A client from North Chesterfield recently returned to Extreme Audio in search of safety camera system for his 2016 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter-based RV. A while back, we had installed a camera-based rearview mirror with an integrated forward-facing dashcam. He wanted us to add something that would help with the blind spots on either side of the vehicle. After having a look at the van, we talked to the client about some of the options available. He decided on a camera-based system that would work with a new radio.
Springer RV Camera-Based Blind Spot Monitoring System
We started this collision avoidance project with the installation of a set of EchoMaster sideview mirror cameras. These cameras are integrated into new mirror covers for a neat and tidy look. While we didn’t have to fabricate anything, we still had to run the wiring into the door and then into the vehicle – a process that takes some time to do correctly and safely.
Next, we removed the factory radio from the dash of the van to make way for an Alpine iLX-F259 multimedia receiver. This radio features a large, 9-inch display that sits just in front of the dash. The concept is similar to how the infotainment system displays are mounted in new Audi and Mercedes vehicles. The radio includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, along with Bluetooth for hands-free calling and audio streaming.
A special interface that monitors the CAN network in the vehicle takes care of triggering the cameras automatically. When the van is running and the client activates a turn signal, the image from the camera on that side of the vehicle is displayed on the Alpine radio. With the wide viewing angle of the cameras, he can see if anyone is in the adjacent lane before he starts to move over.
With the work complete, the client returned to Extreme Audio to pick up his vehicle. A member of our team explained how to use the camera system in his RV, and we helped him connect his smartphone to the new radio. He was thrilled with the upgrade. If you’re interested in adding a collision avoidance system to your car or truck, drop by our store in Mechanicsville or Midlothian, give us a call or send our team an e-mail.
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