The in-dash car DVD player allows your front seat passenger the ability to view video. The unit is installed where the factory (or aftermarket) radio is installed and will contain a built-in monitor. Screen sizes can vary from 6.5 to 7 inches in width. It can act as a screen to video, GPS, system information, and control other units within the vehicle.

Is it expandable? These card DVD players can be expanded to allow extra audio and video components (Rear-view cameras and navigation). Most of these players have monitors that can be retracted into the unit itself. The unit will be able to perform DVD playback. One thing to keep in mind is that if you want to watch a DVD, you have to have your vehicle parked with the emergency brake on (highly recommended). Why? This is strictly for safety reasons. If you are not watching a DVD then the screen can display different commands, and may have touch screen capability!

One of best things about most of the receivers is that you can control different “zones” of audio/video components. You can have separate audio/video units within the vehicle (for example, an over head display, or head rest display). They can even have wireless headphones associated with them. Another cool thing is that you can add a PlayStation 3 or XBOX for gaming! With the receiver as the controller, you can send an audio and video signal to the different “zones” within the vehicle. That way, the driver and front seat passenger will still be able to enjoy the radio or CD over the speakers.

Is it easy to install? The dvd player installs very easily and will fit in the standard in-dash area.

If you’re interested in a GPS system, dependent on the receiver, most units will have this capability (check model to make sure).

Rear-view cameras are cool to have, especially for larger vehicles. The video camera can be installed on your bumper and even screwed into the license plate frame (again, check the model to ensure it does what you want it to do). Most players have these inputs on the unit itself to allow rear-view cameras. To be able to fully expand the receiver you choose, check the model to see how many “zones” that it will be able to control. This way you can have a very diverse audio video setup!

Well, I hope this post was of help to you or someone you know!

Take it from me, I’ve been on long family road trips.  We do some stretches up to 20 hours at a time. Yes, I know, 20 hours cramped in a mini-van does not sound like fun. But we get through it without problems.

You might ask, how???

One easy solution! We have a DVD mobile system in our mini-van.  It provides the kids with hours of enjoyment. We keep many DVDs in the vehicle to accommodate everyone’s request.

Ok, why would I get a mobile system, or what do I need?

To have FUN (or to at least let the kids have fun)! Having a car DVD player will be less stressful and more pleasurable when the kids are relaxed and watching a DVD.  It doesn’t necessarily have to be for long roads, it can be used when running around town or doing errands.

We have headphones for each kid to prevent disturbing the driver (which is mostly me BTW… don’t ask me how I always end up doing the driving).  I would recommend getting a system that would allow for headphones, especially for those long road trips.

Some DVD systems even come with GPS systems.  If you ever get lost, or need directions, this is great to have! There is no need to make sure you have the correct map or deal with handling maps while on the road. Having to do this is very frustrating and dangerous if you’re driving at the same time!

For these Car DVD players, what are my options?

There are numerous options that you can configure with your mobile video system.  As I mentioned before, you can watch DVDs or videos, but that is just the beginning!

You, or the kids, can play video games. There will most like be hookups for a XBOX 360 or Sony Playstation 3. Sorry, the Atari 2600 will more than likely not be compatible!

Local Television Tuner – Pickup local channels in the area you are in.

Satellite Television. Yes, there is an option to have a Directv dish on the roof of your car.  Don’t worry; it doesn’t actually look like a satellite. It looks more like a round flat disc.

What should I start to look at if I’m interested in buying a DVD system for my car?

Well, first off, you may want to focus on these groups:

A video monitor or monitors: in-dash, headrests, and/or flip down

A source for your videos: DVD/VCR

Headphones: Wireless

Speakers: Generally speaking, most mobile video systems will integrate or replace your existing system and utilize the speakers you have in place already.

That was a quick overview on the different types of Car DVD players available to you.  My future posts will be more in-depth.