How to Design and Install In-Car Entertainment Systems

Book Excerpt

PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER | SYSTEM ASSEMBLY PLAN This book was written so you could wisely purchase and install the components that best fit your budget and needs. For most enthusiasts, the goal is to install a complete system, and to meet that end, you must select components that support and complement one another. The following provides a brief explanation of the most important aspects of each particular component. For more detailed information on each component, refer to the particular chapter.
HEAD UNIT Buy the head unit that is within your budget and has the features you want. You will want to replace the factory head unit with a high-power aftermarket one that produces 0.2 up to 8 volts. The head unit should also be equipped with at least two sets of pre-amp outputs and front to rear fade control. The extra features can include satellite radio ready, DVD/navigation screen, Bluetooth ready, and many others. Decide on a single- or double-DIN head unit. If the vehicle's dash cannot accept a double-DIN deck, you will need to go with a single unit or you will need to custom fabricate the dash for a double-DIN. If the vehicle's dash cannot accept a double-DIN deck, you will need to go with a single unit or you will need to custom fabricate the dash for a double-DIN. If you dash can only accept a single-DIN deck, consider having only one subwoofer instead of two (refer to Chapter 5 for more information). A 4-channel amplifier instead of two dual-channel amplifiers may be a better option. If you want DVD and video functions for the vehicle, buy a head unit that incorporates video and can support the number of screens you want to install in your vehicle.