Z68 Tv box Review - Android Stick & Console RockChip based Computers

The Z68 TV Box is a RK3368 Octa-core, Android 5.1 ,2.4GHz / 5GHz WiFi, 2GB RAM 16GB ROM,
Bluetooth 4.0, HDMI 2.0
Hi all,
In this review im going to be looking at the Z68 sent to me for review from Mod Edit: Selling site link removed.
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It Z68 arrived in 8 days via DHL with £4.69 tax's to pay so not too bad this time.
This thing has really surprised me on how well it works for a tv box from the cheap end of the market at about £40. All the tests in this review have been done using the stock FW the device was shipped with,I will be trying other FW once the review is done.
Quick facts
2GB RAM & 16GB ROM
The Z68 TV Box is has the new well known processor Rockchip RK3368
H.265/HEVC video decoding up to 4K and Gigabit Ethernet.
Android 5.1 Lollipop out the box
Fully Rooted
The RK3368 tv box's are the next new thing to have right now & it seem's such a long time since the RK3288 came along.
Internal Photos
In this photo you can see what they call a heat sink (1mm thick pice of aluminium)
Heat sink removed in this photo
Main Features:
● Comes with a RJ45 jack for 1000M Ethernet which provides a strong network extension.
● Android 5.1 Lolipop out of the box
● True 4K x 2K resolution which delivers best audio and video quality.
● Rockchip R3368 Octa Core up to 1.6GHz (Cortex-A53 64bit)
● Kodi supported. Kodi can be used to play almost all popular audio and video formats.
● Android 5.1, gives you access to over 800,000 apps including Facebook, Youtube, Picasa and more.
● Professional H.265 video decoding technology and 2.4G + 5.8G WiFi, offering a more stable WiFi signal to enjoy a higher quality video experience.
● 2GB RAM + 16GB ROM, 32GB maximum extended capacity gives you more space to download your favorite apps and caches to browse websites, play games, run apps, watch movies more smoothly.
● Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity: Easy pairing with most Bluetooth-enabled devices (computer,mobile phone, keyboard, and others).
● HDMI 2.0 connector: Connect directly to your TV with a HDMI cable and you will be all set to enjoy 4K x 2K Full HD multimedia experience.
● 2 x USB one of them is also the OTG port. Connect your mouse and keyboard to help you operate more convenient.
● Infrared remote control lets you enjoy wile no need to use the mouse & keyboard.
● Support Miracast, DLNA.
Z68 Device
It comes with just one launcher installed, The launcher3 (standered android launcher)
The device itself is a nice looking tv box at 10.5cm square with 4 little rubber feet that do a great job it does not slide around on the desk at all.Its a shame it only has the two usb ports though thats my only draw back as of yet.On a plus side the IR remote has good range & works well.Another bug iv found is within ES file explore the back ground is black so is the text,I think theres a fix for this i will hunt around for it. Google play store is installed & works on my device.
Storage
Display
On the front you will see a blue LED when the Z68 is powered on & a Red LED when its in stand by mode.Also on the front is the IR senser.
On the rear you will find the Power port,HDMI port,Ethernet port,& the SPDIF On the left hand side you will find the two USB ports(One of them is the OTG port) & the SD Card slot.
Wifi =Ethernet
2.4ghz + 5.8G Wifi which is strong but not picking up my neighbours wifi network (Some of my tv box's do) Iv not had a problem with the wifi single where ever iv placed the Z68 around the house its worked of full bars single strenth.
WIFI
ETHERNET
Bluetooth 4.0
Kodi.
The Z68 comes with Kodi 16 preinstalled with no addons.The speed of kodi is Nice & fast 3 seconds to load from the app screen,Iv been streaming 1080 from the web with no video stuttering that iv noticed & the device remained cool all the time.
Games
Iv tested beach buggy blitz with graphics set to high it played perfect as expected
I was using my ps3 controller with the sixaxis app
Also the tronsmart Mars G01 Game pad works well
Misc
Logitech c270 camera works fine
External powered 1T HD works fine
Tronsmart Mars G01 game pad works
32GB sd card works fine (64GB dont work)
Stock Firmware
http://chinagadgetsreviews.com/download-latest-android-lollipop-5-1-1-stock-firmware-nexbox-z68-tv-box.html
The Z68 gets warm but not hot even though there is no venterlation holes & NO real heat sink i was expecting this to overheat but no iv had it running 24/7 now for the past week streaming from my ip cam & all is working well no lock ups reboots ETC. It stays cooler than my my S905 tv box at doing the same job.
Antutu
Not a high Antutu score here
Antutu Video
Whats in the Box
1 x Z68 TV Box
1 x Power Adapter
1 x HDMI Cable
1 x IR Remote Control
1 x English Manual
Very Basic unboxing video
Mod Edit: Link removed for affiliate sales and selling site links.

What I'm wondering: does this box support the output of DTS or DD5.1 sound to my receiver?! That's what matters most to me...

vads1972 said:
What I'm wondering: does this box support the output of DTS or DD5.1 sound to my receiver?! That's what matters most to me...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not out of the box as 90% of such kind of devices. You need to load firmware from other devices with same chip which support 5.1, not fully supporting all the z68 hw components though, and use modified versions of kodi to support rockchip rk3368.
Inviato dal mio ECOO_E04_3GB+ utilizzando Tapatalk

lzwfkv said:
Not out of the box as 90% of such kind of devices. You need to load firmware from other devices with same chip which support 5.1, not fully supporting all the z68 hw components though, and use modified versions of kodi to support rockchip rk3368.
Inviato dal mio ECOO_E04_3GB+ utilizzando Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So if I'm looking for a mediaplayer to play all sorts of videofiles (MKV, MP4, DVD-structure, etc.) with support for surround-sound, this is not the box I'm looking for. Any other suggestion?

vads1972 said:
So if I'm looking for a mediaplayer to play all sorts of videofiles (MKV, MP4, DVD-structure, etc.) with support for surround-sound, this is not the box I'm looking for. Any other suggestion?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have a look at freaktab com forums, section tv players. As to the rockchip based android tv players the best supported seems to be nagrace, zidoo and ugoos devices. May be other chipsets such as amlogic are better or even an intel/windows based device.

Curious ,do you have HDMI-CEC and do device turn off complitely

armagani said:
Curious ,do you have HDMI-CEC and do device turn off complitely
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The device does not turn off by design. It hasn't got a physical power button and it will only go in stanby with the power on remote. The only way to put it off is to pull off the power cable.
I have not tested it with hdmi-cec cause the tv where i have it attached at the moment does not support cec.

Bought one works great, better than the Fire Stick I was using.

I just received this box and while it's mostly working fine I have stutter and audio sync issues using Netflix, HBO and to some extent YouTube. Plex and Kodi works perfectly though.
Anyone got an idea what could be causing it? Wifi speed is consistently strong, so I'm thinking it's some kind of HDMI issue. I've tried a different cable but that didn't help

I have been using this box for a few weeks now, and I've noticed that a firmware update is badly needed. Can anyone direct me to where I can get a firmware update for this box? It doesn't display 4k, doesn't detect USB drives, or allow access to them, "I've tried several". There are several other issues that I don't remember at the moment as well... Thanks for any help... Ohh yeah, and it would be great to run apps off the micro SD and not the 2x internal storage spaces, they filled up within the first few days...lol
Sent from my rk3368-box using XDA-Developers mobile app

+1 here
Ordered mine from the European warehouse of Gea*best( althoght they took 10 days to ship it, 2 more to arrive in Belgium).
Arrived and when I boot it up it works for about 4 minutes; then it locks up.
Unplug the power, plug it again and it locks up even before the launcher.
Any clue about where to get a firmware before send it back?
Thanks in advance.

nleitao said:
+1 here
Ordered mine from the European warehouse of Gea*best( althoght they took 10 days to ship it, 2 more to arrive in Belgium).
Arrived and when I boot it up it works for about 4 minutes; then it locks up.
Unplug the power, plug it again and it locks up even before the launcher.
Any clue about where to get a firmware before send it back?
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Z68 Stock firmware can be found here http://chinagadgetsreviews.com/download-latest-android-lollipop-5-1-1-stock-firmware-nexbox-z68-tv-box.html
And a custom rom here from freaktab member cyber7
[URL="http://freaktab.com/forum/tv-player-support/rk3688-devices-aa/nexbox-z68/firmware-roms-tools-bh/563914-nexbox-z68-rk3368-beta-desktop-build-31-03-2016"]http://freaktab.com/forum/tv-player-support/rk3688-devices-aa/nexbox-z68/firmware-roms-tools-bh/563914-nexbox-z68-rk3368-beta-desktop-build-31-03-2016[/URL]

blinkone said:
The Z68 Stock firmware can be found here http://chinagadgetsreviews.com/download-latest-android-lollipop-5-1-1-stock-firmware-nexbox-z68-tv-box.html
And a custom rom here from freaktab menmer cyber7
[URL="http://freaktab.com/forum/tv-player-support/rk3688-devices-aa/nexbox-z68/firmware-roms-tools-bh/563914-nexbox-z68-rk3368-beta-desktop-build-31-03-2016"]http://freaktab.com/forum/tv-player-support/rk3688-devices-aa/nexbox-z68/firmware-roms-tools-bh/563914-nexbox-z68-rk3368-beta-desktop-build-31-03-2016[/URL]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am cyber7 from freaktab and there is a very "lightweight" release for this box that strips it to a no-nonsense device you can use. Go have a look!

Thank you both for the reply! After this post and some more searching I found cyber7
Yesterday evening I opened the box and installed a motherboard chipset cooler I had around and the freezes stopped at least during the 25 minutes I had it running. The 1 mm aluminium "cooler" the chip brings is really for laughing...
That said I will try @aubreykloppers 's stripped down version soo: thanks man for your really good work. if it works good, i'll buy you the coffee

nleitao said:
Thank you both for the reply! After this post and some more searching I found cyber7
Yesterday evening I opened the box and installed a motherboard chipset cooler I had around and the freezes stopped at least during the 25 minutes I had it running. The 1 mm aluminium "cooler" the chip brings is really for laughing...
That said I will try @aubreykloppers 's stripped down version soo: thanks man for your really good work. if it works good, i'll buy you the coffee
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope it works for you!
The light release is very quick and runs without a "heat cooler"
I have been running mine (with Kodi and an active Launcher) for about 2 weeks non-stop and have no heat problems. That said, dispersing heat is never a bad idea, unless you are from Antarctica

after a few attempts a cant make the pc detect this or other older box I have from a friend. Is there a SD card method? I already went on the recovery but there is no option to flash from sd...

Just bought this box so I could stream Kodi to my TV, among other things. I tried the Leelbox prior to this, but it was kind of slow and prone to freezing up at times.
So I bought this box because of the better specs, and now I am having a hell of a time trying to navigate on this thing. In some apps, it's impossible to navigate because I can't even see where I'm clicking. I can't even get into the Play Store because it seems to be impossible to click the "accept" button. I have to install all my apps through the browser using Aptoide, and even then that's not a great workaround because, yet again, I can't even see where I'm clicking. Navigating this thing so far is a complete guessing game. I can't believe there's no "mouse" mode on this like the Leelbox had. I'd love to know how you were able to get into the Play Store. Any help or tips???

Use a normal pc usb mouse wired or wireless. Then buy an air mouse remote very soon.
Inviato dal mio ECOO_E04_3GB+ utilizzando Tapatalk

nleitao said:
after a few attempts a cant make the pc detect this or other older box I have from a friend. Is there a SD card method? I already went on the recovery but there is no option to flash from sd...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Damn... the cable I bought on ebay had 1 broken wire, that's why the box wasn't found by the computer...
After making a cable it was well found :victory: flashed and running.
and still freezing even with the super mega hiper light version... Should I flash it again?
@sethyboy13 - what @lzwfkv said

lzwfkv said:
Use a normal pc usb mouse wired or wireless. Then buy an air mouse remote very soon.
Inviato dal mio ECOO_E04_3GB+ utilizzando Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I figured that would have to be the case just looking at other people's videos of the box; they were all using mice. So I bought a cheap USB mouse from Walmart and no issues! I was able to sign in and access the Play Store, as well as use the browser normally. It's kind of annoying that a cursor mode wasn't included on the remote, but hey, I'm not complaining, especially since this box performs much better than the Leelbox for my needs. =)

Related

Zeki Streaming Media Box

Anyone ever seen or heard of the Zeki Streaming Media Box? We got two of these in at work today and it looked really interesting. A quick Google search turned up no results.
The listed specs are:
Android (doesn't list the version, but looks to be at lest ICS)
1 GB RAM
HDMI out
Ethernet
2 USB posts
SD card slot
WiFi 802.11b/g/n
4 GB flash memory
And it looks like it includes:
Remote (Appears to have a full QWERTY keyboard)
HDMI cable
Power adapter
And here's a picture of the front and back of the box: http://i.imgur.com/BMk8bDT.jpg
Sorry about the non-clear pictures. I think it says "TAB803B" as a model number, but I'll have to check. If that's indeed the case, it may be related to the MK803-based series of HDMI sticks.
beanboy89 said:
Anyone ever seen or heard of the Zeki Streaming Media Box? We got two of these in at work today and it looked really interesting. A quick Google search turned up no results.
The listed specs are:
Android (doesn't list the version, but looks to be at lest ICS)
1 GB RAM
HDMI out
Ethernet
2 USB posts
SD card slot
WiFi 802.11b/g/n
4 GB flash memory
And it looks like it includes:
Remote (Appears to have a full QWERTY keyboard)
HDMI cable
Power adapter
And here's a picture of the front and back of the box: http://i.imgur.com/BMk8bDT.jpg
Sorry about the non-clear pictures. I think it says "TAB803B" as a model number, but I'll have to check. If that's indeed the case, it may be related to the MK803-based series of HDMI sticks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I picked one up at Wal-Mart yesterday for $98 total. Tried to set it up and couldn't get it to power on! The instructions say that it's normal for it to take several minutes to boot up but never got it to show any kind of menu or anything - just an annoying red flashing light that never turned blue and a black TV screen - yes I checked the HDMI connections - so maybe it was DOA out of the box? At any rate, the box is bigger than my Roku 3. The combo QWRTY keyboard and remote is a good idea but in my opinion, the whole thing is poorly constructed. It's going back tomorrow. I am not a paid spokesperson for Roku but I really love the Roku experience but would love to use an Android type device so I can stream my SlingBox which unfortunately isn't supported on Roku. I also saw that my Wal-Mart had an Equiso but after reading all the negative reviews I passed on that. As with anything, take this "review" with a grain of salt and your mileage may vary.
I actually saw this box in my local Walmart and wondered what its all about.....im looking to kill my cable bill and see if a streaming box is all i need....or maybe not....as i see Roku has no advantage then my PS3....so not sure where to go
I recently picked up this box. What is inside is essentially the Hackberry by miniand except it isn't rooted. The Zeki is the 1GB Ram version. Haven't tested it out much. It doesn't have bluetooth. It comes with a remote that you have to plug a dongle into one usb port in order for it to work thus eliminating one usable usb port. Full size sd card slot. The remote feels cheep, but is fairly nice. Also a nice feature of it is the dongle can be plugged in to your pc and you can use the remote on your pc. Button map for use on pc. The keyboard works just fine. the volume buttons work as normal. The video controls work except fast forward and rewind they only seem to work in windows media player not vlc or media player classic. For right click use the back button and middle mouse button(to scroll) use the menu button.
There are much better options out there for the same price, but it comes with a cool remote. Also it supports output to rca which is useful if you happen to only have that option avaliable. Comes with the hdmi cable.
I just picked up the ZEKI SMB at walmart also. I have 3 Roku and the vizio co-star and I can say this is not as popular but it can be. It gives you more option than the roku because you have access to the google play store. The vizio costar has access to the google play as well but I can't get 95% of my apps to install not even by sideloading.
This box gives you a 100% Android feel with the ability to customize the home screen and access the google settings just like your phone or tablet.
So far I can't get the hulu plus but I haven't tried the other modified hulu apps I have yet. I have FB, gmail, my regular email, netflix, plex app which are my main apps up and running.
installing apps could be faster but i'm not sure if it's due to my doing it via wifi or if it's cpu.
The remote does feel cheap but it's not as big and bulky as the co-star remote.
I can see this becoming very big if it can get rooted and then a nice kernal for some OC/UC love.
This box works great for me. works with Netflix, Hulu Plus, Google Play, HD Home run app, and many more. WiFi works decent would probally work better with external antenna. I just need to figure out how to root it which doesn't look easy. If anyone finds anything on how to root this please pm me thanks.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
Eclipsekid.. Hulu can be installed but how did you get it to play?
Used modded hulu plus from another xda topic used one that said Hulu landscape mod also had to check allow unknown sources in settings.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
eclipsekid07 said:
This box works great for me. works with Netflix, Hulu Plus, Google Play, HD Home run app, and many more. WiFi works decent would probally work better with external antenna. I just need to figure out how to root it which doesn't look easy. If anyone finds anything on how to root this please pm me thanks.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
tTorrent also works well...
It has great potential
I picked one up from the walmart. Loaded XBMC frodo just fine. Now if I could just find a way to root
Pictures
Pictures of Board and processor.
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eclipsekid07 said:
Used modded hulu plus from another xda topic used one that said Hulu landscape mod also had to check allow unknown sources in settings.
Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I747 using xda app-developers app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure why you needed to use a modded hulu plus app, I was able to install the regular hulu plus app from google play just fine. Unless you don't actually have a hulu plus account, I don't see why you wouldn't have used the available app, it works fine.
Anyway, I have been using the box for a few days and I think I am going to return it. I've had non-stop issues with the internet connection. I have a 60mbps connection, but I am getting less that 1mbps speeds on the box. I called the tech support number and they advised me to change the channel on the router. It bumped up to about 7mbps. I asked the support agent why I still only got 7mbps when I have a 60mbps connection and he advised that the box has a maximum speed of 9mbps. So, he told me that if I got 7mbps after changing the channel, that the box would perform as designed since I was reaching the maximum speed the box could allow and that the lower speed was likely due to the specifications of the box itself. Well, after a couple hours, the speed dropped back down under 1mbps and changing the channel again bumped the speed back up for a short time. Since then, I have noticed that the only way to get the speed up is to change the router channel or reset the box. I assume resetting the router would work to, but that is pointless. With the slow speeds, streaming media constantly buffers or doesn't load at all. Am I the only one with this problem? Maybe I should just exchange the box?
Edit to add: the box also lags badly for me, not just with online service in the browser and streaming media, but also just navigating the UI. I assume it's the processor and low RAM, looking for another box to replace it with unless it;s just a bad unit.
gadsden said:
Not sure why you needed to use a modded hulu plus app, I was able to install the regular hulu plus app from google play just fine. Unless you don't actually have a hulu plus account, I don't see why you wouldn't have used the available app, it works fine.
Anyway, I have been using the box for a few days and I think I am going to return it. I've had non-stop issues with the internet connection. I have a 60mbps connection, but I am getting less that 1mbps speeds on the box. I called the tech support number and they advised me to change the channel on the router. It bumped up to about 7mbps. I asked the support agent why I still only got 7mbps when I have a 60mbps connection and he advised that the box has a maximum speed of 9mbps. So, he told me that if I got 7mbps after changing the channel, that the box would perform as designed since I was reaching the maximum speed the box could allow and that the lower speed was likely due to the specifications of the box itself. Well, after a couple hours, the speed dropped back down under 1mbps and changing the channel again bumped the speed back up for a short time. Since then, I have noticed that the only way to get the speed up is to change the router channel or reset the box. I assume resetting the router would work to, but that is pointless. With the slow speeds, streaming media constantly buffers or doesn't load at all. Am I the only one with this problem? Maybe I should just exchange the box?
Edit to add: the box also lags badly for me, not just with online service in the browser and streaming media, but also just navigating the UI. I assume it's the processor and low RAM, looking for another box to replace it with unless it;s just a bad unit.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I returned mine BC poor WiFi range and no otg port w/o special cable.
eclipsekid07 said:
I returned mine BC poor WiFi range and no otg port w/o special cable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you replace it with another Android box? I started this thread about the Mele A1000G box. I've been thinking about getting one of these the last few days.
Got rid of this junk
The ROM on this box was horrible plus you need to have a male to male USB cable to use adb .This went back to Walmart where it belongs.
Yeah, I'm taking it back too. I was going to order that Mele box, but I opted for the older Tronsmart mk808b. I know it's old technology, but I got it on Amazon with a iPazzPort KP-810-10-A remote for $70 and it will be here in two days with free Prime shipping. This seemed like the best option Amazon had and I wanted to stick with amazon for free shipping and simple return procedure. If it's not good enough for what I want, I can always get the newer T428 with quad core and 2GB RAM. Whatever I stick with, it's not going to be the Zeki.
s1newave said:
I picked one up from the walmart. Loaded XBMC frodo just fine. Now if I could just find a way to root
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well all i ge is invalid package when i try to install anything .. can someone help?
Flashing
Does anyone have info on rooting this box and then flashing into recovery mode? Can the static XBMC for linux be installed on this?
I have found the xbmc performance otherwise to be very flawed.
thanks
eclipsekid07 said:
I returned mine BC poor WiFi range and no otg port w/o special cable.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
what special OTG cable would i need to connect this to my pc ? i have made a male to male USB cable but its not working, i have enabled usb debugging in the settings as well, and it still doesn't connect
Hoping it isn't a dud.
I just bought one via a shopping channel for $49 with easy-pay. Some of the reviews are bad; some a very good. I've mixed feelings as I have owned one of their android tablets and thought it okay, not great. But for the money, not a terrible strain. Can send it back if it is a dud.
Edit: It's a freakin' dud, alright! But it can get Youtube quite well, but surfing is a pain and the browsers (any browser) is VERY slow. Piece of crap!

"External" gamepads with Shield

Hi there,
let me explain my goal. I want to use my shield for all my PC gaming. Portable around the house, and that is great when the main TV is being used by other members of my family.
But also it's great to connect it to the TV when it's available. My main PC is a desktop one used for working and when I play I don't want to be there. I prefer sofa, bed, etc.
So, I wanted to have a fine console experience in my sofa in front of the tv, but wirelessly. I have these accesories for it:
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USB OTG, HDMI, USB hub, USB-ethernet (the one that actually works is this: http://plugable.com/products/usb2-e1000 ), and wireless Xbox controller with the usb receiver.
Well,
I almost have it, but not 100%.
HDMI works
Ethernet works
USB hub works
Xbox controller works but D-pad does not, and that is frustrating, because every other button works fine and it's a joy to lie in my sofa to play that way. Some games need the D-pad and because of that this is not a solution.
The other way to use the Xbox controller is leaving it connected to the PC and it works good when I'm in front od the TV because my PC is just upstairs. BUT, most of the games when launched from Shield ignore the controller of the PC and only work with the Shield itself...
Is anyone crazy enough to try this way of gaming?
I know the Nyko dock would help to achieve this, but it's completely missing since it was announced...
Would a bluetooth gamepad work with all the buttons (D-pad included) for a perfect PC streaming experience???
Tomorrow I friend will let my try a PS3 controller. Let's see how it performs. I did not want to root, but I will at least to try it wirelessly.
king conan said:
Is anyone crazy enough to try this way of gaming?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I use an OnLive controller. I haven't tried the XBox 360 Wireless dongle, but Bluetooth works great. If you're looking for a controller that has similar build quality and characteristics, I strongly recommend the OnLive one, even without the service (I don't have the service, just the control).
I'll give the dpad a try this weekend and verify it works on my SHIELD though, since I haven't tested that extensively.
agrabren said:
I use an OnLive controller. I haven't tried the XBox 360 Wireless dongle, but Bluetooth works great. If you're looking for a controller that has similar build quality and characteristics, I strongly recommend the OnLive one, even without the service (I don't have the service, just the control).
I'll give the dpad a try this weekend and verify it works on my SHIELD though, since I haven't tested that extensively.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for answering.
Yesterday I tried a PS3 controllorer. I rooted my shield to use it wirelessly with the sixaxis app, and it works exactly the same as the Xbox controller. All the buttons are OK, except D-PAD ones.
It's weird, beacues the D-pad buttons work fine in the shield interface but not with PC-Steam games. It's a very small detail but if Nvidia solves this in future update would be perfect.
king conan said:
Thanks for answering.
Yesterday I tried a PS3 controllorer. I rooted my shield to use it wirelessly with the sixaxis app, and it works exactly the same as the Xbox controller. All the buttons are OK, except D-PAD ones.
It's weird, beacues the D-pad buttons work fine in the shield interface but not with PC-Steam games. It's a very small detail but if Nvidia solves this in future update would be perfect.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I didn't try streaming (I handle only the Android side of things) but I'll make sure a bug exists about it. I'll bet it'll get fixed pretty quick.
Same issue here!
I am having the EXACT same issue! Everything works perfectly except for the d-pad. I've also noticed that the right analog stick does not work like a "mouse" on the home screen like the native controller does.
If these 2 items would be fixed, I would have a veritable portable "steam machine" in my living room!
Will follow this thread and hope there is a resolution soon! I bought the Xbox 360 Receiver for this express purpose! Note: The wired 360 controller works perfectly, so was surprised about the wireless one not working.
The wired one is special, but I'd expect thus stuff to get fixed. I'll try to look into it.
Sent from my One using XDA Premium HD app
jchalk59 said:
I bought the Xbox 360 Receiver for this express purpose! Note: The wired 360 controller works perfectly, so was surprised about the wireless one not working.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you mean it does not work?
PC receiver for Xbox controller works fine with the shield.
You can see my setup in the picture above and it works the same as a wired one.
You need the controller receiver:
http://www.amazon.com/Xbox-360-Wireless-Gaming-Receiver-Windows/dp/B000HZFCT2
And a true Xbox 360 wireless controller:
http://www.amazon.com/Xbox-360-Wireless-Controller-Glossy-Black/dp/B003ZSP0WW/ref=pd_sim_vg_1
If you root your shield, the PS3 controller is a good choice too. Less cables involved because you will be using bluetooth to pair with the shield.
But as we said, it's not a perfect experience. Many PC modern games use D-Pad buttons for extra options and without them you can't play properly.
I think you're being too literal on "not working" there King Conan. Read his post, he's having the same issue with lack of d-pad on the wireless. He considers this to be not working probably because of games that require the controls. I would have to agree, I use d-pad all the time.
but he says the wired works and the wireless don't...
Both work exactly the same, that's why I didn't get him.
It's not just the wireless with the d-pad problem, wired is the same way?
Yes D-PAD problem happens wired or wireless.
The funny thing is that DPAD works fine in Android interface but doesn't in PC steam games.
Gotcha, sorry. I read the entire thread but for whatever reason I took away the problem was exclusive to wireless.
Hopefully they fix it in the next update, I just ordered a micro-HDMI cable and USB OTG adapter ;/
The wired and wireless ones report currently to Android at the low level.
Sent from my One using XDA Premium HD app
I've confirmed that there is definite work to improve external controllers, and we're working directly with multiple controller vendors to ensure their BT controllers are optimized for gameplay.
agrabren said:
I've confirmed that there is definite work to improve external controllers, and we're working directly with multiple controller vendors to ensure their BT controllers are optimized for gameplay.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did Nvidia say that?
Or do you work with them?
That's great to hear.
king conan said:
Did Nvidia say that?
Or do you work with them?
That's great to hear.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm a technical lead on SHIELD at NVIDIA. So yes, they did say that. I had to get details from management about what I could say before I could make any official statement about improved controller support.
agrabren said:
I'm a technical lead on SHIELD at NVIDIA. So yes, they did say that. I had to get details from management about what I could say before I could make any official statement about improved controller support.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sweet! I've been trying to get the Mogo Pro controller working with my Shield, but to get the Universal Driver to work, it has to be rooted. Not going to root my Nvidia Shield, having too much fun with it. Once I get a reasonable wireless controller working with my Shield, this thing is going to be a powerhouse game console connected to a 50" TV.
atarumoroboshi18 said:
Sweet! I've been trying to get the Mogo Pro controller working with my Shield, but to get the Universal Driver to work, it has to be rooted. Not going to root my Nvidia Shield, having too much fun with it. Once I get a reasonable wireless controller working with my Shield, this thing is going to be a powerhouse game console connected to a 50" TV.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can use my app. Tested and running. (TIncore keymapper)
Btw. The latest beta (3.0.5) has some UI fixes for the shield.
Thank you Nvidia!! Also thank you PowerA!! These two companies support development!!
tincore said:
You can use my app. Tested and running. (TIncore keymapper)
Btw. The latest beta (3.0.5) has some UI fixes for the shield.
Thank you Nvidia!! Also thank you PowerA!! These two companies support development!!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi tincore!
can your app replicate all the shield buttons including the D-PAD ones? Have you tried in a shield?
Makes any sense to try your app with a xbox controller?
thank you!
king conan said:
Hi tincore!
can your app replicate all the shield buttons including the D-PAD ones? Have you tried in a shield?
Makes any sense to try your app with a xbox controller?
thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What you mean exactly by replicate? Every button and stick funcion can be remapped.
I don't have an xbox controller but I imagine that the kernel has the gamepad modules so if you are rooted it should work. If you are not rooted this is also possible but I would need a data capture so I can include it on the next release.
http://tincore.wiki-site.com/index.php/Usage#USB_Data_capturer

My RKM v5 Mini pC TV Stick Review

Hi all as you may have noticed by now im a tv box/stick addict & this RKM v5 rely has got my full attention.
Many thanks to Michelle at RKM for sending me the RMK V5 an easy & trouble free transaction
Mod Edit: Selling site link removed.
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Whats in the box
User manual
Short HDMI lead (good quality)
2.5 AMP power unit with a propper English plug so no adapter needed
Male to male usb lead for firmware updating
V5 tv stick
The RKM v5 TV Stick comes with the Rockchip Quad Core 1.8ghz CPU,quad core mail-T764 and 16GB of Ram,it Offers 4K2K UHD video play back, android 4.4 pre loaded it also came pre rooted.Supports LAN 100M/1000M network,Bluetooth 4.0 ect ect full spec below.
Hardware specifications:
The first thing you notice when you open the box is what good quality item this is the stick itself feels nothing like any other tv stick, This device has quality written all over it.There is also a decent power adapter a 2.5 amp unit witch is also very good quality (Not cheap rubbish)you will not be disappointed at all.
First boot OMG this is the fastest booting stick/box i own at 18 seconds to home screen.Once its booted your at the home screen witch is a unique RKM launcher witch i rely like very eye pleasing & not too busy.My v5 came with software dated 23/12/2014 & it ran very well, I then noticed there was a newer software available to download hear.
http://www.rikomagic.com/en/download/do_1.html
I soon downloaded that & flashed it that's also a very easy process as there is a step by step guide in the user manual (iv not seen this before)The system storage is set out as 2GB internal storage & 11.5GB nand witch is just about right.
Home screen RKM launcher
App Draw RKM launcher
Display options are plentiful
So now im on the latest software dated 12/01/2015 and i can not complain at all this little device is so snappy & responsive its unreal,.Theres no useless apps installed its quit light off the ground..There's a nice file explorer, quick office,It also comes with kodi 14.0 witch runs great tested with (navi x) im no xbmc expert so i cant tell you much about that sorry apart from it seems to work fine with no freezes ect my usb logitek c270 webcam works fine, 1TB external non powered samsung hard drive works fine & iv played some games also work fine.
AnTuTu score of 35405
Boot up time of 18 seconds
Shut down time of 2 seconds
Another AWESOME featour with the v5 is after you have shut it down & you want to turn it back on, All you need to do is select the corect HDMI port on your tv & the v5 will boot i rely like this it means theres no need to keep turning it off & on at the mains.
Inside this beast (You can see the recovery button at the top right)
Nice sized aluminium heat sink
Conclusion: This is the best rockchip device I own & iv been more than impressed by the RKM V5
Great for the main TV in the house or to put in your bag & take it with you on your travels.
Get it here
Aliexpess Online store:
Mod Edit: Selling site link removed.
Is it pre-rooted? Thinking about getting a stick to use with my AppRadio 3 and the app needs root access.
Also, can it get power off the USB port? Since I would be installing it in a car with one 12v power port, a DC only power supply would be a problem.
Hesster said:
Is it pre-rooted? Thinking about getting a stick to use with my AppRadio 3 and the app needs root access.
Also, can it get power off the USB port? Since I would be installing it in a car with one 12v power port, a DC only power supply would be a problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it come's pre rooted but its powered by a round power plug
The past few days iv been using the RKM v5 quite a lot to stream movies from the net with xbmx (kodi) & navi x & iv not had any trouble with it at all the more I use this thing the better I think it is.No over heating it runs perfect I think it rely helps that it comes with a good power adapter, Well done to RKM for this a lot of manufactures get this wrong & send them out with a cheap power adapter.I rely love this RKM
Does V5 supports HDMI-CEC?
Mefa2 said:
Does V5 supports HDMI-CEC?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi there.The FW im using right now don't have the HDMI CEC but asked the question to the RKM FW engineering team & im told the new FW does have the HDMI CEC im downloading it now will install it latter & let you no about it..
blinkone said:
Yes it come's pre rooted but its powered by a round power plug
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got v5 this morning, and am using it with Anker AC/DC 5 port USB power adapter.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app
blinkone said:
Hi there.The FW im using right now don't have the HDMI CEC but asked the question to the RKM FW engineering team & im told the new FW does have the HDMI CEC im downloading it now will install it latter & let you no about it..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you! Can't wait to get to know about it!
RKM V5's ethernet v4 MAC address is vary, isn't it?
I want to set a static IP address to follow V5's MAC address on my router.
How can I do this?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app
Bluetooth mouse often doesn't work.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app
My V5 has frozen after several hours since power on.
Too many apps installed?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app
milmake said:
My V5 has frozen after several hours since power on.
Too many apps installed?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check your power adapter that's the first thing to try.
Are you on the latest FW?
I'm thinking of buying an android stick to watch tv on kodi. Can you tell me how good this one is for that?
Something else, after googling a bit I still can't find the price anywhere, how much does it cost?
Domangus said:
I'm thinking of buying an android stick to watch tv on kodi. Can you tell me how good this one is for that?
Something else, after googling a bit I still can't find the price anywhere, how much does it cost?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi this stick rely is Awesome for kodi the wifi is strong & it has an Gigabit Ethernet Port too..your looking at around £70 /£75
blinkone said:
Hi this stick rely is Awesome for kodi the wifi is strong & it has
an Gigabit Ethernet Port too..your looking at around £70 /£75
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks I've already sentido an email to aliexpress to ask the price
blinkone said:
Hi there.The FW im using right now don't have the HDMI CEC but asked the question to the RKM FW engineering team & im told the new FW does have the HDMI CEC im downloading it now will install it latter & let you no about it..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any news on this please? What is the firmware version that has it included?
cheers.
Are you able to watch Google movies on this stick? Mine just gives an error.
On my v5, Google Play movie works.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app
landscape and portrait
Can you please see if this stick will work in portrait mode ? I'm working on a home arcade and would like to use android for a digital pinball game instead of windows. Most of the boxes / sticks I've looked at won't work but I've read that rooted ones will display in portrait mode. Thanks for any help
Fred
fredww said:
Can you please see if this stick will work in portrait mode ? I'm working on a home arcade and would like to use android for a digital pinball game instead of windows. Most of the boxes / sticks I've looked at won't work but I've read that rooted ones will display in portrait mode. Thanks for any help
Fred
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi you should be able to set portrait mode on any tv stick/box as long as your rooted by just Changing the ro.sf.fakerotation to false and ro.sf.hwrotation to 180 and after the reboot, its should be on Portrait you can use a build prop Editer like this https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jrummy.apps.build.prop.editor&hl=en
Any RK3288 tv stick/box is easy to root with a root update zip and also any amlogic s802 is also easy to root the same way
OK so is there one that's idiot proof cause I really dont wanna screw it up.
Fred

Nexus 7 (2013) install in dash of Lexus GS400

Nexus 7 (2013) tablet install in the dash
I've pondered this install for over 2 years and finally decided to go ahead with the install.
I had originally upgraded the sound system in car by pulling out the stock Nakamichi Head Unit (a couple of years ago) and replaced all the wiring, speakers etc with decent components - Mid and tweeter (separates)- Focal speakers in the front door and a 13 inch Focal sub in the trunk. I focused this upgrade for an SQ setup and did not install any speakers in the rear on purpose. For amps, I used two Zapco's (one for the fronts and one for the subwoofer)
I installed a Pioneer AVIC-D1 navigation/Head Unit and also installed tons of sound deadening all over the doors, trunk etc.
Fast forward to today and here is my new setup - since I had upgraded the wiring and speakers already, I focused this build on the Tablet install and a new HU that connected to my upgraded wiring. I then connected the tablet via the USB DAC (the Microstreamer unit) to the Head Unit aux input for audio out to the car speakers/amps. This simplified my install as I only needed to focus on the tablet install and the new Head Unit Install. Needless to say I ripped out the Pioneer unit for this install.
I flashed Timur's kernel ( https://timur.mobi/timurs-kernel-n7-2013/ ) for a fixed install as its perfect for these types of installs - the tablet goes into a deep sleep mode when accessory power is shut off and it loses very little charge overnight (roughly about 1 - 2 % per 10 hours). As soon as you turn on the car, the tablet senses power has been applied and the screen comes on immediately. So even though my install allows me to remove the tablet from the car, I don't really have to remove it. It comes on immediately when the car is turned on and goes off (deep sleep) when the car is turned off. You don't need to setup any complicated (for me anyway) tasker routines to take care of this. I then connect my tablet to my Note 3's hot spot for Internet access.
I had the install done professionally - the custom fabrication of the tablet and Head Unit mount. That was really the main part of this install by Ultra Auto Sound in Mississauga, Ontario ( http://ultraautosound.com/tag/nexus/ ) . They did an excellent job as you can see from the pics on their website and below. Thanks Joe!
I haven't been able to get the backup camera to work yet with the tablet as my understanding of how it works with the tablet was not thorough enough and I need to do some more reading to figure it out properly.
Here are the parts I bought:
Nexus 7 (2013) tablet ofcourse
Head Unit - Kenwood eXcelon KDC-X998 CD Receiver with built in BT and HD radio - its one of the better Head Units on the market right now ( http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00I8S6B86?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00 )
USB Hub - DLink 7 port USB hub ( http://www.amazon.ca/D-Link-DUB-H7B...d=1439314404&sr=8-1&keywords=DLink+7+port+USB )
USB DAC - HRT microStreamer ( http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00B4YE5BG?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00 )
Backup Camera - TaoTronics TT-CC17 Waterproof Color CMOS Car Licence plate backup camera ( http://www.amazon.ca/TaoTronics-TT-CC17-Waterproof-License-Distance/dp/B0092YMZJY )
USB Video capture card - VGB100 USB 2.0 Video Capture Device card ( http://www.amazon.com/August-VGB100...ords=VGB100+USB+2.0+Video+Capture+Device+card )
Bluetooth remote for audio controls - Satechi® Bluetooth Button ( http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00RM75NL0?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00 )
USB Flash drive - SanDisk Extreme 64GB USB 3.0 Flash Drive ( http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00KT7DOSE?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00 )
Micro USB OTG cable and charger - (http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00S67XK7Y?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00)
USB 2.0 A-Male to A-Female extension cables for charging my Note 3 and my wifes Note 2 while in the car ( http://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00NH11R3I?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00 )
OBD2 BT dongle. This allows me to display a bunch of information on the Dash Command app (shown in a couple of pics below with the LFA "skin"). You can also read any error codes without paying an arm and a leg to the dealer.
Here is the before pic:
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And the current pics:
USB Hub with the USB Digital Audio Controller (HT Microstreamer), USB Flash Drive and Video Grabber for the backup camera
DashCommand for car diagnostics and other info via OBD2 BT dongle. This is the LFA "skin'
Waze maps and close up of the Kenwood KDC-X998 Head unit
Close up of the tablet mount
Close up of the Satechi BT audio controller
Some more pics
Some random pics of the car:
The install looks great. Good job. I've got a 2011 GMC Sierra that I've installed my Nexus 7 (2013) in the dash. Turns out that the double din after market head unit adapter plates opening is just a hair bigger than the actual LCD. ( not the whole tablet but just the LCD). So I was able to use it with the Nexus mounted to the back of the adapter plate so that it fits tight against it covering the edges of the tablet and only leaving the LCD exposed. I'll take some pics and upload them soon. Good job on yours. Love seeing how others went about their install.
nice built but may I ask, is it really needed to add an usb dac to the instalation process if I am runing audio from the tablet with 3.5mm audio jack cable to the car's player aux ?
mattwheat said:
The install looks great. Good job. I've got a 2011 GMC Sierra that I've installed my Nexus 7 (2013) in the dash. Turns out that the double din after market head unit adapter plates opening is just a hair bigger than the actual LCD. ( not the whole tablet but just the LCD). So I was able to use it with the Nexus mounted to the back of the adapter plate so that it fits tight against it covering the edges of the tablet and only leaving the LCD exposed. I'll take some pics and upload them soon. Good job on yours. Love seeing how others went about their install.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks. I love the setup as is and the audio shop that installed it recommended mine be setup (the mount) like this because of my requirement of wanting to be able to unplug it or get to the buttons for whatever reason. I personally prefer the look that you went for where the tablet is behind a plate as that looks more OEM than mine.
Mine looks so obviously like a tablet on the dash even though the quality of the audio shop's custom mount is good, it still doesn't look like an OEM screen (when its behind a plate).
My installer said it would be more expensive to mount it behind a custom opening and also make it removable at the same time, hence the end result you see here.
Looking forward to seeing pics of your setup!
lilutosh said:
nice built but may I ask, is it really needed to add an usb dac to the instalation process if I am runing audio from the tablet with 3.5mm audio jack cable to the car's player aux ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No you don't have to do what I did especially if you are not pulling out your stock stereo.
great ! thanks !
This is awesome and has inspired me to create my own Nexus 7 setup. Great stuff!
how did you make the august vgb100 work with the nexus , I bought it and the tablet couldn't recognize it.
Hi, could you share related .dxls file. I searched for LFA skin, bu it dosent look exactly like yours ?
Thanks.
EDIT: Sorry, I found lots of LFA skins, its ok!
What app are you using as the "dash" app for nav and such. Looks very android auto'y
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
eregev said:
What app are you using as the "dash" app for nav and such. Looks very android auto'y
Sent from my XT1575 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Automate
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Deeco7 said:
Automate
Sent from my Nexus 6 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Beautiful, thanks!
how is the install holding up... Im getting ready to do a similar set up with a 99 gs300
warnel33008 said:
how is the install holding up... Im getting ready to do a similar set up with a 99 gs300
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Its holding up fine.
I could never get the backup camera working and that bugs me.
I'm having second thoughts about the whole system now and want to get an Android Auto HU such as this one - http://www.crutchfield.com/S-Xvsy2Zazrje/p_1304200NEX/Pioneer-AVH-4200NEX.html
What is your budget and requirement for the install of a tablet in your car? The obvious ones in terms of requirements are Phone calling/receiving, Navigation and listening to your music collection. Any others you have?
If your budget can swing for the unit above - it has very good reviews, I would just do that instead.
CayenneGTS said:
Its holding up fine.
I could never get the backup camera working and that bugs me.
I'm having second thoughts about the whole system now and want to get an Android Auto HU such as this one - http://www.crutchfield.com/S-Xvsy2Zazrje/p_1304200NEX/Pioneer-AVH-4200NEX.html
What is your budget and requirement for the install of a tablet in your car? The obvious ones in terms of requirements are Phone calling/receiving, Navigation and listening to your music collection. Any others you have?
If your budget can swing for the unit above - it has very good reviews, I would just do that instead.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
my main reason for the tablet diy is to play my music folders... I make them every other week... with new content... then of course navigation (google)... web browser right in the car if im parked in a parking lot waiting for her to come back....and the other obvious extras n perks.... I think this is more for me than the pioneer... I was looking into that first.... and decided i wanted more hands on experience with a tablet and able to customize as well.... did you use a custom dash kit bezel... how about the wire harness what did you use.... Im thinking of just doing a simple aux wire from the top of the nexus to the aux input in an aftermarket radio
warnel33008 said:
my main reason for the tablet diy is to play my music folders... I make them every other week... with new content...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check. Android Auto lets you play the music from your phone.
then of course navigation (google)...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check. Android Auto does that from your phone
web browser right in the car if im parked in a parking lot waiting for her to come back
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
When you're parked, just do this from the phone. You don't need a tablet for this.
....and the other obvious extras n perks....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What obvious extras and perks are you referring to specifically?
I think this is more for me than the pioneer... I was looking into that first.... and decided i wanted more hands on experience with a tablet and able to customize as well....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hand ons experience using a tablet? I don't follow what you mean by this statement. I had the same expectations when I didn't have the tablet in the car. Android Auto looked so limiting. However I've had a change of heart after using a tablet in the car for about a year now and then trying out Android Auto for a week in a rental while I was on vacation two weeks ago. Hands down, the tablet route in the dash is not worth it. Its so much simpler and cleaner (both in looks and functions of the Android Auto unit) to install the Pioneer Android Auto unit I linked above. I'm going to go that route next summer.
I got used to the Backup Camera on the Android Auto HU and and I can't replicate that on the Tablet in the dash. You don't have to worry about the tablet being charged all the time so that you can actually use it in the car without having to take it out and charge it if you haven't driven your vehicle for a few days (perhaps this does not apply to you if your GS is a DD. Mine isn't and the battery drain on the tablet is a major PITA).
did you use a custom dash kit bezel... how about the wire harness what did you use.... Im thinking of just doing a simple aux wire from the top of the nexus to the aux input in an aftermarket radio
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes, the audio shop custom fabricated the bezel kit and the wiring harness goes in the Kenwood HU that I already specified in my first post on this thread. I then connect the tablet via the OTG cable to a Digital Audio Converter to get better sound and then connect that to the HU AUX port - you can also see that in the pics I posted.
CayenneGTS said:
Check. Android Auto lets you play the music from your phone.
Check. Android Auto does that from your phone
When you're parked, just do this from the phone. You don't need a tablet for this.
What obvious extras and perks are you referring to specifically?
Hand ons experience using a tablet? I don't follow what you mean by this statement. I had the same expectations when I didn't have the tablet in the car. Android Auto looked so limiting. However I've had a change of heart after using a tablet in the car for about a year now and then trying out Android Auto for a week in a rental while I was on vacation two weeks ago. Hands down, the tablet route in the dash is not worth it. Its so much simpler and cleaner (both in looks and functions of the Android Auto unit) to install the Pioneer Android Auto unit I linked above. I'm going to go that route next summer.
I got used to the Backup Camera on the Android Auto HU and and I can't replicate that on the Tablet in the dash. You don't have to worry about the tablet being charged all the time so that you can actually use it in the car without having to take it out and charge it if you haven't driven your vehicle for a few days (perhaps this does not apply to you if your GS is a DD. Mine isn't and the battery drain on the tablet is a major PITA).
Yes, the audio shop custom fabricated the bezel kit and the wiring harness goes in the Kenwood HU that I already specified in my first post on this thread. I then connect the tablet via the OTG cable to a Digital Audio Converter to get better sound and then connect that to the HU AUX port - you can also see that in the pics I posted.
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Click to collapse
yea i checked it out.... and its great... I would just go with the nexus for now and see how my budget changes next year... for now I'm trying to stay under 200... do I have to get a dac/ microstreamer or can i just plug it from the 3.5mm headphone jack straight into my aftermarket radio aux input... what do you think?
So, did you switch, or are you now happy that you can run android auto straight from your tablet?
I am trying to find if Android Auto has any problems running from an Android headunit such as the Joying units. Otherwise, I would love to see if a nexus 9 could work in my Ram.
Having used tablets, android auto (pioneer and kenwood HU), and joying HU I think I can offer a lot of insight here.
For starters the tablet is still hands down the best carPC you can get. It simply does everything you want it to do without any sacrifices, and tends to look the most clean as well. The reflexive matte screens on android auto HU's are just dull and boring overall, but beyond that their performance is abysmal and android has been completely crippled on these devices in the name of safety. You cant reliably browse for music, the UI/search/scroll functions in the supported music apps block you from doing too much to keep your eyes on the road, and they all require you to plug your phone in which is just a PITA every time you get in your car.
I dont know about you but I dont like having a phone in my cup holder, glovebox, center console, or on some chintzy grip mounted to the dash. It's just ugly, the wires are ugly, and having an additional screen + wires dangling about just breaks the symmetry of a nice clean A/V setup. Using a tablet with hotspot is so much more elegant. The Nexus 7 will charge faster than it drains on any car accessory charging port (cigarette charger) so it should be nearly 100% all the time while you drive. If this car isnt your daily driver then why are you putting a tablet install in it? lol. Ultimately the Android Auto head units are manufactured by companies that just have no experience in this area and are prone to bugs and other anomalies. The entire experience just felt gimped.
As for Joying HU, while the concept is admirable the execution is flawed. Their biggest issue is just poor hardware. You just cannot squeeze an entire Android equipped OS with proper hardware and all the other stuff required to make a functional HU for the prices they are asking. If a tablet alone costs as much as their entire HU then imagine what kind of processor theyre sticking inside these things. While it worked overall, the dang thing has to BOOT UP every time you start your car. This might be tolerable on cold winter mornings where you might sit in your driveway for 5 minutes anyway, but for most other occasions it's just annoying not being able to get your music/waze configured until you've drive a couple of miles, or to just sit there aimlessly tapping your fingers waiting for it to start.
Also due to such poor hardware in the Joying units multi-tasking becomes a chore. CPU/GPU intensive apps like waze are laggy, multi-tasking between your music app is frustrating, and you forget doing things like split screen viewing. The only advantage these have is the ability to integrate with a backup camera, of which I have no need for since I know how to reverse my car without running over a fire hydrant.
A pioneer/kenwood HU might have superior audio internals, but you have to remember the source audio is usually coming from a streaming app which is going to be 128kbps or less anyway so youll never properly exploit all that great audio technology anyway. A simple 3.5mm to aux-in adapter works beautifully and produces good sound on any HU. I never bothered with DAC's or other ways to convert audio, just get a solid single-DIN HU and the aux-in will be fine for all but the purist audiophiles. Even among those types there is still no desire to use Android Auto since it feels like you're using a 1st gen smart phone from 2000.

Amazon Just released Fire TV 5.0.3

Amazon Just released Fire TV 5.0.3.1 Does any one know what's in it that got updated, changed or improved.
May Be Sound Decoding Got fixed in THis OnE.
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I would also like to know what has changed
Thanks for the information!
However, since you mentioned that Today Amazon has released a new Fire TV 5.0.3, I would like to know in which specific model of the FireTV, do you has received this new update??
I am asking you, because at this moment there are 3 FireTV models with different hardware specifications available:
- FireTV 2nd Gen. BOX
- FireTV 1st Gen BOX
- FireTV Stick (with 2 different Remotes Options: Bluetooth or WIFI)
I am not sure, but I suspect, for the v5.0.3 number that you have given us, this new update could be for the FireTV 2nd Gen. BOX..?
Please, let us know if you noticed any enhancements over the previous 5.0.2.2 (531006420) or something that now could work better (like the Wifi Remote)?
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Edit...
Apparently this information is totally true, because I just checked the FireTV update site at Amazon, and now says that there is a newest version 5.0.3_user_532011220 for the Amazon Fire TV (2nd Generation):*
https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=201497590
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I just received that update for my FireTV Gen 1 will check later when I get home to see if it fixes dolby digital playback.
Biglo, are you fully sure that you received the 5.0.3_user_532011220 update, that supposedly is only for the 2nd FireTV BOX, on your 1st Gen. FireTV BOX?
This is a little strange, because on the amazon update site, it says that the latest 5.0.3_user_532011220 is for the 2nd Gen FireTV BOX and for the 1st Gen FireTV it still says that the current version is 51.1.6.3_user_516012020 ?
https://www.amazon.com/gp/help/customer/display.html?nodeId=201497590
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Well I'm on the developer preview I have attached a pic of the version number I have. I would also like to confirm that the Dolby digital has now been fixed with this update as well.
I wish i know what was going on with the 5.0.3 update I have 2nd FireTV BOX and I have yet to receive an update even checking for updates manually
@biglo - can you please elaborate. My understanding is that they would add additional option under Audio to send traditional DD over HDMI (in addition to DD+). Can you verify if that is what you are seeing.
They still have the same options as before
Dolby digital plus automatic
Dolby digital plus off
Dolby digital plus over HDMI
Dolby digital over optical
I'm using automatic
Ok, thanks. Can you please elaborate on how your system is wired and what specific fix are you noticing? There are many configuration variants out in the field. Thanks.
vulcan195 said:
Ok, thanks. Can you please elaborate on how your system is wired and what specific fix are you noticing? There are many configuration variants out in the field. Thanks.
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Click to collapse
My FireTV connects direct to my AV system which then feeds one HDMI cable to my TV. I use automatic because the FireTV automatically switches to stereo if it detects the AV system is not turned on since I use pass-through mode when I'm not watching moving. So another thing that I'm noticing personally that I have no experienced by is now that when I press the home button out of the Netflix App and I open it right back up, it doesn't reload the app all the way over again it just start back from where you left off which is pretty handy (not sure if this is something that I haven't noticed before or what). I still havent checked much but I will try some more stuff today, meaning kodi and other sideload apps.
Thanks for the detail. But what was not working prior to 5.0.3?
vulcan195 said:
Thanks for the detail. But what was not working prior to 5.0.3?
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Click to collapse
Prior to the update I noticed that sometimes apps would just close suddenly without any warning, like I would be watching a show on Netflix or Hulu and the app would just crash to the home screen without any errors. The next issue which was the biggest for me is the Dolby Digital not working only Stereo supported. I can't remember having any other issues that really nagged me because they didn't effect me much but those are the ones that I remember mainly. Still haven't check out Kodi as yet, will update to the latest version and see whats going on there soon but so far pass through mode is still a no go all you get is white noise.
biglo said:
Prior to the update I noticed that sometimes apps would just close suddenly without any warning, like I would be watching a show on Netflix or Hulu and the app would just crash to the home screen without any errors. The next issue which was the biggest for me is the Dolby Digital not working only Stereo supported. I can't remember having any other issues that really nagged me because they didn't effect me much but those are the ones that I remember mainly. Still haven't check out Kodi as yet, will update to the latest version and see whats going on there soon but so far pass through mode is still a no go all you get is white noise.
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Thanks for the detailed feedback. I am still waiting on the update. But I heard from several folks who received the update that they have no issues with pass through audio. Also, they confirmed that DD is now being sent to receivers that cannot handle DD+. // Max
vulcan195 said:
Thanks for the detailed feedback. I am still waiting on the update. But I heard from several folks who received the update that they have no issues with pass through audio. Also, they confirmed that DD is now being sent to receivers that cannot handle DD+. // Max
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Oh sounds good, will give it a try when I get home later today.
I am still waiting for my update to come, but at the ATTVNEWS site, some FireTV users that received the update, have finally confirmed that the low volume issue is gone!!
http://www.aftvnews.com/2nd-gen-fire-tv-starting-to-receive-version-5-0-3-software-update/
I do not know why but the Only APP that always worked for me flawlessly and with a very High Volume was “NHK WORLD”, but with all the others APPs, I always had an extremely Low volume level… The volume level was so Low, that always had to raise the volume to the double, that I was using with my 1st Gen. FireTV!
I Would also like to know, if anyone that received the update, has noticed some improvements in the UI and functionality of the FireOS-5, if it now works faster and with less lags?
I would also like to know, if anyone has noticed if all the connection problems with the WIFI Remote have been now corrected?
I finally received the 5.0.3 update. Before I share the results, would like to lay out my setup.
Fire TV 2 -> HDMI -> Samsung 4K (2014) -> TOSLINK -> Yamaha Receiver
I used Netflix movie FOCUS as a test. It has DD 5.1 audio.
Test 1: Fire TV 2 Set to Dolby Digital Plus (Automatic)
Result: Stereo at the Receiver (Samsung TV does not detect Dolby Digital signal)
Test 2: Fire TV 2 Set to Dolby Digital Plus over HDMI (i.e. force DD+)
Result: Stereo at the Receiver (Samsung TV does not detect Dolby Digital Signal)
Test 3: Fire TV Set to Dolby Digital Plus Off
Result: Stereo at the Receiver (Samsung TV does not detect Dolby Digital Signal)
Changed to Apple TV as the source (identical hook up … but to a different HDMI port on TV). Played the same Netflix movie.
Test Result: DD 5.1 at the Receiver (Samsung TV detects Dolby Digital Signal)
Final Result – Firmware 5.0.3 does not fix the problem for people who are using a setup that is similar to the above.
vulcan195 said:
I finally received the 5.0.3 update. Before I share the results, would like to lay out my setup.
Fire TV 2 -> HDMI -> Samsung 4K (2014) -> TOSLINK -> Yamaha Receiver
I used Netflix movie FOCUS as a test. It has DD 5.1 audio.
Test 1: Fire TV 2 Set to Dolby Digital Plus (Automatic)
Result: Stereo at the Receiver (Samsung TV does not detect Dolby Digital signal)
Test 2: Fire TV 2 Set to Dolby Digital Plus over HDMI (i.e. force DD+)
Result: Stereo at the Receiver (Samsung TV does not detect Dolby Digital Signal)
Test 3: Fire TV Set to Dolby Digital Plus Off
Result: Stereo at the Receiver (Samsung TV does not detect Dolby Digital Signal)
Changed to Apple TV as the source (identical hook up … but to a different HDMI port on TV). Played the same Netflix movie.
Test Result: DD 5.1 at the Receiver (Samsung TV detects Dolby Digital Signal)
Final Result – Firmware 5.0.3 does not fix the problem for people who are using a setup that is similar to the above.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can I ask why the FTV2 is going into the TV rather than going into the Yamaha receiver ?
I have a similar setup, FTV2 going into a Blustream HDCP manager (downgrades HDCP 2.2 for the handshake) then into a Yamaha receiver, then into the Samsung One Connect box and Dolby Digital is working perfect, also working with Kodi !
Link to HDCP manager http://www.blustream.co.uk/hdcp-manager
Gauduchon said:
Can I ask why the FTV2 is going into the TV rather than going into the Yamaha receiver ?
I have a similar setup, FTV2 going into a Blustream HDCP manager (downgrades HDCP 2.2 for the handshake) then into a Yamaha receiver, then into the Samsung One Connect box and Dolby Digital is working perfect, also working with Kodi !
Link to HDCP manager http://www.blustream.co.uk/hdcp-manager
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not sure how much that HDCP manager costs - I am wary of adding more devices in the chain for a problem that can be easily cured by firmware updates. Roku has managed to do it in their version 3 of the box ... by offering either DD or DD+ as an option. I believe Amazon is working on precisely offering that kind of an option. I can wait - until then, DTS Neo 2:5 works satisfactorily.
vulcan195 said:
Not sure how much that HDCP manager costs - I am wary of adding more devices in the chain for a problem that can be easily cured by firmware updates. Roku has managed to do it in their version 3 of the box ... by offering either DD or DD+ as an option. I believe Amazon is working on precisely offering that kind of an option. I can wait - until then, DTS Neo 2:5 works satisfactorily.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This happens to me as well. To get the DD+ to work I would have to have my AV received turned on already and restart my firetv and DD+ starts to works. So yeah theres still bugs in the system as it doesn't auto detect correctly.

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