I have an Alpine IWA-505 and it has an input for a reverse camera. I didn't know if anyone had any experience with this.

Do I have to get the overpriced Alpine camera (http://www.alpine-usa.com/US-en/products/product_acc.php?model=HCE-C105)?

Will any generic camera work?

How will it know when it's in reverse? Do I have to tap into some wire?

It will work with a different brand without any issues. It uses a standard composite input and trigger wire. Do you have a different model in mind?


this is a decent one if you purchase retail

http://www.crutchfield.com/p_707VTL400/Boyo-VTL400-Rear-view-Camera.html?o=p&search=rear+camera

I have used some off brand pieces from local distributors before that were so so.

If you can find the pioneer backup cam , I would use there product. I have always had great luck with these.


The Alpine GPS unit is slick but to your point it will always be a step or two behind the portable units in features and more expensive.

My advice is to bite the bullet if you find a fair price on one. Having a clunky portable unit on the dash is cumbersome.


Cheers-
JF