do).
Your most important decision will come in choosing where you’ll run the 60 foot cable. Be sure the wire won’t encounter any heat sources or pinch points along the way. The cable can travel along the roof or under your RV in split loom tubing. Depending on the design of your RV, it may be easier to run the wire beneath your flooring than around your roof rafters.
Mark the spot where you will mount your camera on the back of your RV and cut the appropriate sized hole. Be careful not to split the fiberglass with your ¾ inch hole. Mount your camera and apply the silicone sealant around the mount so it seals. Snake the cable through your hole and to the front of your RV. The journey to the front of your RV may require that you remove a kick-panel, a seat, or other equipment.
Mount the monitor in a convenient location that won’t block your line of sight while driving. Above the rear view mirror on the dash is the most common location. Attach the cable to the monitor and you’re ready to go!
(Source: RV 101)
Installing a Wireless RV Backup Camera
Wireless cameras are available in two formats: digital and analog. Analog cameras are generally more affordable, but their signals aren’t as strong as digital cameras. Because they share frequencies with other analog devices, their signals can be interfered with, too. Digital wireless backup cameras are the premium option, as their picture quality is better, and signal interference is less common. Keep in mind that whether you have an analog or digital backup camera, you’ll need a power source, since they are not wired to the monitor.
Installation Instructions
You will need isopropyl alcohol, a clean rag, a cordless drill with screw bits, and silicone sealant for installation.
First, install the monitor in a convenient location. Use the alcohol to clean the area on your dash and apply the mounting surface. Plug the monitor into a 12 volt power socket.
Read the rest of the instructions on the Camera Source blog here: https://camera-source.com/blog/how-to-install-a-wireless-wired-rv-backup-camera