Overview
Hamilton Upgrade Kits support compatible aftermarket front-facing cameras, allowing you to add a front camera to your vehicle or replace an existing camera with an aftermarket option.
Hamilton Upgrade Kits support both CVBS and AHD camera signals. For the simplest installation and configuration, we recommend using a CVBS camera whenever possible.
Before purchasing an aftermarket front camera, verify the camera's video format, resolution, connector, and power requirements to ensure compatibility.
Not Supported by This Guide
Land Cruiser Upgrade Kits equipped with the optional Streaming Package are not covered by this article.
Compatible Front Cameras
Hamilton Upgrade Kits support the following aftermarket camera formats:
Camera Type | Support |
|---|---|
CVBS / Composite | Recommended |
AHD | Supported - 720p Maximum |
CVBS Camera Support
Hamilton Upgrade Kits support both:
- NTSC
- PAL
The Hamilton system automatically detects the CVBS video format, so no manual NTSC/PAL selection is required.
AHD Camera Support
AHD cameras are supported at 720P resolution.
Higher-resolution AHD cameras are not supported.
Choosing an Aftermarket Front Camera
Before purchasing a camera, verify the following:
Connector
The Hamilton kit uses an RCA connector for the front camera connection.
The aftermarket camera's RCA video output should be connected to the 'Aftermarket Front Cam' RCA connection on the Hamilton harness. The Hamilton harness also provides the connections needed for the camera's power, and ground. Connect the aftermarket camera's power to 'Aftermarket Cam +12V' and the ground to 'Aftermarket Cam GND', or refer to the wiring diagram for your specific Hamilton Upgrade Kit when determining which harness connections should be used.
RCA only describes the physical connector. It does not tell you whether the camera is CVBS or AHD. Always verify the camera's actual video signal.
Power Requirements
Verify the camera's required power and ground connections before installation.
Different camera manufacturers may use different wiring configurations, so do not assume that the wiring for one camera will work the same way as another.
Installing an Aftermarket Front Camera
The exact installation process can vary depending on the vehicle, Hamilton Upgrade Kit, and camera being installed.
In general:
- Mount the front camera in the desired location.
- Route the camera's video cable to the Hamilton Upgrade Kit.
- Connect the camera's video output to the appropriate Hamilton camera input.
- Connect power and ground according to the camera manufacturer's instructions.
- Configure the Hamilton camera settings to match your preference.
- Test the camera before completing the installation.
Adjusting Front Camera Settings
After the camera is connected, you can adjust the available camera settings through the Hamilton system.
From the Hamilton Home Screen:
- Select Settings.
- Scroll down and select Car Settings.
- Select Reverse Settings.
From this menu, you can access available camera settings, including:
- Image Mirroring — Mirror the camera image if necessary.
- Front-View Time Duration — Adjust how long the front camera remains displayed when the automatic front-camera view is triggered.
Accessing the Front Camera View
To manually view the front camera:
- Return to the Hamilton Home Screen.
- Select the Camera app.
- The front camera view will be displayed.
Make sure the camera is powered and properly connected before attempting to access the camera view.
Aftermarket 360° Camera Systems
Aftermarket 360° camera systems are not supported.
Hamilton Upgrade Kits are designed to work with compatible individual camera inputs. Aftermarket 360° systems typically use multiple cameras and a dedicated processing module to combine the camera feeds into a bird's-eye/360° view.
Do not purchase an aftermarket 360° camera system expecting it to integrate directly with the Hamilton Upgrade Kit. If you are adding a front camera, use an individual compatible front-facing camera.
Installation & Support
Aftermarket cameras can have different wiring configurations, video formats, switching methods, and features depending on the manufacturer.
If you need assistance installing an aftermarket camera, our Support Team may need documentation for the specific camera being installed.
Please provide:
- The camera's wiring diagram or schematic
- The camera's installation instructions, if available
- The camera's product listing, if available
This information allows our Support Team to identify the camera's power, ground, video signal, and configuration wires and provide more accurate guidance.
Important Support Information
Hamilton can provide support for connecting a compatible aftermarket camera to the Hamilton system. However, aftermarket camera installations can be more advanced than a standard factory-camera replacement.
Our team will always endeavor to provide timely and prompt support. However, because aftermarket cameras are third-party products and can involve manufacturer-specific wiring, configurations, and features, troubleshooting these installations may require additional research or coordination and support for these types of inquiries may take additional time.
Support for specific aftermarket camera models, features, wiring configurations, switching methods, and manufacturer-specific settings may also be limited.
We will do our best to help troubleshoot the Hamilton side of the installation. For questions regarding the camera's specific operation, configuration, features, or manufacturer-specific wiring, you may need to contact the camera manufacturer directly for additional support.