Polaroid PBC-A56J wireless camera

[iretired95]

I have tried to hook up the camera on the backup wiring at the rear lights and the camera only sends intermittent signals to the receiver. I took the camera and attached it across the battery and connected the receiver in the 12 volt plug in the back of the van. It works fine. So distance isn't a problem.
Does it seem like the voltage in the backup wiring is not sufficient? I checked it and it is over 11 volts. I checked with Polaroid and they said if I can connect it across the battery and it works fine, than both units are working correctly.

If I connect it to the rear running lights or the license plate lights and keep the lights on do you think that might supply enough voltage to operate the receiver?
Thanks for any help.
Bob

[aleekat]

If it's works off the 12v plug. Can you run a separate wire from there? The only way to know for sure if the other lights will power it is connect it temporary and see if it works.

[iretired95]

Waiting for a warmer day. I ma going to connect to the rear running lights to see if they get more power than the backup lights. At least the Windstar lets you know when you leave the lights on when you get out of the car, so I won't have to worry about a dead battery. I let you know how I make out.
Bob

[phil-l]

Warning: Ford Windstar models 1999 and beyond use what's called "low side switching". Basically, this means the *negative* supply to the bulb is switched, not the *positive* side.

Basically - what this means to you - is that you should *not* try to use light bulb connections to power other devices; the wiring system for the van isn't designed for that. The problems you're seeing are likely resulting from this situation.

Solutions? There are tail light converters used to connect trailer lighting to the Windstar; adapting such a converter to the Windstar's reverse light circuit would probably work for what you're trying to do. Another approach would be to use a relay to isolate the reverse light circuit from the voltage needed to run the camera.

To get started: Search eBay (or other places) for "Windstar trailer wiring" to see what a converter looks like and how it works.

Another good beginning: Do you know what a "relay" is - and how it can solve this problem? if not, here's one place to start learning: http://www.bcae1.com/relays.htm

[iretired95]

I've e given up on the Windstar, but have a question. I have a 2007 Chevy Equinox and wonder if they have the same wiring constraints as the Windstar?

If anyone is familiar with the Equinox, let me know if I can connect directly to the reverse lights.
Thanks for any help.
Bob

[phil-l]

Sorry, I'm not familiar with the Equinox. However, spending some time with a digital voltmeter should answer your questions.