subject: How Reversing Cameras & Parking Sensors Make Your Car Safer [print this page] . .
Drivers of all vehicles on the road will benefit from any one of these systems and many coroprate and government fleet managers are becoming increasingly aware of the benefits. With increasing media focus on four-wheel drives and the number of passenger cars with poor visibility, it is no wonder that assisted parking systems are becoming increasingly more popular.
Let's take a look at the differences between the various systems on the market.
Camera systems.
As mentioned above, there are basically 3 types of systems. They are all activated automatically when reverse gear is selected but they can also be manually activated should you want to check behind the vehicle while you are driving.
Stand-alone monitors and camera combinations are fitted on the dashboard or the windscreen usually with a full-colour, TFT LCD screen in a variety of sizes. For example, a 4 inch screen will suit most passenger vehicles, utilities vans and four-wheel drives and these work in conjunction with a mini camera fitted under the boot lid or number plate light.
The larger screens of around 5 to 7 inches are more suitable for trucks, buses and motor homes and are usually fitted with a larger commercial grade camera.
All systems offer at least 2 inputs for multiple cameras allowing you to have a camera at the back of the vehicle as well as behind a caravan or boat.
Rear-view-mirror-monitor and camera combinations incorporate a built-in LCD screen. Although these are available as a clip-over or replacement, most safety-conscious suppliers will recommend a replacement, because clip-over types may become dangerous in the event of an accident. It is common for existing mirrors to be removed and the replacement unit fitted using the existing base.
After fitting, the mirror operates normally and is very neat and has a factory fitted appearance. As with camera units, most models offer at least 2 inputs for multiple cameras so that you can see behind a boat or caravan.
Integrated camera systems are vehicle specific and use the existing factory-fitted colour screens fitted in some cars. They are usually used in conjunction with a mini camera under the boot lid or number plate light and require integration hardware depending on the vehicle. Integrated camera systems are the neatest option and work hand in hand with existing in car technology, although they cannot be fitted with a 2nd camera.
Parking sensors.
Parking sensors are available for both front and back of the vehicle or both if you choose. There are two types of systems available, audible or audible with LED distance display. The units operate by utilising 4 sensor heads fitted into the bumper bar. They can be fitted to any vehicle with a plastic bumper and are therefore especially suited to all passenger vehicles.
They can be colour matched to take on a factory-fitted look at an additional charge. Surface mounted commercial grade sensors are available for trucks, buses, and any other vehicle without plastic bumpers. Both systems engage automatically when reverse gear is selected making these parking sensors safe and easy to use.
How Reversing Cameras & Parking Sensors Make Your Car Safer
