What is the Field of View for the Hopkins Smart Hitch Backup Camera System # HM50002

Question:

I want to use this HM50002 primarily as a backup camera and proximity sensor for general use backing into parking spaces with my long-bed dually truck. What is the degrees field of view of the camera? 90-degrees? 120-degrees? 140-degrees? Is there a better camera/sensor setup that you recommend for general use as a backup camera? I have a 2007 Dodge Ram 3500 quad cab long bed dually.

asked by: Scott K

Expert Reply:

The Hopkins Smart Hitch Backup Camera and Hitch Aligner System # HM50002 that you referenced in your question is a great system that has received some great reviews from customers. It can be used both for coupling a trailer and for everyday use like what you are wanting to use it for.

I talked to my contact at Hopkins and asked if they had any specifications on the field of view for the camera and he said that they do not have any specs on that. I will say that you can adjust the camera and sensor angles though so that you can get the max performance out of it. I have also included a picture that one of our customers sent in with it installed on their 2004 Silverado that you can check out.

If you are able to remove the 7-Way connector from the harness on your Ram and it has the US car connector (see attached picture) then you can easily connect the camera. Otherwise, since your Ram has a square plug, you can install the Hopkins Endurance Quick-Install 7-Way Trailer Connector # HM42190 into the square plug on your Ram and then T in the Hopkins camera right behind the 7-Way connector. This gives you an alternative to hardwiring the camera into your Ram like you normally would have to do if you didn't have this connector.

I have also attached a video of this camera system being installed on a 2009 Ram that you can use as a reference.

expert reply by: Jon G