Turn Your Tablet Into A Head Unit

[@MP-qn1jw]

Awesome! Great job showing the step by step with narration. My favorite was the apps you used. The rotation app is golden. I have complained to Lyft about rotation several times, they care not about their drivers. When using my phone's GPS I use landscape mode. This will make Lyft slightly less painful, if I return after the Chinese Flu Pandemic. Also, great job showing why some gear did not make the cut. This kind of tech on a budget can have some obstacles, but you clearly overcame them. As a sound guy I can explain some of the phenomena that occurred when connecting some of the gear... 1) 33:00 Volume drop when connecting multiple audio devices to amp input... You had an impedance mismatch. Much like speakers, the impedance also matters on inputs. I'm willing to bet you have the same drop when you connect any device to the 3.5mm console connection. While the 3.5mm console connection alone will not cause an impedance mismatch, any device you connect most likely will. Try running audio from bluetooth and 3.5mm at the same time, that should also cause a drop. Some portable devices actually shut down the headphone amp when not in use, so you may not notice a drop unless both devices are outputting something. A pocket mixer would resolve this. Audio mixers are good at summing multiple inputs, and you can trim each so that max volume matches on all devices. Technology has allowed their size to shrink, just like amp you installed. 4 channel input pocket mixers can be very inexpensive. (L+R + L+R=4 in). There are even pocket mixers with more inputs. 2) 35:00 Noise in audio lines... Great job using the iso! 38:30 One of the most impressive things about your build is the cost. You managed to use inexpensive devices to accomplish what most auto manufacturers can't. You could have spent a lot more, so IGNORE the haters. The Iso helped out because of the power supplies used. Most USB chargers are VERY noisy. Sadly some of the most expensive devices come with the noisiest power supplies. When a device is connected for audio and no charger is connected, you won't get the noise. As soon as you connect the charger, buzzzzzzz. Defeating this is accomplished with transformers. A transformer will not pass DC (5V for USB), but will pass AC (audio). The buzz is the pulsing of the power supply. It sends short bursts of the input voltage. Short enough that the devices sees the desired voltage, instead of the input voltage. They also make iso(s) for cable lines. Have you ever tried to hook up analog audio from your TV and gotten buzz? If you disconnect the cable line going into your cable box (or TV), and it goes away then put an iso on it. Ideally insert iso inline between the lightning arrestor (usually a green wire tethered to a water pipe, or building ground) and distribution block. If not, then between the cable box (or TV) and the wall jack. The last one I bought cost about $15 on amazon. The only things I would have done different... 1) use pocket mixer instead of a splitter. 2) instead of bluetooth, connect the tablet via heaphone jack for better sound and zero latency. I would keep the bluetooth as an available input because you never know. Thank you so much for the great video. I have been wanting to do just the same, and you nailed it. I have a friend who has an old Bronco, and I am going to send him this link because you did, you nailed it.

[@edwardlthompson]

Best comment yet! Pinned! Thank you so much for your detailed analysis and solutions! You certainly seem to know what you are talking about. I ended up going with the 3.5mm audio jack for audio instead of the Bluetooth. I'm going to give your other recommendation a try! Thanks again for watching and commenting!

[@shawnstoddard4500]

If so i

[@flojotube]

@@edwardlthompson - I haven’t even begun the 3rd minute of this video, but I’m going to tell you ALREADY that I love what you’ve done here, and I’m 100% doing this after I’ve watched this thoroughly (and read this pinned comment 😂)... I have a 2015 Wrangler JK and the head unit has been screaming out to me that it’s an eye sore that wants to be replaced... I have SEVERAL tablets laying around (1 is an iPad mini 2 w/ LTE modem) and I have “mounted” one in the past (to play my music and update the look) but it was Jerry rigged and not worth the hassle since I had to MOVE IT anytime the OEM head was needed... what I remember is the iPad mini was a perfect fit over the head unit and that a “kit” like this would actually squeeze right in perfectly... but then how to get it to control everything????? 🤯 The whole idea was shelved permanently... until this video randomly appeared... I can’t sis it to see how all of this comes out and how much control it has... ONE SUGGSSTION - sinxe the video is an hour long, it would’ve been wise to show several examples of the FINISHED PRODUCT working and looking great along with a brief explanation of, perhaps, how “ANYONE CAN DO THIS TO ANY VEHICLE!” Or whatever applies... This way the 1 hour DOESNT turn people off as much since they saw how awesome their DIY car mod can be! Hook, Line & Sinker as they say... THANKS AND GREAT JOB

[@edwardlthompson]

@@flojotube thanks for the positive vibes! Thanks for watching and I wish you luck with your build! Make sure you check out the update video as well. I switch to a new tablet and a different setup in my truck.

[@stbxwizard9031]

@@edwardlthompson Great video, wanted to ask, why not a new tablet with wireless charging, what does the lineage OS offer?

[@michaelstephens8841]

Outstanding! As a maintenance guy I was proud to see you adapt, improvise, and overcome your problems and get your system up and running. Thanks to you I’m going to do something similar to my truck. So thank you for the video.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you for watching and thank you for that positive feedback! I wish you luck on your install! I hope you make a video of it, I would love to see someone else's process.

[@sezaisezin3928]

I watched a video before this about "turn the tablet to head unit", the man in the video was making different movements to increase his following. He didn't give any information. My twenty minutes were wasted. You've started the video like a real man and you tell everything for what I need. Thank you, Edward.

[@edwardlthompson]

You're welcome! I'm just keeping it real. There is an updated video recommend at the end of this video with another setup I use in my truck. You may also find it useful as it requires a lot less work. Good luck to you!

[@alshotrodgarage4779]

Who watched the entire video besides me?? Nice step by step detailed installation thank you.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thanks for watching the full thing! I never imagined anyone would be interested in this video, let alone watching the entire thing! I'm glad you found it useful. You may also enjoy the update video that I did to this that shows a different setup in my truck with a different tablet and a better review of the wiring since a lot of it was off camera. Fail. Lol

[@Gendreau113]

A good alternative is to use a cheap radio, i got a single din, no CD tray (So it was super stubby!!) Kenwood for $50(cad) and it acts as that device you put together. It lets you just plug in a twblet via USB, witch charges and plays audio (or blue tooth if you want that) It also has a equalizer, and can wire into any factory system pretty easily! Acts as a output for subs and speakers, etc etc... pretty decent for $50! Then you shove it in behind the dash, and plug the tablet into it

[@edwardlthompson]

@@Gendreau113 that sounds like an excellent solution as well! Thanks for sharing.

[@kimberlyberry3511]

I found this as I was looking as to how to make my cellphone a key fog for my 2000 Chevy Suburban & I Came across this & of course I just had to watch it. So I skimmed through it pretty quick & I was completely amazed by what I saw. At this point I have not had a chance to try this but, I'm definitely going to. I have several tablets & what an amazing idea I think this is. As well WOW it would be a lot cheaper & a lot better way of still using your devices without things cluttering up & at the same time without spending hundreds of dollars on a system. This is Totally Amazing!! I will comment after I've actually done it but I wanted to say this is an amazing idea. 😀 Thank You Kimber

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you for watching and commenting! I'm glad I was able to inspire and inform you about using the tablet in that way! Make sure you check out my update video where I have upgraded the tablet and setup. I would love to see a video of your setup once you have it done. Please comment a link to it if you record a video.

[@maxim9875]

Did you end up doing it?

[@CRASS2047]

I mounted my iPad Pro 12.9” 2 years ago in my Yukon. I just used a magnet mount on my dash and bent it to where my iPad rests on the lip above the factory radio. I keep it in portrait mode and it looks like a Tesla . It has cell coverage so I ran uber, lyft and gps all on it. Used my phone for calls and music.

[@edwardlthompson]

That's awesome! Nicely done! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@makecodgreatagain6049]

Video?

[@rishimakhanlal8905]

This is the quality I expect from any youtube video. I just want you to know that I appreciate all the hours you spent into making this video for us 🙏

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you so much for the positivity! ❤️ I will do my best to keep the content coming.

[@Dempdawg11]

I love this stuff. ive installed a dvd player in the front and overcoming technical challenges such as tricking the parking brake sensor to allow the video to play in the front while driving(for the kids to watch in the back) and getting it right , is so rewarding. It was a rough time in my life, and my key broke and i couldnt afford a new ignition. Well, i sat there with my chiltons manual and got to splicing, got the key beep sound, individually fed the radio, and the A.C/heater, just using jumper wires and toggle switches. Finally, i wired up a door bell, as my "push button" start. I was blown up in Iraq(dont feel bad, as my kids now get free college tuition) id do it again in a heart beat. Anyway the army instilled theat the only word you cannot say is "no". Find a way or make one. You have a beautiful home, beautiful car, and most importantly, a beautiful family. Youre a good man, and for what its worth, Great job, im proud of you. God Bless!

[@edwardlthompson]

Wow, thank you so much for those kind words and I hope all goes well for you and your family. I can definitely relate to the feeling of hacking something to work better for you.

[@edwardlthompson]

Make sure to check out the update video as I made some more changes to the setup.

[@Dempdawg11]

@@edwardlthompson thanks for the reply. Happy Fathers Day. Find a way or make one !

[@edwardlthompson]

@@Dempdawg11 absolutely. Same to you!

[@kheatshadows]

just ran into this video today, i got my own little set up and been using it for years now, just watching your video that looks like a long process, but it looks good. i'll tell you how i got mines set up. I got a Cd player mount to hold my tablet in place, and for audio i got me a bluetooth fm transmiter so everything is all wireless, and the transmitter dongle itself is plugged right into the cigarette lighter outlet, so i dont have to worry about buying batteries for it. So my music is projected on the radio and it works pretty good. Only thing i dont like about my set up is the fact that sometimes when i hit bumps or small potholes my tablet would weigh down the mount since its using a ball join kinda setup holding it, but it makes my tablet adjustable if i want to turn it vertically or horizontally. I used to have a magnetized cd mount for my tablet, but i rather have the one i have because i know my tablet is more secure this way. They mount itself is cheap, maybe bout 20 bucks or maybe less, i haven't gotten another one yet so i dont remember the cost off the top of my head. transmitter is around 20 bucks too. and thats basically all i needed. and good part is if you switch vehicles, you can always take it off from that one and transfer it to another. lol i dont use any of them apps you have on your car, but my tablet plays music videos off it, its a nice aesthetic look. and i sometimes use it for gps too. but i like the fact that you did it differently and got good results from it. Just sharing you my build just incase you want to try when you doing it for another vehicle.

[@edwardlthompson]

That sounds like a pretty sweet setup! Thanks for sharing!

[@Unchained_Bankai]

Glad I decided to watch this video, the magnets you used look way better suited than the ones I used for my setup. I may need to figure out a way to flush mount then though to make it work for me. Otherwise, I have a very similar setup with a Nexus 7 2013, but I also use Tasker to turn it on/off when it receives/loses power and automatically connects to my phones hotspot which also automatically starts using Tasker when it detects my Bluetooth receiver and automatically starts playing my music. I also use car web guru as the car launcher, which also starts up and shuts down with power. And Tasker puts the tablet into air plane and power saving before the tablet goes off to save power. Look into Tasker if you haven't yet. Thanks for the parts list, I'm definitely going to pick those magnets up to replace my current ones

[@edwardlthompson]

That is a very clever setup! I started with the very same tablet because I wanted to put the tablet inside the dash but quickly realized that it would function better outside. About flush mounting the magnets, I needed a little bit of space away from the faceplate so that the tablet could attach. If I had mounted the magnets flush with the faceplate there would have been an air gap not been able to attach. Thanks for watching!

[@edwardlthompson]

Oh, by the way, the magnets are on the idea list that is linked in the description along with all the other parts that I used.

[@Unchained_Bankai]

@@edwardlthompson good point about the flush nothing. My setup is removable too but the case stays in place as part of the mounting setup. I used a combination of n54 magnets and Velcro to make it after just magnets wasn't cutting it. But I can think of a much better way to redo it now using the magnets you used. They probably won't be flush mounted but they will be set in a little bit so the case sits flush with the console. They look like they would be to thick for my application otherwise. Also I think the issue with the micro USB OTG has to do with the tablet kernel/software but the cable itself. I've managed to get OTG with charging working before but it just wasn't reliable enough. It was much more stable with the original Nexus 7. I bet you could mount a wireless charger behind your setup too (if supported) if you want to do away with that hanging cable.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@Unchained_Bankai yep, I had that same idea and another commenter suggested that too. That would be super clean. I wish manufacturers had not got out of the tablet game and had given us a modern tablet with all the latest specs and wireless charging. That would be so sweet!

[@zainchoudhry1459]

You might be one of the coolest Lyft drivers I’ve seen

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you so much and thanks for watching! Make sure to check out the update video and the one where I drift the car I use for Lyft! 💪🏻

[@logicalschizoid_intp9698]

Before seeing any video like this, I had bought a rather cheap ended, head unit, using Android 11 or so. Low resolution, needed adapters that weren't included (of course), and didn't fit like it said it would in my Volvo. Thinking of other ideas, I remembered that I had a Samsung A7 tab laying around in a ca binet and downloaded carplay onto it and well, I now have a head unit. Stuck the old magnets onto the tab from where I mounted my phone and it's holding well with a bit of alien tape. I wasn't sure if this would work, but it is. Your video just gave me a few more ideas for later on, well done!

[@edwardlthompson]

Sweet! I'm glad this worked as some inspiration for you and good luck!

[@logicalschizoid_intp9698]

@@edwardlthompson Thank you. I downloaded the carlauncher app that you suggested, and it's great. Makes navigation easy while driving.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@logicalschizoid_intp9698 I'm glad to hear that works well for you!

[@sexyjohn2063]

The hardwork that you've put in to make this setup is really appreciable... i watched the whole 50 minutes video... great work.

[@edwardlthompson]

I really appreciate you watching the entire video and thanks for the compliment! Also, thank you for commenting. I really had fun building the unit.

[@sexyjohn2063]

@@edwardlthompson I'm an audio enthusiast and I had something similiar in mind, with this detailed tutorial i might make one. Thanks man.. keep experimenting.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@sexyjohn2063 awesome! Good luck with yours! I'm glad I was able to provide you with some inspiration!

[@DisgruntledPigumon]

This just now popped up on my KZbin home page. Really cool. It’s probably been mentioned but they make right angle USB connectors so you don’t have to have the wire shooting straight out of your tablet.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you for the tip! I eventually got one of those. I made an update video to this one that is recommended at the end. In that video you can see my final setup as well as an alternative setup I did in my work truck with a newer tablet.

[@aldeanmondares2031]

This is freaking awesome! I wish I had seen this before going out and buying an aftermarket stereo unit. Definitely something I'll try to do myself. Well done sir!

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you! Also, thanks for watching and commenting. Make sure you check out my update video. I use the tablet with an aftermarket stereo over Bluetooth with a mount.

[@redfonzie21]

Hey, Ed! Great Video! I'm a Licensed HAM Radio Operator, and I've been doing communications installs of CB, VHF and UHF HAM gear in so many vehicles that I'm really quite the installer - I think - for being an "amateur." I must say that this is QUITE the professional looking install for audio and electrical and all that. Potentially better than I would be personally with the audio side. It's like this - (and I don't know why!) - give me a mobile transceiver and a portable or mobile scanner radio and CB radio and all their various cable runs and accessories, and I have them done. Hand me a project like what you just tackled, I'm on the phone to my mobile audio buddy I've known since our teenage years quicker than you can SAY "Mobile Audio"!!! Great job, man.GREAT JOB!!!

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you very much for that compliment! That's really cool that you do something similar. I appreciate your vote of confidence! I will check out your channel and subscribe. I think I could gain some inspiration from you.

[@redfonzie21]

@@edwardlthompson Sadly, there's nothing on my channel anything remotely like this, nothing I have done has ever made it to upload because I only recently MADE my first video - and that was private for a friend who sent me a box to "unpack" on video. But, should this 2007 Nissan Sentra, I will be doing installation work on it and hopefully I can get it done on camera!

[@redfonzie21]

So if you want to sub, go for it. I'll post when I get a chance to! Thanks!

[@edwardlthompson]

@@redfonzie21 awesome, I wish you luck with that.I have subscribed to you in case you start publishing videos on that topic, I would be very interested to see it.

[@redfonzie21]

@@edwardlthompson Cool. Incidentally, I have a Samsung Galaxy (something) 10" tablet that has stopped playing Minecraft that otherwise works flawlessly. That tablet is actually the reason I was interested in this project, since what I paid for it as a Minecraft platform has completely been wasted. So, you might have just saved me tossing out about a hundred dollars for something otherwise worthless. So, that being (finally) said, thank you for THAT as well!

[@nicholasterberg5977]

Pretty great little video. I couldn't help but think that disconnecting the battery would be a good idea, especially around the plugs.

[@edwardlthompson]

You're absolutely right but I was not working on anything that was connected to the battery until I connected the aftermarket pigtail to the factory radio harness. Never hurts to be cautions though.

[@oneoffbear1812]

I'm out my tablet using high temperature heavy duty velcro that I get from Amazon... The velcro you get at Walmart will not want to stick when it is hot but the stuff from Amazon will... To adjust the angle of the tablet just take multiple squares of the velcro and build it up the way you want... It works great for me.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thanks for the tip and the comment!

[@karenraedoll3064]

For someone who's never done this before, you certainly work like a Pro! Thank you for the inspiration to recycle one of our tablets. I never would have thought this could be done, until I just happened to stumble upon your video. A couple of questions I have please. First, were you able to receive phone calls through the head unit? Second, how are you doing with being a professional driver during Covid19? God bless your giving soul for these videos, and I hope you and your family are happy & healthy? Once again, thank you kindly for sharing an awesome experience.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you so much for watching and commenting! I'm glad you found some inspiration from the video. I was able to use Google Voice to send and receive calls and texts from the tablet. If you're not familiar with that app, it is a virtual number and it's free. Works just like a phone number and rings all devices that your logged into. You can even take the voice calls through a desktop browser. I'm now driving for a courier company with my truck and you can see how my setup has changed in the truck in the update video I made. Thankfully things have stayed busy for me because of the trucking industry but for ride sharing services, it has been really slow. God bless you too. Thankfully, we are all happy and healthy. God has been good to us. You're welcome and good luck with finding a way to reuse your tablet!

[@karenraedoll3064]

Thank you. I didn't think you were going to answer my last two questions. Is the courier truck uploaded? I didn't see it? Of course, I tend to be way to excited after watching a video such as yours. My Husband & myself felt as if you invited us into your home, because you really personalized it by sharing pictures of your family, and how to help your customers feel more comfortable. You have a utube personality, you'd fare well with DIY videos, due to your passion for learning. Thank you so much for answering my questions. May you and, your Family continue to stay healthy, and happy.

[@karenraedoll3064]

@@edwardlthompson I also wanted to thank you for explaining how you can receive , and call Google Voice , I actually have a number for that. Which probably works out better for anyone who wishes to use a cell phone for personal calls, and the head gear for business only.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@karenraedoll3064 that's perfect! You're ready to rock! Good luck.

[@MethmalDhananjaya]

This guy sounds like a knight in every kingdom based tv series that badass and dont talk too much.

[@edwardlthompson]

Hahahaha! That's a first. 😂 Thanks, I guess. I hope I will get better at talking on camera with time. Thanks for watching and commenting. Also, check out my update video!

[@TuanBui-pe9wj]

Very cool that peeps are still doing this. A good tablet has better resolution, more features and all this at a bargain compared to an Android Double Din. I've had my tablet install for years, good choice w/ the Nexus's, I use a 2013 N7 the 2nd gen, that's an upgrade from the 1st Gen N7, I had in there previously. What's ideal bout the N7's is that developers had actually created ROMs & kernals that are catered especially for car installs. Not sure bout the N9, but a search on it isn't hard. After a bit you're going to wish you had certain features that you're missing. The ROMs & kernals fixed that. For example, charging your tablet while still connected to your USB hub and all those accessories remain powered as well. I have a backup cam connected to the hub, the video feed from it, displays on the tablet. When Im in reverse, the tablet automatically switches over to the backup cam app so I can view while I'm backing up. When I put it in gear, it switches back to my audio player app. If you're interested in the N7, check out Timur's ROM, he made it for both N7 tablets, but the 2nd gen, we had to make a donation to get the entire ROM and kernel but it's definitely worth it. The first gen is free, but I'd go with the 2nd gen, it's faster, better resolution and has more features cuz soon as the 2nd he came out, he stopped developing the 1st and concentrated on the newer tablet. Samson makes a little clippable microphone that plugs in via USB and compatible on Android. I have it clipped to my visor and pointed down for better reception. My phone automatically connects to my tablet soon as I enter the car, so that calls/texts are routed to my tablet. I don't need to take out of my pocket while in the car, yet can still text and make calls. Check out Tablet Talk in the Play Store, calls are routed to your tablet which is connected to your speakers so audio comes out of there like newer cars. Your contacts are synced so you can say "Hey Google, call whoever" it does it w/o you needing to lift a finger, sends texts same way. When you get a text, it'll even read it to you. I could go on forever about all the stuff I can do. I have Bluetooth controllers for games while waiting in the car or for passengers. I have steering wheel controls that work too. It might have been easier if you kept your existing radio and simply connected an AUX to it, to route audio from tablet to your car. I know you wanted to remove it but relocating it works too. There's Bluetooth receivers that plug in the AUX, so you can route audio wirelessly to it. I actually prefer wired connection cuz audio quality is wayyy better. My audio is connected to a DAC & headphone amp, I mostly stream music from Deezer, Spotify, Tidal and my entire audio collection is on a 128GB USB drive connected to my USB hub. The hub connects to the N7, via OTG, it's powered hub so it charges my tablet while driving. Soon as I park the car engine turns off, tablet goes into deep sleep mode. Consumes very little battery, also doesn't drain my car battery while parked. This is part of the ROM/kernal. When get back in, every thing powers on where it left off when I left. Check out Tasker in the play Store, it automates any task you want automatically. Like when I leave my house and get into my car. My phone switches off my home wifi, turns on my cellular data, then hotspot so that my tablet auto connects to it to use the internet so I can stream music. It auto connects Bluetooth so calls/texts appear on my tablet. It's super cool app but has a bit of a learning curve, that's worth it. Makes life much easier when you literally don't need to do anything, as it's automated. Don't member the name but search "car launchers in the store," there's quite a few but some look identical to OEM ones from Automakers, but it's customizeable so you're free to pick which ever app you want on the home screen. Are you using Torque for OBD2 features? Couldn't tell, I was typing this while tryna watch you too. It's got more features than most will ever need, but allows you to adjust certain things like timing, reset air/fuel, any communications to your ECU. Not sure about Lincoln, but I have a Nissan and there's specific apps that let me "code" certain parameters of my car, like how long the door lights stay on, brightness of the dashboard, remove speed limiter, adjust boost, ect.. those specific parameters will only be available on apps made especially for your automaker. Torque is more general that works on every car, I like it cuz it has customizeable gauges, graphs, there's a big add-on that themes the entire app, I have it matching the rest of my dashboard but there's tons of themes, if you like hot rod flames or Batman, your gauges will match that. One last thing the audio buzzing can be remedied by making a separate fused power wire directly to your battery. What's happening is you're using the same power wire that's connected to everything else already and that creates static thats interference which is the buzzing. Best is to have separate power to your amp & tablet, along with separate grounds too. You don't want them on the same circuit, I can explain. It better but my brains on bout 25% right now, tired and need sleep. Thought I'd just mention the quick fix now cuz Im a now or never kinda guy.. good luck

[@edwardlthompson]

That's awesome! Thank you so much for all that information! Please tell me a little more about the backup camera setup. Also, make sure to check out my update video, I switched to another tablet!

[@TheYellowDartt]

Most wholesome dude I’ve seen on KZbin in a while. Great video. Keep it up man.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you for the compliment. I plan to keep publishing videos every week on Saturday. Thanks for watching!

[@scottfirman]

No one is going to steal an older tablet but as you stated, the interior of all cars goes through temperature changes that will kill most tablets. One thing nice is you can really upgrade an older vehicle and make it look more up to date.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thanks. You can also upgrade the tablet to keep up with the times. Check out my update video where I did exactly that and did another setup in my truck.

[@billmajor9589]

I've been thinking about doing a set up like this in my car and this video was exactly what I was looking for. Great job. Subscribed.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you for the subscription! I'm glad I have helped you in some way and I hope you are inspired to build your own!

[@GuidoLoko]

I always wanted similar to what cops have in there car with the laptop lol but this looks even more convenient and....."modern" Very Cool!!

[@edwardlthompson]

@@GuidoLoko you are really going to love my next video! I have a set up in my truck it is very similar to the police set up using the tablet. I should be releasing that video this coming weekend. Stay tuned!

[@joshualawrence7183]

They sell 99 dollars Android touch screen head units on ebay

[@edwardlthompson]

Make sure you check out my update video where I get into why I wouldn't buy one of them and also show my new setup.

[@Jase7233]

Your setup rocks! Don't sweat the excess wire or connections; nobody can see it anyway. I think the end result kicks ass!

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you so much! Thanks for watching. Did you see my update video as well?

[@mahathir.mohamad]

Cant believe I watch this video right till the end. So interesting especially seeing the end product, so clean and neat. I dont even own car..heck, I dont even have a driving license! Really enjoyed watching this!

[@edwardlthompson]

Wow! Thank you so much for watching it. I know it's a long video but I tried to condense the information as much as possible. I hope that you have the joy of owning a car someday and having the pleasure of modifying it and personalizing it. Thank you for that wonderful comment.

[@runn1nwith5izzorz]

I applaud your ingenuity. I am just astonished by people that lack yours (and mine and other's) ingenuity though. Not trying to act better than by any means.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you very much for that compliment! I have often pondered that myself. All you have to do is take a look at social media and you will see that the amount of consumers far outweighs the creators. Some people enjoy solving problems and creating things, other people get pleasure out of the consumption of those things. I'm also pleased to be on the creative end of that balance.

[@runn1nwith5izzorz]

@@edwardlthompson EXACTLY! I seriously could not have said that better myself. Since I was a little boy, I took apart my toys to see how my toys worked and what was inside. Sometimes I would re-purpose what I found. This transpired into me bringing home "broken" electronics, vacuums, and appliances, repairing and selling them on craigslist. Getting somewhat off topic, I used to live not too far from you, in Shreveport, LA (185~ miles). I worked for a Ford dealership (Rountree Ford Lincoln and Mercury, familiar?), as just a lube tech and I bought an old 1981 Ford f100 from the engine tech turned shop keep, and it was in terrible shape. I ended up having to drop the tank, replace the fuel sending unit, fuel lines, rebuilt the (single barrel) carburetor, redid the suspension, clutch and flywheel, power steering etc,. While doing this, everyone kept saying I couldn't polish a turd, which was inarguable...at first sight. I then focused on the interior. Pulled up the old rubber flooring and joot, laid new carpet, replaced the old trampoline bench-seat with a 40/20/40 bench layout from a 95 f150, everyone said i couldn't do that...i did. I replaced the dash which was cracked to shit with one from an 83 f350, they said it was too big, it installed perfectly. I installed a new audio system, LED foot-well lighting, USB charging port built into the dash very close to the same spot as yours, 110v power inverter wired to accessory on with a power relay for safety, i replaced the interior and exterior lights with LEDs as well and wired in power windows from that same f150 and a new alternator to be safe. Oh and tinted the rear window. FF to now, I have a 2001 firebird, I've wired foot well lighting once again this time front and rear while LEDs as well as adding red LEDs to the front foot-well and wired those into the running lights, the reason for red is because Pontiac uses red lights on the dash, radio and ac control module. When the doors open the white LED foot well lighting turns on up front and there are white LEDs that I've installed in the bottom of the doors so there's light outside the vehicle as well. Soon I will be adding Switches in the back for the kids to have foot lighting on demand instead of on only when the running lights are on... LOL, I'm not through yet, I also found a write up on how to add AUX in to the stock radio. Using an AUX jack, a relay for switching between the Bluetooth module, (that I got from disassembling and wiring to the face buttons for power Play/Pause next track and previous) or AUX in + USB charging built into the center console. Instead of having a bunch of wires behind the unit, I used an USB ext cable for quick (dis)connect when pulling it out etc. This is also where I installed the ground loop isolator. These sorts of things are a passion of mine and I love seeing other people's minds at work and doing things like this. Oh are you on Facebook? PS sorry for the novel

[@edwardlthompson]

@@runn1nwith5izzorz thank you for sharing that! I also work on cars! I have 2 cars I use for drifting. I'm familiar with getting creative with solutions for them. 😂 Yes, you can find me at facebook.com/EdwardLThompson

[@Vacardi]

Great work man! I've though about doing this for years! I hung my iPad over the top since my cover has a flap and with a magnet its stayed in place, but this is some real DIY ingenuity!

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you very much! I'm glad I have inspired you.

[@joeymerrell8585]

Soundman.co actually makes an ipad kit for this very thing. He also has a youtube channel. Soundman

[@edwardlthompson]

I'm aware of his content and products, however, I don't own any iOS products. This video is geared toward Android tablet owners.

[@shadowographer]

Good detailed video. I know this video is a bit older and by now android head units are pretty popular. I installed an Eonon android head unit in my car but it has no real processing power. After much frustration, I've decided to leave the unit in and connect my smartphone to the unit via bluetooth. And this way I can have my phone do all the heavy lifting(processing, video playing, music playing, etc.) and treat the head unit only as a touchscreen amp and DSP. I'm happy with my set up and sounds great.

[@edwardlthompson]

I'm sorry to hear that you have that experience. I actually spoke about that same thing in my update video as it is a common suggestion. Also, I'm not sure how well the software on the Android head units are supported. The benefit of the tablet I picked is that it is still getting nightly OS updates with Lineage OS.

[@georgeyoung613]

Great idea, thank you for sharing. This has got to be one of the "why didnt I think of that" ideas. Again great idea and very good video.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you very much! Also thanks for watching and commenting. You may also enjoy the update video that I made with a new tablet and setup.

[@oppositeistrue]

Like your style bud, I bought a after market case once with strong magnets and it wiped my SD card so I use Velcro now without the risk. A tab for a double dim works well for me.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you! I was worried that the Texas heat would melt the adhesive on Velcro so that's why I went with the magnet attachment method. I've never had any issues with them and storage or screen issues.

[@Supermassive_Citizen_Erased]

I was looking for a great alternative for my son to make his own heads up display unit, but I was not expecting the gorgeous eye candy video host which definitely this enjoyable for me to watch. ;-) Thank you!

[@edwardlthompson]

☺️😊 Thank you for the compliment! There are some HUDs for sale on Amazon. Another solution would be to apply a reflective film that can still be seen through to the glass and then a magnet on the dash to keep the phone in place and use one of the HUD apps to reverse the display. There are some basic units that are pre-built as well on Amazon that are just that, a phone holder and a reflector. I was looking into HUDs as well. 😂 😉

[@Car_paint_er]

Nicely done. Always wanted to use a tablet as a head unit. Instead I bought a cheap 9 inch touch screen radio. It works but the sound quality sucks. Now I think I'm gonna get rid of it and give this a try

[@edwardlthompson]

Good luck, I hope this video helps and I'm glad I provided you with some inspiration! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@deankay4434]

Wow, you have done a lot. I have been an ASE Master Tech since 1978, and seen almost everything evolve over time in autos. The OBD-II connector has standard pin #2 for class2 serial data that is SAE required. Engine data comes thru it for a scan-tool, but in 04, GM used pins 8 & 16 for high speed CAN data bus. The Bluetooth dongle has bi-directional abilities but audio does not. The antenna supplies input reception but the receiver/amp has to connect to speakers via hard wire. Now depending on make and year, things get real tricky as GM radio if connected to OEM amp, the radio defaults to per-amp mode via class2 signal from radio to amp. Yes, this is sweet and works great. Forced into retirement due to joint pain, but you need wire color, circuit or connector as you did. They sell well built USB plugins that fit 50mm of surface. If you find the right one, it would be safer to properly plug in a customers device to the correct type. If marked, this would prevent wrong charging port and provide a fuse to protect your system. Fuses protect the wiring, not the device. I am building a 67 C10 and thinking of tablet style controls as one is only limited to software and connections. Nice work! I only wish Omaha had Texas weather.

[@deankay4434]

Sorry but 25.4 mm =1.0 inch. I will check out the links as this software is getting better and cheaper. Too bad that tablet is soo temp sensitive. My tech buddy is at a Cadillac dealer and told me those are simply tablets in the dash, just OEM software. Also, listening to talk radio, I believe you can play a 15 second clip without getting a knock from the Music Police. Call a local radio station and ask the manager, they will know because it is bumper music for beginning or ending a talk segment. Stay safe.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you so much for that information and good luck on your build. Make sure to check out the Update video as well, I go over some more information there and switched to a better tablet.

[@edwardlthompson]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mp7Mh3uIi5eYqtk

[@deankay4434]

Thanks Edward, I will find time and visit your videos. As a dealer tech of 4+ decades, I ended holding 4 hr. Tech seminars on 30+ subject in 6 Midwest states. I look forward to this type of info as my job was not modifying, just diagnose the root cause and install OEM parts. So never get tired of learning. Thanks for you efforts. Just wish I could still earn my own check...I guess that’s the farm boy coming out as we had no allowance, just 3 cents a bail to put hay in the barn, $1 to mow yards and same to plow or disc for neighbors. Stay safe!

[@edwardlthompson]

@@deankay4434 you must have some good stories. Sounds like you have lived an interesting life. I do appreciate the time you have taken to engage with me on this topic. I wish you luck.

[@Phantom-sm9vs]

Atleast your honest that you do trial and error unlike others pretending that they know alot but in reality they just copied it to others

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you. I don't mind showing some vulnerability. It Is What Makes Us human.

[@gregsantos9731]

Wow! That's realy cool way to have a touch screen head unit. 😊 I been thinking about it but you made it realy very copyble and in fine details! Thanks Edward.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you! I'm glad I provided you with some directions that help.

[@the-BOR-dojo]

Nice vid and nice set up.. makes me feel old tho. When i was bout 20yrs younger I used a walkman cassette. Everyone laughed at me until i turned my system on , and I was like whos laughin now. lol

[@edwardlthompson]

Hahaha, a commenter last week was mentioning something similar. The removable face plates on the old car stereos are quite similar to this setup. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@da_druuskee7709]

just when i thought i was original, this is obviously a very popular idea

[@edwardlthompson]

Your thought was original and everyone is doing it slightly differently. There's many different ways to do this setup and I would love to see what you come up with!

[@1972dsrai]

I like that ODB app that gives you all the car data. Really useful to have.

[@edwardlthompson]

Indeed. Thank you for watching and commenting!

[@mrsicness1]

this is a great jumping off point for the kind of setup i am planning for my truck. while i like the concept of using a tablet as a head unit, theres parts that wouldnt be compatible with my specific audio and sound responsive lighting setup. i have two amps (one running a low pass filter for my subwoofers, and another running a high pass for the rest of the speakers), so i would just need an RCA to run from the tablet output to the amp inputs. i am also integrating wireless charging behind the mount, so that i dont need to worry about cables all over the place. the biggest issues i see are running all volume controls from the tablet, and the heat output from your specific amp. fantastic video, and it looks amazing in your vehicle. you did a wonderful job of explaining things in laymans terms (im considerably more experienced, apparently, in the fields of car audio and general electrical work, but it wasnt tedious to watch you explain the whys and hows). great job. i just need to ask if there were any issues after extended use of the tablet in that fashion.

[@edwardlthompson]

That's a pretty sweet setup you have! To simplify things and completely eliminate cables, you could connect a Bluetooth dongle and adapter to the RCA port. I also considered getting a tablet with wireless charging! I have a war on visible cables! 😂 There are many wireless volume control options. Some stick onto the dash and some are designed to clip onto the steering wheel. Most have media controls as well. I have not had any issues with the tablet. I am running it a minimum of 8 hours a day, 5 days a week. The key is, I always take it with me so it's usually in a climate controlled environment. I have had it exposed to some extreme heat on a few occasions and it has not effected it. I would not recommend extended exposure to the elements as these devices were never designed for that kind of exposure.

[@edwardlthompson]

Oh, and I guess because of the size of the amp, the heat from it was hardly noticable. It certainly didn't effect the tablet negatively but I did stuff a microfiber cloth in behind the tablet to block off any heat from escaping into the cabin. Also, thanks a bunch for the positivity and encouragement! I look forward to seeing what you build.

[@toddwest9115]

@@edwardlthompson I would suggest getting an external sound card for a PC. Its USB and will provide much much better audio processing. As well as the option to go 5.1 surround.. Or not.. Either way youll have the option to seperate the front and rear and add a dedicated sub out.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@toddwest9115 sounds good. thank you for the suggestion.

[@byroncole1253]

Nice setup. It's like what I had in my old mustang with a Nexus 7 2013. If you have a USB hub you can get a USB FM radio receiver, and a USB TPMS system. You could have saved your self a whole lot of trouble by just installing a single din stereo with Bluetooth and just recessed it back. That's what I have now and it's perfect with my 10.5 inch Verizon S5e. I'm a delivery driver and it makes working weekends during football season better so I don't miss games.

[@edwardlthompson]

That's an awesome setup! I didn't know they made a USB radio receiver. Installing a single DIN radio with Bluetooth certainly would have been easier but I wanted to challenge myself to build something and DIY a head unit.

[@byroncole1253]

@@edwardlthompson Yeah I know what you mean, I did the same thing the first time, but the radio never worked perfectly, and the amplifier I used had to be placed in the passenger footwell, so I went with a Bluetooth stereo this time. For the FM radio google Android USB DVB T Dongle and SDR touch app, it never worked that well for me but I had an adapter to use the car's antenna and I think that screwed things up, plus you can get an amplifier for the antenna that I never tried.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@byroncole1253 I checked out a few on Amazon. Very clever solutions. I think it would be far easier to get the iHeartRadio app to get all your favourite local channels wherever you may travel if your really hooked.

[@SPEEDofKATAZTROFEE]

Tuning in from Ft Worth, good job!

[@edwardlthompson]

Awesome! Thanks for watching!

[@dontcrossm3]

I tried this same path 2 years ago and have all the parts you bought pretty much except tried with 2 mini amps. In the end it just was not worth the trouble with the price of head units. I eventually just bought a $300 Android Auto/CrApple Play Head Unit from Pioneer/Kenwood/JVC. Most issues with this setup is getting the audio, bluetooth, and charging working without interference ruining it all. Any usb device you introduce to the system causes more problems. Best bet is to use bluetooth audio and USB charging only. If anyone else wants to attempt this good luck. In the end I probably bought another headunit messing with all the adapters and tools to try and get this working.

[@edwardlthompson]

Check out my update video. I did a different setup with the head unit in my truck and upgraded to a different tablet. I agree that this level of DIY isn't for everyone and a simpler setup may work better for most. I plan on doing another setup with a simple and cheap BT head unit soon.

[@josueroman5931]

Love the Drift Island Sticker, representing PR. Good job on the set up btw

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you! Also, thank you for watching and commenting!

[@chromeyes]

Thanks for this video. Great info here. I am NOT going to be doing this, HOWEVER, I have already done part of this. I did not know that I could could get an adapter to run both audio and charging on one cable at the same time. When Ibsaw you doing that, I went out and got that one, as well as the needed cables. Now, only the one USB C cable for me, and my car looks much better with out the clutter of cables.

[@edwardlthompson]

That sounds awesome! I'm glad you discovered that. Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@joshuagomez3600]

As an audio installer/expert i did cringe a couple times early on, but im glad to see you got a ground loop isolator I knew that was gonna be an issue fairly early on, and a few other little things i saw coming, but you seemed to figure them all out by the end and did a good job. For a long time ive considered doing a small form factor pc build into a car as an audio/mobile office sort of thing, have it all planned out but havent had the opportunity to put it to use, but an interesting watch for sure, good job on getting it all worked out and looking clean at the end. Well done sir. the one thing im not sure how you dealt with is all that gob of power adapters, Maybe you did, but I would have ran a new fused line from the battery or power cluster to power that all rather than running it off of an existing system just to ensure there is no bottle neck of power. or even add it in with the amplifier power.. maybe thats how you did it, I couldn't tell for sure from the vid. another interesting tidbit... If you can manage to ground everything in the audio system to the same point, or pull power from a capacitor, sometimes that will filter out the ground loop as well... And if you haven't already, I'd suggest getting a nice AGM battery to replace standard lead acid if you haven't already, it will handle the extra draw of all the accessories nicely. Just a few little tips that may help.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you so much for the input! The only accessories pulling off of the power outlets are the LED light for the Uber/Lyft sign and the dash cam. I spliced that into the aftermarket pigtail power that was also powering the amp. I would love to see your in dash PC build! That sounds dope! I appreciate your feedback and thanks for watching!

[@edifierbass7821]

Using Tablet was used by many car owner 10yrs ago or more its cheaper option back then, good thing you have that Kinter Chinese Bluetooth,usb/sdcrd amp player cause without it impossible to play Bluetooth audio on any tablet via android celfon

[@edwardlthompson]

Indeed. It certainly is nice to have that ability to link your device in an old vehicle.

[@Baz87100]

This is the most epic thing I've seen in my life

[@edwardlthompson]

Wow! Thanks!

[@tonytran4754]

This guy is a legend. Great upgrade for the ordinary person.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you! It is a humble build. LOL. Hey, if you like this one, I did an even simpler setup in the update video that is suggested at the end of this video.

[@tonytran4754]

@@edwardlthompson Ye dude, I greatly appreciate it. Especially the fact that you are doing it "learn as you go" style. I can feel this one.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@tonytran4754 thank you so much. Yeah, that's how I do most stuff in life, just wing it. 😂

[@richardkelch2835]

I dint plan on doing this . But I did really enjoy the video you put out ...

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you so much for that! I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@bigdunks4eva]

If you download Tablet Talk you can have your texts appear on the tablet and make/receive phone calls I added a backup camera to mine, and a USB camera that I mounted for making KZbin videos. There was a custom ROM that someone developed for the Nexus to optimize it for car installation. It's really awesome. I have everything setup to install a Nexus 7 2nd gen in my 07 Camry. Backup camera is wired and working, the tablet is fitted into a double din frame. Just been too lazy to do the actual install.

[@edwardlthompson]

That's really cool! If you ever install it, I would love to see a video of your setup. I use Google Voice as it is available on my phone and desktop PC as well so I can take calls and texts on all devices. I get lots of questions about the backup camera. Can you share a link to the camera you used?

[@Hmfirestormz]

This reminds me of an old school KZbin vid. Not flashy only the point

[@edwardlthompson]

Thanks. I'm just trying to be as informative as possible. Maybe someday I will have the skills to be flashy. LOL

[@Devildog_willbur]

And half out of frame. Lol

[@edwardlthompson]

@@Devildog_willbur sorry about that. I'm working on improving my filming.

[@Devildog_willbur]

@@edwardlthompson still enjoyed most of it. Maybe you could use a small metal plate across the magnets, then you might be able to use the small tablet.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@Devildog_willbur that's good, I'm glad you enjoyed some of it. I did an update video where I moved to an even larger tablet. That one is filmed a little bit better. LOL.

[@famfactor3073]

Too many split connections will ruin the original audio signal. Great work!! You did a damn good job!!

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you very much for the compliment. Make sure you check out my update video as well. I changed the setup a little bit and I also got a new tablet as well as answered some of the questions and concerns of people from this first video.

[@djharvill8076]

Ok, love the video as I'm a stereo guy my self but the best part of the video was like the first page of the backseat conversation book... fabulous picture of the wife in the bikini ... definitely a conversation starter lol...but really man, although I saw where the guy recommended some small changes that may have been better choices but overall, loved the video. 👍👍

[@edwardlthompson]

Thanks for watching and commenting! Make sure you check out the update video I did. It's much shorter and to the point. Lol

[@h0va4life]

This is awesome for those that have a tablet that they want to use in/out of car and want a clean install, especially a few years ago before android OS were in head units. Now, with your component cost I can buy a android based radio with plenty of processing power and ram and have it do the same if not more functions. Nonetheless nice video and top tier of this category!

[@edwardlthompson]

Make sure you check out my Update video as well. I talk about why I still would chose a tablet over an Android head unit.

[@edwardlthompson]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mp7Mh3uIi5eYqtk

[@estebanvelazquez161]

Been done for 4 years already thanks to the Soundman Doug Bernard

[@edwardlthompson]

Nice. I will research what he did.

[@davidbarr9203]

Soundman is for iPads only, plus the kits are pretty difficult to install.

[@iammarkanthony1]

@@davidbarr9203 He made one for a Galaxy Tab S4. Also, Rafa has been doing the dash mods if you aren't able to. Doug just started doing mods for customers, too.

[@einmannhatkeinennamen3095]

@@davidbarr9203 :D no, you can get a kit for every tablet you want from him.

[@chapoguzman8627]

@@davidbarr9203 nope. Soundman was the first one to do an iPad install with the original iPad, and mostly deals with iPads, but he has done and still does Android kits as well. Of course, Androids come from all sorts of manufacturers, so making a kit for every flavor of it is not cost effective, so you're limited on what's available.

[@ChristianDKnode]

Man I wasn't feeling it at first ..... But I'll give it to you brother you sure enough laid it down and it sure enough is clean! Thumbs up !! And too be your first install you did your homework awesome job keep up the good work and the videos..

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you so much for that positivity! Thanks for watching and commenting! I have an update video to this one with a different setup and different tablet in my truck. You might also find that interesting.

[@playerdvd7530]

Emergency braking, will the tablet fly out? Experience the driving process? Such as volume plus / minus, switch songs

[@edwardlthompson]

The tablet hasn't moved at all even with me drifting and doing figure 8s! I have video to prove it. 😂 There are volume controls as well as media controls on the launcher as well as in the swipe down notification shade. So, no issues there.

[@christianchilds8202]

Emergency braking would actually push the tablet forwards.

[@skinnypuppy1288]

what a quality job. Absolutely impressed. If I am ever your passenger, I'd be delighted to give you 6 stars!

[@edwardlthompson]

Wow, thank you so much! Also, thank you for watching and commenting!

[@ubreakitirepairit3569]

As a former ride-share driver, stars don't pay the bills. Tips do.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@ubreakitirepairit3569 that is one of the reasons I went to this extent. It was definitely a conversation starter. Conversations lead to better tips.

[@jfubele]

Nice job! Obviously a great deal a thought and research. Thank you!

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you for your compliment and thank you for watching! Check out my update video on the head unit. I go into more detail and show another way that it can be used.

[@hogfanyo]

Have no reason or desire to do any of this yet I watched the entire video and actually enjoyed it. Lol some might say you're a miracle worker 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you so much for those kind words! I really appreciate you watching the video and I hope that you subscribe for more of my crazy content! I'm glad to have entertained you.

[@charleswp71]

Turned out good, nice diy work. You can get really crazy with this stuff, I run two Android headunits in my car, one has a custom rom and only runs my OBD gauges, the other has 2TB of extra storage via a USB hub and some SSD drives lol.

[@edwardlthompson]

Sweet! I like your setup! Keep being awesome!

[@ajkman2]

@Charles you designing an autobot?

[@emmanueloladipo4802]

Picture please

[@triparadox.c]

computer can now do road trip!

[@charleswp71]

@@emmanueloladipo4802 can't post pics here

[@p.s8950]

you should check out plastic welding, would work really well for this kinda stuff. And knife blade in a solder iron for cutting. Thanks for the vid

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you for the recommendations. Will do. You may also enjoy the update video that I did to this one where I moved to a larger tablet and a different set up in my truck. I'm also considering working with a friend that has a 3D printer to fabricate brackets and sell them to anyone who wants to easily do this.

[@edwardlthompson]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/mp7Mh3uIi5eYqtk

[@charleschamberlain53]

Very interesting but extremely excruciating to watch yet I given your video a thumbs up

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you. What could I do to make it not as excruciating to watch?

[@charleschamberlain53]

@@edwardlthompson some subjects you tend to go on and on like then showing the features of what your obd will read this and that " we get it " you over explained alot through the video but if I didn't watch the whole episode I would have felt I might have missed something Could have made the video shorter and got your point across

[@edwardlthompson]

@@charleschamberlain53 I agree. Thank you for pointing that out.

[@charleschamberlain53]

Your a smart person I'm sure your videos to come will be much better your also full of great ideas

[@edwardlthompson]

@@charleschamberlain53 thank you. I'm always trying to improve and I enjoy the creative process.

[@Tentative79]

I know this is older, but good job my dude! You gave me some good ideas.

[@edwardlthompson]

I'm thrilled to hear that! Make sure to watch the update video where I did a better job of showing the final form and some things I had to fix as well as another setup.

[@hsy1133]

Very cool idea and well executed. I had doubts that it would come out looking clean and neat, but it did. Congrats, sir, on your great work and for generously sharing how you did it.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you very much for that compliment and thanks for watching! You might also like the update video that I did where I made a few changes and how my current setup is.

[@AlphaMachina]

The way I did mine was to purchase a bluetooth single-din head unit, and then use my tablet bluetoothed to the headunit. This way, you get ALL of the pros of a good head unit, including 4-channel audio, or an amp system if you want it, and all of the benefits of the tablet as well. I use Car Launcher as well, and it works just fine over bluetooth to the headunit. I can use GPS, play music, videos, etc. and it works perfectly with no need to rig a bunch of crap up.

[@edwardlthompson]

That's an excellent solution. I wanted to challenge myself to build my own unit. I like your method.

[@AlphaMachina]

@@edwardlthompson There are some definite benefits to the way you did it. No need to worry about bluetooth connectivity issues, for one. And I'm the same way, I love tinkering and building and seeing what I can accomplish, so I totally get where you're coming from. The magnet idea is something I'm going to have to try, but I think I'm gonna try to figure out a way to hide them. Maybe shave down the inside wall of the plastic facing and use some series glue to hold the magnets in place, so that there's maybe 1mm between the magnet and the case of the tablet itself. Hmm.. I'll have to test how strong that'll be through various thicknesses of plastics before I attempt it.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@AlphaMachina thanks! With the magnets, make sure you pay attention to the dash surrounding the radio area as mine is recessed by about a half inch so I needed the magnets to extend that far so the tablet could clear the dash on either side.

[@AlphaMachina]

@@edwardlthompson Ahh, that makes sense. I think mine is similar now that you mention it. Hmm.. Man, this is where 3D printers really start to pay for themselves. I need to start putting some money aside for one, because I keep finding myself coming across instances where it'd be freaking awesome to have. Could print exactly what's needed, sand and fill it, and put a nice coat of paint on it, and have something custom and nice looking with everything in mind for the perfect fitment.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@AlphaMachina I'm right there with you my friend. I have a good friend that has one and we are going to work together to try and make a custom design head unit.

[@clittle1559]

Check tail lamps... lmao.. I bought my wife a ls.. that warning cluster!

[@edwardlthompson]

That's cool. Hahaha. Yeah, the car didn't like that I replaced all the incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs. I recently installed a resistor that tricks the system out of those errors. I love the LS. Good choice! There's a group on FB called Lincoln LS Enthusiasts that you can use to keep up with other fans of that car but there's also a bunch of good technical info there.

[@mediasurfer]

The kinds of problems you encoutered are exactly the reasons why I'd happily pay an expert to do a job like this. Still, thanks for the great video!

[@edwardlthompson]

Thanks for watching. I enjoyed the process. If I do it again, I can certainly save some money.

[@billbond2045]

Why not just get a Joying full android head unit ? I use Torque for obd reader and its free Dam nice install

[@edwardlthompson]

The reason I didn't go with an Android head unit was that the tablet is higher resolution, has a larger screen, has better support (Lineage OS), and can be used outside the car giving it more usefulness. Plus I wanted to challenge myself to make something like this. Torque is a good OBD2 reader but the dongle I got is sold by the company that makes the app I use. It has better compatibility and more detailed features thanks to that compatibility.

[@billbond2045]

@@edwardlthompsonwell thought out and very clever build

[@edwardlthompson]

@@billbond2045 thank you and thanks for watching!

[@yakidd]

Look into headunit reloaded. Its cheap, but allows your tablet to run Android auto. It's a godsend!

[@edwardlthompson]

@@yakidd that's pretty cool. I will look into that but I'm not a big fan of Android Auto. AA only runs a handful of apps. I would not be able to run my ride sharing apps.

[@MoBettaon3s]

Hey, thank you for this video. I just got done installing my iPad in my 99 Tahoe. When i got it, it did not have a radio. Now I have to trace all the wires to find the original wires for my door speakers so they will play. My rear speakers in the cargo area play but not the doors. Sounds good though.

[@edwardlthompson]

I'm glad you're making progress! Little by little. It is fun to figure these things out. Once you get it done, make a video and drop a link here.

[@MoBettaon3s]

Here you go. I have to go back in to clean the install up. I only have one 6x9 working in the back. Got to chase the speaker wires to find the OEM wires, add another amp & equalizer. kzbin.info/www/bejne/l6nSf4Boh5WMbbssi=zdaG2b8okw4khjYj kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZnQgIikgNlgo5Ysi=HcXvnhit-lN7UHD9

[@edwardlthompson]

@MoBettaon3s thank you for sharing that video. I'm going to watch it later today.

[@tomwolf7055]

Ed - This project reminds me of a worker my father use to tell me about. Rube Goldberg, ever heard of him?

[@edwardlthompson]

Hahaha! Yes, he's the guy that makes complicated machines to complete a simple task. Kinda like that contraption at the beginning of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang built by Cracatus Pots. I'll take that as a compliment as I have always found those to be fascinating. 😂

[@TomMack530]

Tom Wolf no never heard of him who is he ??? Give me a clue ????

[@toddwest9115]

@@TomMack530 the clue was written 2 weeks before you put this reply

[@edwardlthompson]

Good catch. 👍🏻

[@barrycordes6173]

You have made very good use of old tablets that still work!! Your delivery of all this video is really great and I see that you have made other videos so that’s why you sound really great. Don’t apologize so much but I do understand that you feel the need to. You could easily do this professionally. Great voice !! And I have a 1993 S10 Ext. Can that I’m going to put a unit in like that. Hope to send a picture to you after the project. Thanks for the great idea!!

[@edwardlthompson]

thank you so much for your positivity. Also, thank you for watching and commenting. I wish you luck with your build and I would love to see a little video on your channel of your setup if you don't mind once it's complete.

[@MikeBMW]

Wow! Nice work! If you were my Uber driver, I'd toss you an extra 10 above what Uber allows. I tried the once with a great driver Uber refunded the money even thought I just physically handed over the cash, in addition to the Uber tip. I suppose that was a driver decision? Either way, great vid! :)

[@edwardlthompson]

You are a good human being! Thanks for the comment. As a driver, we have the ability to refund a customer for a ride. That sounds like what happened. Keep being awesome man!

[@5torm159]

I wonder if I can install my old surface tablet to my Tacoma. Great video

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you! I'm pretty sure that would work. You could either use the 3.5mm jack or Bluetooth. Check out the update video I made to see how I did the Bluetooth setup.

[@roberthenderson83]

Thanks for the inspiration mate !!

[@edwardlthompson]

You're welcome! Have a good weekend!

[@monergallegos4348]

Wow this is better than most of what is on tv. Takes the mind off of what's going on in the world. Thx

[@edwardlthompson]

I'm glad I was able to help you get a break from all the current drama! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@LenadTJ]

That's quite a neat install. Out of curiosity, is the gauss of those magnets strong enough to interfere with the tablet's compass?

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you. As far as I can tell, I've never had any issues with faulty navigation.

[@aag6499]

Lmaoo with that question 😂😂😂😂🤪🤪🤪

[@kyokyo1188]

This gives me some ideas thanks. Also if you have selected a tablet with wireless charging, then I reckon your setup will be more seamless, and saves you maybe the hassle of plugging/unplugging your tablet. Over time charging port wears out as well, so potentially saving your tablet down the track. Cheers mate!

[@edwardlthompson]

I was looking at that. There are a few older tablets that support wireless charging but none that also are supported by the lineage OS community.

[@edwardlthompson]

But you're absolutely right, if the custom rum is not something that's a high priority to you, it would be easily to find a wirelessly charging tablet that would work perfectly in the same manner.

[@musicboxforeverable]

Will OEM reverse camera work for this unit? Amazing work by the way.

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you so much! I am not sure how OEM reverse cameras connect and if they differ between brands. I would have to do some research on that. Sorry I don't have an answer for you.

[@davidcrabb7293]

@@edwardlthompson You would need some kind of adapter for yellow video in. And of course an app to play it. It might be easier to find a piece of hardware that accepts a yellow video in and transmits it via wifi.

[@davidcrabb7293]

@@edwardlthompson Its probably easier to just buy a usb webcam and hook it to a usb hub.

[@edwardlthompson]

That's what I have suggested to people that have asked the same question. I have seen this adapters for the yellow RCA jack to USB but like you said, finding the software to work with it could be tricky and it would be a hassle to activate it each time you needed it.

[@ah.l]

i get a 2000s vibe from all this and love it and miss it.

[@edwardlthompson]

Hahaha, thanks! Remember taking the face of your aftermarket head unit in the store with you so no thieves would want to seal your new Pioneer unit?

[@ah.l]

@@edwardlthompson absolutely, i remember my friend installed new head unit, and did the same and i said to him no one is interested in stealing your stereo. we had all the craze of pioneer and kenwood. and btw one of my friend used to take out starter fuse out of his car so that no body can steal the car. diy at that time was different then now, now everyone seems highly professional. our time has passed v.v.fast.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@ah.l good times! ❤️ Hope you have a good weekend! Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@imgmakr]

How do you handle phone calls with this setup? Looks really good/cool but without being able to control the phone is kinda worthless to me.

[@edwardlthompson]

I use Google Voice. All my Uber and Lyft calls go to that number and go straight to the tablet. All my cell calls forward to my Google Voice number instead of voicemail giving me a second chance to take the call on another device (laptop, PC, the cell phone a second time, or the tablet).

[@caseytbss]

Anthony Allen if you use Apple products this is not an issue. You hotspot right to your iPad and use automatic call routing.

[@madman1rug]

Nice video, I have a iPad Pro with cellular service hooked up to metal plates like yours, and then the two control a/c knob which also has a pair of magnets using electrical tape to wrap the magnets to it. Works like a charm.

[@edwardlthompson]

Super cool! I love it! Thanks for watching and commenting!

[@kalemcasto4281]

I swear I can hear the jeopardy theme song playing in the back

[@edwardlthompson]

Hahaha, why's that?

[@thatLion01]

Really nice high quality video…thank you for making this

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you. There are a lot of things I could improve on though. The Update video that is recommended at the end of this one shows the final form of the head unit in better detail.

[@channel48]

Subbed my friend. - you can use my music in your reviews search for Dream Dub Reggae by Channel48

[@edwardlthompson]

Excellent! Thank you very much! That is very generous of you.

[@savetheworld2941]

Great video sir. Thanks for all the cool ideas! I am embarking on my mission starting tomorrow. I'm in Dallas. Cool to see a fellow Texan here on YT. Take Care!

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you and you're welcome! I would love to see what you come up with. Let me know when you finish and I will meet up with you and record your setup as well to show others.

[@savetheworld2941]

@@edwardlthompson Will do :)

[@erwintalpay6649]

kingsman secret lincoln service :) super man

[@edwardlthompson]

Thanks! That's the idea! LOL

[@veryannoyed4540]

You should use vice grips. I bought a set of 7 of various sizes from the hardware superstore

[@edwardlthompson]

Very good suggestion.

[@jamestompkins5980]

I would try picking up a wireless charging pad and adapter. The adapter would go in case with magnets, and the pad you would mount into your setup. That would eliminate the whine from charging and some of the visible cables

[@edwardlthompson]

That sounds like a good idea. Thank you for commenting.

[@Rcalderon518]

Noticed that Essential Phone, that was a great phone!! I miss it dearly

[@edwardlthompson]

OMG! That was the best phone I ever owned. It is still in use. I passed it down to my 2nd son

[@CarlsonLipke]

I gave a try for Raspberry PI 4 (single board computer) with OpenAuto Pro software on-board recently. Advantage is that it is much cheaper than tablet and is more flexible when installing in car.

[@edwardlthompson]

That sounds pretty cool. What do you use for a display? I haven't hear about that software.

[@CarlsonLipke]

​@@edwardlthompson Software is really powerfull. I use Bluetooth, OBD-II, rear camera and Android Auto. Currently I am using official 7'' display manufactured by PI foundation (www.adafruit.com/product/2718) but I am waiting on shipping the12.3'' LCD display.

[@edwardlthompson]

@@CarlsonLipke very cool. I will be checking that out!

[@raidedr421]

In my experience, Bluetooth connection is not as loud as aux connection normally. I have a Bluetooth receiver on my home stereo to make it hands free. This is a pretty cool idea

[@edwardlthompson]

Thank you for watching and commenting! I also prefer wired connections.

[@euandandopelomundo]

Parabéns pela iniciativa. Foi uma das melhores ideias que eu já vi na net para transformar um tablet em uma central multimidia.

[@edwardlthompson]

Muito obrigado por esse elogio. Obrigado por assistir e comentar! Você também pode gostar do vídeo de atualização que fiz. Comprei um novo tablet e fiz uma configuração diferente no meu caminhão.

[@dairamacedo9148]

I used your method in the beginning with the head unit set up but I put a single din radio in the back with the tablet on top. It was wayyyy easier. Not as good quality but I just wanted the tablet to watch movies when I’m parked.

[@edwardlthompson]

That's an excellent way to do it. If I build another one, that's likely what I will do instead of the amp being there. I would love to see your setup. If you make a video of it, please drop the link here.

[@kito1san]

I only have 2 notes:What if you make a sharp turn or a constant turn (when making a exit from the freeways)? The tablet will slide left or right and might falls off. Might want to put some bottom corner brackets to hold it in place like you did at the bottom. As for this application looks good and clean. Great and innovated. However, you can't leave it car, just asking for would be thieves and a broken window. If detached, there is no clean plate to cover up the behind the wall finishes?

[@edwardlthompson]

The tablet will not slide off. Here is an exterior video of me doing figure 8s in the Lincoln and the tablet stays in place. kzbin.info/www/bejne/e3XbqHenrdx2raM and here is an interior video where you can see the tablet at the bottom of the shot. It doesn't move at all. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fn3Zc36khK9qY7M I have never left the tablet in the car. I have a small laptop bag for it so I can take it with me wherever I go or stash it under the seat if I'm just going into a store quickly. You are correct, when the tablet is not in place, it doesn't look good. Looks like someone stole my stereo! 😂 However, when I'm not in the car, I could care less how it looks. If I cared a little more, it would be pretty easy to make a plate to cover the opening.

[@SteveBlues87]

I tried this, installed the tablet behind the fascia to make it look stock. I did a similar thing with the audio but my wiring was very intense, especially with a subwoofer. Problem I had was turning the tablet on and off. I could use an app to turn it off when no power was going to it and power on when it was but then it wouldnt charge in the car. Was a huge learning process but in the end I just bought an actual android head unit

[@edwardlthompson]

Thanks for sharing that. I never thought about that aspect of the power and volume buttons behind the dash not being accessible.

[@TruthBomb4U]

Nice idea but u could've just screwed the tablet backing panel onto the dash piece n then you'd be able to just slip ur tablet in n out of it, plus, the backing panel has a base plate to stop slippage. Have those magnets messed ur screen colours up yet?

[@edwardlthompson]

That's also a good idea! Snapping it in and out of the tablet case would be a little more difficult but it would also work. Magnets only affect the old CRT monitors and have no effect on LED screens.

[@wandabailey7498]

Nice video I have been looking for a way to mount my iPad in my 2011 Cadillac Escalade I don’t really replace my unit. After watching your video you gave me a great idea how to mount it using the tablet holder and magnets I just plug it into my usb and get sound through factory stereo thank u for video

[@edwardlthompson]

I'm glad I could help! Thanks for watching and commenting! Make sure to check out the update video. I changed the setup some and got a new tablet.