[Q] Android car headunit app? - Android Head-Units

I know car pc's have software so you could just put a screen up front and it displays a fully customizable headunit on the screen. Just wondering if anything like that has ever been made or discussed for Android?
With how powerful these tablets are getting, don't see why something like that wouldn't work. Use a tablet as a headunit/car-pc, I'd like that!
Sent from my Rogue'd-Xoom using XDA Premium App

This kinda what I'm talking about. This is the whole indash unit. I'm just talkin the software that runs it. Why couldn't it be packaged into an app.
http://www.cartft.com/catalog/il/770
Sent from my Rogue'd-Xoom using XDA Premium App

It could. You could also just put a bunch of widgets on your screen with a nice wallpaper and get a similar effect. You just need a way of mounting the Xoom...shouldn't be *too* hard to make something that looks decent. If you have steering wheel controls then you don't have to worry about blocking your factory stereo, should you decide to leave it in.

Man, i can see it now, the window replacement indutry would thrive with an Android-powered-indash-tablet-multimedia/gps/wifi-hotspot unit stereo. I would be the first to buy one. Think it up, it can happen.
Hell if a two-bit company can take psp-fat and throw in froyo, then why not an ice-cream sandwich indash.

Guess there just isn't much interest for something like this around here.
Sent from my E4GT using XDA Premium App

You have some problems with good connections plus the size of 10 inch tab is a bit odd.. Firstly, you would need a 7 inch tab, then you would need a custom build with fiberglass outer shell to hold ya tab in place not forgetting the port for headphone jack needs to be easily accessible.. You would need atleast 2 amps one for speakers and 1 for subs as the headphone port would not drive 4 speakers etc.. You need a headphone splitter.. Then a headphone to rca splitter.. Would also need to wire ya amps to the battery as there is no remote wire and attach this to a couple of switces to turn the amps off.. Now what to do with fm radio as you have taken the headphine port already...
As you can see this becomes a hassle
Easier way would be to get a headunit and mount that in your glovebox.. Then mount ya tablet into wjere the headunit. Should be then import the tab into the headunit in the glovebox.. So costs are down, functionality is there as tab has gps, etc and internet from phone tether if not a 3g device and it looks like u have a tab as your main unit lol
Sent from my mind control device

I like my idea. As long as you have steering wheel controls, you can put the Xoom right in front of your head unit. I have a Mazda 3 with a gigantic head unit, I've held the Xoom in place over top trying to think of ways to mount it, but space is not an issue. My Thunderbolt dock is right above it, so it's in a good spot for WiFi tethering. I might actually have to build a mount someday...in my wife's Pathfinder I can mount the HDMI dock right in the middle of the dash, but I wouldn't trust it to hold the Xoom in place, I would need some kind of lock. It blocks the windshield a tad, but it looks awesome!

joshndroid said:
You have some problems with good connections plus the size of 10 inch tab is a bit odd.. Firstly, you would need a 7 inch tab, then you would need a custom build with fiberglass outer shell to hold ya tab in place not forgetting the port for headphone jack needs to be easily accessible.. You would need atleast 2 amps one for speakers and 1 for subs as the headphone port would not drive 4 speakers etc.. You need a headphone splitter.. Then a headphone to rca splitter.. Would also need to wire ya amps to the battery as there is no remote wire and attach this to a couple of switces to turn the amps off.. Now what to do with fm radio as you have taken the headphine port already...
As you can see this becomes a hassle
Easier way would be to get a headunit and mount that in your glovebox.. Then mount ya tablet into wjere the headunit. Should be then import the tab into the headunit in the glovebox.. So costs are down, functionality is there as tab has gps, etc and internet from phone tether if not a 3g device and it looks like u have a tab as your main unit lol
Sent from my mind control device
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A basic headunit is needed for supplying signal to the amplifiers. I guess I'm just interested in someone making an app of sorts to simulate a headunit. The mount I can make something like what these guys made.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SkltRqOF5k&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Sent from my E4GT using XDA Premium App

BDR456 said:
A basic headunit is needed for supplying signal to the amplifiers. I guess I'm just interested in someone making an app of sorts to simulate a headunit. The mount I can make something like what these guys made.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SkltRqOF5k&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Sent from my E4GT using XDA Premium App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You dont necessarily need a headunit as i explained in my post it can be done... The output from a headunit to a amp is very similar to stereo headphone output.. You would need good quality amps to adjust frequency and other aspects to get decent sound.. Possibly a signal noise remover as well but i digress as i actually agree with you as yes i would always go a hidden head unit save a ton of time and frustration and i could do more of it myself meaning less money... I was going to do this in my ute but i ended up grabbing a chinese 7 inch display that slotted straight in for $300.. Has good functionality but doesnt look as mint as a tablet injection lol... Purchasing a newer car soon so all my good plans have been shelved for a couple years in place of cheap ideas that will get me by until i have enough cash for a better ride..
I would suggest tho knocking up a mounting piece for a tablet with thin chipboard very thin for the front edge and thicker around sides etc to hold the tab.. Then applying a small amount of fibreglass over it then sand and paint the piece the same colour as your dash.. It will be easier to manage and the resulting colour application will look closer to the plastic around the rest of the dash... And i would probably use a 7inch tab for a easier fit but thats just my personal opinion... You could have a go at making a theme for the picture you displayed with photoshop.. Would be hard and take to modifying an apk probably as well
Sent from my mind control device

http://www.aliexpress.com/product-f...c-Dual-OS-Win-CE-6-0-Android-wholesalers.html
i am planning to buy this thing

liquidini said:
http://www.aliexpress.com/product-f...c-Dual-OS-Win-CE-6-0-Android-wholesalers.html
i am planning to buy this thing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
if the specifications on that page are correct: do you have a vehicle with 24V power supply?

llama-power said:
if the specifications on that page are correct: do you have a vehicle with 24V power supply?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it states 12v,
i have been working on using my 7" huawei mediapad as my main headunit now for a while... and i think i almost have it all sorted out
i will be removing my current headunit and using only the tablet.
i have 2 amps already (one for speakes, one for sub) and as for switching the amps on, this is not a problem, i will be using a acc switched power source.
as for converting 3.5mm out to rca i will be using what is called a ReQ5 unit (sorry cant link im too new)
i am planning on mounting this and the tablet behind the dash in my nissan s14 as to have a kind of factory look about it, and not have to modify the dash to much
i will keep you up to date on my progress

I have actually taken apart a tablet (the power supply got fried). The best way I see is just using android as the user interface and then sending the sole audio signal out which is what I suspect regular head units without amplifiers do. All the android head unit needs to be is compadible to the standard wiring harness, im not expecting a loud system, just something that sounds good and is versatile, I even pondered making a shell and putting the tablet components into is and then making a dock in which the tablet just slides right into it. Of course this is just a conceptual idea but with enough resources I dont doubt it could be done.

liquidini said:
http://www.aliexpress.com/product-f...c-Dual-OS-Win-CE-6-0-Android-wholesalers.html
i am planning to buy this thing
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Has anyone bought/teied this thing out? Intrested in knowing how good the navigation is on this thing. And for that matter, would it be able to side load apps, or does it have android market?
Sent from my Inspire 4G using XDA

Related

[Q]Best Car Mount fo Nexus 4

i came from Htc one X and i was using kidigi car mount, and was nice because i just need to "dock" in the mount no need to "plug" the wire like in universal mount. i read here about wireless car charger but not sure, its kind expensive and im kind temted for htc one (and this phone does not have wireless charging capabilities) so im not sure if i should buy. i was thinking something like this
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110978510653&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:US:1123
i heard about clingo but not sure how many "uses" you need before the need for wash. so anyone knows a good car mount? should i buy for n4 or universal? if you had a link would be nice (ebay ) because amazon its to expensive to my country =X
Thanks a lot
zen kun said:
i came from Htc one X and i was using kidigi car mount, and was nice because i just need to "dock" in the mount no need to "plug" the wire like in universal mount. i read here about wireless car charger but not sure, its kind expensive and im kind temted for htc one (and this phone does not have wireless charging capabilities) so im not sure if i should buy. i was thinking something like this
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=110978510653&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:US:1123
i heard about clingo but not sure how many "uses" you need before the need for wash. so anyone knows a good car mount? should i buy for n4 or universal? if you had a link would be nice (ebay ) because amazon its to expensive to my country =X
Thanks a lot
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I always go universal, personally. Because I can probably use the same mount down the road or my wife's phone can fit in it as well. The one you listed is good but also I like the iottie universal mounts as well.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/iOttie-Easy...716445?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item27cf4df1dd
These have the "gel" cups rather than the plain suction cups that easily warp in the hot sun. The gel pads are really sticky like the clingo, but the suction cup can be wiped clean with a damp lint free cloth to reconstitute the adhesive gel it uses. I use two different car mounts.
One is the Kropsson Aero which fits both my N7 (naked) and N4. I since cut the cushion pads down so that I can use it with my N7 with the Seidio Active case on lol.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/AER-jumiss-...040?pt=GPS_Holders_Mounts&hash=item4605c94078
And my second go to mount is mainly for my N7, the Xenomix NX2000 because even though I can use the above kropsson, the N7 does slightly obstruct my view. This Xenomix hangs off the dash a bit and keeps the N7 out of sight and I can clearly see out. Another 'good' thing is that I can use this with my N4 as well. I say "good" because you can't charge the phone while using this, the ports are covered lol.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/XENOMIX-2X-...der_Mounts_Stands_Holders&hash=item3f20968a39
There's my .02
kpjimmy said:
I always go universal, personally. Because I can probably use the same mount down the road or my wife's phone can fit in it as well. The one you listed is good but also I like the iottie universal mounts as well.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/iOttie-Easy...716445?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item27cf4df1dd
These have the "gel" cups rather than the plain suction cups that easily warp in the hot sun. The gel pads are really sticky like the clingo, but the suction cup can be wiped clean with a damp lint free cloth to reconstitute the adhesive gel it uses. I use two different car mounts.
One is the Kropsson Aero which fits both my N7 (naked) and N4. I since cut the cushion pads down so that I can use it with my N7 with the Seidio Active case on lol.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/AER-jumiss-...040?pt=GPS_Holders_Mounts&hash=item4605c94078
And my second go to mount is mainly for my N7, the Xenomix NX2000 because even though I can use the above kropsson, the N7 does slightly obstruct my view. This Xenomix hangs off the dash a bit and keeps the N7 out of sight and I can clearly see out. Another 'good' thing is that I can use this with my N4 as well. I say "good" because you can't charge the phone while using this, the ports are covered lol.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/XENOMIX-2X-...der_Mounts_Stands_Holders&hash=item3f20968a39
There's my .02
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks a lot, i will check aereo seems nice and the price its cool as well, the only thing i need check on my car its since i had long legs i usally put my seat a little far from dash (and the dash its kind far away by car model :S) the aero can stick on the wind and dash? imean i can put into the dash and then the wind and the again in the dash without problems? just cleaning the gel?
Thanks a lot i really apreciate
zen kun said:
thanks a lot, i will check aereo seems nice and the price its cool as well, the only thing i need check on my car its since i had long legs i usally put my seat a little far from dash (and the dash its kind far away by car model :S) the aero can stick on the wind and dash? imean i can put into the dash and then the wind and the again in the dash without problems? just cleaning the gel?
Thanks a lot i really apreciate
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Aero is not meant to be placed on the windshield. In that respect look for the iottie's with the cushioned grips that can do both windshield and dash.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/iOttie-Easy...686615?pt=PDA_Accessories&hash=item51a00ef857
This is the "one touch" mounts. Where you just press the phone back slightly will release the grips. This is similar to the Aero I have. I just don't like putting suction cups on my windshield.
ProclipsUSA
Best car mount?
If you want the best, be prepared to pay for the best.
http://www.proclipusa.com/
Look up the different DEVICE holder for the Nexus 4.
Look to find a mount suited for your VEHICLE.
I got the swivel mount for my accord and it came up to about $80. It's a bit on the pricier side, but these are truly the BEST mounts you will ever use, hands down.
Regards,
100% agree that Proclip (US name for Brodit) are the best mounts you can get. They're pricey but worth it.
I'm actually looking to sell my Nexus 4 mount with integrated charger, so shoot me a PM if you're interested in a bit of a cheaper price (you'll still need the vehicle plate). I'm only getting rid of mine since I've started using a case for my phone instead of going naked.
var1126 said:
Best car mount?
If you want the best, be prepared to pay for the best.
http://www.proclipusa.com/
Look up the different DEVICE holder for the Nexus 4.
Look to find a mount suited for your VEHICLE.
I got the swivel mount for my accord and it came up to about $80. It's a bit on the pricier side, but these are truly the BEST mounts you will ever use, hands down.
Regards,
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
They are nice, my issue is that if I need a mount for my car and I can simply move from car to car without worry if the proclip will fit. From my understanding proclips fit a specific car model. So not really universal when you can use it in one model of a vehicle. So I'll need to buy two of these mounts to make it work and while worthwhile in the long run, 1. Is too expensive, 2. and what if I need to buy a new/different car for whatever reason?
And can you use different cases with these mounts? I see the one that can fit "some cases" but there's a limit there. A 40 plus 30 clip for each car, makes it about $140usd to be used each car.
Those factors alone, keep "ME" from buying it.
kpjimmy said:
They are nice, my issue is that if I need a mount for my car and I can simply move from car to car without worry if the proclip will fit. From my understanding proclips fit a specific car model. So not really universal when you can use it in one model of a vehicle. So I'll need to buy two of these mounts to make it work and while worthwhile in the long run, 1. Is too expensive, 2. and what if I need to buy a new/different car for whatever reason?
And can you use different cases with these mounts?
Those factors alone, keep "ME" from buying it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
seems like the phones, new phones new cases and accs xD but yeah they are specific as far i see. iOttie seems good pick
They have a system to swap the mount from car-to-car but you'll still need the car specific mount in each car, so if you're constantly swapping they don't really make sense.
Knolly said:
They have a system to swap the mount from car-to-car but you'll still need the car specific mount in each car, so if you're constantly swapping they don't really make sense.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
oh i see, i dont really switch from cars" lol i will check how much and if they shipp to mexico =X
I use a ballistic case and the garmin gps holders grip it real well. There are two small cut outs in the sides of the case that aid in the grip.
They're only a few bucks on ebay or like $20 at best buy.
I'm using the Mountek mount that goes inside the CD drive. I don't use CD's anymore so it doesn't get in my way. I think it's a little pricey but totally worth it. Depending on your console it may get in the way of some of your buttons which it doesn't on my car. Also, some cars (such as my grandma's) have the CD slot lower in the console and the phone would be too low for me.
Mountek nGroove
I almost went with the Exogear Exomount 2 but I didn't think it would stick to my dashboard since it's textured and contoured a bit.
Exogear Exomount 2
I use the mount for maps and with a OBD2 Adapter. Now I just need the Jabra Cruiser 2 to go on sale so I can have a complete setup.
eliter1 said:
I'm using the Mountek mount that goes inside the CD drive. I don't use CD's anymore so it doesn't get in my way. I think it's a little pricey but totally worth it. Depending on your console it may get in the way of some of your buttons which it doesn't on my car. Also, some cars (such as my grandma's) have the CD slot lower in the console and the phone would be too low for me.
Mountek nGroove
I almost went with the Exogear Exomount 2 but I didn't think it would stick to my dashboard since it's textured and contoured a bit.
Exogear Exomount 2
I use the mount for maps and with a OBD2 Adapter. Now I just need the Jabra Cruiser 2 to go on sale so I can have a complete setup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah i was looking something like this on CD because my ibiza has too far the dashboard and it has inclined surface, seems the best its wind screen or CD, something that i want to know its "privacy" in middle of my car if a wild message appear or something i dont like people look at it. so its any way to move a little to my side?? (not talking abot 360 degrees) more like turn the holder to my side. i hope its clear this
Thanks
zen kun said:
yeah i was looking something like this on CD because my ibiza has too far the dashboard and it has inclined surface, seems the best its wind screen or CD, something that i want to know its "privacy" in middle of my car if a wild message appear or something i dont like people look at it. so its any way to move a little to my side?? (not talking abot 360 degrees) more like turn the holder to my side. i hope its clear this
Thanks
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It doesn't slide but there is a considerable amount of tilt. You wouldn't be able to hide it from someone in the back seat but the person in the passenger seat would have to move in order to look at the screen. Again, this probably depends on how your console is set up, mine is dead center.
eliter1 said:
It doesn't slide but there is a considerable amount of tilt. You wouldn't be able to hide it from someone in the back seat but the person in the passenger seat would have to move in order to look at the screen. Again, this probably depends on how your console is set up, mine is dead center.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
im interested in passenger mainly thanks i will take a look seems its nice spot. when driving you had problems idk calling,waze and so on? watching the phone instead wind screen?
zen kun said:
im interested in passenger mainly thanks i will take a look seems its nice spot. when driving you had problems idk calling,waze and so on? watching the phone instead wind screen?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The phone is at a perfect height for me. For maps I don't look at the screen very often because the turn by turn directions are enough most of the time. Calls are not perfect with the speaker phone or with voice commands (I have to scream to the phone) that's why I need to buy a bluetooth speaker phone.
eliter1 said:
I'm using the Mountek mount that goes inside the CD drive. I don't use CD's anymore so it doesn't get in my way. I think it's a little pricey but totally worth it. Depending on your console it may get in the way of some of your buttons which it doesn't on my car. Also, some cars (such as my grandma's) have the CD slot lower in the console and the phone would be too low for me.
Mountek nGroove
I almost went with the Exogear Exomount 2 but I didn't think it would stick to my dashboard since it's textured and contoured a bit.
Exogear Exomount 2
I use the mount for maps and with a OBD2 Adapter. Now I just need the Jabra Cruiser 2 to go on sale so I can have a complete setup.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a similar setup in my Truck. I have a JVC head unit that has an external AUX port where my HTC Car Stereo stick goes to stream stuff from my N4 or N7. Use either Aero or Xenomix mount for my device, or none at all and to answer any calls, I use a Parrot Minikit Neo. This little guy goes to deep sleep and wakes up when the door opens or closes and I customized it with a greeting and signing off greeting which greets my 4 yr old when we get in the truck. She loves it lol.
kpjimmy said:
I have a similar setup in my Truck. I have a JVC head unit that has an external AUX port where my HTC Car Stereo stick goes to stream stuff from my N4 or N7. Use either Aero or Xenomix mount for my device, or none at all and to answer any calls, I use a Parrot Minikit Neo. This little guy goes to deep sleep and wakes up when the door opens or closes and I customized it with a greeting and signing off greeting which greets my 4 yr old when we get in the truck. She loves it lol.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Parrot Minikit Neo looks very nice. I wish it had an FM tuner though. I know it's not the best way to stream music but it's the only way to do it on my car stereo.
The Arkon Slim-Grip Ultra looks awesome, to bad I can't buy it yet in europe, will wait a couple of weeks and hope that it pops up.
silent assassin said:
The Arkon Slim-Grip Ultra looks awesome, to bad I can't buy it yet in europe, will wait a couple of weeks and hope that it pops up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The CD one looks nice as well, too many options not sure what should i do LOL xD

Speakers

Hey there, I'm looking for some decent speakers that I can take on the go. The idea is to be able to mount them with velcro in my car and be able to use them at work as well.
Any ideas?
pudgybunnyBry said:
Hey there, I'm looking for some decent speakers that I can take on the go. The idea is to be able to mount them with velcro in my car and be able to use them at work as well.
Any ideas?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Like for music wise? Why not use your car speaker system?
As for portable wise, I've heard of people using the Jambox. I have no idea on how good it is as I've never owned one. I believe they're $120-$150.
Sent from my Nexus 4
My car is older and I have no desire to replace the factory stereo installed. I really enjoy it, but there is no auxiliary input. And if there was a way to easily to add it I would. That's really the only reason I can't use the car speaker system.
pudgybunnyBry said:
My car is older and I have no desire to replace the factory stereo installed. I really enjoy it, but there is no auxiliary input. And if there was a way to easily to add it I would. That's really the only reason I can't use the car speaker system.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can just install a new dash? Ones with auxiliary ports are cheap these days, like 40 bucks.
But if not you can try blue tooth speaker? Sony has some.
Sent from my Nexus 4
check out the rocketfish bluetooth speakers, ive used mine in the car and it's loud enough even with the windows down. It's small and light enough to carry around and the battery should last you the whole day or most of it.
another alternative to use your car's speakers is a FM transmitter, Sound quality will not be that good but sound from a bluetooth speakers will not be that good either.
I ended up going with the Jabra Solemate. I'm trying it out right now and it seems to be working out pretty well so far. The sound is pretty good, and its built pretty tough.
Sent from my Nexus 4 using xda premium
Perhaps the jbl playup (nfc)? decent and easy
pudgybunnyBry said:
My car is older and I have no desire to replace the factory stereo installed. I really enjoy it, but there is no auxiliary input. And if there was a way to easily to add it I would. That's really the only reason I can't use the car speaker system.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you check Installer.com They have lots of solutions for situations like that.
in dash and bluetooth speaker
I have a logitech z515, picked up at Target for 50$ its pretty good and you can buy in dash stereo recievers with aux for around 60 for a sony , not a cheaper brand, if you wanted to go cheap, they even have them for like 40 on amazon. Then you have bluetooth speaker and radio in your car lol .

Using nexus 4 internals go make another device?

I have a nexus 4 with a smashed screen and back. I bought another one.
The all the internal stuff is fine. How would I go about taking the logic board etc... and make something useful out of it?
For example. Would it be possible to take apart mu Kindle fire and replace its innards with those from the nexus 4? This is probably a bad example but you catch my drift
Sent from my Amazon Kindle Fire using Tapatalk 2
billydroid said:
I have a nexus 4 with a smashed screen and back. I bought another one.
The all the internal stuff is fine. How would I go about taking the logic board etc... and make something useful out of it?
For example. Would it be possible to take apart mu Kindle fire and replace its innards with those from the nexus 4? This is probably a bad example but you catch my drift
Sent from my Amazon Kindle Fire using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No and yes. First of all, you'll need a pencil solder and a device that you can loose without crying
Most of the electrical components are made for a specific device. You can't just replace components from other devices. Trust me, I have tried this, and nearly set my house to fire when I tried replacing the transistors on my amplifier with others....
alicarbovader said:
No and yes. First of all, you'll need a pencil solder and a device that you can loose without crying
Most of the electrical components are made for a specific device. You can't just replace components from other devices. Trust me, I have tried this, and nearly set my house to fire when I tried replacing the transistors on my amplifier with others....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yeah i figured most stuff is set to work with certain components. Is there any where you, or anyone, could point me to do some research on this type of hardware modifications?
Well you can start by looking up the devices in question on pdadb.net. That site gives a lot of specifics about the hardware, so it's a good start at least.
Sent from my buttered S3
You would start by gathering information about the two displays, then engineering an adapter that would suit the power needs and put the signals to the right place. It's not an easy task.
Maybe it can be useful even without a screen.
Garage door opener, security camera, something that can find your car if its stolen.
Just be creative. And show us the results if you did something cool.
(Think of all the ways the device can communicate: WiFi, cellular, NFC, BT)
if only the screen broken, so u can buy a slimport mhl adaptor and keyboard. plug your phone on tv, so it becomes to a smart tv.
or best choice is to buy a lapdock. so plug the nexus4 with the slimport on the lapdock and u will get an android pc.
http://www2.robpol86.com/lapdock/Atrix-Lapdock-with-a-Nexus-4/
good luck

Repurpose these head units

My Joying head unit has been sitting in a box since it can't be installed in my new car. Any ideas on ways one could repurpose these head units besides the obvious way (home stereo)?
I usually take those anything in the way of a leftover radio I like and put them in a small enclosure, then use them to drive some speakers in the garage.
I've done this in the past but I haven't done this recently. I just have a regular old receiver in there now.
You'd have to do some hacksaw work, but you might be able to get it to reside nicely in something like this:
https://www.amazon.com/SilverStone-Technology-Mini-DTX-Mini-ITX-SG13WB/dp/B0148P0EKI/
or maybe this:
https://www.amazon.com/Cooler-Master-Elite-Supply-RC-110-KKN2/dp/B00ID2FBU6/
It'd be best of you get this case, then borrow a TIG welder to weld some metal brackets in there to hold the radio in place. Or maybe just cut out the front and use the metal brackets that come with it to secure it to the floor of the case. There's a couple different options, here.
What do you mean it *can't* be installed in your car? Explain in more detail.
doitright said:
What do you mean it *can't* be installed in your car? Explain in more detail.
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Maybe can't isn't the best word, but the car uses some fiber optic stuff for the radio and speaker system and the lil' research I've done indicates aftermarket stuff aren't compatible.
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DiGiTY said:
Maybe can't isn't the best word, but the car uses some fiber optic stuff for the radio and speaker system and the lil' research I've done indicates aftermarket stuff aren't compatible.
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That sounds like good stuff to rip out. At the end of the day, all speakers run on regular old wires, so if they threw in a bit of fiber optic crap, it will be pretty trivial to bypass.
Without knowing the car, my guess would be that there is a fiber running between the head unit and some kind of wacky amplifier? So just hook the replacement head unit to the wires coming out of the amplifier, and cut the amplifier out altogether.
I thought about it, but it's a Range Rover and that's not the kind of car who's guts you customize unless you're going to go all out.
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New Xtrons PA97MTVPL for SEAT Altea not fitting

Hi all
Has anyone fit the Xtrons PA97MTVPL yet? I just received one and it won't fit in my 2010 Altea. On the product description the Altea is mentioned as compatible for the years 2004 to 2015. They do warn that you should check the console to be sure it'll fit because they can't guarantee it will fit, but I checked what I could see and the dimensions all match. In fact the facia panel I have is a lovely fit!!
It's the stupid lower left and right corners. For some reason Xtrons have made these square on this model while other compatible models (such as the PCD8AMTVA or the PA87MTVP which I think is its sister model but with DVD) have rounded corners!!
The RCD310 that I've removed also has rounded lower corners. So what gives with the square corners?!
I'm mostly annoyed because I decided to wire it all up and test it before finally mounting it. Apart from not being able to find a way to get the DAB aerial cable fed behind the dash (I suspect I will need to get someone to do that for me) everything was working perfectly! My FM reception was easily as good as the RCD310, the GPS was picking up strong signals, the sound (for the money) is really, really good, with a DAB aerial taped to the windscreen I was able to pick up all the channels I wanted with full signal strength!! I even had the device switching off when I removed the key!! And not only that it remembered what was running when I switched the ignition on and boot up within seconds!!
It was all going so well!! Why, oh, why did Xtrons make the bottom corners square? Will these actually fit other SEAT models? Is it only my version of the Altea that it won't fit? The corners are exactly where the fascia clips are so I can't even trim the plastic!!
It will have to go back, which is a shame as my initial impression is that it is a really nice piece of kit that actually behaves as it should!
I just wondered if anyone else has had a similar installation problem with this or any other head units? So much for being Custom Fit!!!
Maybe you have the unit for the facelift dashboard? I know this does exist on a Leon, so maybe also on an altea?
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hans.vinkers said:
Maybe you have the unit for the facelift dashboard? I know this does exist on a Leon, so maybe also on an altea?
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You could be right, but that's not obvious on their website or their ads as it states that it is compatible with the Altea models from 2004 to 2015 and I'm fairly sure the 2004 model probably didn't have the facelift. But maybe I'm wrong. It does have the extra L on the end of its model number, but there is no explanation anywhere on the website as to what that actually means.
I've never had my RCD310 out before today so had no idea that the mounting could be different. We live and learn. Hopefully this will not be a costly lesson!! I've been in touch with the supplier so just waiting to hear from them with my fingers crossed!
It's a real shame as I am very impressed with the unit otherwise. I'll try and swap it with the PA87MTVP which should fit albeit with a smaller screen.
Just for information's sake I thought I'd let you know I have managed to fit the Xtrons unit into my Altea. I did have to do some minor modifications to the plastic, but nothing that can be seen once the fascia is back in place.
Suffice it to say that, so far, I love this unit! It is everything I hoped it would be and more and after a couple of days driving with it I would definitely recommend it! Hopefully I'll still feel the same in a few months time!!
where did you order it from and for what price?
I bought it from Audio Visual Tech on eBay for £199.99. Delivery was quick. I had to contact the seller a couple of times initially to enquire about availability, as it was out of stock when I ordered, and they were always quick to respond and polite and helpful. The unit came back into stock sooner than they originally thought and was sent straight out.
Hi,
I’ve recently fitted one of these to my 2007 Passat and I have to say I’m disappointed!
WiFi range is horrendous
Steering wheel controls only work on certain apps
It won’t recognise my IPhone as an iPod so I cannot Control it from m the HU
Screen is way too bright at night at lowest setting (dangerously so)
Spotify app keeps dumping downloaded playlists
Dab+ app is awful with no way to save favourite stations
I’m seriously considering selling it on (at a huge loss no doubt) & forking our for a Kenwood / Pioneer with CarPlay!
happyarthur1979 said:
Hi,
I’ve recently fitted one of these to my 2007 Passat and I have to say I’m disappointed!
WiFi range is horrendous
Steering wheel controls only work on certain apps
It won’t recognise my IPhone as an iPod so I cannot Control it from m the HU
Screen is way too bright at night at lowest setting (dangerously so)
Spotify app keeps dumping downloaded playlists
Dab+ app is awful with no way to save favourite stations
I’m seriously considering selling it on (at a huge loss no doubt) & forking our for a Kenwood / Pioneer with CarPlay!
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any recommended alternative android 7 unit? i'm looking for my Skoda Roomster 2015
ystokar said:
any recommended alternative android 7 unit? i'm looking for my Skoda Roomster 2015
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Hey, no not really as I’ve not really been looking. I would guess they are all very similar though hence my probable decision to go with a big named brand with CarPlay installed!
Graham.

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