A child is killed every other day in a non-traffic car accident. In many cases, it's a young child whose been backed over by a parent or caregiver who didn't see the child behind the car. The price to help avoid such tragic accidents? About $200.
Portable navigation device maker Magellan has introduced a new back-up camera accessory for its RoadMate Safety Series portable navigation devices (PNDs) that shows a 120-degree view around the rear of the vehicle––automatically displayed on the PND screen after the driver shifts into reverse.
The Magellan Wireless Back Up Camera includes a small camera that attaches to the top or bottom of the vehicle's rear license plate and a transmitter that sits in the trunk, connected to the vehicle's backup lights wiring. On the other end of the wireless transmission is a receiver for the PND. It connects with the PND's audio/video-in port and is powered by an included vehicle power adapter––a "Y-adapter" that powers both the receiver and the PND from one 12-volt outlet in the vehicle.
The camera, which is both waterproof and dust-proof, can be adjusted up or down by 45 degrees to get the best view whether it's installed on a Smart car or on an SUV. Built to Magellan's specifications by a third-party company, it has been optimized to work in bright-light and low-light conditions in which other back-up cameras may yield washed-out or too-dark video.
The transmitter has a range of 45 feet, is water resistant and triggers the PND screen to switch from navigation to rear-view mode as soon as the vehicle's backup lights come on.
Without installation, the Magellan Back-Up Camera kit is priced at $149.99. Professional installation costs about $80 at Best Buy. Compatible Magellan Safety Series PNDs include the RoadMate 1700, 1700-MU, 9055 and 9055-LM, which range in price from $199 to $399 and are not included.
From Tadibrothers on August 19, 2011 :: 5:24 pm
We think the Techlicious blog is great - these products are for EVERYONE, and any family should have a backup camera in their vehicle. One thing we think is important to emphasize with first time buyers is that a wireless backup camera system does require some wiring - to the transmitter - and may or may not be a comfortable DIY installation for the buyer. We put together this brief video on exactly what that installation involves so that a buyer can decide if they feel comfortable taking on the task: http://youtu.be/wJextwChL60 Highly encourage anyone who has not done any type of simple wiring before to watch before attempting to install.
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