Solar Backup Cameras

[Buster1903]

Does any one have experience with these new Solar/battery Backup Cameras?

I'm looking for a permanent mounted rear camera on my trailer, Not one I have to pull off the trailer and plug in to charge every time I stop. Most of the solar cameras state "solar is just supplemental power" or "extends battery life" are there any that would fit my use??

I take long cross country trips and the blind spot in rear visibility is starting to bother me. it would come in very useful in most backing up situations as well obviously.
Cost is an issue, I have lived without one because of $$.

[OP827]

I do not think that solar camera will be super reliable. Slim potato head YT channel, he has this video. See comments. He did not have great experience with one of those solar cameras. After some research I got this CAD$100 wireless 1080p camera kit with 7in screen and pretty happy with it since 2023. The screen has video recording capability to micro SD card. The rear camera is powered by tapping into the trailer running lights wiring.

[S. Heisley]

I have this one:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CT2FQXN6?re ... asin_title

While the camera has a VERY strong magnet attachment, they recommend that you remove and secure it when not in use. This is because these babies are being stolen a lot and I doubt thieves would care if they had to damage your vehicle to take it.

The 7" screen plugs into your 12 volt outlet on your tow vehicle cabin's dash.

[Buster1903]

I have this one:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CT2FQXN6?re ... asin_title

While the camera has a VERY strong magnet attachment, they recommend that you remove and secure it when not in use. This is because these babies are being stolen a lot and I doubt thieves would care if they had to damage your vehicle to take it.

Thank you for you input

This is the one I bought on impulse it's not going to work for me. Cameras solar panel is fixed back of my trailer is slanted.

Does your camera full charge it's battery on it's own little solar panel? or do you have to plug it in and charge it up between uses? just for reference

[Buster1903]

I do not think that solar camera will be super reliable. Slim potato head YT channel, he has this video. See comments. He did not have great experience with one of those solar cameras. After some research I got this CAD$100 wireless 1080p camera kit with 7in screen and pretty happy with it since 2023. The screen has video recording capability to micro SD card. The rear camera is powered by tapping into the trailer running lights wiring.

Thank's for the reply.

I agree with you, these look to good to be true. Running power wires will not kill me. Now I'm even looking at fully wired license plate type back up cams. I would just have to figure out an extension and connector at the hitch. I know those work well and are reliable and cost less.

Definitely approaching Analysis paralysis

[S. Heisley]

I have this one:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CT2FQXN6?re ... asin_title

While the camera has a VERY strong magnet attachment, they recommend that you remove and secure it when not in use. This is because these babies are being stolen a lot and I doubt thieves would care if they had to damage your vehicle to take it.

Thank you for you input

This is the one I bought on impulse it's not going to work for me. Cameras solar panel is fixed back of my trailer is slanted.

Does your camera full charge it's battery on it's own little solar panel? or do you have to plug it in and charge it up between uses? just for reference

The solar panel adjusts. It's a little tight but it does move and adjust.

[Buster1903]

The solar panel adjusts. It's a little tight but it does move and adjust.

They must have change out the camera, the one I have is 100% ridged.

I still have the question:
Does your camera full charge it's battery on it's own little solar panel? or do you have to plug it in and charge it up between uses?

[S. Heisley]

The solar panel adjusts. It's a little tight but it does move and adjust.

They must have change out the camera, the one I have is 100% ridged.

I still have the question:
Does your camera full charge it's battery on it's own little solar panel? or do you have to plug it in and charge it up between uses?

I would think that is something you could find out by putting your unit out in the sun or on a window ledge for a while. Also, results might differ depending on whether your unit is in full sun or in shade. I've only used mine once so far and my first charge was from the house electricity. Anyway, I only plan to use it to backup, not to drive down the road. I don't plan to leave it attached. Perhaps there are some comments and ratings on Amazon that would tell you what you want to know? But, if you're unhappy with it, send it back and get something else. Maybe see if the ratings and comments on Amazon tell you what you need to know.

[Buster1903]

The solar panel adjusts. It's a little tight but it does move and adjust.

They must have change out the camera, the one I have is 100% ridged.
I still have the question:
Does your camera full charge it's battery on it's own little solar panel? or do you have to plug it in and charge it up between uses?

I would think that is something you could find out by putting your unit out in the sun or on a window ledge for a while. Also, results might differ depending on whether your unit is in full sun or in shade. I've only used mine once so far and my first charge was from the house electricity. Anyway, I only plan to use it to backup, not to drive down the road. I don't plan to leave it attached. Perhaps there are some comments and ratings on Amazon that would tell you what you want to know? But, if you're unhappy with it, send it back and get something else. Maybe see if the ratings and comments on Amazon tell you what you need to know.

Thank you for sharing you knowledge and experience, I'm sure I'll figure it out.
Good luck with your solar backup camera I hope it does all you need and last a long time