Electronic motorist assistants cover all possible directions of operation of the car, where they could be useful. Stabilization devices, parking radars and various security systems are only part of the modern complex of such assistants. Some of them can be discarded by an experienced driver, but there is a category of assistants whose presence will not be superfluous in any car. These include a rear view camera with a mirror, which allows you to timely assess the situation near the car in hard-to-reach areas.
Device Overview
This system is a competitive product in relation to parking sensors. Parking radars are used to automatically control blind spots. Ultrasonic sensors send a signal to the central console, which captures critical distances to nearby objects. In turn, a rear-view camera with a mirror gives the user the opportunity to independently observe and assess the situation.
Instead of sensors, a miniature camera is installed in the area of the rear bumper. It captures and sends the recorded data to the user. As a means of reproduction, a separate monitor on the control panel and a rear-view mirror can also act. Video delivery methods also vary. Traditional systems work with cable lines, which are laid as part of the onboard power grid infrastructure. Eliminates the hassle of such a rear-view camera with a wireless mirror, in which the signal is transmitted via radio modules. The signal receiver is also a monitor or a special mirror with a screen.
Basic selection options
The key operating parameter of this system is the viewing angle. It determines what the coverage of the matrix will be in terms of visibility in relation to the “blind” zones. The simplest optics allows you to work with angles of the order of 90-110 degrees. Most mid-range models give an optimal 170-degree visibility, which is considered sufficient. Also on the market is a rear-view camera with a mirror in 210-degree modifications, but you should not count on a serious advantage from such an acquisition. Great visibility is offset by an equally high level of distortion.
An important characteristic is the quality of the "picture". Again, inexpensive representatives of the budget segment are provided with matrices with a resolution of up to 720x576. The lowest level offers modules of the 582x500 format. But if you need a rear view camera with a mirror and a DVR, then saving on optics is not worth it. To obtain detailed and clear material, you will need a model that supports HD and FullHD formats.
Additional functionality
First of all, you should determine the presence of communication capabilities. Sophisticated motorists, for example, today can’t imagine the electronics in a car without a Wi-Fi module and an FM transmitter. The GPS sensor is not so important, but if you plan to abandon a separate navigator, then this device should be added to the DVR function. The GPS system will allow you to receive data on the location of the car itself and significant infrastructure. If you do not plan to regularly connect the camera to an on-board computer or server online storage, then it will be useful to provide for a capacious 16-32 GB memory card. As an ergonomic addition, a rear-view camera with a rear-view mirror can also be provided with backlight. It will improve image quality in the dark and allow correct maneuvering in difficult conditions. LED lighting covers a radius of 5-10 m.
Why is the presence of a DVR necessary?
Combining several functions in one system is especially important when it comes to space constraints. Obviously, this problem is acute for motorists. Therefore, the pairing of the two tools has its own meaning. This means that the same camera, located at the back, will transmit the video data to the user both as information for the maneuver and as potential evidence in the event of an accident. That is, in terms of functionality, a rear view camera with a mirror and a DVR gives only pluses. What will have to sacrifice? It has already been noted that low quality is unacceptable for a registrar, so you will have to rely on models with high-quality matrices. Another aspect will be related to the storage of recorded data. You will need a large amount of memory card or the ability to directly record to the central control unit.
System installation
Installation operations relate to the installation of the camera itself and the monitor. Optics is usually integrated into a special carrier platform. For this, a small plastic or metal frame can be used, which includes a rear view camera with a mirror. Do-it-yourself installation may require locksmithing. For example, miniature cylindrical cases with matrices are integrated into a metal bumper, having previously cut a hole of a suitable size.
The monitor is installed separately on the control panel. To save space, it is recommended to use models with a built-in miniature display. This is the same rear view camera with a rearview mirror, which contains a compact monitor. Installation of the mirror itself is performed according to general rules using brackets.
Hardware Connection
Even before the physical installation of the camera and monitor, a cabling diagram should be drawn up. The wiring should include an output to the battery unit, to a mirror with a display, a camera and, if necessary, be able to connect to the on-board computer. Power is usually connected through the red connector in the camera, into which the line from the battery or cigarette lighter is inserted. The ends of the power cord should be stripped and connected to the power plug of the optics for reversing lighting. Next, connect the yellow cable to the connector for video broadcasting. The receiver of this information can be not only a monitor. The navigation system and the car radio can also receive a signal that captures the rear view camera with a mirror. Installation of the complex will not be completed without cable protection. The wiring must be insulated so that it cannot directly contact other circuits in the electrical system.
Device manufacturers
Combining a DVR and a rear-view camera, few manufacturers decide, even from the leaders of the segment. Nevertheless, such kits are presented by AVIS and BIGSON in the ICAM line. It should be noted right away that similar products are more expensive. In particular, AVIS products in the middle class are available for 10-12 thousand rubles. However, some budget options from little-known manufacturers also deserve attention. In the SKY line, for example, an inexpensive rear-view camera with a mirror is presented. The wireless, color and high-resolution modification CA-UNI-5D is available in just 2.5 thousand.
Conclusion
In the choice between the parking sensors and the camera, many dwell on the first option for the reason that matrix optics are more sensitive to external influences. Therefore, when buying, it is worth considering the presence of protective shells at the camera itself. It is advisable to immediately refer to the marking according to the class of protection. For example, the designation IP66 indicates that the rear view camera with a mirror has a reliable barrier to water spray, dirt and dust. An increase in the index means that the equipment can even be completely immersed in water, and this will not lose its working function. It will also be useful to foresee additional means of mechanical protection, which are installed in a separate order.