Is it worth upgrading cameras to color?

[Unicorn Driver]

Hi,

Just got a quote of 1000$ from rvcams.com to upgrade the Black and white Voyager screen and 3 cameras to color.

I am not sure its worth it? What do folks think?

Thanks,

[BFlinn181]

I guess if you're paying for deluxe installation they could charge that much, but cameras today are very cheap and not that hard to install, especially if the wiring in place can be utilized for the new cameras and monitor.

The change most likely isn't just black and white to color, but I'd expect a much greater image quality, perhaps IR or nighttime use too.

[Rkesselus]

I just picked up a wireless color system with 7 inch monitor and three cameras off eBay for less than 100 bucks. Easy install took about an hour and it is much better than my old Black and White system.

[Unicorn Driver]

Hi Bob,

The price was just for the replacement screen and 3 cameras from Voyager, it did seem very expensive. The screen ia built in to the dash.

Hi Rkesselus,

Would you have a photo of the screen installed?

Thanks both,

[BFlinn181]

I replaced a 5" CRT monitor that had died with a 7" color monitor from Ebay for about $25, it was intended for the back of a headrest. I was able to modify my dash and fit it into the opening for the CRT with a cubby for a pen or two underneath the monitor. Since I now had a color monitor that had 2 camera inputs, I added a camera to the right mirror pedestal that covers the blind spot on the right side. My B&W back camera was replaced by a $20 license plate color camera with IR LEDs. I was able to use the old camera enclosure to house the new camera and IR LEDs. The whole system cost maybe $60 and a bit of time.

[Unicorn Driver]

Hi Bob,

60$ is a great cost for it.

[Safari37]

I think its a waste.You really dont need cameras.Thats what the mirrors are for.

[Unicorn Driver]

Thanks

[BFlinn181]

Originally Posted by Safari37

I think its a waste.You really dont need cameras.Thats what the mirrors are for.

Many RVs don't have a back window, so a camera is the only way to see the Toad or immediately behind you. My newer car has the Federally required backup camera, and even though I have a rear window I like the camera and the added view it gives.

Most all safety equipment is a 'waste' until you need it. Mirrors on both sides became required in the late 1960's.

[Fiesta48]

What more information are you going to get out of color vs. black and white. Better resolution? Maybe if newer system has it.

[Unicorn Driver]

The resolution is not bad on them at all. Sometimes with sunglasses on its hard to see them. But that could he the glasses.

[Mac99]

Originally Posted by Safari37

I think its a waste.You really don't need cameras.That's what the mirrors are for.

I completely agree !


When I need to back up, I have a spotter with walkie talkies and/or I get out and look the situation over.

[BFlinn181]

Originally Posted by macandphyl

I completely agree !


When I need to back up, I have a spotter with walkie talkies and/or I get out and look the situation over.

It's one thing for backing up, but what about going down the interstate at +60 mph? How do you monitor your Toad? or someone who has decided to draft you by tucking right up to your rear bumper? I prefer having all the information cameras and even sensors can give you on today's roads. I have a Subaru with Eyesight, a stereo camera system that warns you if you leave the lane or something is in front of you, it even applies the brakes.

[Craig1960]

My b/w works good enough for me. I don't care if I know what color the object in the picture is.