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The receiver installs just like a standard deck does —
it just requires a few more connections. Most of these are made at a hideaway
box that you can mount just about anywhere that’s out of the way, yet
accessible; under the passenger seat is the most common spot. The hideaway
box features all the inputs and outputs; it’s basically the brains of
the operation. The receiver deck connects to the box with a single cable.
Power and ground connections, however, must be made for both the receiver
and the hideaway box.
You might also choose a CD receiver with a retractable monitor. It’ll
give you almost all the features of a DVD receiver, minus DVD playback capability,
of course. Connect a car video system player (DVD or VHS) to the the hideaway
box, and you’re all set. A receiver like this tends to be more budget-friendly,
as it generally costs less than the typical DVD receiver.
Front-seat monitors are essential if you’re thinking about installing
a GPS navigation system (see our Navigation article in the Learning Center
for more detail about how these systems work) for turn-by-turn guidance to
just about anywhere in the country. Most mobile video system receivers have
dedicated navigation inputs for same-brand navigation systems, which makes
the connections easier. And unlike watching a movie, you’ll be capable
of using the navigation car video system when the
vehicle’s in motion (it wouldn’t be too useful otherwise, right?),
since it’s providing essential information.
A GPS navigation system can give you detailed visual directions and voice prompts to get you just about anywhere you go accurately and safely.
Backup cameras can come in very handy, too, especially with larger vehicles.
The camera, mounted on your rear bumper, gives you a clear view of what’s
behind you as you back up. Many car video system receivers have dedicated
backup camera inputs. They’ll also automatically reverse the image on
the screen, so it’ll look completely natural to you as you use the screen
to navigate backwards.
Possibly the most impressive feature most car video system
receivers have is dual- or multi-zone capability. Receivers with either of
these capabilities will have at least one set of audio/video outputs, as well
as at least one set of audio/video inputs. Separate monitors and a transmitter
for wireless headphones for the back seat can be hooked up to the outputs.
Additional sources, such as a video game console, can connect to the A/V inputs.
When you engage the dual-zone feature, you can send the signal from one source,
like the DVD player or car video game console, to the rear monitors and headphone
transmitter; the folks in back will be able to enjoy that source. Meanwhile,
you can still play the radio, for example, over the car’s speakers.
The more zones a receiver can control simultaneously, the more diverse your
entertainment options get.