Whether it’s your first time hooking up a backup camera or you just want to upgrade your current system, there are a few things you should know before you get started.
Start by deciding where you want the camera to be located in your vehicle. This will help you determine the length of wires that you’ll need for running from the exterior to the interior.
Power
The power supply is the most important component of any camera and it can make or break a quality installation. It should be a well thought out design that minimizes damage and maximizes performance. It should also be accompanied by an instructional manual to assist the novice installer in installing the device. This should include the best way to connect a camera to its power source, as well as a list of recommended wire types for optimum performance.
One of the most useful things about a backup camera is that it can be installed in a variety of ways. The most obvious choice is a rear-mounted camera, but it can also be mounted on a front bumper lip, the tailgate handle or even on a spare tire. A well-designed system that allows for easy access to all the components will give you a more enjoyable driving experience. It is also a good idea to get a backup camera that can withstand the elements in case of an emergency.
Trigger
If your vehicle is factory-equipped with a backup camera, it likely comes equipped with a trigger wire. This wire connects to the head unit and when the car is shifted into reverse, it sends a signal to the monitor screen to activate the camera’s power. If this is not the case, you’ll need to install a trigger wire yourself to get the camera to work.
A good way to start is by locating the wires that go to your reverse lights. It is important to follow your owners manual here, and be sure you are connecting the correct wires for your car.
Next, you need to splice your backup camera’s power cable to the positive and negative wires on the reverse light. You can do this by looping the wires together, and you should use a crimping tool to make the connection. You may also want to use electrical tape on the connectors to prevent them from corroding and shorting out.
Once the connection is made, you can mount your new ibeam backup camera system. The best way to do this is to follow the mounting instructions that come with your camera system. This will ensure a solid and safe installation. iBEAM also offers many other accessories to help you with your installation, including tailgate handle cameras, and universal micro cameras that can be mounted on any overhang.
Video
There are a number of different video output options when installing an ibeam backup camera. Some are designed to be installed directly into your car’s rearview mirror (instead of a display inside your cab), while others come with displays that can be mounted in the dashboard or radio console.
Regardless of where you choose to install your monitor, there are a few things that need to be done in order to make sure it is working correctly. First, you’ll need to run all of the necessary cables from your new camera to the back of your car and then mount it in the desired location.
The easiest way to do this is with a wire cluster that includes power, ground, and video wires. Most of these are available at most hardware stores or A/V shops and can be bought separately if they are not included with your monitor.
Next, you need to identify a power source for your new backup camera. This may be a reverse light on the exterior of your vehicle, or it could be the license plate light. Use a multimeter to locate the positive and negative wires that connect to your reverse lights. Once you’ve identified the correct ones, strip them and splice in your camera’s power cable to them.
You’ll also need to add a rubber grommet to the hole you’re drilling so that it will be more resistant to the harsh metal edges of the camera’s wires and to help keep them protected from damage. Depending on the size of your hole and the camera’s wire, you’ll need to decide which drill bit will be best for a clean, safe installation.
Once you have all the necessary tools, it’s time to get started. Typically, these tools will include a power hand drill, an appropriate bit for the hole you’re drilling, fishing tools (if the camera’s wire needs to go through a puddle of water), and a rubber grommet. A few ties will be required as well to hold all of the wiring together and make sure it stays in place once you’re done.
Parking Sensor
ibeam makes it easy to increase your level of roadside safety with the industry’s most complete lineup of backup cameras. The company also has a slew of sensors, including the all-new iBEAM Xtreme and iBEAM Xtreme Pro, along with other driver aids and gizmos, like their award winning LED lighting solutions. You’ll find a slew of solutions from a simple LED replacement to a full-service upgrade. The company is a cut above the rest, with a dedicated team of iBEAM engineers to help you make your ride safer. It’s no wonder iBEAM is named the world’s largest independent vehicle lighting manufacturer, backed by a network of distributors across the globe.
