- In this report
- Overview
- Features
- Built-in video systems
- Portable video systems
- Satellite TV
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May 2008
Portable video systems
These systems make it easy to take the show on the road
If you don’t want to go through the trouble and expense of having a built-in system installed, a portable system might fit
your lifestyle better. They are less expensive and can be transferred between vehicles and even taken on vacation for use
in rental cars.
Perhaps the most versatile way to go is to buy a tabletop portable DVD player that can be adapted for in-car use. Case Logic, for instance, sells a case for about $40 that allows a portable DVD player to be secured to the back of a car’s front seat. Models with 8- to 9-inch screens (measured diagonally) typically cost $70 to $300.
There are also models designed primarily for use in the car, which use a tabletlike display without a clamshell cover. Those often include head-restraint mounting straps, a car power adapter, and a small remote control. Almost all portable DVD players have built-in speakers and outputs for connecting one or two sets of headphones.
Sony offers a one-piece unit that includes a 6.5-inch flip-up screen and integrated DVD player, stereo speakers, and headphone jacks, and can be strapped to the front center console or a rear-seat console. A FM transmitter also allows the audio to be routed through the car’s audio system. The screen image is reversible, so the unit can also be mounted to the headliner, if desired.
For about the same price, a company called Drive Mobile offers a DVD system “in a bag.” The flexible case slips over a front seat’s head restraint and hangs down the length of the seat. It is secured by straps at the bottom and holds a small 5-inch screen and DVD player. It comes with wireless headphones and has a FM transmitter. A second screen can be used in a separate bag.
Regardless of what portable system you choose, make sure it’s securely fastened to the vehicle so that it doesn’t become a flying hazard in an accident.
Perhaps the most versatile way to go is to buy a tabletop portable DVD player that can be adapted for in-car use. Case Logic, for instance, sells a case for about $40 that allows a portable DVD player to be secured to the back of a car’s front seat. Models with 8- to 9-inch screens (measured diagonally) typically cost $70 to $300.
There are also models designed primarily for use in the car, which use a tabletlike display without a clamshell cover. Those often include head-restraint mounting straps, a car power adapter, and a small remote control. Almost all portable DVD players have built-in speakers and outputs for connecting one or two sets of headphones.
Sony offers a one-piece unit that includes a 6.5-inch flip-up screen and integrated DVD player, stereo speakers, and headphone jacks, and can be strapped to the front center console or a rear-seat console. A FM transmitter also allows the audio to be routed through the car’s audio system. The screen image is reversible, so the unit can also be mounted to the headliner, if desired.
For about the same price, a company called Drive Mobile offers a DVD system “in a bag.” The flexible case slips over a front seat’s head restraint and hangs down the length of the seat. It is secured by straps at the bottom and holds a small 5-inch screen and DVD player. It comes with wireless headphones and has a FM transmitter. A second screen can be used in a separate bag.
Regardless of what portable system you choose, make sure it’s securely fastened to the vehicle so that it doesn’t become a flying hazard in an accident.
