Stereo/DVD: DIY RSE Solution

[BestGear]

Hi Damien

As Martin says, use the screen mounted buttons to check that its not on AV2 or whatever... but I am sure you will have tried that.

The monitors typically have a 6 way block connector with two AV inputs on them plus power. There is also a flying 3.5mm jack socket - which wont be used in most installations from what I have seen - this is actually for IR and NOT audio so dont connect it up.

I would try first connecting a monitor/TV to the DVD changer at the back to verify that its outputting video - then if ok, check wiring all the way to the seats.

If you decide to ditch the DVD changer, then a small media player like the one I used works great for very little cash, plus, plays mp3 and many other video formats.... more useful these days than a DVD player by far.

If you need help with the 6 way connector, please shout - its very easy to wire this up for any other use.

David

[BestGear]

Originally Posted by dtb80

Didn't know that about audio so will try to get some wireless headphones off ebay. The transmitters have power cos the green light comes on on them.
Think I might try putting new clips/junctions on where the headrest wires meet the rest of the AV wires. Still think they are not right!

Thanks some ideas to play with there!

Hi

You need to get the right Thompson headphones as they are not universal.

I would hold out and get the video working first as you may end up changing the headphones and using new transmitters too rather than spending loads of cash on the original type.

If the volvo logo appears as a flash it COULD WELL BE the monitors are on the wrong AV channel... use the screen buttons to change that,

David

[martin j]

Damian

I had the same problem when I first put in my system and it was one of the screens had a fault on the circuit board under the screen where the wiring connects to the headrest. I Found this out by disconnecting the one headrest unit at a time on the plugs under the seats and then the screen without the fault worked correctly, but as soon as I plugged back in the faulty screen both screens show on signal. I ended up buying a spare set of screen off ebay as I was unable to find out how to repair.

Martin

[dtb80]

With a bit of playing around I've managed to get both screens working. Just need to replace one connector and source some head phones!
So pleased I read this cos I was on the verge of forking out for new screens! I owe yous both a beer!
Im presuming the clips that the monitors use to plug into the DVD feed could be attached to any source like a portable DVD. Would I just chop the ends off an RCA cable and attach?
I've got a Dension 500 fitted so could get sound via the red/yellow ports on that. Just thinking for getting a TV source. Saw a portable DVD with DVB quite cheap the other day.
Next job!

Thanks again!

[martin j]

Good news
The system I got off ebay never came with the unit between the rear seats so cut the plug off the wiring and made up my own connector so I could fit a sumvision cyclone unit ( Copied from Bestgear) in one of the rear storage compartments so that one screen can watch DVD's and the other movies from memory sticks. I needed two extra headphone but found Technics RP-920H work fine and you see them on ebay for around £10. All you need is the headphones but the two kits I got came with transmitter and chargers.

Martin

[BestGear]

Hi Damien

Great news its working...

These screens have two video inputs, so yes, you can easily use the second one for a games console or whatever you want really.

You would need to consider audio though, as you could need to add a FM modulator or some switching if you want to retain the headphones for a second vidio input.

Tell me what you want to achieve now, and I'll give you the options!

David

[dtb80]

Think I'm going to have a bit play around and see what comes.

I tell you what I want though is a cap/cover for the 12v socket. I missing one and can I Sh@@e find any online! Must be using wrong description in google.
I've taken the 12v socket out of the centre console and fixed it inside (leaving the hole I need to cover) and attached a 3 way + usb adapter which I've located under passenger seat. Using it to power iPhone Tomtom cradle and I've run the wire under trim and to a hole in the storage gap under radio instead of having wires everywhere.

Can you tell I've been off work today??

If I come up with owt I'll get back on for help no doubt!!

[Ron_XC90]

You mean this one: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Volvo-Cigarett...#ht_995wt_1139

[wendash]

Hi Bestgear,
Great posts and an inspiration to carry out some updating mods.
I have an S80 with factory RSE which includes a 12v supply and aux audio/video inputs built into the rear armrest.The TV is analogue which is now useless in our area. Do you think this (Ebay - 170677768861) connected to the aux RCA's would get a good enough signal to watch TV?
Your thoughts are greatly appreciated.
Kind regards
Julian

[BestGear]

Originally Posted by wendash

Do you think this (Ebay - 170677768861) connected to the aux RCA's would get a good enough signal to watch TV?
Your thoughts are greatly appreciated.
Kind regards
Julian

Hi -- yes, I used one of these very devices in another car for TV,....

The EPG is basic to say the least... but it works.

Reception on the drive is not so good - but that depends on your location/transmitter I guess.

At least its a 12v device and composite video plus audio is as simple as it gets. Remote has these "bubble keys" which you either love or loath.

Ebuyer have a tuner with PVR functionality too - for about £22 ISTR.

David