| The
system you choose to buy will depend on a number of factors. Do you require
a camera for rear view function as a mirror replacement (RV33TCFM)
or as reversing system (RV27N)? Screen
size is another factor to consider when choosing a system. Obviously a larger
screen makes viewing easier however space within your vehicle will be a consideration.
Price is usually a factor when making a purchase. Monitors don't vary a great
deal in price or quality apart from the RV70
which has optimum LCD technology with excellent picture brightness. The price
reflects the higher quality of the monitor. Camera
quality varies. A host of questions should be asked before choosing the appropriate
camera. Do
you require a single or dual vantage point? For a single vantage point
you can choose from any of the cameras except the RV33TCFM
which has two lenses one for distant vision and another for close vision. The
twin function is the result of two different camera modules integrated into the
camera housing. The 140° colour camera module provides optimal (close) vision
when reversing. It is complemented by a 40° colour camera module for long-distance
vision towards the rear. Using the two lenses the camera yields optimal image
quality in either mode. Another
option for a dual vantage point is to have a camera on the rear of the vehicle,
for example a caravan might have a camera on the back of the caravan itself or
on the vehicle that tows it. A bullet camera could be inserted into the bumper
to have a view of the tow-hook. Bullet cameras could also be suspended off the
vehicle's mirrors. See our feature on a bullet camera installation: Bullet
Cameras Installed into a Motability Vehicle Do
you require a good standard of night vision? There are two qualities to
look out for in an effective night vision system. The CCD picture sensor which
is the picture acquisition sensor that functions on a semiconductor basis. It
is waterproof and has a choice of diameter size 1/2, 1/3 and 1/4 inch. They tend
to have high quality and more pixels. Therefore if you have two cameras with the
same number of mega pixels but different CCD sensor sizes - the camera with the
larger CCD sensor size will be provide an image that is sharper and has less 'noise'.
Some
cameras use LED's to enhance infrared night vision. Cameras such as the RV19F,
RV27N, RV24N
and the RV33TCFM all use LED's
to enhance the picture. We recommend the RV27N
and the RV24N in particular because
they have more LED's and therefore give out more light. Which
camera systems are most popular with Motorhomers? We have found that the
following systems are most popular with motorhomer owners: the RV550FA,
RV710, RV790, or
the RV590. Which
systems are the most popular with Caravanners? Caravan owners often have
two cameras, one that is situated in bumper and another mounted on to the rear
of the caravan. We have found that the following systems are most popular with
caravan owners: the RV550FA, RV710,
or the RV29T130. Which
camera system is most suitable for a car? We recommend the RV29T130
bullet (cylinder) camera that will fit neatly into the bumper. It proves very
useful when backing onto a tow-hook for caravans and boats. Do
you want to integrate your reversing camera with your satellite navigation system?
This is a very popular request particularly among leisure vehicle drivers.
The RV27N or RV24N
would be suitable cameras to integrate. We are working on the technicalities of
integrating the RV33TCFM. There are
compatibility issues with some cameras. It would be wise to have a consultation
with one of our sales advisors if you are unsure. As
far as the monitor goes a superior solution is to use the satellite navigation
system screen and a camera of your choice. Using another screen is an option however
the remote control would have to be hard-wired (due to the lack of an infra-red
eye) and the screen quality is an issue. Is
your reversing camera system required for a leisure vehicle? We
recommend the RV27N and the RV24N
in particular because they have more LED's and therefore give out more light.
Very useful for reversing in the dark. Is
yours a heavy goods vehicle (HGV)? We
recommend the RV245 however any of other systems
will suffice. The reliable basic system for everyone. Safe reversing with the
most important standard functions. Is
your camera system required for heavy plant use? We
recommend the RV26HD camera system. This is
a heavy-duty system with a space saving 7" LCD colour monitor, sturdy black
and white camera with a replaceable rockfall protection screen and non-corroding
plug connector. This camera system is for use under extreme conditions. |