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Why Our Sensor Options Provide More Flexibility for You
One of the
most important components in any vehicle backup warning aid is the type of
sensors it uses. The two primary types of sensors on the market today are
the flush mount and the surface mount. Each has its advantages
and drawbacks:.
Definitions:
Flush
mounted sensors
are drilled directly into the bumper of a vehicle and thus, look “flush” to
the surface of the bumper.
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Flush
mounted sensors are very popular because of
their low profile look.
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Because of
their lower profile mounting, they “see” in a very directional manner, and
their peripheral “vision” is greatly diminished.
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As a
rule, flush mounted sensors do not “see” obstacles from as far away
from the vehicle as surface mount sensors do
Surface mounted sensors
mount on the surface of the bumper, usually using an adhesive. Although
small, they are larger than flush mounted sensors. Because they sit
higher, surface mounted sensors have more of a peripheral view (just
as a person is able to see more of their surroundings when standing on
higher ground). These sensors often have a “camouflage” cover painted to
match the vehicle color.
In
general, each surface mounted sensor incorporates two sensing
elements: one for transmitting and one for receiving. Flush mounted
sensors use a single sensor element to do both actions; cycling between
transmitting the signal and receiving it. Thus, they take a little bit
longer to detect, register and respond to an object than surface mounted
sensors do. Also, they do not see as far (from the vehicle) as
surface mounted sensors
Factors to
consider when deciding which system is best for your vehicle:
Because
they have less peripheral ”vision”, flush mounted sensor systems
usually require the installation of a 4th sensor, while surface
mounted sensor systems require only 3. However, since the 4-sensor
configuration does not place a sensor in the center of the bumper,
flush mount kits may be a more attractive choice for vehicles (such as
pickup trucks) which have a center step or mounted hitch.
Flush
mounted sensors
are usually easier to install. However, there are exceptions. Check with
us before you order. Flush mounted sensors cannot be protected from
being hit or stepped on. Surface mount sensors can be protected
from impact by an optional metal sensor guard.
Proper placement of the sensors is crucial. Some sensor designs may be
more advantageous than others for your particular installation. In
addition, some vehicles’ designs make it impossible to use flush
mounted sensors, while surface mounted sensors can work on any
vehicle. Flush mounted sensors cannot be aimed up or down, whereas
Surface mounted sensors can, using special mounting brackets
(included).
Where flush mounts are not suggested:
Flush
mounted sensors
are not recommended for solid steel, curved or rounded bumpers, or bumpers
lower than 21” from the ground. Installation can be a problem on vehicles
with these characteristics because the sensors may either aim wrong, or
fail to detect the ground properly, causing false alarms. In general,
flush mounted sensors are more difficult to aim.
Surface
mounted sensors
are the only suggested option for lease vehicles, because flush mounted
sensors require the drilling of holes in the bumper for installation
(something most lease companies will not appreciate you doing).
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