Installing the Magellan Wireless Back-Up Camera (photos)

Start by removing the screws that hold your license plate in place, then use those same screws to affix the Magellan camera unit to the top of the plate.

We left the standard Phillips screwdriver compatible screws in place, but cautious owners may want to switch to a screw head that's less accessible to the common thief. I'd recommend checking your local hardware store for pin-in-hex types.

The camera protrudes slightly from its mounting surface and may cause conflicts with certain license plate frames. Next, we need to route the cables.

I was able to squeeze the camera's cable through a tiny opening behind this bit of plastic trim and into the cabin of our test car. Your vehicle will no doubt present its own challenges, so don't be afraid to poke around and get creative.

With the camera in place, we turn our attention to the transmitter box, which needs power. Locate the one of the reverse lights on the back of your vehicle and expose the wires that power it. On our test car, we partially removed the passenger side rear light cluster to find those cables (the long, thin black and white pair near the center of the photo).

Now locate the transmitter box that shipped with your Wireless Back-Up Camera. This unit features two pre-stripped power cables that need to be connected to the reverse light's power.

Start by locking the supplied wire taps around the positive and negative power cables (1) for the reverse light by squeezing the taps with a pair of pliers. Next, using a wire crimper (2) attach the supplied spade connectors to the exposed ends of the transmitter box's power leads (3). Then simply connect the spade connectors to the wire taps.

The red (positive) cable connects to the white power wire and the black (ground) connects to the black grounded connection on the vehicle. The result is a clean connection that's easy to reverse if you ever find the need to.

Finally, secure all excess wire using zip ties (not included) and make the connections between the camera and the transmitter. There are only two to make: power and video.

Put your reverse lights back into place and reattach any body panels that you may have removed during installation.

Inside the vehicle, the Wireless Back-Up Camera's receiver attaches to the back of the Magellan 9055-LM's cradle with a tongue-in-groove slotted connection. The unit also includes a new two-headed power cable that allows both the camera's receiver and the GPS device to be powered from one outlet.

Place the vehicle into reverse gear and double check that your reverse lights still work. You'll probably want a third party to help here, lest you accidentally back over yourself.

Inside the vehicle, the receiver box should sense that the camera and transmitter are broadcasting and automatically switch the 9055-LM's screen to display the rear view.

And like that you're all done. Adjust the camera vertically to your liking by grabbing the lens and twisting. Once installed properly, the system should require no direct interaction on the part of the driver beyond the act of shifting into reverse.