Wiring the Cameras

Protecting the video quality of the cameras is very important, as we are modifying the cameras to connect to an external display, over a long distance (4m ish for the rear camera).

The generally recommended solution for aftermarket backup camera wiring is to use RCA composite video connectors, as this seems to be what the majority of the cheap displays use.

We also need to figure out how to get the signal through the multiple panels from the rear to the front of the car.

I propose to use a panel-mount RCA coupler (https://www.datapro.net/products/rca-panel-mounting-coupler.html) to get through the panels:

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And high quality coaxial RCA cable to connect the cameras on either end. We should modify the cameras to have a micro-fit or MX150L panel mount input connector and a panel mount RCA video output connector.

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(https://www.datapro.net/products/composite-video-cable-single-rca.html)

The sources linked are just for reference, and we should shop around for the best price / quality.

When wiring the shield, be very careful to not create a GND loop through the car. Verify whether it is grounded on either the camera or display side, and make sure not to gnd it on both! Though I’m not sure how this will affect video quality, since I seem to remember that sometimes the return signal current is passed through the shield (coaxial connectors) to reduce radiated noise, which is why high power RF connectors are so specialized. Since this signal is likely not radiating noise (maybe?) and our goal is to protect it from the other electrical signals, I think we should only ground it on one end. If anyone does more research on this, please keep this page up to date!