tech today
With the Brandmotion 9002-2764 Version 2 interface, a backup camera can be added to many General Motors vehicles. A second input works with a forward-facing camera or a blind-spot detection system.
Backup Cameras in Vehicle Safety Systems, Part 2 Understand driver safety systems and integration so you effectively assist clients in choosing the best backup camera for their uses. WORDS BY DAVE MACKINNON
In the last issue, we talked about the importance of choosing high-quality cameras for your clients’ vehicle safety solution upgrades. In this issue, we are going to look at some of the options available to display that camera image in a fashion that is safe, intuitive and reliable. The Importance of Reliable Driver Safety Systems
If you want to sell safety solutions, it’s essential to take the category seriously. Just as you’d take the time to plan a bespoke audio system upgrade and installation, safety systems deserve similar attention to detail. A backup camera system is considered a passive safety device. Unlike parking sensors or blind-spot monitoring systems that attract the driver’s attention with an audible alarm, it’s the responsibility of the operator to remember to look at the monitor to reap its benefits. As such, it’s
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paramount that the system operates without any input from the driver. As soon as the vehicle is in reverse, the camera image should display automatically. No switches or buttons should be needed, as this can lead to the driver forgetting to use the system. There are essentially three solution categories: an OEM infotainment system display, an aftermarket source unit or a stand-alone display. Displaying a Backup Camera Image on an OEM Screen
Thanks to companies like Brandmotion and Axxess from Metra Electronics, there are a multitude of options available to connect an aftermarket backup camera to the factory-installed screen in the dash of most late-model North American and many imported vehicles. In most cases, these interfaces not only handle the video integration, but they also trigger
the display automatically by monitoring the data bus in the vehicle. While most systems allow at least a single camera to feed a signal to the screen, some allow for as many as four cameras and can serve as a blind-spot monitoring system and forward-facing parking assistance solution. If your client has a heavy-duty or lifted pickup truck, a forward-facing camera is an excellent way for them to see what’s in front of the vehicle when parking or maneuvering. Likewise, if they have a lowered car or one with an expensive front air dam or splitter, a camera can help prevent damage from parking curbs and steep driveways. Many interfaces include the ability to monitor the steering wheel angle information on the vehicle’s data network and overlay dynamic guidelines on the camera image. If you are installing a system with this feature, budget an appropriate amount of time to ensure it is calibrated
