Which is better, reversing camera or reversing sensor?

Entry

Road safety is every driver's priority. One of the most difficult maneuvers, especially in congested cities, is reversing. Modern technology offers two popular driver assistance solutions – rearview cameras and rearview sensors. Which is better? In this article, we'll discuss the history, operation, advantages, and disadvantages of both systems, and compare them in a table and chart.

The History of Reversing Assist Technologies

The first reversing assist solutions appeared in the 1950s, but they didn't become widely used until the early 21st century. In 1956, Buick unveiled the Centurion concept car with a reversing camera, but the technology wasn't yet available in mass production. It wasn't until the 1990s that the Japanese brand Toyota implemented the first reversing camera systems in select models.

Parking sensors, also known as reverse parking sensors, gained popularity in the 1980s. This system was first used by the Italian manufacturer FIAT in the Tempra. The technology quickly evolved and is now standard in many cars.

How does a reversing camera work?

A rearview camera is a device typically mounted at the rear of a vehicle that transmits images to the dashboard or rearview mirror screen. The camera provides the driver with a wide field of view and helps assess the distance to obstacles.

System components:

• Camera mounted in the rear of the vehicle.

• LCD display or multimedia screen.

• Parking assistance software, e.g. guide lines.

How does a reversing sensor work?

The reverse parking sensor uses ultrasonic waves to detect obstacles behind the vehicle. As the vehicle approaches, the system alerts the driver with an audible warning and, if necessary, a visual display on the dashboard.

System components:

• Ultrasonic sensors mounted in the rear bumper.

• A control unit that analyzes data from sensors.

• Audible and/or visual indication on the dashboard screen.

Advantages and disadvantages of reversing cameras

Advantages:

• Clear image of obstacles.

• Ability to see low objects, such as curbs or animals.

• Helpful lines to help you judge distances.

Defects:

• May be ineffective in bad weather conditions (rain, snow, fog).

• Requires a clean lens for proper operation.

• Higher installation cost than reversing sensors.

Advantages and disadvantages of reversing sensors

Advantages:

• They warn with sound so the driver does not have to look at the screen.

• They work effectively in all weather conditions.

• They are cheaper and easier to install than reversing cameras.

Defects:

• They do not detect very low obstacles.

• They may not function properly in the presence of strong ultrasonic interference.

• They do not provide visual information about the surroundings.

Technology comparison – table

Characteristic	Reversing camera	Reversing sensor
Obstacle visibility	Very good	Limited
Installation cost	Tall	Short
Resistance to weather conditions	Limited	High
Audible warning	NO	Yes
Detection of low objects	Yes	NO
Maintenance required	Yes (cleaning)	NO

When to choose a reversing camera and when to choose sensors?

• Reversing camera It will work best for drivers who often park in tight spaces and want to have full control over the car's surroundings.

• Reversing sensors are a good choice for those who prefer a simple and effective solution without having to watch the screen.

• The optimal solution is to combine both technologies – the camera provides visualization and sound sensors warn of obstacles.

Summary

Both a reversing camera and reversing sensors have their advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the right solution depends on the driver's individual preferences and the driving conditions. A reversing camera offers better visibility but is more expensive, while sensors are less expensive and effective in all conditions. The best solution is to use both systems, ensuring maximum safety when reversing.