A staggering 17% of accidents happen because of poor visibility at the rear side of a vehicle.
It is only when you hear a stat like this that you start valuing the importance of a high-quality rear view camera or commercial camera truck system for your vehicle. Whether it is a hatchback, sedan, SUV, minivan, pickup truck, bus, truck, trailer, RV, or commercial van, having a reliable rear view cam has become indispensable today.
Enhancing road safety while driving, reversing, or parking is of utmost importance given the risks associated with these activities. In this blog, let us dive deep into the world of rear view cameras, different types of vehicle cams, and important features to consider when buying one for your unique needs.
Understanding the function of rear view cameras
Backup cams, reversing cams, or “rear view cameras” are electronic devices that can be mounted on a vehicle so the driver gets a clear view of the area behind on a monitor that is in the driver’s cabin. These devices are essential parking and reversing aids because they give the driver an excellent real-time perspective of the space behind (or around) their vehicle.
Rear view cameras are great for contemporary vehicles because they help you mitigate blind spots, assist in parking, and detect objects via built-in sensors. Given the wide range of options available in the online as well as retail marketplaces, choosing the right one for your needs can become a tricky task. However, if you know what features you should look for in an aftermarket backup camera, the selection process becomes a tad bit easier.
Different types of rear view cameras
While most modern-day vehicles, including cars, trucks, buses, and vans come equipped with at least a basic built-in camera today, that alone might not be enough. Here are the various types of rear view cameras available as aftermarket accessories that you can choose from.
- Standard rear view camera
A standard rear view cam is one that is built into the vehicle’s rear side (typically somewhere near the tail lamp or registration plate). It captures real-time footage of what is behind the vehicle and relays these pictures to the driver on the built-in dashboard monitor.
- Commercial camera truck system
A commercial vehicle camera system is a 360-degree camera that is specifically designed for larger vehicles like pickup trucks, trucks, trailers, RVs, and commercial vans. These heavy-duty systems cover multiple angles and provide the driver with a real-time view of the different areas around the vehicle, including the rear and the sides.
Features to look for in a rear view camera for your vehicle
If you are on the lookout for an aftermarket camera system, it is critical that you assess your unique needs and select one based on the features and benefits it offers. Here are some of the top features to consider:
- Wired or wireless backup cams
With both wired as well as wireless rear view cameras offering a wide range of features, the choice comes down to what you prefer. Several people believe that wired cameras offer better signal quality as compared to their wireless counterparts, but that is not necessarily the case. Many cutting-edge wireless cameras offer excellent signal strength. The only primary difference between the two is that wired camera systems require a lot of cabling, which may make the installation process complex.
- Ease of installation
Always consider how easy or difficult it is to install any new aftermarket accessories. In the case of wired camera systems, your vehicle needs minor alterations to ensure that all the wiring is put in place securely. While this is not such a big hassle, the installation time and effort are significantly longer than wireless cams. It is best to cut the cable clutter by opting for a wireless system.
- Image quality
Contemporary 360-degree camera systems for vehicles are designed to capture and relay hi-res images to the monitor. With HD monitors, you can rest assured you get optimum clarity and clear and sharp real-time footage on your screen.
- Object sensors
A lot of new-age cams come equipped with blind-spot detection systems and sensors that can intimate the driver about any potential obstacles behind or beside the vehicle. This is particularly helpful while reversing or parking in very tight spaces.
- Night vision capabilities
Driving post sunset, reversing in complete darkness, or parking your vehicle in dimly lit parking lots can be a real challenge. It is best to choose a camera with excellent night vision capabilities and infrared vision so that you get optimum visibility and confidence when driving or parking in the dark.
- Resistance to elements
Snow, dust, dirt, water, and extreme weather conditions can easily damage poorly built accessories that are installed on the exteriors of your vehicles. So, it is paramount that you opt for a robust and durable rear view camera that is dust and water-resistant. The ability to withstand harsh weathers and natural elements will ensure that your cameras continue to function smoothly and last long.
Selecting the right rear view camera based on your vehicle type
It is wise to choose the rear view camera system depending on the type and size of your vehicle (and your needs and preferences). Here are a few pro tips from the Rear View Safety team that can help you make the right choice:
- Standard cams for cars
If you have a sedan, hatchback, or mini-SUV, a standard rear view camera is good enough. All you need to ensure is that your camera system provides high-quality visuals and a wide-angle lens. Wide-angle lenses typically provide a wider field of view, thus allowing you to view the space behind the vehicle clearly. This makes the entire backing up and parking process easier and safer, reducing potential blind spots.
- Advanced camera systems for SUVs and pickup trucks
Since these types of vehicles tend to have slightly bigger blind spots and surface areas, a camera system that provides many viewing angles is recommended for optimum safety especially if you are also hauling substantial cargo or towing a trailer.
- 360-degree cameras for commercial vans and trucks
The bigger the vehicle, the better your camera system needs to be in terms of the features and capabilities it offers. Commercial vehicles require commercial camera truck systems that provide an all-round view of the vehicle, covering all potential blind spots, providing advanced night vision, sensing and alerting the driver about potential roadblocks, and providing advanced parking and reversing assistance.
Discover highly advanced rear view cameras at Rear View Safety
At Rear View Safety, our online catalog includes the best of rear view cameras, backup cams, reverse cameras, and 360-degree camera systems that provide remarkable picture
