Backup Cameras Aren't All Made the Same

There are a few random things to keep in mind, if you are shopping for backup cameras for your vehicle.  We’ll re-visit this time-to-time, so feel free to ask questions!

1.     Wide angle lenses (120 degrees or more) don’t show much detail beyond 30 feet).  You’re looking for a dome camera for your 52 foot trailer, don’t expect to see any faces of the guys unloading it.

2.     Make sure that you can easily play back from your digital video recorder on-site.  Many drivers have had their bacon saved by playing back video for a police officer on-site.  Make sure the recorder indexes video, so you can quickly find the video clip you want.

3.     A rear-facing camera isn’t the same as a driver cam.  Don’t believe the sales guy who tells you that a backup camera can be re-purposed as a driver cam.  Driver cams are made to handle oncoming headlights and capture everything happening in front of you.

4.     Wireless systems are not all the same.  Make sure the camera system is digital and test it before making a purchase.  Some wireless camera systems cut out while you are moving at highway speeds.  Others have poor video quality.  Get promises in writing from your vendor!

5.     Where is it made?  Several companies make you think that they have much more to do with the creation of their systems than they actually do.  Most cameras are made in China and all of them are not created the same.  Check out http://www.sharpvision.cn/ to see what many companies are selling and packaging as their own.

The folks at DriverSheets.com have a wide variety of experience in the driver safety training and safety equipment industries.  We create DriverSheet.com safety posters with weekly and bi-weekly subscriptions that keep drivers thinking (and acting) about safety.  Learn more at http://www.driversheets.com.