In the past year, there’s been a quiet revolution in the resolution of camera technology, and Kiwi company RSE is leading it, Peta Stavelli reports.
RSE has always been a market leader in mobile technology, offering recreational vehicle and boat owners the latest advances in 12V televisions, satellite receivers and antennae that offer perfect reception, no matter where your travels take you. With a change in ownership in February 2022 the new team has continued that tradition. They have redefined camera capability, upgrading the standard from 720p (High Definition) to 1080p (Full High Definition); and users are saying the viewing quality is vastly different – like getting new prescription lenses.
And it’s not just the sharpness of the image that has been upgraded, but the quality, capability and housing of the camera units. If you’re looking at investing in new camera technology or upgrade your old system, there’s a world of difference in what’s now on offer.
Hardwired and happy?
The hardwired monitor has two camera inputs, one input on screen at any one time, with grid-lines available. The system offers two adjustable eyeball camera options each with a different lens angle. This shift away from the more conventional dual camera system utilises a splitter cable that not only allows for easier connection, but also means it’s easier if you decide to install another camera at a later date. A tough new black powder coating protects the aluminium housings.
Practically speaking, the two cameras have different functions. The narrower 95° view is best suited for traffic watching, while the 120° lens makes backing and checking on bikes or tow vehicles a breeze. There is a choice between a mirror or a dash monitor; starting price for a monitor is $355. The two-angle camera package starts at $505, or you can look at single camera options at $265 each.
Here’s looking at you, kid
The latest wireless developments at RSE have been market tested since April last year, and the feedback has been assuredly positive. You can choose to suction mount or hard-mount the continuous-viewing monitor, which is powered via a cigarette lighter adapter. You can input up to four cameras that will transmit provided they have a reliable 12 volt power source. The monitor allows you to choose various camera views, select which camera to hear the audio, and record via memory card.
The cameras can be installed in any place they are required. This means that in addition to the option of a traditional standard reversing camera, you also have multiple other options at your disposal. You can keep an eye on your children and grand-children in the back seat, and also listen out for them to see if they’re stirring from their nap. You can watch your pets, horse trailers and live-stock in real time; or simply monitor your tow hitch and bike racks. And when you’re parked up, you can also use the cameras in the same way as you would use your home security camera to keep an eye on your valuable equipment or as an extra eye on the comings and goings around the campground. The starter package of a Dash monitor and one camera is $655 with each additional camera at $275.
Wired or wireless – Which is best?
Only you can decide which is the best camera system for you, but just to recap: the two systems – wired and unwired – each have pluses and minuses. Essentially, a wired system is where the monitor provides power to the camera via a cable. A hard wired solution can provide comfort for some, while others say it’s more time-consuming to install than a wireless system, and therefore overall more expensive. Wired systems can be harder to upgrade.
Conversely, a wireless camera system takes less installation time, and the monitor can be easily transferred to another tow vehicle. The earlier model wireless cameras with the push button pairing system are not interchangeable with the new wireless Full High Definition cameras because the componentry cannot be mixed. But if you’d heard that wireless technology was unreliable, RSE’s systems have changed all of that. In-market testing has proven that if you have a reliable 12- volt power source; RSE can supply the Full HD camera system to match it. Start out strong and invest by getting four cameras, or buy the basic monitor and camera package and add more cameras as you go, or as your needs change.
What next?
Pop in to your local RSE installer and talk to a knowledgeable staff member who will help fill any gaps in your knowledge. While you are there, don’t forget to also check out their latest products. There’s always something new on offer from RSE Limited, the leaders in RV technology.
Find an RSE stockist or browse the website: https://www.rse.co.nz/
