Here’s a device that can be handy for most drivers. It’s called the Yada Rearview Mirror Backup Camera and Speakerphone. And while the name is certainly quite a mouthful, it can do all those things, once you actually install it in your car.
The oversized rearview mirror clamps right over top of your existing mirror and secures it with the included Velcro straps. It ships with a 12V cigarette lighter adapter as well as a cable to optionally hardwire it right to your vehicle. The mirror also acts as a hands-free Bluetooth speakerphone and to use it you simply pair it with any Bluetooth enabled mobile device. It has a built-in microphone and buttons to manually control volume and also to answer or hang up your phone. It’s built-in phone book holds up to 950 contacts.
Integrated LCD Display
Integrated into the left side of the mirror, you’ll see 2.4 inch LCD screen that can display the incoming callers name or phone number. The same area is used for the live video feed from the backup camera, we’ll talk about next.
The camera has a 640×480 CMOS sensor and a 90-degree wide-angle lens. To set up the camera, a little installation will be necessary, so when the car is in reverse you’ll be able to see what’s behind you right from the mirror. Take note, you will need to tap in to the wiring of one of your reverse taillights, easily done, using the supplied scotchloks.
Then, you simply need to attach a cable to the supplied signal booster which then adheres to the inside rear of your vehicle’s trunk or hatch. To install the camera itself, just slide it over the top edge of your license plate – you may need to remove a screw and adjust as necessary.
Installation Video
There is a short video on Yada’s website showing you how to install it, but if you feel uncomfortable tapping into your taillight assembly, then consider asking a friend or getting a local mechanic to give you hand.
Even better, it just might be something Dad might like for Father’s Day. You can take a little time this Sunday and install it together.
The entire kit retails for $249.99 but I noticed them on sale this week for 25% off or $179.99 at Canadian Tire.
Greg Gazin is the Real Canadian Gadget Guy.
Follow me on Twitter @gadgetgreg
Categories: Gadgets, Going Mobile, Holidays
I got my rear view camera at Brandmotion. I think you should check those out, GadgetGreg. They have a number of really cool ones, videos to help with installation, and compatibility. Plus, they’re made specifically for each vehicle.
I bought and installed one. Overall, very impressed, although I would not recommend installing it over the license plate. It’s very visible and just begs for it to be stolen. I ended up taking off the mounting plate and the swivel body and mounting it instead of one of the license plate lights, fixing it in with some black silicone.
Point taken. I guess just about every gadget, especially those that protrude is a target these days.
I recieved the Yada camera bluetooth
I do like it but unlike the dash mount cameras
There is no adjustment for brightening
The picture like the dash mount models
But if anyone knows how let me know
90 degrees isn’t exactly an awesome viewing angle, and another complaint is that these rearview mirror displays don’t of the greatest microphones for the hands free calling. But the price is solid…much cheaper than higher end models.
Thanks for the link to the video, I’m always looking for installation videos to share.