4 Types of Reversing Cameras Popular Today

Car owners these days are quite lucky because when it comes to reversing cameras, there are a lot of options they can choose from. Unlike from a few years ago, today's market has been saturated with many types of camera systems featuring unique designs, features, and functionality. No matter what your specific needs and requirements are, you can be sure that you will find a camera system that can make your car much easier to handle and safer to drive, especially when reversing from your driveway or getting out of those tight parking spaces.

Types of Camera to Choose From

There are many camera options available today. Here are some of the most common ones.

1. Butterfly camera

The butterfly camera is the most common camera type today and it is often included in a reversing camera kit or those sold with a matching monitor. Its relatively smaller size makes it perfect for cars, UTEs, and other light commercial vehicles. One of the best things about this type of camera is its versatility. You can install it in different locations, including under the boot lid and even under UTE trays. You can also adjust it to obtain the best viewing angle.

2. Bumper camera

As the name implies, the bumper camera is installed flush in the bumper of your car. Suited for cars, vans, and UTEs with plastic bumpers, it is ideal for car owners who want their cameras to remain inconspicuous after installation. It can also be used with IR technology. A downside, however, is that because it is inserted into the bumper, you cannot adjust the angle of view. You may not also be able to use your bumper as a reference point.

3. Number plate camera

The number plate camera is basically installed in the car's number or licence plate. With its universal design, it can be fitted no matter what kind of vehicle you drive or own is. This is why it is a favourite among car owners who love to take on Do It Yourself or DIY projects. Another advantage is that it is relatively cheaper than the average rearview reverse camera system.

4. Heavy duty camera

Of course, commercial and industrial vehicles also need reversing cameras and this is where the heavy duty camera comes in. This type of camera is designed to survive in tough environments and it is usually waterproof and shockproof. Some units are even fitted with microphones, allowing the driver to pick up sounds from outside his vehicle. A disadvantage, however, is that its bigger size makes installation a bit challenging.

If you're having a hard time choosing which camera type is for you, you should consider reading car reversing camera reviews to determine which of these camera systems can match your expectations.

New Mazda3 Has No Built-in Reversing Camera

While most new car models these days are being equipped with a reversing camera, one car manufacturer has decided to go against the flow. Many expected that the entry level Neo model of the popular Mazda3 to have a built-in camera system when it went on sale locally after the car maker announced a pricing adjustment as a result of a free trade agreement between Australia and Japan. However, it seemed that Mazda has decided to omit the popular car accessory.

Instead, the car maker made rear parking sensors and alloy wheels standard on the Neo. In contrast, some of the cheapest cars on the market, including the Toyota Yaris and Honda Jazz, now have cameras as standard equipment.

Martin Benders, head of Mazda Australia, defended the car maker’s decision, saying that drivers shouldn’t be solely relying on camera systems to guard against driveway accidents involving young children. “I expect that people who drive cars take care and attention about how they drive their cars. Reversing cameras are not infallible. They're more an aid but so are reverse parking sensors and they will pick up obstacles in the same way,” he said.

Benders added that he hasn’t received any complaints from Mazda customers about the lack of a rear view camera system in their cars. “It might surprise you, but I don't have a string of customer complaints or comments saying, 'where's my reversing camera?”

Benders’ comments raised some eyebrows at the media conference when Mazda announced the launch of the new Mazda3. However, the Mazda Australia boss later clarified the point he was making, explaining that he didn’t mean to downplay the role of cameras as a safety aid. What he was merely trying to say is that drivers must also have to take responsibility for their actions and not just rely on crash-avoidance technology.

But whether you agree with Benders or not, you cannot deny that cameras indeed make excellent driving safety aids. Previous studies in the United States have shown that reversing cameras can help minimise driveway accidents and potential collisions when reversing your car.

So if you have bought yourself a new Mazda3 Neo, it certainly helps to purchase a camera system for your vehicle. Not only does it help you prevent driveway accidents, which can be a huge help if you have small children at home, it also makes your car more manoeuvrable.

If you’re looking for quality cameras for your vehicle, be sure to visit Elinz Electronics. We offer a wide range of versatile and durable camera systems, including caravan 2 camera systems, designed for different types of vehicles.

3 Different Reversing Camera Options You Can Explore

These days, having a reversing camera is a must more than ever. With the increasing number of accidents that occur in one's own garage or driveway in Australia over the last few years, many road safety advocates and concerned citizens are encouraging the use of such electronic devices. After all, with a simple camera in your vehicle, you can prevent any untoward situation that might cause the loss of the lives of your family, especially your small children.

When it comes to reverse camera kits, today's buyers have a lot of options to explore and choose from. There are many types of cameras to be had, depending on your requirements or the make of the vehicle you drive. But no matter how big or small and narrow or wide your vehicle is, you can certainly find something that matches your fancy. Let's take a look at some of the camera options that are worth your time and money.

Wireless Cameras. Don't want to deal with wires? Well, you're in luck. These days, you can purchase a wireless reversing camera at a very affordable price so you can save time and effort. As the name implies, this particular type of camera kit doesn't need wires to transmit to the monitor the images the camera captures. Instead, the camera has an antenna and uses digital wireless transmission technology to feed the monitor with the images it captures. This camera kit brings you huge relief because you don't have to deal with wires and spend more time than necessary on the installation process.

Multi-Camera Kits. Believe it or not, there are reverse camera kits that allow you to use not one, not two, but up to four reverse cameras at the same time. This type of camera kit is definitely useful for those who own larger vehicles, like trucks, buses, or vans, as it fills in their blind spots. They also feature bigger monitors (some even measuring up to nine inches!) that let you view four camera angles simultaneously.

A camera system that lets you connect up to four cameras is also useful for those who love to travel on caravans. As you may know, these "homes on wheels" are difficult to manoeuvre because of their size. In addition, they are usually on the road during summer and autumn months, when the parking lots of camp sites, nature reserves, and national parks are filled to brim. With the help of such a reversing camera, you can easily get in and out of tight parking spaces and avoid hitting anything or anyone on your way in and out.

Camera Kits with Mirror Monitors. In case you don't have enough space on your dashboard because your car is not that big, there's a reversing camera option that's right for you. Introducing: camera kits with mirror monitors. Instead of a standard dashboard-mounted monitor, you get a monitor that resembles your car's rear view mirror. It even functions as an actual rear view monitor when the camera is shut off.

Get the reversing cameras that will fit the specifications that you need.

The Dos and Don'ts of Choosing a Reversing Camera Every Buyer Should Know

So you have decided to install a reversing camera in your vehicle. Well, good for you! We all know how challenging reversing your motor vehicle can be. But thanks to this electronic device, you can manoeuvre your car easily and avoid hitting objects that can damage your beloved vehicle. If you're going to buy a rear-view camera for your car, truck, bus, or caravan, here are the dos and don'ts.

Do look for weather-resistant camera, cables, and connectors. It is a given that the camera and its cables will be exposed to the elements, dust, dirt, and road grime. As such, reversing cameras and their parts that will be used in external installation should be weather-resistant. When it comes to choosing connectors, meanwhile, many experts recommend 4PIN cables because they are reliable, durable, and of higher quality.

Don't settle for low quality camera systems. When shopping for a reversing camera, make sure that you go for the best. Always look for higher quality camera systems so you can get maximum value for your money. Also, consider the camera system's features and capabilities to ensure that it is exactly what you're looking for. And if you have a bigger budget, consider camera systems with bigger monitors as they can provide you with better detail when reversing your vehicle.

Do look for monitors with higher resolution. High-performing reversing cameras are practically useless if you're going to connect them to low-quality monitors. As such, if you want to get more detailed and crystal-clear images, you should choose a monitor that has high resolution. More often than not, TFT-LCD monitors have high resolution and they can produce best pictures under a variety of lighting conditions.

Don't settle for the first camera you'll find. There are four common types of cameras out in the market today. They are surface, flush, licence, and side mount type cameras. As such, don't settle for the first camera that catches your fancy. Instead, you should consider the type of vehicle you have and choose a reversing camera accordingly. For example, if you have a 4X4 or any larger vehicle, you should select a surface camera. Because of its mounting position, it can provide you with excellent depth perception.

Do consider a camera system with IR night vision. An IR night vision is perhaps often one of the most overlooked features in a reversing camera. However, it is very important as it is very handy at night. If you're going to invest in a camera system, consider one with an IR night vision. This feature allows the camera to capture clear images in near or even in total darkness.