Rearview cameras

Bob - I've been down the whole path twice now without problems.

I can't imaging why they'd give you a 9-volt battery connector, as every camera and screen I've come across run off 12v. Try them on that - not 9v.

Remember that car alternators output 14vs or thereabouts when charging, so your 12volt-dependent devices either like it or they don't. I wouldn't feel too concerned, but if you are you can get a 12volt-limiting unit from Dick Smiths for around the $10 mark that should help out.

Can you post the original eBay auction number so that we can have a look to see what you thought you were buying? It could only help us understand your problem better.

Cheers
Chris

I just installed a rear view camera I bought off Ebay and agree the instructions are lite on. I connected the camera to the rear 12v power socket and it all works fine.

The item number in ebay is 4644891419. I found it in car parts and accessories other. Thanks for you help I really appreciate it.
Regards Bob

Took us ages to perfect ours (as we tried wireless first which wasn't adequate for caravan but is still fine in car).

We bought 12v kit regulators for each component from Dick Smith shops, as instructions were 12 v no more no less. Very fiddly to make up and easily blown if a drop of solder in the wrong place, but only regulators we could find. The regulator that came with the cameras was faulty (seemed OK in our primitive experience so had it tested by an electronics shop technician - caused us a lot of wasted time trying to find out why it didn't work), but i got no sense or replacement or restitution from Hong Kong re this.

It didn't come to life if power reading dropped below 12 v eg when car not running - try starting car and running it for a few minutes. Needed regulator as power when engine running goes up too high eg 14 v. Polarity is important - get negative and positive wires wrong way round on a join and it won't work. Multi meter essential for all of the above and to ensure you don't wire something up wrong way round and blow the appliance. Our camera brand now comes in 12 v, used to be in 9 v - yours might be similar. I got email support from vendor in Hong Kong for a number of queries we had.

Search the net for help understanding the electronics.

Good luck - you'll be pleased when it all works.

I fitted one up a few weeks ago and as long as the screen is in it shows a great picture and so clear. Be aware some are 50º spread but I lookd for and found a 90º spread which is wide angle. It shows the ground not far behind Moses rear and above the horizon which is good but things like rear mounted wheels can be a problem.

Mine is marked 12v and after a while it shows yelloow and blue tints which I think would be better with a voltage reduction from the 13.8v to 12v. The screen I use is a Medion DVD player as sold by Aldi that I bought on eBay. It doubles as a bit of entertainment with its great litte battery pack too, supposed to do about 3 hours. Was cheaper than Aldi too where I have a phylisophical difference buying

mine stated 9V so wired it up with a regulator from Jaycar that only cost a few bucks. Works fine

Personally, I would sooner spend the extra money and buy locally. At least you get the complete package that works without add ons and would have some sort of guarantee and support infrastructure.