The integration of technology in the automobile industry has become a norm. The automotive technology market is projected at 102.64 billion by 2028. But what’s the need for using these devices in a car or truck? Do they actually help in driving? Well, let’s find out!
These tools are known as “Driving assistance tools.” They help make driving easier, safer, and more efficient for personal and professional drivers.
Although the market has various driving assistance devices, only a few are as popular and effective as the BSM system. What is it, and how do you use it? Let’s learn everything about this system in this comprehensive guide!
What Does BSM System Mean?
The word BSM is an abbreviation for Blind Spot Monitoring. Every vehicle has zones that are unclear in the side-view mirror. That could be due to the vehicle’s build or mirror positioning. These areas are known as the blind spots or danger zones of a car.
A BSM system monitors these areas to detect approaching vehicles. If it notices a car entering the blind spots, it immediately alerts the driver. In response, the driver can make a well-versed decision that keeps them safe in this situation.
As a new driver, you might not know the dangers of a vehicle’s blind spots. But, it is important to know that over 840,000 blind spot accidents occur yearly. The worst part is that this number is increasing rapidly in many countries.
For example, Milan, Italy, has considered taking action against vehicles not equipped with a BSM system or other driving assistance technologies. That’s because the city has experienced a drastic increase in traffic accidents. Considering these dangerous stats, equipping your car with a blind spot monitor might be a good idea.
Who Can Use the BSM System?
Blind spot monitoring has a wide variety of applications. You can use the BSM system for car, trucks, vans, buses, emergency vehicles, SUVs, etc. It suits both personal and professional drivers. Here’s how:
1. Personal Drivers
The blind spot monitoring systems can be very helpful in a personal car. It can add an extra layer of safety for your family and loved ones. The best part is its ease of use, which can suit even inexperienced drivers. It can assist with your day-to-day driving activities by keeping you protected. Moreover, using the BSM system, you can learn some essential road skills, like speedy responsiveness.
2. Professional Drivers
The applications of blind spot monitoring in professional driving are endless. It keeps you and your passengers safe. So, it can be helpful if you frequently moonlight as an Uber driver. Also, it will help get 5-star ratings from your passengers.
Additionally, fleet managers also install this system in their vehicles. It helps them reduce maintenance costs by saving their fleets from minor and major collisions. Similarly, buses also utilize the power of blind spot monitoring to protect their passengers.
How to Use BSM System?
The BSM system is one of the most useful driving assistance systems. On top of that, it is pretty easy to use. Let’s see how it works, from installation and usage to maintenance!
1. Installation of the BSM System
Usually, the installation of the BSM system can vary based on its model and type. However, most systems have the universal setup method. Let’s look at it step by step:
a. Sensors
A blind spot monitoring system typically consists of 2 sensors. You have to remove the rear plastic bumper and mount these sensors at the left and right corners.
However, some car models don’t have a straight area in the left and right corners. This way, you can move these sensors away from the corners.
b. LED Lights & Buzzers
The alert system of a blind spot monitor consists of flashing lights, buzzers, or both. These LED lights come with an adhesive sticker. Hence, you can either mount them on the side-view mirror or A-pillar.
The buzzers, however, should be kept where they are hearable but hidden. Thus, the driver’s compartment is the ideal location.
c. Control Box & Cables
A control box connects all the cables and components to each other. Its placement location can vary based on your car’s model and space. You should always choose a spot that is suitable for the wiring.
As for the cables, they come with PINs and matching colors to their components. So you can easily connect them and link them with the control box.
2. Usage of BSM System
Using a BSM system is pretty straightforward. That’s because a driver has minimal interference with the system’s working. Here’s how:
- A blind spot monitor uses radar-based sensors to emit millimeter waves. These waves detect oncoming moving objects, like vehicles, within their limited range.
- When a vehicle is detected, the sensors notify the alert system.
- In response, the driver sees this notification via the alert system (audible, visual, or both).
- Lastly, the driver can make the right decision to tackle the situation.
In short, the driver must only keep track of the BSM light or buzzer. Other than this, the system handles the detection work.
3. Maintenance of the BSM System
A BSM system may require maintenance from time to time. But not to worry, its maintenance is quite simple, even for non-tech-savvy drivers. Here’s what you need to do every once in a while:
- Clean your side-view mirrors, as the dirt or debris on them can affect the LED lights.
- Use a soft cloth to wipe the sensors for maximum accuracy.
- Calibrate the sensors if you notice any difference in their detection.
- Opt for monthly or quarterly inspections of the system to avoid bigger problems.
- Reposition the sensors if they are not working correctly.
- Use an OBD II scanner to detect error codes occurring in the system.
- Read the product manual to find out how to fix BSM system problems. Also, don’t hesitate to consult a local expert for inspection and repairs.
4 Best Practices for BSM Systems
Here are the 4 best practices that every BSM system user should know:
1. Test The System
Have you just installed the blind spot monitoring system in your car? Then, you should first test it before heading to a road. But how to check BSM system?
Well, you can always test it in your driveway or on a less busy road. Avoid heading directly to a highway after its installation. It is best to know your system’s capabilities before using it. You can also read the product manual to read its necessary specifications, like detection range, accuracy, speed limit, etc.
2. Know BSM Limitations
It is best to know that every blind spot monitoring system has its limitations. You will see its specific range and speed threshold. Most systems automatically activate at 10 MPH. Similarly, the area coverage is generally 10 feet from the rear bumpers. More specifically, they can detect vehicles one lane away from your car.
However, some systems don’t have these specifications. These features can vary depending on the model and type. Also, most blind spot monitors don’t detect pedestrians, bicycles, parked vehicles, and other stationary objects. You can find out your system’s limitations from its product manual or by contacting its manufacturer.
3. Keep BSM Maintained
A blind spot monitor can be your one-time investment that can get you through many years. However, you should perform maintenance every once in a while. The most important step is calibrating your sensors. They can get damaged by certain conditions, like collisions.
If so, you should always consult a professional. You will get the following error messages if your system is damaged and needs calibration:
- Blind spot warning error
- Blind spot detection unavailable
- Blind spot monitoring malfunction
- Blind spot temporarily unavailable
- Blind spot collision warning error
- Blind spot sensor/radar blocked
- Blind spot monitor failure
If your car has a factory-installed system, contact its specific company. For instance, only a Lexus representative can repair the BSM system Lexus.
However, aftermarket systems are more flexible. You can contact a local expert to get it repaired or for its spare parts.
4. Don’t Over-rely on the System
It is important to know that a blind spot monitor is merely a driving assistance tool. Even though it is very effective, over-reliance can be dangerous. Since it is technology, it can malfunction. Thus, you should always drive with your safety practices. Make it a habit to double-check the road when turning or changing lanes, even with the blind spot monitor. This way, you can minimize the chances of road accidents.
Conclusion
A BSM system can be easily integrated into your daily driving activities. Plus, you can transition quickly into understanding and mastering this driving assistance system. Monthly and quarterly inspections of the system can be very beneficial. With some minor fixes, you can prolong the lifespan of this device. This way, you can get the maximum ROI from a blind spot monitor.
Another tip is to choose a manufacturer that offers durable and tested systems. OYI Electronic is among the most trusted names, maintaining its 98% success rate for years! Send us your requirements and we will respond with a quote in minutes.
