Use brake controller to power backup camera?
I just installed a wireless backup camera on my camper (Garmin BC30). To avoid running extra wires between the truck and camper I just tied into the backup light wire of the 7-pin umbilical. Of course this makes the camera only come on in reverse.
I would like the ability to turn the camera on anytime I want. The obvious solution is to run a wire from the truck to camper and use one of the upfitter switches to control it.
Then I thought of using the unused brake controller wire to turn on the camera. Of course I couldn't use it when towing a trailer with brakes but that's rare and I'd need to isolate the feeds so that I don't backfeed the tail lights.
Any reason this won't work? I like it as I wouldn't need any other wiring between truck and camper.
PS: what does the power look like coming out of the brake controller wire? Does the voltage vary? Probably could still use it to trigger the camera but may need to use a relay?
I would like the ability to turn the camera on anytime I want. The obvious solution is to run a wire from the truck to camper and use one of the upfitter switches to control it.
Then I thought of using the unused brake controller wire to turn on the camera. Of course I couldn't use it when towing a trailer with brakes but that's rare and I'd need to isolate the feeds so that I don't backfeed the tail lights.
Any reason this won't work? I like it as I wouldn't need any other wiring between truck and camper.
PS: what does the power look like coming out of the brake controller wire? Does the voltage vary? Probably could still use it to trigger the camera but may need to use a relay?
