R-pod Owners Forum : Back-Up Camera https://www.rpod-owners.com/ This is an XML content feed of; R-pod Owners Forum : Reviews and General Information : Back-Up Camera Copyright (c) 2006-2009 Web Wiz Forums - All Rights Reserved. Fri, 28 Aug 2026 04:31:24 +0000 Mon, 21 Sep 2015 20:38:51 +0000 http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Web Wiz Forums 9.64 360 https://www.rpod-owners.com/RSS_post_feed.asp?TID=4408 R-pod Owners Forum https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_images/web_wiz_forums.png https://www.rpod-owners.com/ Back-Up Camera : Welcome. Good entrance! https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=66249#66249 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4408
Posted: 21 Sep 2015 at 8:38pm

Welcome.  Good entrance!]]> Mon, 21 Sep 2015 20:38:51 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=66249#66249 Back-Up Camera : We use a wireless system. I'm... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=66232#66232 Author: gymrat
Subject: 4408
Posted: 21 Sep 2015 at 3:17pm

We use a wireless system. I'm backing up and my wife is giving me hand signals. ]]> Mon, 21 Sep 2015 15:17:57 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=66232#66232 Back-Up Camera : That really is a great use of... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49656#49656 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4408
Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 10:50pm

That really is a great use of a stiff noodle. I've seen the two balls on a pole apparatus, but the stiff pink noodle looks just as effective! 

Nicely done!

fred
]]> Mon, 04 Aug 2014 22:50:55 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49656#49656 Back-Up Camera : When the wife's not available,... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49650#49650 Author: shroomer
Subject: 4408
Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 8:39pm

When the wife's not available, I use this low tech setup which utilizes a noodle on the jack tower and a clamp on the tailgate. Gets me pretty darn close. Cheap too. And no interference with any electronics.
]]> Mon, 04 Aug 2014 20:39:44 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49650#49650 Back-Up Camera : I believe that pic was of a pod... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49647#49647 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4408
Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 7:58pm

I believe that pic was of a pod prototype.]]> Mon, 04 Aug 2014 19:58:18 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49647#49647 Back-Up Camera : WIFE?? I've heard many a... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49645#49645 Author: Budward
Subject: 4408
Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 7:23pm

WIFE??   I've heard many a divorce has resulted from backing instructions and two person kayaks.]]> Mon, 04 Aug 2014 19:23:20 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49645#49645 Back-Up Camera : Great Pic! https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49643#49643 Author: Puck Podders
Subject: 4408
Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 6:27pm

Great Pic! ]]> Mon, 04 Aug 2014 18:27:25 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49643#49643 Back-Up Camera : Wilmaaaaaaa!Sorry Rick, I couldn't... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49641#49641 Author: fwunder
Subject: 4408
Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 5:43pm

Wilmaaaaaaa!



Sorry Rick, I couldn't help myself. Smile

fred
]]> Mon, 04 Aug 2014 17:43:06 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49641#49641 Back-Up Camera : I have an extremely expensive... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49635#49635 Author: Puck Podders
Subject: 4408
Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 4:55pm

I have an extremely expensive device but it does work remarkably well. If it ever fails the expenses associated with the failure could apparently cost me half of my net worth. For this reason I am very cautious with how I use it. Clearness of instruction spoken with kindness and flexibility are written in BOLD print with the instructions. So far it has worked great. You can find them everywhere but quality consistency is apparently an issue with some. I have lucked out! They are known as Wilma's Incredibly Fine Experience or W.I.F.E. for short. Once the hitch is on it may stay forever. Hope you enjoy yours as much as I enjoy mine. ]]> Mon, 04 Aug 2014 16:55:53 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49635#49635 Back-Up Camera : I came up with my own solution... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49615#49615 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4408
Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 11:13am

I came up with my own solution for the license plate problem.  I fabricated a backer plate that fits behind the license plate and extends about 1.5 inches above the license plate itself.  I attached the Smart Hitch camera and sensors to that plate and everything blends in well and the registration tag is not obscured.  The company could not offer a solution, so it is up to the purchaser to do whatever works for them.

Bob
]]> Mon, 04 Aug 2014 11:13:48 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49615#49615 Back-Up Camera : Has anyone tried the iPhone camera... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49610#49610 Author: bonanddoug
Subject: 4408
Posted: 04 Aug 2014 at 9:57am

Has anyone tried the iPhone camera from 4ucam?]]> Mon, 04 Aug 2014 09:57:50 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=49610#49610 Back-Up Camera : Originally posted by SleeplessA... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=45273#45273 Author: Boomertype
Subject: 4408
Posted: 29 Apr 2014 at 12:13am

Originally posted by Sleepless

A quick update on the Smart Hitch backup camera system.  I finally bought one and find the performance is flawless, but found one installation problem.  In Florida (and I imagine several other states) the license plate tag being the expiration date is in the upper right hand corner of the plate.  When the bracket housing the camera and sensors is installed, it almost completely covers the tag, hiding the registration expiration date.  I have emailed the company, requesting a solution to the problem and should have their response within the next few days.  My plate is sandwiched between the rear bumper and the tailgate, so I can't imagine a satisfactory solution from them.  Something to think about if you are considering purchasing the Smart Hitch.
In Washington state, they can give you a ticket for having a bike rack blocking the plate.  My wife had a written warning for having a clear plastic cover over her plate on her car.  The law is vague and up to interpretation.  I'm sure if they wanted to they could ticket you.  Hope they get the install fixed.
]]> Tue, 29 Apr 2014 00:13:37 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=45273#45273 Back-Up Camera : A quick update on the Smart Hitch... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=45269#45269 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4408
Posted: 28 Apr 2014 at 10:51pm

A quick update on the Smart Hitch backup camera system.  I finally bought one and find the performance is flawless, but found one installation problem.  In Florida (and I imagine several other states) the license plate tag being the expiration date is in the upper right hand corner of the plate.  When the bracket housing the camera and sensors is installed, it almost completely covers the tag, hiding the registration expiration date.  I have emailed the company, requesting a solution to the problem and should have their response within the next few days.  My plate is sandwiched between the rear bumper and the tailgate, so I can't imagine a satisfactory solution from them.  Something to think about if you are considering purchasing the Smart Hitch.
]]> Mon, 28 Apr 2014 22:51:35 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=45269#45269 Back-Up Camera : I looked at mine this morning... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=43005#43005 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4408
Posted: 27 Feb 2014 at 4:14pm

I looked at mine this morning and to the right of the shifter there was almost no room before hitting the center console stack.  What little room there is, is covered by the shifter.  The only "good" places that I could see are on top of the dash to the left and right.  Down low on the left is open but it would be hard to see and it would get kicked all the time.]]> Thu, 27 Feb 2014 16:14:22 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=43005#43005 Back-Up Camera : I remembered as I was pulling... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42958#42958 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4408
Posted: 25 Feb 2014 at 6:53pm

I remembered as I was pulling into the parking lot at work but then got distracted as I was backing in.  Embarrassed  I'll try to remember tomorrow.]]> Tue, 25 Feb 2014 18:53:31 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42958#42958 Back-Up Camera : On my TV, there is a flat area... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42955#42955 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4408
Posted: 25 Feb 2014 at 4:58pm

On my TV, there is a flat area on the dash immediately right of the gear shift lever.  I don't know the thickness of the monitor, but if it fits, this may be my mounting location of choice. There are a few other areas that might also work without drilling any holes in the dash.]]> Tue, 25 Feb 2014 16:58:42 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42955#42955 Back-Up Camera : They should be the same, I'll... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42875#42875 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4408
Posted: 22 Feb 2014 at 4:02pm

They should be the same, I'll take a look but I probably won't be in my truck until Monday. ]]> Sat, 22 Feb 2014 16:02:46 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42875#42875 Back-Up Camera : Doug, the Smart Hitch is still... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42870#42870 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4408
Posted: 22 Feb 2014 at 1:50pm

Doug, the Smart Hitch is still my hitch of choice.  I have not ordered one yet only because I can't find a suitable dash location to mount the monitor without having exposed wires.  Your Suburban and my Avalanche should have similar dash configurations.  Any suggestions?  I don't want to mount it on the windshield or disfigure my dash. 

Bob
]]> Sat, 22 Feb 2014 13:50:27 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42870#42870 Back-Up Camera : My TV doesn't have a backup... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42866#42866 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4408
Posted: 22 Feb 2014 at 12:46pm

My TV doesn't have a backup camera and with its length I really need to get one.  If you do buy the Smart Hitch I'll be curious how it works out. ]]> Sat, 22 Feb 2014 12:46:08 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42866#42866 Back-Up Camera : When I bought the Avalanche, my... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42851#42851 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4408
Posted: 21 Feb 2014 at 8:30pm

When I bought the Avalanche, my first thought was to mount a removable mirror on the trailer tongue, angled to see both the coupler and the hitch ball.  After assessing the hassles involved in mounting, aiming and storing the mirror, I abandoned that idea.  Your suggestion seems to have more merit, but some of the same problems would still be there.

My "tennis balls" on shafts with magnetic bases work well, but I still prefer a higher tech solution such as the Smart Hitch camera which requires no setup and does not need to be stored.  It also has built-in sensors which assist in backing up and parallel parking. 

I may try your mirror suggestion this weekend, if the height of the camera beam will allow it to work.

My last TV also had a backup camera that shared the navigation system monitor.  It, too, was mounted high and was worthless when lining up with a trailer.  Everything becomes more difficult as you age.

Bob
]]> Fri, 21 Feb 2014 20:30:08 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42851#42851 Back-Up Camera : Something really simple to try... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42850#42850 Author: techntrek
Subject: 4408
Posted: 21 Feb 2014 at 7:39pm

Something really simple to try - since you already have the backup camera, maybe mounting a small mirror at a 45 degree angle pointed towards the ball would allow you to see it?  It might require using a magnifying mirror to allow you to see anything with the camera's fish eye lens. ]]> Fri, 21 Feb 2014 19:39:27 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42850#42850 Back-Up Camera : Just a quick update on my possible... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42849#42849 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4408
Posted: 21 Feb 2014 at 4:21pm

Just a quick update on my possible choices for a back-up camera for my pick-up. I do have a navigation system with a back-up camera, but the camera does not show my trailer hitch ball.  My fist choice was the wireless iBall, which seems like a great system and is versatile in that the camera is magnetic and can be mounted on the back of the truck for hitching up, and later it can be mounted on the rear of the pod for backing up.  I am sometimes forgetful, and eventually I know I would forget to remove the camera and run the possibility of losing it while on the road.

Right now I am leaning toward the wired Smart Hitch by Hopkins.  It sells almost everywhere for $149, but etrailer has it for $119.  Wiring the monitor is somewhat exacting, but I believe it is worth the extra effort.  This unit is switchable, with settings for hitching up and one for use as a true back up camera.  I still have a few details to work out on my truck, but this is now my unit of choice.

If anyone has a better idea, your comments will be appreciated.

Bob
]]> Fri, 21 Feb 2014 16:21:06 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42849#42849 Back-Up Camera : Looking at the YadaBR53328F-1.... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42745#42745 Author: Dave NE TX
Subject: 4408
Posted: 17 Feb 2014 at 3:27pm

Looking at the Yada BR53328F-1.   My TV has a backup camera but I was thinking about one of these for the back of the pod.  I'm more concerned about my driveway than I am camping areas, but it might be nice to be able to switch it on using the tail light circuit to get a better look at what's behind me on the road.  Anybody have any experience with this camera? 
 


]]> Mon, 17 Feb 2014 15:27:48 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42745#42745 Back-Up Camera : dsmiths, I notice that the new... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42744#42744 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4408
Posted: 17 Feb 2014 at 2:34pm

dsmiths, I notice that the new model is switchable between normal and mirror image.  ]]> Mon, 17 Feb 2014 14:34:47 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42744#42744 Back-Up Camera : Bob,Looks like you are zeroing... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42741#42741 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 4408
Posted: 17 Feb 2014 at 7:48am

Bob,

Looks like you are zeroing in on the iBall. There are a few others in the same price range  also available from Amazon in case you haven't seen them. I haven't checked the specs other than they both have 3.5" monitors. Of course they all operate in the no mans land of 2.4GHz, probably analog for the price. For short hitching exercises the Blue Tooth problem can be managed. Not selling anything; just trying to help you get rid of that extra cash. Wink


http://www.rearviewsafety.com/products/wireless-systems/hitch-camera-reversing-system.html


http://www.amazon.com/Hopkins-50002-Smart-Camera-System/dp/B00CTLGSZO/ref=pd_sim_sbs_auto_3?ie=UTF8&refRID=19V9X0Y2QY38MPM0QZ7N
]]> Mon, 17 Feb 2014 07:48:09 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42741#42741 Back-Up Camera : The iBall is the unit that caught... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42738#42738 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4408
Posted: 17 Feb 2014 at 12:01am

The iBall is the unit that caught my eye until I read several of the reviews.  The only problem noted was interference caused by Blue Tooth devices, as Charlie warned.  My Avalanche has 3 Blue Tooth devices and we carry 2 smartphones that are also Blue Tooth.  After much thought, I am still tempted to try an iBall.  They retail for $149.95, with refurbished ones available for $134.95.  I purchase most of my electronic equipment and cameras that are refurbished and have had excellent success with them.  iBall has a promo code for $15.00 off, so a refurbished unit would only be $120 w/free shipping.  Unless I hear worse reports, I plan to purchase one, only for the task of hitching up my pod and for backing it into camping sites.  Another good feature is that it is completely portable.

Thanks, dsmiths.

Bob
]]> Mon, 17 Feb 2014 00:01:58 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42738#42738 Back-Up Camera : I have an I Baller, I think I... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42736#42736 Author: dsmiths
Subject: 4408
Posted: 16 Feb 2014 at 10:32pm

I have an I Baller, I think I paid about 100 bucks about 2 years ago, it works quite well but still takes a little practice as the camera flips the frame and everything is backwards, just like looking into a security camera when you move left the image moves right. its a pretty good little system. If you want you can stick it on the back of the pod and watch as you back into a camping spot.]]> Sun, 16 Feb 2014 22:32:05 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42736#42736 Back-Up Camera : You are absolutely right. When... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42734#42734 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4408
Posted: 16 Feb 2014 at 8:53pm

You are absolutely right.  When it comes to my photographic and computer equipment, the costs are unbelievably high.  For a back-up camera, I would not be so extravagant.  Maybe "less extravagant" is a better term than "relatively inexpensive."
]]> Sun, 16 Feb 2014 20:53:04 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42734#42734 Back-Up Camera : Ah yes. "Relatively inexpensive".... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42732#42732 Author: CharlieM
Subject: 4408
Posted: 16 Feb 2014 at 6:11pm

Ah yes. "Relatively inexpensive". An unrecognized term in high tech solutions, even when fabricated from Chinium. Big smile]]> Sun, 16 Feb 2014 18:11:13 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42732#42732 Back-Up Camera : Charlie, thanks for the detailed... https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42731#42731 Author: Sleepless
Subject: 4408
Posted: 16 Feb 2014 at 5:46pm

Charlie, thanks for the detailed response.  My last Class A motor home had a full-time night vision rear view camera that worked great, but it was designed to show areas farther behind than the rear bumper of the motor home.  My tow vehicles have had back-up cameras integrated with the navigation systems, but they, also, can not give me a view of my hitch ball. 

I have been studying the iBall wireless trailer hitch camera, which can be magnetically mounted on the back of the TV for hitching up, and later on the back of the trailer for manuvering into a campsite or backing up in general.  Some reports indicate that as you mentioned, it is sometimes prone to interference from Blue Tooth devices and other sources.  Our cell phones, On Star, navigation system, etc. may all be possible sources of interference.  For this reason, I am hoping that one or more members are using a system that is not compromised by such interference.  Maybe such an animal does not exist.

My magnetic shafts with the tennis balls works reasonably well, and I can line up ball and coupler with surprising accuracy, but I was hoping there might be a higher tech, but relatively inexpensive, alternative to the tennis balls.

Thanks again, Charlie.

Bob


]]> Sun, 16 Feb 2014 17:46:58 +0000 https://www.rpod-owners.com/forum_posts.asp?TID=4408&PID=42731#42731