Whistler WBU-800 Wireless Digital Backup Camera User Guide

: June 14, 2024
: Whistler

Whistler WBU-800 Wireless Digital Backup Camera

Whistler-WBU-800-Wireless-Digital-Backup-Camera-
product

Because the WBU-800 is truly wireless and does not tap into your vehicle’s transmission or backup light, you must tell the unit when you are backing up. This also allows you to use your backup camera to view behind the vehicle at any time. When power is applied to the monitor an image will be present for 60 sec by default or the user-selected time, if the screen goes blank and more time is required press the for an image to return to the monitor.

INTRODUCTION

Welcome, Thank you for choosing a Whistler product. We are dedicated to providing products that represent both quality and value. Please read the User Guide carefully before using this product. If you have additional questions visit our website at www.whistlergroup.com or call Toll Free 800-531-0004 / Tel 479-273-6012, 8 am to 5 pm CT, Monday through Friday to speak to a Customer Service Representative.

COMPONENTS

Whistler-WBU-800-Wireless-Digital-Backup-Camera-fig-1

Monitor
Camera with solar cells
Suction cup mount
Dash disk
Short machine screws (2)
Machine nuts (2)
Cushions (2)
USB Charge cord
Monitor power cord
Wrench
Pairing tool

GETTING STARTED

The WBU-800 is equipped with a built-in rechargeable lithium battery and is connected with two solar panels that trickle charge the built-in lithium battery when sunlight is available. This will minimize or eliminate the need to manually charge the unit during the year.

A USB charging port is provided to initially charge the battery before mounting on your vehicle as well as to recharge if needed. Your rechargeable battery when fully charged will last for several months of average use with NO SUNLIGHT (average use is defined as 4~6 times per day). With the addition of sunlight, the solar cells will charge your battery thereby extending the camera’s ability to provide usage day after day and month after month without requiring you to recharge it manually.

Remove camera assembly from the box and make sure all components are included.

Charge The Camera

Connect the supplied USB cord to the micro USB port of the camera assembly.
Plug the USB cable into any standard USB charger with an output rating of 500ma or higher. The power switch will illuminate when charging.
Charge the camera for 5 to 6 hours. When charging is complete, the illumination of the power switch will turn off.
Close the USB door securely to ensure waterproof integrity.

Whistler-WBU-800-Wireless-Digital-Backup-Camera-fig-2

Under normal use, the camera maintains a charge with exposure to sunlight. A battery status indicator is provided on the monitor when the camera is in use.

NOTE: If the vehicle will be stored for periods greater than two months, please turn off the camera using the switch on the rear of the camera to the Off position to prevent the battery from discharging.

TEST THE CAMERA / PAIRING

Test the Camera

Before attaching the license plate to your vehicle, follow the steps below to ensure pairing between the backup camera and monitor.

Slide the switch on the rear housing of the camera to the On position.
With power applied to the monitor, the top right button will illuminate to indicate the monitor is ON.
The top right button will blink briefly to indicate that it is attempting to communicate with the camera. When connected to the camera, the top right button will turn solid. It may take a moment for the camera to begin sending the video information. Allow time for the image to be displayed.
If no image appears, see the Troubleshooting section of this user guide. The image will time out in 60 seconds (unless the user has selected a different time-out option) however, if you wish to shut the image off manually, press anytime that video is present to stop the video transmission and put the camera back into the power conserve mode. (The top right button will shut off when the timer expires)
The camera is equipped with 4 IR LEDs and a light sensor to automatically illuminate during low light conditions. These IR LEDs are invisible to the human eye.

NOTE: If using a switched 12-volt DC Power port, it is not necessary to power off the monitor.

PAIRING MONITOR TO CAMERA

Your WBU-800 should automatically pair with your monitor. If your monitor does not automatically pair with the camera after the initial charge, the following steps are to be used.

NOTE: There are two ways to pair the camera, select the one that works best for your situation.

Turn off the camera using the switch on the back of the camera. If already mounted to vehicle skip step 1.
Power on the monitor.
Press to place cursor over SETUP, then press power to select.
With the PAIR icon selected, press power to select process.
This system can support 2 cameras, select the camera you would like to pair. Camera 1 is the rear camera, Camera 2 is the front camera.
Using the switch on the back of the camera, turn the camera back on. If your camera is mounted to your vehicle, use the pairing tool to press and release the pair button located above the Micro USB charge port. Pair OK will be displayed when the pairing process is completed.

ASSEMBLY / INSTALLATION

The unit is assembled at the factory for mounting along the top edge of the License plate. See the Disclaimer section of this user guide before mounting to the vehicle.

NOTE: If you will be attaching the unit to the bottom of your license plate, please follow the steps below:

Locate then remove the four screws holding the bracket onto the camera.
Flip the bracket, and use the four screws to attach to the back of the camera. The result should be the USB door on the right-hand side as you face the camera when mounted to the bottom of your license plate.
Secure the camera assembly to the license plate using the short machine screws and machine nuts. Cushions have been included to avoid scratching your vehicle’s paint.

NOTE: Be sure to adjust the height of the camera assembly to not impair the readability of the state, registration decal, stamp, or other device indicating the month and year in which the vehicle’s registration expires when securing to your license plate.

ATTACH TO VEHICLE

Attach license plate to vehicle

Once you have tested the camera system and ensured the pairing between the backup camera and monitor, you are ready to reattach the license plate to your vehicle. Use your OEM license plate mounting hardware when mounting the license plate to the vehicle.

NOTE: Be sure to adjust the height of the camera assembly to not impair the readability of the state, registration decal, stamp, or other device indicating the month and year in which the vehicle’s registration expires. Check local laws for compliance. Adjust viewing angle The camera angle should be adjusted to provide an optimal view of objects behind the vehicle.

NOTE: Do not exceed 45 degrees down from the central position.

Loosen the two screws below the camera for a few turns. (Do not remove.)
To adjust the camera angle, tilt the camera to the correct angle. (Do not force the camera)
The camera should be adjusted to a horizontal position relative to the ground, to provide an optimal view of objects behind the vehicle.
Carefully tighten the 2 screws to prevent the camera angle from moving during vibrations from driving.

MOUNTING THE MONITOR

Find a mounting surface inside the vehicle for the monitor where it can be easily seen, and does not obstruct your vision when driving.

NOTE: To maximize the effectiveness of the suction mount, the mounting location surface temperature should be between 50° and 100°F. Avoid application below 50°F.

NOTE: Before mounting the monitor, test the reception of the camera signal in several selected locations within easy reach as one may have better reception than another. If mounting to the dashboard, the dash disk must be used to ensure a smooth surface for the suction cup to attach.

Clean and dry the mounting surface before applying a suction cup or dash disk.
Press the suction mount against the mounting surface and push the suction lock lever down. Make sure the mount is attached securely.
Slide the monitor onto the monitor arm. The monitor angle can be adjusted by loosening the monitor angle adjustment knobs, tilting the monitor, then tightening the knobs.
Plug the monitor power cord into a 12-volt DC power port inside the vehicle.

NOTE: See the disclaimer section of this user guide.

SETUP

Functions of the Buttons

Press to enable or cancel the video on the monitor. Press for 3 seconds to turn on/off the backup assist lines.
Press to enable/cancel the menu.
Press to move to or adjust a corresponding function.
Press and hold for 3 seconds to turn the monitor off. Touch to select a corresponding function.
Press to move to or adjust a corresponding function.

Adjusting Monitor Settings

Press to bring up the menu options
Press the arrow to scroll through the different options
Press the to enter the options
Press the to increase or the button to decrease settings
To change the view on the screen, scroll to then press the to select camera 1, press to select 1 of 4 image rotations. (It is best to have a video image displayed when making this selection)
To exit, press the or wait for the 20-second timer to exit automatically

Displaying Guidelines

To turn the guidelines On or Off, with video on the display press for 3 seconds then release.

MONITOR SETTINGS

User-selectable camera time durations

The WBU-800 has four user-selectable camera time durations. You may choose to set the monitor to stay on for 30, 45, 60, or 120 seconds by following the below steps when the monitor is powered on:

Press the
Press the to move the cursor over SETUP
Press the to select SETUP
Press the to move the cursor over TIME-OUT
Press the to select TIME-OUT
Press the to move the cursor over your preferred time duration
Press the 3 times to save and exit or wait 20 seconds and your selection will save and exit automatically

Whistler-WBU-800-Wireless-Digital-Backup-Camera-fig-15

Press the main Menu and 4 options are available including IMAGE PARAMETERS, IMAGE ROTATION, SETUP, and SOFTWARE INFORMATION. Press to select the corresponding option, and then press the to enter the option.

Select camera 1 for the rear camera option or camera 2 for the front camera option if your model is equipped.

In the example above the IMAGE PARAMETERS (Brightness, Contrast, Color) Setting Interface is shown.

Brightness/Contrast/Color Settings
Press on the interface to adjust the brightness as shown above.

Image Rotation
Select IMAGE ROTATION, and then press to rotate or mirror the image. (It is best to have a video image displayed when making this selection). If you rotate the image on the display an orange box with arrows will appear .

Setup
Select SETUP, and press to enter SETUP Mode. Pairing mode and camera time duration are found within the SETUP menu.

Select Software Information
Press the to display the software version information.

Camera Selection
C1 indicates camera 1 (rear), and C2 indicates camera 2 (front) if your model is such equipped.

Battery Strength
The battery icon is on the top left corner of the monitor and indicates the relative capacity of the built-in lithium battery when a video image is present.

Signal Strength
The signal strength of the received image is on the top right corner of the monitor when a video image is present.

TROUBLESHOOTING

If the monitor does not turn on when power is applied:

Check to make sure the power source is active (if your 12V power port is switched with the vehicle ignition, your monitor will only work when the vehicle is running or the key is in the ON position)
Check to make sure the fuse and power cord are in working order
With power applied to the monitor, press the button.

If the monitor does not display images within a few seconds of pressing the button:

The battery in the camera may be depleted and require recharging
The signal may be weak due to the positioning of the camera and monitor (try re-positioning the monitor to another location)

If the video image is poor:

Check that the camera lens is clean from road grime, snow, or ice

If the video image is dark:

Replace the vehicle’s old backup and license plate bulbs with new LED-type bulbs

If the image appears to shake when the vehicle is moving:

Check the camera mounting screws to the vehicle and retighten if needed
Check the camera tilt adjustment and retighten the screws if loose.

If the video image does not last the user selected the Time-Out period:

Re-check the Time-Out selection
Recharge the battery in the camera

DISCLAIMER

The Whistler Digital Wireless Backup Camera is intended to assist responsible drivers but it does not relieve a driver from full responsibility for the operation of the vehicle. It is the driver’s sole responsibility to avoid contact with any objects, animals, or persons. By mounting and/or using the Whistler Digital Wireless Backup Camera, you agree that you are solely responsible for the operation of your vehicle and that The Whistler Group is not responsible for any property damage, personal injury, or loss of life that may result from the operation of your vehicle.

Notice to Drivers in California and Minnesota: State law prohibits drivers in California and Minnesota from using suction mounts on their windshields while operating motor vehicles. Other dashboard mounting options should be used. (See California Vehicle Code Section 26708(a); Minnesota Statutes 2005, Section 169.71).

Notice: Some states or local governments may have regulations or laws that restrict the use of anything that might impair the clear view of a license plate. Check local laws for compliance. If your state prohibits the use of anything that impedes the top of the license plate, the camera can be mounted on the bottom of the license plate as in the image below.

Whistler-WBU-800-Wireless-Digital-Backup-Camera-fig-19

SAFETY

Safety

If at any time the backup camera assembly becomes damaged, hot, or begins to swell, discontinue use immediately. Quickly and safely remove the backup camera from the vehicle. Do NOT continue to handle, attempt to use, or ship the damaged backup camera assembly. Failure to follow these procedures can cause damage to personal property or cause serious injury. Damaged or swollen batteries in the backup camera assembly can be unstable and very hot. DO NOT touch the batteries until they have cooled. Dispose of the batteries in the manner required by your city, county, state, or country.

In the event of a crash, quickly and safely disconnect and remove the backup camera assembly from the vehicle. Then follow the previously listed safety procedures. If the internal contents of the batteries included in the backup camera come into contact with your skin, wash the affected area(s) with soap and water immediately. If it comes into contact with your eye(s), flush them with generous amounts of water for 15 minutes and seek medical attention. In the event of a fire, a Class D, dry chemical fire extinguisher must be used.

CARE AND MAINTENANCE

Cleaning

Do not clean or wipe the Back-Up Camera with solvents or chemical materials. If necessary, remove dirt or stains using a soft cloth dampened with a mild detergent solution.

Fuse Replacement

Turn the cap on the tip of the power plug counterclockwise (no tools needed).
Remove the cap, center pin, and fuse.
Replace the fuse with a new 1-amp fuse.
Replace the center pin and cap. Turn the cap clockwise.

Disposal
The Back-Up Camera is designed to provide years of service. The Back-Up Camera should be recycled or safely disposed of at a local recycling center.

FCC AND IC INFORMATION

IMPORTANT: FCC (Federal Communications Commission) requirements state that changes or modifications not expressly approved by Whistler could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

FCC Part 15.19 Warning Statement
This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.

FCC Part 15.21 Warning Statement
NOTE: The grantee is not responsible for any changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance. Such modifications could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.

FCC Part 15.105 Warning Statement
NOTE: This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, under part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses, and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used by the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
Increase the separation between the equipment and the receiver.
Connect the equipment to an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.

RF warning statement:

The device has been evaluated to meet general RF exposure requirements. To maintain compliance with FCC’s RF exposure guidelines, this equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator and your body.

FCC ID : HSXBU02M / HSXBU02C

IC Warning:

This device complies with Industry Canada licence-exempt RSS standard(s). Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) this device may not cause interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference, including interference that may cause undesired operation of the device.

RF warning statement:

The device has been evaluated to meet general RF exposure requirement. To maintain compliance with RSS-102 — Radio Frequency (RF) Exposure guidelines, this equipment should be installed and operated with a minimum distance of 20cm between the radiator and your body.

IC: 1698A-BU02M / 1698A-BU02C

SPECIFICATIONS

CAMERA

Operational Current (when transmitting): <220mA

Pixels: 640 x 480
View Angle: 110°
Image Sensor: 1/4“ CMOS VGA
Image Quality: Max 25 fps
Camera Assembly: IP65
Battery: 3.7V 2600mAh (non serviceable)

TRANSMITTER

Frequency: 2400 ~ 2485.5MHz
RF transmission distance: >328 ft. (>100 m) unobstructed
Operation/storage temperature: 14° to 122°F (-10° to 50°C)

MONITOR

LCD screen size: 4.3 in.
Power cord fuse: 1A
Operational Current: <250mA
Standby Current: <50mA
Effective Pixels: 480 x 272
Working temperature: 14° to 122°F (-10° to 50°C)

WARRANTY INFORMATION

Consumer Warranty

This Whistler product is warranted to the original purchaser for one (1) year from the date of original purchase against all defects in materials and workmanship when purchased from an authorized Whistler retailer. This limited warranty is void if the unit is abused, misused, modified, or installed improperly, or if the housing and/or serial numbers have been removed. There are no express warranties covering this product other than those outlined in this warranty. All express or implied warranties for this product are limited to one (1) year. Whistler is not liable for damages arising from the use, misuse, or operation of this product including but not limited to loss of time, inconvenience, loss of use of your product, or property damage caused by your product or its failure to work, or any other incidental or consequential damages including personal injury.

DO NOT RETURN ITEMS TO THE STORE WHERE PURCHASED.

For warranty information, contact Whistler Customer Service at Toll-Free 800-531-0004 / Tel 479-273-6012

Representatives are available to answer your questions

Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. CT

Service Under Warranty

During the warranty period, defective units will be repaired or replaced (with the same or a comparable model), at Whistler’s option, without charge to the purchaser when returned prepaid, with dated proof of purchase to the address below. Units returned without dated proof of purchase will be considered out of warranty and therefore are not covered by the described Limited Warranty. (Refer to the Service Out-of-Warranty section.) Due to the specialized equipment necessary for testing Whistler products, there are no authorized service centers other than Whistler.

When returning a unit for service under warranty, please follow these instructions:

Ship the unit in the original carton or a suitable sturdy equivalent, fully insured, with a return receipt requested to Whistler Repair Dept. 1412 South 1st St. Rogers, AR. 72756 Please allow 3 weeks turnaround time.
IMPORTANT: Whistler will not assume responsibility for loss or damage incurred in shipping. Therefore, please ship your unit insured with the return receipt requested. CODs will not be accepted!
Include with your unit the following information, clearly printed:
- Your name and physical street address for shipping (no PO Boxes), a daytime telephone number, and an email address (if applicable).
- A detailed description of the problem (e.g., “device will not power ON”).
- A copy of your dated proof of purchase or bill of sale.
Be certain your unit is returned with its serial number. Units without serial numbers are not covered under warranty.

IMPORTANT: To validate that your unit is within the warranty period, make sure you keep a copy of your dated proof of purchase. For warranty verification purposes, a copy of your dated store receipt must accompany any Whistler product sent in for warranty work.

Service Out-Of-Warranty

Units will be repaired at “out-of-warranty” service rates when:

The unit’s original warranty has expired.
A dated proof of purchase is not supplied.
The unit has been returned without its serial number.
The unit has been misused, abused, modified, installed improperly, or had its housing removed.

The minimum out-of-warranty service fee for your Whistler product is $50.00. If you require out-of-warranty service, please return your unit as outlined in the section “Service Under Warranty” along with a cashier’s check or money order for $50.00. Payment may also be made by MasterCard, VISA, or American Express. Personal checks are not accepted.

In the event repairs cannot be covered by the minimum service fee, you will be contacted by a Whistler technical service specialist who will outline options available to you.

IMPORTANT: When returning your unit for service, be certain to include a daytime telephone number and an email address (if applicable).

Customer Service

If you have questions concerning the operation of your Whistler product or require service during or after the warranty period, please call

Customer Service at

Toll-Free 800-531-0004
Tel 479-273-6012

Representatives are available to answer your questions

Monday – Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (CT) or visit the FAQs at www.whistlergroup.com

CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS 1716 SW Commerce Dr. Ste. 8 Bentonville, AR 72712

Toll Free: 800-531-0004
TEL: 479-273-6012
Official Site: www.whistlergroup.com
CUSTOMER RETURN CENTER 1412 South 1st St. Rogers, AR 72756
Email: support@whistlergroup.com 12A19

FAQs

What is the Whistler WBU-800 Wireless Digital Backup Camera?

The Whistler WBU-800 is a wireless digital backup camera designed for vehicles, providing drivers with a clear view of the area behind their vehicle when reversing.

What features does this backup camera offer?

The WBU-800 typically offers features such as wireless installation, a high- resolution camera, night vision, on-screen guidelines, and a color monitor.

Is this backup camera suitable for all types of vehicles?

Yes, the WBU-800 is suitable for a wide range of vehicles, including cars, trucks, SUVs, and RVs, to enhance safety during backing up.

What is the installation process for the WBU-800 camera?

The camera is typically easy to install wirelessly. It is mounted on the rear of the vehicle, and the monitor is placed in the dashboard for convenient viewing.

Can it provide a clear view at night or in low-light conditions?

Yes, the camera often features night vision capabilities to provide a clear view even in low-light or dark conditions.

Are on-screen guidelines available to assist with parking?

On-screen guidelines are commonly provided to assist drivers with parking and judging distances while reversing.

What is the size of the color monitor?

The color monitor is typically of a convenient size, often around 4.3 inches, for easy placement on the dashboard.

Is the camera waterproof and weather-resistant?

The camera is often designed to be waterproof and weather-resistant, ensuring it can withstand various weather conditions.

Is the monitor powered by the vehicle's electrical system?

Yes, the monitor is commonly powered through the vehicle's electrical system, and it automatically activates when the vehicle is put in reverse.

Can I use the camera as a rearview camera while driving forward?

The camera is primarily designed for use while reversing, but some users may choose to use it as a rearview camera while driving forward.

What should I do if I encounter issues with the WBU-800 backup camera?

If you encounter any problems, refer to the user manual, contact Whistler customer support, or seek assistance from authorized service centers for troubleshooting and repairs.