Is this a crazy idea?

[dwna1a]

I've added a Ray Cam220ip to my eS98.

As I am starting the installation and I have a crazy idea. One would use this camera mostly in the evening or during bad weather. Why can't I just hook it up to the masthead light? That would give me a IR light and view in the evenings.

Just asking for everyone's opinion

 

[BryanOnTheBay]

I've added a Ray Cam220ip to my eS98.

As I am starting the installation and I have a crazy idea. One would use this camera mostly in the evening or during bad weather. Why can't I just hook it up to the masthead light? That would give me a IR light and view in the evenings.

Just asking for everyone's opinion

I am trying to figure out what you mean "hook it up to the masthead light?" Do you mean attach it to the post, or actually wire it to the light? Presuming the post is stiff enough and well attached, that may work, otherwise you will have too much vibration interfering with the video. Otherwise, mount the camera in front of the light.

Bryan

 

[dwna1a]

Sorry, I should explain things better. The camera is under my hardtop. Right under the radar mast. I want to run the power for it off the masthead light and then run the cable down thru the arch and to the unit. The camera is pointed forward but under the hardtop and is centerline of the boat.

 

[h_gerry]

Sorry, I should explain things better. The camera is under my hardtop. Right under the radar mast. I want to run the power for it off the masthead light and then run the cable down thru the arch and to the unit. The camera is pointed forward but under the hardtop and is centerline of the boat.

You should power the camera separately. The navigation lights are one of the "critical" systems (in my opinion) that you do not want anything potentially interfering with their function.

 

[maloopis]

I sure would not tie to the lights. Just go the extra step and run direct.

 

[BryanOnTheBay]

You should power the camera separately. The navigation lights are one of the "critical" systems (in my opinion) that you do not want anything potentially interfering with their function.

+1 also, have you thought as to whether the wiring for the lights could even handle the extra load? Do it right the first time.

 

[dwna1a]

While I agree with both of you and will follow your advise, the electrical draw of the camera is very low. Plus changing all the nav light to LED's has lowered the voltage draw significantly. The wires for the camera are about as small as a single wire in a phone cord.