Important Safety Feature Can Prevent Auto Accidents

BY NICOLE DIGIOSE   

While you're backing out of a space in a crowded parking lot, it can be difficult to see what's around you. Even though you peer into the rear view mirror to see what's in the opposite direction, you twist around anyway to see what's behind you. But you're living in the 21st century, and rear vision systems are a valuable option.  

Rear vision system view. Image via fas-make.com

Safety

An important safety feature for any vehicle, rear vision systems eliminate blind spots, minimize the chances of vehicle damage, and most importantly, can prevent human injuries and fatalities. They allow the driver to see the area surrounding the back of their car that would be difficult to observe with standard automotive mirrors. With a rear vision system, keeping up with traffic while switching lanes on the highway and backing out of a parking space not only becomes safer, but easier as well. 

What to Look For

Improving your field of view while driving shouldn't be difficult. A basic rear vision system consists of a rear-facing camera to capture video and a touchscreen mounted on the dashboard to display it. There are many things to consider when looking for a rear vision system, but the two most important are integration with your vehicle and the quality of video from the system's camera.  Other considerations include anti-theft functionality and accessories, like remote controls and mounting racks.  

You could also have your system switch on automatically when the vehicle's transmission is placed in reverse. This is done by connecting a single wire to the vehicle's backup light circuit, so a signal will be sent to the rear vison system. This way, it can turn on without any action done by the driver.

Why Get One?

A rear vision system will not only keep the driver and their passengers out of danger during their travels, but everyone sharing the road with them will also be safer.

To get a look at Mouser's list of products for rear vision systems, including LED backlights, step-down regulators, and touch screen controls, click here.