im installing a PEAK backup camera system into my 06 150 screw. i would like to wire it up through some type of timer, so that once i go into reverse, the camera will turn on, and then stay on for the timers limit (maybe around 2 minutes). this way when i go forward while im parking, i wont have to wait for the camera to "re-boot" every time i go back to reverse.

now, my question is, how can i do this? i tried searching for 12 vdc timers, and didnt find anything that would work..... it would have to have 2 inputs (a 12 vdc constant, and a 12vdc switched <reverse light wire> to activate it ), then would feed off of the 12vdc constant for the timers duration.

anyone know of anything that might work?

Thanks a bunch !!

 

It sounds like you need a Square D JCK type relay, or similar off delay relay

This is a timing relay, and you would use the off delay configuration type with 12 V DC coil, the time ( adjustable of fixed depending on the one purchased ) would keep the contacts open for the configured time, after the coil is closed.

So a 10 second off delay would keep the contacts open for an additional 10 seconds after the coil looses power.

You would cut the power lead to the camera ( this is what turns it on today ).
Wire the end of the camera power from the controller ( part that turns it on ) to the coil, the other end on the Normally open contacts ( usually 87 on a standard relay ).
Ground the other side of the coil.

The input to the relay is power from the battery or from the trailer tow battery charge circuit on the 7 pin adapter.

You can order this type relay online, or at any electrical supply house like a Crescent Eletric. Make sure you specify the relay coil voltage, and get a base for it. I think this is a 11 or 16 pin base ( more then one set of contacts ), and these are round pins on the bottom normally. Don't have ti out in the weather, so close to the control unit would be best ( under the dash ? ).

Here is an example:


Take a google search for other manufactures of these, Elk is another manufacture of off delay relays, more so for the home security market. These might be cheaper, as they are designed for the 12-24 V arena, and the contacts are not designed for large AMP loads ( the Square D and others are made with contacts in the 80 A range I think ).

 

Matt, why not just have the camera on while the key is in the on position? I believe this is the way the OEM Ford backup camera is configured.

 

wow, thanks for all of your help... i will search around.

Happy New Year !!

 

This is an option, but its also un-needed. with a little bit of wiring magic, i can have it on a delay..... im not sure if these get scrren burn and prematurely fail if always on.