Backup camera microphone?

[ORvideoguy]

Our backup camera monitor has volume control buttons and I can change the volume readout numbers up and down but I don't hear anything back by the camera even when I turn it up. Is there a microphone that I should be hearing or is it not part of the camera that is installed on a 2015 Forester?

[Batts-toy]

The microphone is in the back so the driver can hear someone behind him giving backing instructions etc. Have someone outside in the back talk while you are in the drivers seat and test it out that way.

[ORvideoguy]

I have tested it and I don't hear anything even at max volume. Either mine doesn't work or the Forester cameras don't have the microphone.

[ORvideoguy]

Ok, after reading the backup camera owners manual again it sounds like I should have audio from the monitor, as in the camera I have is equipped with a microphone. Now I just need to figure out why it isn't working. I found this in the troubleshooting section of the manual.

No audio
• Verify selected camera has audio.
• Verify volume setting.
• Confirm that the Blue audio trigger is connected to 12v+

The only thing I haven't checked is the blue audio trigger wiring. I'll have to check it out. Is there anything else I could be missing, a setting somewhere? Otherwise this may have to go on the list for warranty work.

[Batts-toy]

Originally Posted by ORvideoguy

Ok, after reading the backup camera owners manual again it sounds like I should have audio from the monitor, as in the camera I have is equipped with a microphone. Now I just need to figure out why it isn't working. I found this in the troubleshooting section of the manual.

No audio
• Verify selected camera has audio.
• Verify volume setting.
• Confirm that the Blue audio trigger is connected to 12v+

The only thing I haven't checked is the blue audio trigger wiring. I'll have to check it out. Is there anything else I could be missing, a setting somewhere? Otherwise this may have to go on the list for warranty work.

With a new unit like this, IMO go with the warranty if you get into it too deep you may void the warranty just by working on it. If the camera does have the microphone I would verify whether all the wiring is correct or not. I am a do it your-selfer from way back but am very cautious when it comes to voiding warranties.

[Flybob]

Some back up cameras have the mic and video activated only when the vehicle is in reverse. This is due to some state laws that prohibit displays visible to the driver during normal driving. This is why there are separate wires to activate video and mic. If you find that the blue wire is not connected and want to check it out or use it only when backing you can temporarily connect a cigarette lighter adapter to the blue wire and plug it into the cigarette lighter/ power port.

[gburcham]

My speaker only works in reverse.

[john.tucson]

Is there a way to keep the backup camera on while travelling to monitor our TOAD (2014 Solera 24B) ???

[Mikegjax]

Originally Posted by gburcham

My speaker only works in reverse.

X2

[Flybob]

Originally Posted by john.tucson

Is there a way to keep the backup camera on while travelling to monitor our TOAD (2014 Solera 24B) ???

You don't say what camera and how connected (OEM or aftermarket). If the camera is activated by the backup pin in the Bargman. If you disconnect it and connect it to the 12V acc pin it will be on all the time.

[Mikegjax]

Originally Posted by john.tucson

Is there a way to keep the backup camera on while travelling to monitor our TOAD (2014 Solera 24B) ???

When the key is on just push the "ON" button in the lower corner. I use mine all the time that way in my 24R. You can use it like a rear view mirror if you choose.

Works great.

[bclemens]

Power button keeps it on all the time.
Audio only while in reverse. (for good reason)

[john.tucson]

It is the factory backup camera that came with our new solera. Is the connection you are talking about right near the Trailer wiring plug ??? Any major downside to hooking it up as always on ??

saw the power button post after this was posted.... thanks

[Mikegjax]

I like having the choice. Some times at night it can be to bright. Then I turn it off until I need it. That is just me.

Most of the time I keep it on.

[mattnlisa]

Our dealer told us that our 3050s's rear camera had no mic. After seeing this thread, I went back and verified that it does have a mic with the camera. However, the volume has to be turned up to 100, and even then what I hear is just above a whisper. Is there some adjustment I'm missing?

[bclemens]

clogged mic? It's way up on the camera....try being in reverse with someone on the ladder talking in. One way to test it.

[john.tucson]

We tried ours with same result at 100 percent volume.

[bclemens]

Just to confirm....when testing the vehicle is IN REVERSE correct? That is the only time that the volume will work. It is also ONE WAY. Outside to inside, not inside to outside.

[Roger64]

Mine is also a whisper at 100. So I resort to FR handheld then at least I can talk to the DW and she can respond, sometimes even favorably

[john.tucson]

Where is the mike located on the camera, Our unit was full body paint and I wonder if my mike is somewhere under the paint...