Can You Use a Backup Camera With Your Utility Trailer?
October 19, 2019 by Kyle McFarlaneBacking up a single axle utility trailer isn’t the easiest thing; it takes time and patience and for many people, it is a two-person job. You can’t see behind you, your trailer could have a big blind spot and often turning around while trying to maneuver your vehicle and keep the trailer in a straight line or going in the desired direction is nerve-wracking. But fortunately, there is a technology that can make this task a whole lot easier. If you struggle to back up your single axle utility trailer you should consider investing in a backup camera.
CHOOSING THE BEST BACKUP CAMERA FOR YOU
There are several things that you need to consider when choosing a backup camera for your utility trailer. Obviously, price is important but don’t buy the cheapest backup camera system that you can find because it just isn’t going to get the job done. Shop around and see what is on the market but before you commit to a backup camera you need to consider the following;
SCREEN SIZE MATTERS
When you choose a backup camera system, screen size matters. You want a screen that is big enough to see clearly but small enough to not obstruct your view or distract you while driving. Screen sizes range from 3 inches to 10 inches but ideally, you want a monitor that is between 5 and 7 inches. To give you some perspective, a 4.3-inch screen is the same size or smaller than the average smartphone and that is just too small, but a 10-inch screen might be too big and if it blocks your view of the road it will ultimately become irritating.
THE IMPORTANCE OF THE FIELD OF VIEW
Backup cameras have different fields of view and they can range from 90 degrees to 210 degrees. You need to choose a camera that enables you to see what you need to. 90-degree view angle is the narrowest option and while this gives you a decent view, it is not ideal. The other end of the spectrum is the 210-degree view. This may sound great, but it is actually too wide to function well and gives you a fish-eye effect. The distortion caused by the camera can make it hard to judge distances accurately on the screen. The best view angle is 130-degrees as it provides a good compromise between clarity and field of vision.
WIRED OR WIRELESS
You will also have to choose between a wired or wireless system. A wired backup camera is very reliable, you don’t have to worry about losing signal when you are backing up and it can be installed on any type of single axle utility trailer, but it will need to be installed by a professional.
A wireless backup camera is more expensive than the wired option, but it is simple to install, and most people can do it themselves. When choosing a wireless backup camera system, it is best to go for one that uses a digital signal as this is more reliable than the analog version. The set up is easy because the monitor is mounted with a bracket on the dashboard and plugged into the cigarette lighter for power. The cameras will have to be connected to the lighting wires and for this, you may need some professional assistance. The biggest disadvantage with a wireless system is that it can lose the connection especially if you have the analog version.
CMOS VS CCD SENSORS
You can either have CCD (charge-coupled device) or CMOS (complementary metal-oxide-semiconductor) sensors on your backup camera system. CCD sensors create high-quality images with low noise and are more light-sensitive than CMOS cameras so they provide better quality images but they are generally more expensive.
If you are willing to pay extra the CCD sensors are the better choice.
When you choose a backup camera system for your single axle utility trailer make sure that it is waterproof and comes with a good warranty. At McFarlane’s, we can help you choose the best backup camera system for your budget and install it for you.