I am installing a back-up camera in my truck. I want to use a switch that will allow me to use a toggle switch to turn the camera on anytime, not just in reverse (trying to hook up a trailer with the camera going off each time I pull forward is a pain).

The type of switch I need will allow me to run current from the reverse light circuit so when I am in reverse, the camera goes on. When in drive, I would then use the toggle switch to turn the camera back on. The key here is that the switch needs to allow power to pass through it to allow for normal reverse (power to camera) function and also allow me to "turn on" the toggle switch to supply power to the camera (without sending power to the reverse light). With a regular switch, the reverse lights come on when I manually turn on the camera.

So I've been searching many "auto switch" websites and their online chat help is actually no help at all.

Help Help.

 

Can you shoot me a link or email me the wiring schematic for the setup if possible? I'll try to come up with a circuit for you.

But thinking off of my head a 12v diode is needed. Install the cathode side of the diode between the +12v toggle switch and the reverse light switch with the camera power on the cathode side of the diode. This will prevent the +12v power toggle switch powering up the reverse lamps.

MikeyB

 

Why not just wire it to the switch and forget the reverse? I wired mine to the E brake through my stereo. If I want it on, I engage the brake one notch.

Guardrail

 

no sense in making it harder than needed. wire a switch to 12v and forget the reverse function. you can use it when you want it and not have any complicated diode/cathode ray tube death ray wiring and screwing your TIPM (if truck is 06-newer).

also. WELCOME TO DTR

 

It's not that hard..... Quick and dirty drawing.



MikeyB

 

Ahhh. So the diode only allows current to pass through in one direction?

 

Yes.

Also fuse the +12v side of the toggle switch.

MikeyB

 

You could use a SPDT (ON-ON Single Pole, Double Throw) switch. Connect the Common pin to the camera. Connect the A pin to reverse wire and connect the B pin to power wire. Leave switch on "reverse to camera" for normal use then switch to "power to camera" when you want to have it stay on. Just use an accessory power so it doesn't get left on by accident.

 

I just wired my backup camera to the tail light circuit. I then turn the light switch on and have the camera instead of the back up circuit. Since the monitor is portable and requires me to plug it into a power port I don't have it on unless needed.

 

Wow! Lot's of great ideas. Thanks everyone! I think I am going to try Jharbin's switch idea.

Thanks again all!