Related
I posted this in a reply in another thread, but thought it better placed in the Accessories Forum.
For those that are interested in a simple way to have their transformer (or any similar sized tablet really) mounted in their vehicle, I am building mounts that will install much like an aftermarker radio would. For this set up, you would need a single DIN radio (not flip out screens like the Pioneer AVIC or anything, just a non motorized single DIN radio. Some of the fancier radios may work, but we haven't done any testing with them, yet). You would need a double DIN radio mounting bracket/harness specific to your vehicle. We are working on ways to customize it a little further based on vehicle specific applications, but right now we feel most standard vehicles should work with this set up. It will probably be a few weeks before our model is ready for production, but I should have pics of a completed install in my '06 Ram before then. The mount will be very secure (as secure as a radio installed) and will be on a 360 swivel allowing for angle adjustment (for passenger viewing, or glare for example) and will also allow both landscape and portrait angles (I believe, we are in the process of testing this theory). If you are at all familiar with installing a radio in a vehicle, than this would be very easy for you and would require very little customization on your end other than getting the mounts specific to your vehicle (pretty easy to do as Best Buy, car audio shops, or the internet sell them pretty cheap). Cost are going to be kept at a minimal to the end user until I can get this going. If you are interested, please PM me with you vehicle year/make/model and with some info about your experience in the vehicle audio market. I am going to be using the XDA forum as my demo crew as much as possible so I could definitely use some product testers (especially if you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area).
Thanks!
I would be VERY interested in this.
2000 Honda S2000 (1st gen) I can do any surgery to the stereo you need me to, but it must have height adjustment and not get in the way of the stick.
Could you post pics of your dash set up do I can get a better idea? Not sure you would need height adjustment with this setup, but I don't want your shifting of the vehicle to interfere with the design either. I am working a design to slide in and out for those of us with trucks, but that is it so far. If there is a demand for a vertical adjusting option, I will look into that as well.
Thanks
Bah..if I didn't have an aftermarket double din radio in my car I would GLADLY try it out..I live in the fort worth area.
Sent from my SPH-D700 using XDA App
I am VERY interested. I've been googling this for a while, trying to find something.
Is this a radio replacement? Like a proper in-dash mounting kit, making your TF something of a giant removable face, similar to aftermarket stereos?
Ive been thinking about this for a while, cant wait to see pics!!
I apparently can't post links in forums yet, but ill try to send a picture via PM
Darnit...I have a double DIN.
I am so wanting this. subura imprezza wrx. Do you have any pics
GeekSpeak411 said:
I apparently can't post links in forums yet, but ill try to send a picture via PM
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Click to collapse
Got your pic, and that's a pretty tight fit there. It is going to be questionable on whether this set up will work stock... We may be able to customize something for you, but I would have to get some measurements between the shifter and dash at some point. We can get something together.
Once I get the swivel I should have pics within a few days.
Sent from my Transformer TF101B using Tapatalk
skyfox99 said:
Got your pic, and that's a pretty tight fit there. It is going to be questionable on whether this set up will work stock... We may be able to customize something for you, but I would have to get some measurements between the shifter and dash at some point. We can get something together.
Once I get the swivel I should have pics within a few days.
Sent from my Transformer TF101B using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
Add me to your email list. I'm ecited to see these photos. I'm running a pretty common and standard car, a Chevrolet Cobalt. if you need any measurements or photos or want to prototype me, i'd be happy to be a guinea pig. I'm pretty savvy, and would love to promote the product.
silence.v3 AT gmail DOT com. Send me an email!
silenceforus said:
I am VERY interested. I've been googling this for a while, trying to find something.
Is this a radio replacement? Like a proper in-dash mounting kit, making your TF something of a giant removable face, similar to aftermarket stereos?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
@Silence I am sorry, I just noticed your question (thought it was your sig because of the space so I didn't even look). It isn't necessarily a radio replacement, although you could go that route, but you would need an amplifier (4 channel or 5 channel I believe) so it could handle the audio from the tablet to the speakers in the car and would be a bit more costly/sophisticated installation. Basically think of it this way, you would have two single DIN pieces mounted directly on top of eachother where the bottom would be your single DIN radio, and the top part being the mount for the tablet. Thus needing the double DIN brackets. The pictures will explain the concept once I get this installed in my truck (hopefully this weekend depending on parts delivery).
skyfox99 said:
@Silence I am sorry, I just noticed your question (thought it was your sig because of the space so I didn't even look). It isn't necessarily a radio replacement, although you could go that route, but you would need an amplifier (4 channel or 5 channel I believe) so it could handle the audio from the tablet to the speakers in the car and would be a bit more costly/sophisticated installation. Basically think of it this way, you would have two single DIN pieces mounted directly on top of eachother where the bottom would be your single DIN radio, and the top part being the mount for the tablet. Thus needing the double DIN brackets. The pictures will explain the concept once I get this installed in my truck (hopefully this weekend depending on parts delivery).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no problem, this is still very awesome, i would love to partake anyhow! keep us posted!
hey guys, just to update you I have the cradle ready to go. the mount I am waiting on a part for, at a stand still until then, but it looks good so far and can't wait to get it out to you. has anyone seen any other vehicle mount options in their searches? if so, can you link so I can research those to help improve my design?
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
skyfox99 said:
I posted this in a reply in another thread, but thought it better placed in the Accessories Forum.
For those that are interested in a simple way to have their transformer (or any similar sized tablet really) mounted in their vehicle, I am building mounts that will install much like an aftermarker radio would. For this set up, you would need a single DIN radio (not flip out screens like the Pioneer AVIC or anything, just a non motorized single DIN radio. Some of the fancier radios may work, but we haven't done any testing with them, yet). You would need a double DIN radio mounting bracket/harness specific to your vehicle. We are working on ways to customize it a little further based on vehicle specific applications, but right now we feel most standard vehicles should work with this set up. It will probably be a few weeks before our model is ready for production, but I should have pics of a completed install in my '06 Ram before then. The mount will be very secure (as secure as a radio installed) and will be on a 360 swivel allowing for angle adjustment (for passenger viewing, or glare for example) and will also allow both landscape and portrait angles (I believe, we are in the process of testing this theory). If you are at all familiar with installing a radio in a vehicle, than this would be very easy for you and would require very little customization on your end other than getting the mounts specific to your vehicle (pretty easy to do as Best Buy, car audio shops, or the internet sell them pretty cheap). Cost are going to be kept at a minimal to the end user until I can get this going. If you are interested, please PM me with you vehicle year/make/model and with some info about your experience in the vehicle audio market. I am going to be using the XDA forum as my demo crew as much as possible so I could definitely use some product testers (especially if you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area).
Thanks!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nice... I am about to mod the dash of my 2010 F-150 xlt Supercrew, i am going to build a cavity right where factory radio is so that it may slide in and out... i am working on solutions for working with ford sync , and am desperatly waiting to buy OEM cables from Asus so that i may begin testing as i want to make a pop out / swivel for the keyboard dock out of the center console .. i will post pics when i get it going and done right now im waiting on asus to release parts or at least a pin schematic for 40 pin
t0dbld said:
Nice... I am about to mod the dash of my 2010 F-150 xlt Supercrew, i am going to build a cavity right where factory radio is so that it may slide in and out... i am working on solutions for working with ford sync , and am desperatly waiting to buy OEM cables from Asus so that i may begin testing as i want to make a pop out / swivel for the keyboard dock out of the center console .. i will post pics when i get it going and done right now im waiting on asus to release parts or at least a pin schematic for 40 pin
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Click to collapse
Ditto on the cables. Using a slide out drawer is something we are actually in the process of designing as well, but we are trying to avoid the general consumer having to make any severe modifications or irreversible mods. Why keep the FORD sync system at all? Just curious as the TF would pretty much replace the entire thing in functionality, right? I want to have the complete install done this weekend, but waiting on one part... How large is the radio for the sync system? Is it a traditional din set up?
Sent from my PC36100 using Tapatalk
i need a mount to go behind my tf so i can put it in landscape can you pm me a pic
b3ltazar said:
i need a mount to go behind my tf so i can put it in landscape can you pm me a pic
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Click to collapse
I would need to see what you have behind that TF and you're bezel to see if this will work. I am using a cradle so it won't sit flush with the dash like you have it in the photos. We are working on the install today, Been told my part will arrive in 24 hours so it should be complete with photos this week.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
skyfox99 said:
I would need to see what you have behind that TF and you're bezel to see if this will work. I am using a cradle so it won't sit flush with the dash like you have it in the photos. We are working on the install today, Been told my part will arrive in 24 hours so it should be complete with photos this week.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk
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Can. You send me a pic of your mount please. I might buy a few if they are what I'm looking for. I have a few friends that want me to put tabs in there cars.
I will be following this thread, because I am going to mount my TF in a 02 GMC Yukon XL. I have been thinking of ways to mount it already, but will wait to see what your mounting system looks like.
So, I've been spending the better part of an hour scouring over the Anandtech teardown gallery of the prime trying to get a decent understanding of the GPS/WiFi antennas and the underlying design flaws which contribute to these features messing up; namely the giant metal shield of a cover and the placement of the antennas. They're not exactly in a bad place, but I guess Asus assumed that if you were using WiFi/GPS with your tablet then you would always do so with the screen facing the AP/satellites. In reality, mine at least, it's the back of the device generally pointing to these things. Maybe I place my network hubs in strange places and enjoy astronomy apps too much?
Now on to the actual question, especially to any of you who have gotten the device and been brave enough to peek inside it yourself; would creating my own plastic windows/metal grates within the aluminum backing actually help anything? Do these antennas broadcast a 360 degree signal or are they directional? The motherboard itself would allow decent signal to get to the transmitter wouldn't it, so long as the case does?
My order isn't set to ship for another month, but I think I'll be getting this tablet regardless of the known issues, though the audio/video problems with the miniHDMI port make me a bit nervous. This thing will still be a power-house even as better spec'd tablets come out, just like my single-core Desire Z is still pretty relevant and decent. Just not top-of-the-line, and it wasn't for any real amount of time, but that's just how these things go.
Ideally, the antenna would couple to the whole backplate, making a big slot antenna (but then it starts to risk being too directional). It's just as probably that the issue is noise or feeble pogo-pin connectors.
If you do make a cut-out, it needs to be about 1 wavelength larger than the outline of the antenna (and you risk de-tuning the antenna if it was designed to operate in close proximity to a groundplane)
tshoulihane said:
Ideally, the antenna would couple to the whole backplate, making a big slot antenna (but then it starts to risk being too directional). It's just as probably that the issue is noise or feeble pogo-pin connectors.
If you do make a cut-out, it needs to be about 1 wavelength larger than the outline of the antenna (and you risk de-tuning the antenna if it was designed to operate in close proximity to a groundplane)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Coupling to the backplate, though increasing power decreases accuracy doesn't it?
I hadn't thought of the pogo-pins as a possible culprit, that's certainly possible.
Couldn't I make a couple windows and retro-fit either some plastic or plexi-glass into the design? Would that help keep from de-tuning, especially if kept to a small size with accurate positioning?
Thank you for the response, I know nothing of the finer details on GPS and other wireless signals.
*Edit: After re-reading and thinking, I actually understand what you're saying. Plastic or no, any cutout would need to be a very specific size larger than the antenna itself which would take more than I would be able to do I'm sure. Oh well, I know I'll still love this thing, so long as the miniHDMI works properly, I'll be happy. Phone's GPS works like a dream.
And now I apologize. I found it odd not finding topics on this, but now I've found them and have a bit more of an understanding on the matter. Namely that the cpu seems to have a strong possibility of creating interference for the chip. The casing apparently just worsens the issue.
Sent from my HTC Vision using xda premium
buxtahuda said:
And now I apologize. I found it odd not finding topics on this, but now I've found them and have a bit more of an understanding on the matter. Namely that the cpu seems to have a strong possibility of creating interference for the chip. The casing apparently just worsens the issue.
Sent from my HTC Vision using xda premium
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Click to collapse
How sure are we about this? I've read that Apple puts their WiFi antenna behind the black plastic logo on their WiFi-only models for exactly this reason. Not only that, but on the 3g models they simply have all the wireless modules placed on top of the device where they are covered with black plastic as well.
It seems to me that a stupid plastic apple cutout - a complex geometric shape - is not likely capable of being as "tuned" as a rectangular cutout. Yet, I think it's safe to say that the 3G and WiFi versions of the iPad have similar if not identical WiFi performance. That is to say, I don't think manufactures are using the aluminum back for anything other than looking pretty. I think it's safe to hack away at.
Thoughts?
JazzMac251 said:
I don't think manufactures are using the aluminum back for anything other than looking pretty.
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Click to collapse
Maybe for some heat dispersion too?
I wish they would start selling the back plate only (like they do with ipods etc)
That way i'm sure someone could cutout a shape and try the antenna behind a plastic window etc, but youd always have the option to put the original back.
I wouldnt mind modding mine after the garantee has ran out.
I think Asus might consider making an after-market backplate that they would fit to your Prime after they have fully tested the issues.
Docaroo said:
I think Asus might consider making an after-market backplate that they would fit to your Prime after they have fully tested the issues.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've been thinking that even if Asus didn't some third party will. And I'm willing to get to cutting the day it arrives if I can determine it'll help. However, I don't want just an open grate for dust and junk to get into. Maybe just a thin fabric filter, or should I close it up with some plastic/plexiglass and epoxy?
Sent from my HTC Vision using xda premium
buxtahuda said:
I've been thinking that even if Asus didn't some third party will. And I'm willing to get to cutting the day it arrives if I can determine it'll help. However, I don't want just an open grate for dust and junk to get into. Maybe just a thin fabric filter, or should I close it up with some plastic/plexiglass and epoxy?
Sent from my HTC Vision using xda premium
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Click to collapse
I don't see why plastic wouldn't work. It's what the iPad has and it seems to work out in that case.
You should consider cross-posting this in the "General" forum. It is a "question", but the General forum gets a LOT more eyeballs.
JazzMac251 said:
I don't see why plastic wouldn't work. It's what the iPad has and it seems to work out in that case.
You should consider cross-posting this in the "General" forum. It is a "question", but the General forum gets a LOT more eyeballs.
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Click to collapse
i agree, this post should be on general... this would be a great solution, a homemade plastic ipad-like hole... we need it, and if third party doesnt do this, we will have to do it...
well, but anyone tested the device without the case to see the real power of the wifi-gps-bt ?
Yakandu said:
i agree, this post should be on general... this would be a great solution, a homemade plastic ipad-like hole... we need it, and if third party doesnt do this, we will have to do it...
well, but anyone tested the device without the case to see the real power of the wifi-gps-bt ?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I will be, but it's still a good two-four weeks before I have mine. All mentions of it I've seen in general never get answered, I haven't seen anyone comment on whether or not they've tried without the backing. Probably because most aren't willing to try and heat up the glue to do so or damage the thing in the process...
Some expertise required
Does the aluminium back plate attenuate both wifi and gps signals? From what I have read it seems to be confirmed that this is the situation, although other factors such as internal interference have NOT been discounted, nor has the connection method (gold pogo pin) between motherboard and the antennae (blackened out pcb strip). I have noted on the TF101 Transformer teardown, a very similar placement of both WIFI and GPS antennae to that on the TF201 Transformer Prime - near the top edge and adjacent each other. Looking at similarities between models, an obvious and perhaps too simple explination would be the aluminium back plate. There does seem to be some interest in experimenting with making some holes (similar to the speaker grill), on the back plate in front of the antennae in the hope that it MAY improve reception. I have read numerous posts and was hoping that someone may have tried this. I don't want to hear about the merits of having or not having a GPS and how it matters to them personaly etc - lets focus people, but whether someone has had the ability and knowledge to try it. I am unsure given the wavelength of both GPS and WIFI (1.2 / 1.5 Ghz) whether mutliple small holes would do it. I feel that a transparent plastic window may be required. I do not believe the back plate is used a coupled ground plate etc. and it is used purely as the chasis. Come on - there has to be some smart engineering graduates/professionals who are willing to give this a go...it would have been nice if they were paid by ASUS but that seems unlikely. Point to note - that the GPS and WIFI antennas (there are two for the WIFI on the TF201) would be obtaining some reception through the front gorilla glass and plastic (on which the antennae are mounted). My question is - what and IF modifications are necessary to the back plate to obtain better reception. Any ideas?
I have not seen a single test where anyone proved it was the back plate. Anyone have a link to a test that shows the prime navigating successfully without the back plate?
Now that I`m getting my dongle I`m wondering if anyone out there has tried a car mount for their Prime. With the large screen and now functional GPS this would make a phenomenal in car GPS unit. My only concern would be damaging the Prime due to a bracket not supporting it properly causing it to fall. Anyone`s experience would be appreciated.
Jeff
+1
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD app
I have this one from Arkon, and love it. The extension arm rests on my dash, and the suction cup is relatively low on the window. I have never experienced any problems with the Prime falling out, or the whole mount falling down, because since the arm rests on the dash, there is minimal weight applied to the suction cup.
http://www.arkon.com/tablet-accessories/universal-tablet-windshield-mount.html
Bob
robertg9 said:
I have this one from Arkon, and love it. The extension arm rests on my dash, and the suction cup is relatively low on the window. I have never experienced any problems with the Prime falling out, or the whole mount falling down, because since the arm rests on the dash, there is minimal weight applied to the suction cup.
http://www.arkon.com/tablet-accessories/universal-tablet-windshield-mount.html
Bob
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Click to collapse
Got that same one but from Amazon. Only $30 w/ my Prime.
Also picked this one up for my little boy and my backseat passengers lol
http://www.amazon.com/Arkon-Tablet-...CLTU/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1335471406&sr=8-2
I bought this http://www.ebay.com/itm/Arkon-TAB178-Removable-No-Glue-Sticky-Car-Dash-Desktop-Tablet-and-iPad-Mount-/360446004720?pt=US_Tablet_Accessories&hash=item53ec418df0#ht_816wt_1163 one from Arkon. Love the sticky pad it has. Same sticky pad that is on the mount for my HTC phone. Same sticky material that the whacky wall walkers had in the 80s. sticks to ANYTHING. Still waiting for it to come in .... was very hard to find on ebay, its the only one of its kind that i found after days of searching for a non piece of crap.
GPS dongle ?
robertg9 said:
I have this one from Arkon, and love it. The extension arm rests on my dash, and the suction cup is relatively low on the window. I have never experienced any problems with the Prime falling out, or the whole mount falling down, because since the arm rests on the dash, there is minimal weight applied to the suction cup.
http://www.arkon.com/tablet-accessories/universal-tablet-windshield-mount.html
Bob
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How about adding the GPS dongle ?
TeeT said:
How about adding the GPS dongle ?
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I haven't got my dongle yet, but the tabs that hold the Prime are adjustable, so I'm guessing that they can spread far enough apart for the dongle to fit.
If someone can measure the length of the dongle, I can measure it.
Bob
I just measured my dongle.....man that just doesn`t sound right. Anyways it`s 7 1/8 inch wide. Can you let me know if this would fit with your mount. I`ve looked at tons of mounts and yours seems to be one of the better solutions right now.
Thanks
Jeff
Jeff1192 said:
I just measured my dongle.....man that just doesn`t sound right. Anyways it`s 7 1/8 inch wide. Can you let me know if this would fit with your mount. I`ve looked at tons of mounts and yours seems to be one of the better solutions right now.
Thanks
Jeff
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Well, the spread on the mount tabs only gives about 4" of clearance. BUT, in reality, you only need one tab on the top holding it. Attached is a pic of the keyboard (since I'm using the TP for the pic and it shows the edge of the dongle area) and the keyboard still holds solidly in there. Also notice my mounting. The extension arm (adjustable) rests on the dash, so, with the tablet supplying a downward weight, the suction cup would be "pushed" into the window so it's not like phone/gps attachments where everything tends to pull it off the window, the TP is actually doing the opposite.
The tabs are spring-loaded, so in order to insert the TP between the tabs, you would insert the top of the TP, push upward, then slide the bottom in.
I can't really tell you the force required, but it's definitely not minimal.
I think that the TP, in the mount, would stay in position even in a front or rear end collision.
I made one search my user name & you will find photos here
Here you go http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1444199
i must say, this DIY seems pretty good....
http://work.failblog.org/2012/04/25/job-fails-cup-holder-laptop-tray/?fb_ref=newcontenthole
lil-devil said:
i must say, this DIY seems pretty good....
http://work.failblog.org/2012/04/25/job-fails-cup-holder-laptop-tray/?fb_ref=newcontenthole
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Click to collapse
LMAO
Looks legit tho
I received my Arkon windshield mount today. With the dongle attached I can use all 4 feet of the bracket because the bottom of the bracket is spring loaded and easily accomodates the dongle while still keeping the tablet very secure in the mount. I haven't tried it in the car yet but the build quality seems quite good.
Jeff
Jeff1192 said:
I received my Arkon windshield mount today. With the dongle attached I can use all 4 feet of the bracket because the bottom of the bracket is spring loaded and easily accomodates the dongle while still keeping the tablet very secure in the mount. I haven't tried it in the car yet but the build quality seems quite good.
Jeff
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Click to collapse
Did you get the same one I got, or did you get one of the variations? I was wondering if you ever got one after looking at the different options. I know that I am very happy with mine.
If you don't have a Nav program, I strongly recommend CoPilot Live Premium.
There are a couple of threads here that discuss the different options.
Bob
I got the same one. Really like the build quality and it holds the tablet very securely even with the dongle. I am trying to decide between sygic and copilot. Reviews seem to be fairly evenly split. Its too bad there is no copilot trial. I've been playing with the sygic trial and really like it.
Jeff1192 said:
I am trying to decide between sygic and copilot. Reviews seem to be fairly evenly split. Its too bad there is no copilot trial. I've been playing with the sygic trial and really like it.
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Click to collapse
I'd suggest going to the CoPilot site and take a look at the video. From what I understand, all the add-ons for Sygic make it more expensive then CoPilot Live Premium....and I would definitely recommend the Premium over the standard.
You might want to take a look at the comments in this thread....Quite varied
http://www.transformerforums.com/forum/transformer-prime-general-discussions/20551-any-gps-only-navigation-app-prime.html
Quick update....I took my tablet for a spin in my car this afternoon. The mount is really solid and secure. The tablet is not going anywhere. If anyone else is looking for a car mount this is definitely a great option, especially at $40.
So I ended up purchasing Co-Pilot Premium and unfortunately I was really disappointed in it. I did a lot of reading of reviews and watching video reviews and it seemed like a great deal and I really good piece of software. However, the Canadian maps are ridiculously out of date. I live in a rural area of Ottawa (the capital of Canada). My house was built on a new street 11yrs ago and the street isn`t even on their map. I have also quickly noticed a few other road changes that were made in Ottawa at least 8yrs ago that are not reflected on their map. I really like the program itself, it`s fantastic...but with the map being so out of date I`d be hesitant to rely on it for a trip. I have contacted Co-Pilot and requested a refund due to how badly out of date their Canadian map is....but I`m not holding my breath.
Jeff
Jeff1192 said:
My house was built on a new street 11yrs ago and the street isn`t even on their map. I have also quickly noticed a few other road changes that were made in Ottawa at least 8yrs ago that are not reflected on their map.
Jeff
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Click to collapse
I am surprised that their Canadian Maps are so out of date. However, they are not alone in this issue. My niece moved to a new house (similar situation) a number of years ago. So long ago, I don't remember the dates. But I had the same problem of finding her....I used Google Maps, Mapquest, Navteq Maps, Teleatlas Maps...None of those companies showed her development till very recently.
Do you know that other sources have your street identified? Maybe you're in the same boat I was...where nobody has it.
CoPilot does have a nice feature where you can identify map errors. They will check them out and fix their maps accordingly. You can submit a map Update on this page
http://www.copilotlive.com/us/support/
or even in the app itself, by going to "MyCoPilot" then selecting "Submit a Map Improvement".
FYI: Most map changes take close to a year to get to the consumer. Navteq will make changes, then quarterly will send them to the software vendors. The vendors then massage the data to meet their program requirements...After all that, it is eventually released as a map update.
I'm not sure that Sygic would be any better, and avoid NAVFree for now....They showed my location in the 'wrong town"
Bob
Yeah I was shocked. My address and all the streets around it were on google within a year. They're also on my Garmin and have been for some time. I have submitted the corrections to them and opened a support ticket as well. Sygic shows all these locations properly as well.
Jeff
This last weekend I was fustrated while vacationing when my Prime could not hold onto the hotel WiFi connection because of the distance to the router, yet my HD2 phone had no problems. This was the first time poor Wifi affected me. That got me thinking....
Looking at the fix made to the T700 to improve Wifi signal (and GPS), why couldn't a similar DIY mod be done to an existing Prime's back? I dont think cutting a slice off the top of the aluminum back is a doable option, but what about just cutting or drilling a large hole over the antennas, and filling in the hole with plastic or epoxy. This could look similar to the black oval plastic "wifi window" on the 3rd generation iPod Touch.
I'm thinking of trying this but wanted some input from others before trying. I looked at the other hardware mod thread here, but that concentrated on adding external antennas. According to that thread, once you removed the back, Wifi improved dramatically.
I think this was discussed before..but if you are feeling brave enough, let us know how it turns out man
This idea has been talked about in great length, but general consensus was that it would be too difficult to add a plastic window to the back of the Prime, because all of the hardware physically attaches to the aluminum back plate of the Prime.
You you be voiding your warranty by taking the device apart. And there is a very good chance you would render the device 100% non-working while doing the mod.
If the WiFi really doesn't meet your needs, return the tablet.
I'm glad I sent mine in to get it fixed, I am getting mine back tomorrow and that will make 10 days. I figured they would be pretty quick at fixing the wifi by now
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
almightywhacko said:
If the WiFi really doesn't meet your needs, return the tablet.
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Click to collapse
Sorry, but this is not an option for a second hand Prime with an unlocked bootloader.
I'll have to take another look at the tear down pictures and video to get a feel of the space between the electronics connected to the back and the back itself. I have no fear of eventually opening up my Prime as I have opened up many phones in the past.
I had the same problem while on vacation in Mexico, my HTC Eco 3d picked up the hotels wifi no problem but my Asus didn't. I'm so happy I picked up a Asus WL-330N3G portable wifi router based on someone suggestion here, I wouldn't been able to work without.
Basically placed the portable router where I had the strongest signal in the room, and was able to use my prime anywhere in the room. An on top of it the router is very small, and can be powered by a USB port as well. As a bonus I use it as a gaming adapter for my ps3 when I'm home.
I think getting a portable router is a lot easier option then modding the back of the Prime.
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk 2
Axe-08 said:
I'm glad I sent mine in to get it fixed, I am getting mine back tomorrow and that will make 10 days. I figured they would be pretty quick at fixing the wifi by now
Sent from my EVO using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
YOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO
Make a thread tomorrow when you get it back. And tell US if it improved.
Seriously .
ive said this before but could another idea be wait for the 700 to come out and then wait for some inner photos to be taken. If they look similar to the prime then could we not just try and buy a 700 backplate and try and fix it to the prime?
mardukeme said:
I. I'm so happy I picked up a Asus WL-330N3G portable wifi router based on someone suggestion here, I wouldn't been able to work without.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Where did you get it from? My wifi signal in my bedroom is terrible and moving the router doesn't seem to be an option
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD app
What about drilling small holes in the area where the wifi antenna is, creating a sort of a mesh? Could be very easily done with a drill with a small enough head by very carefully and slowly drilling into the aluminum.
I don't know if that would improve the wifi signal, but it is doable.
Might want to consider one thing though- People have been getting different wifi and GPS readings on unmodded primes, meaning that the problem is not necessarily the aluminum cover, but rather the quality of construction, components, etc.
Eliad Kimhy said:
What about drilling small holes in the area where the wifi antenna is, creating a sort of a mesh? Could be very easily done with a drill with a small enough head by very carefully and slowly drilling into the aluminum.
I don't know if that would improve the wifi signal, but it is doable.
Might want to consider one thing though- People have been getting different wifi and GPS readings on unmodded primes, meaning that the problem is not necessarily the aluminum cover, but rather the quality of construction, components, etc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm sorry, Faradays law says this will not work, for RF, mesh or solid is the same.
The contact area of the pingions on the motherboard to the antenna are realy tiny,I think replacing the pingions on the mainboard for small coax will improve, The wifi chip is at the other end of the tablet, the signals have to cross the entire device. I even saw they route the wifi signal trough a series of PCB trace and cables to the place where they connect to the antenna. I think replacing these connections by new a cable with at one end an MMCX and the other end solderd to the antenna, will improve the reception.
otispowell said:
Where did you get it from? My wifi signal in my bedroom is terrible and moving the router doesn't seem to be an option
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got it on eBay for $50 dollars here's a link to it.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ASUS-WL-330...345650?pt=COMP_EN_Routers&hash=item1c21fd7f72
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk 2
The other thread linked in the original post has all information regarding this topic.
Creating something like the 700 would be basically too complicated (though never impossible)
We won't know if the 700 back plate will match up until it is released (i doubt it is worth the work)
The external antenna works wonders, and can be made "removable"
A simple wire from the pogo pin that is isolated from the glass/aluminum will increase connectivity
Here is another link for good reading...
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1479664
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using xda premium
I've read through both of those threads, the one I posted and the second one posted above. Unfortunately they both went the route of replacing the existing antennas with wires or external connections. The closest one to my idea was this:
Originally Posted by Lock-N-Load
Really though, in the end, it seems if someone wanted to get really hardcore, they could dremel a slice out of the back that is tall yet narrow, go to home depot and get some plexiglass, sand it down to obscure the view into the device, and epoxy that in place and place the wire into that as a window. Totally possible IF you wanted to kick it up a few levels now that the hard work is done and shows an antenna wire can hep. Essentially steal Apples' idea but keep it simple and make it home grown.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Like I said, slicing off the top of the back and covering it with plexiglass is probably too much. I'm thinking more like just a hole, over the existing antennas, covering it with epoxy, and making a Wifi Window like that on an iPod Touch:
mardukeme said:
I got it on eBay for $50 dollars here's a link to it.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/ASUS-WL-330...345650?pt=COMP_EN_Routers&hash=item1c21fd7f72
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thanks =]
are there any other items that work the same but are cheaper?
Sent from my Transformer Prime TF201 using XDA Premium HD app
nonpaq said:
This last weekend I was fustrated while vacationing when my Prime could not hold onto the hotel WiFi connection because of the distance to the router, yet my HD2 phone had no problems.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why didnt you just tether to your HD2?
i just had a great idea. Based off what the linked thread was earlier,
It would be a handle on both sides, makes your TFP like a briefcase and eliminate the ugly/bulky antennas. Of course it won't be as powerful, but this would let us put antennas in the handle and increase reception. of course, it would require holes to be drilled in the back, but we can easily stick that on (and it would be very strong). It can be easily created with fiberglass, a color could easily be created and the brush strokes could be done as well. and a little gloss could be added after we have painted/added the brush strokes and get pretty close
biggem001 said:
i just had a great idea. Based off what the linked thread was earlier,
It would be a handle on both sides, makes your TFP like a briefcase and eliminate the ugly/bulky antennas. Of course it won't be as powerful, but this would let us put antennas in the handle and increase reception. of course, it would require holes to be drilled in the back, but we can easily stick that on (and it would be very strong). It can be easily created with fiberglass, a color could easily be created and the brush strokes could be done as well. and a little gloss could be added after we have painted/added the brush strokes and get pretty close
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Very nice design The handle is a great idea. All you need to do is run some wires through the handle. That is all my WIFI attached antenna are doing in my "Optimus Prime" mod. As long as you get the wires away and above the metal backplate your in business. You can check out my link in thread for the original mod. GL m8
Here is pic of two wires coming from WIFI pogo pins. Raised out and above
the metal backplate. All you would need to do is run wires through a nice handle and you will get amazing wifi or GPS.
willumpie82 said:
I'm sorry, Faradays law says this will not work, for RF, mesh or solid is the same.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've read on this forum that some (or one) devices (not the TFP obviously) have their wifi antenna located behind the speaker grill in order to allow proper wifi reception.
Simple question, i'm looking for the best cardboard vr for the Samsung S7, but not the Samsung VR.
I'm will use it with Rifcat/Trinus/etc...
why not Gear VR ("Samsung VR")? that is optimized direct to S7 és S7 edge, the general VR cardboards won't give you same quality
Thanks for answering!
The problem is Rifcat/Trinus... For the best experience (no-lag and better image quality) the recomended connection is usb tethering. Already confirmed both connection, wifi was very laggy, and usb worked beautifully.
Sadly, the Gear VR (sorry, my mistake with the name), don't allow any external usb connection.
And paying for the Gear VR, and not plugin it, is a waste.
tux_topo said:
Thanks for answering!
The problem is Rifcat/Trinus... For the best experience (no-lag and better image quality) the recomended connection is usb tethering. Already confirmed both connection, wifi was very laggy, and usb worked beautifully.
Sadly, the Gear VR (sorry, my mistake with the name), don't allow any external usb connection.
And paying for the Gear VR, and not plugin it, is a waste.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
aah, it's interesting I thought you looking for only an another Chinese plastic cardboard, but now I get it, it's totally different situation
almaalma74 said:
aah, it's interesting I thought you looking for only an another Chinese plastic cardboard, but now I get it, it's totally different situation
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yup... it's kind of different. Most probably will end up in another Chinese plastic cardboard, but i want to use it for Rifcat
And because i'm in argentina, there are just a few models... Vr Box 2.0 (and maybe the 1.0), RITECH Riem Virtual Reality 3D Glasses I & II, and some other carton cardboard solutions.... So most probably i'm kind of screw
tux_topo said:
Yup... it's kind of different. Most probably will end up in another Chinese plastic cardboard, but i want to use it for Rifcat
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've loved the idea in a moment, and checked many review videos about vridge and trinus, one guy plays overwatch in this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tyFdbDzyA4E
he uses Tamo headset, it seems good for me, it's only $25
almaalma74 said:
aah, it's interesting I thought you looking for only an another Chinese plastic cardboard, but now I get it, it's totally different situation
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't understand. I've got a GearVR and I love it! I've been using it in tandem with oculus stuff, and use it with riftcat! USB Tethering works just fine. One complaint that I would have pairing it with your PC is that the S7 is 1440p, which splits up into roughly (If my math is correct, and I never check my math ;P) 800p per eye. Which, no sugar coating it, looks like **** and the aliasing is out the ass. But hey, $100 rift, amirite?
"The GearVR has no USB out!"
Uhh... yeah sure. I don't know what model you all have, but mine has a USB out and the not as cool vertical head strap. Apparently there were two versions for the GearVR!? I guess so.
tl;dr: Get a GearVR "Revision 2" I guess its called. $100 is extremely cheap for a HMD of this comfort and quality, and the GearVR is definitely a luxury worth paying for. The Oculus store app exclusives and PC Ports, The PC connectivity, and the ability to freeze the GearVR services and play Cardboard native games make this headset really the only choice for mobile VR in my opinion.
What?!?!?!? All reviews so far, said that the usb port of the GearVR is only for charging....
Can you please give more info about your version? Here, in argentina, we don't have a variety of hdm... And the Gear VR costs about 2600 ARS... and the typical salary is about 10000 ARS... so, something that costs 1/4 of the common salary, is a lot...
Shadow Giratina said:
I don't understand. I've got a GearVR and I love it! I've been using it in tandem with oculus stuff, and use it with riftcat! USB Tethering works just fine. One complaint that I would have pairing it with your PC is that the S7 is 1440p, which splits up into roughly (If my math is correct, and I never check my math ;P) 800p per eye. Which, no sugar coating it, looks like **** and the aliasing is out the ass. But hey, $100 rift, amirite?
"The GearVR has no USB out!"
Uhh... yeah sure. I don't know what model you all have, but mine has a USB out and the not as cool vertical head strap. Apparently there were two versions for the GearVR!? I guess so.
tl;dr: Get a GearVR "Revision 2" I guess its called. $100 is extremely cheap for a HMD of this comfort and quality, and the GearVR is definitely a luxury worth paying for. The Oculus store app exclusives and PC Ports, The PC connectivity, and the ability to freeze the GearVR services and play Cardboard native games make this headset really the only choice for mobile VR in my opinion.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Searching a little further, found that there are 3 official versions of the GearVR:
- First Innovator Edition - SM-R320: Only compatible with Note 4. Nothing refered about the USB port.
- Second Innovator Edition - SM-R321: Only compatible with S6 and S6 Edge. USB port is OTG.
- Consumer Edition - SM-R322: The common version. Compatible with all S7, S6 and Note 5. Only charging USB port.
So, please, give all details about your GearVR...
tux_topo said:
Searching a little further, found that there are 3 official versions of the GearVR:
- First Innovator Edition - SM-R320: Only compatible with Note 4. Nothing refered about the USB port.
- Second Innovator Edition - SM-R321: Only compatible with S6 and S6 Edge. USB port is OTG.
- Consumer Edition - SM-R322: The common version. Compatible with all S7, S6 and Note 5. Only charging USB port.
So, please, give all details about your GearVR...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Uhh... Wow, didn't know I'd be in the spotlight here...
(Currently bricked my S7, so I can't provide pics)
Yeah, basic black velcro straps, and the entire piece isn't that cosmetically 'attractive', but I mean, none of these headsets really are. Anyway, standard "GearVR" and "Powered by Oculus" black text on the side. On the underside are two vents and a USB micro port. Other side is ya know, volume up/down, dedicated back button, and touchpad. topside is the focus wheel. On the inside eyepiece is the lenses and the light detector to sense whether or not the headset is on, and inside the outwards face (Where your phone goes) is the feet that hold it, the usb micro plug thing built inside the foot that holds it, and the foot is adjustable for S6/7 and Note. It's a solid "Click" when you switch sizes and there is no possible way it's going to fail. then there's the panel that fits over the front.
Pros:
~Cheap for the quality (Especially name brand like Samsung and Oculus!)
~Wide selection of original games
~Some PC ports exist (Provided you own a BT Controller, you can even play Dreadhalls!)
~The usb port at the bottom is nice and low profile for PC streaming/Charging while playing
~The volume buttons are easy to get to and very helpful
~Not dedicated, (You still have to plug them into your phone) but easy to access and non-damaging 3.5mm headphone jack slot
~Really damn fine lenses used for the build
~Aside from the somewhat cheap plastic used, it is very well put together
~Personally think it's the best looking out of all the headsets out now
~Most games on the store run extremely well and keep their framerates ~60
~Not the most comfortable out of all three headsets out now, but for mobile, it doesn't give your nose papercuts ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) (SHOTS FIRED!!)
~Once you put your phone in, there is no way it's sliding out
Cons
~Let's talk about the front cover. Why would there be a cover without a hole for the camera when there's a passthrough camera mode in the subspace!?
~Not a lot, but some games REQUIRE a BT Controller. (In hindsight of writing this, the target audience for this product probably has more than one)
~Extremely underpowered hardware and low resolution leads to absolutely bad aliasing.
~Overheating is a serious problem on Snapdragon 820 variant
~Fogging. The lenses fog up way to easily. Keep a screen/eyeglass cloth nearby on humid days. (Or go lock yourself in the freezer. Whichever is closer.)
~The touchpad on occasion is somewhat hard to find the center with the headset on
~The touchpad really isn't that great unless you like Dinput controls on a "Touch"pad.
(I would complain about the inability to use the DS4 controller on the S7, but for some reason, it really doesn't work on the entire phone, and that's more of a Samsung problem)
If you found this confusing, or you just think me or my presentation is absolute trash (Trying not to make a Seinfeld reference here), check out my friend LazyGameReview's "Review" here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6uNfkYvYag
If you are considering purchasing one of these headsets, and need a Bluetooth controller, Stay away from moga like the plague. I personally own one. Cheap plastic, cheap connectors, cheap buttons, and I payed $80 for it. It doesn't even connect every time and it might drop off the connection if you just look at it weird. Really don't get one. I've heard steelseries makes a pretty good android specific controller.
Shadow Giratina said:
Uhh... Wow, didn't know I'd be in the spotlight here...
(Currently bricked my S7, so I can't provide pics)
Yeah, basic black velcro straps, and the entire piece isn't that cosmetically 'attractive', but I mean, none of these headsets really are. Anyway, standard "GearVR" and "Powered by Oculus" black text on the side. On the underside are two vents and a USB micro port. Other side is ya know, volume up/down, dedicated back button, and touchpad. topside is the focus wheel. On the inside eyepiece is the lenses and the light detector to sense whether or not the headset is on, and inside the outwards face (Where your phone goes) is the feet that hold it, the usb micro plug thing built inside the foot that holds it, and the foot is adjustable for S6/7 and Note. It's a solid "Click" when you switch sizes and there is no possible way it's going to fail. then there's the panel that fits over the front.
Pros:
~Cheap for the quality (Especially name brand like Samsung and Oculus!)
~Wide selection of original games
~Some PC ports exist (Provided you own a BT Controller, you can even play Dreadhalls!)
~The usb port at the bottom is nice and low profile for PC streaming/Charging while playing
~The volume buttons are easy to get to and very helpful
~Not dedicated, (You still have to plug them into your phone) but easy to access and non-damaging 3.5mm headphone jack slot
~Really damn fine lenses used for the build
~Aside from the somewhat cheap plastic used, it is very well put together
~Personally think it's the best looking out of all the headsets out now
~Most games on the store run extremely well and keep their framerates ~60
~Not the most comfortable out of all three headsets out now, but for mobile, it doesn't give your nose papercuts ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) (SHOTS FIRED!!)
~Once you put your phone in, there is no way it's sliding out
Cons
~Let's talk about the front cover. Why would there be a cover without a hole for the camera when there's a passthrough camera mode in the subspace!?
~Not a lot, but some games REQUIRE a BT Controller. (In hindsight of writing this, the target audience for this product probably has more than one)
~Extremely underpowered hardware and low resolution leads to absolutely bad aliasing.
~Overheating is a serious problem on Snapdragon 820 variant
~Fogging. The lenses fog up way to easily. Keep a screen/eyeglass cloth nearby on humid days. (Or go lock yourself in the freezer. Whichever is closer.)
~The touchpad on occasion is somewhat hard to find the center with the headset on
~The touchpad really isn't that great unless you like Dinput controls on a "Touch"pad.
(I would complain about the inability to use the DS4 controller on the S7, but for some reason, it really doesn't work on the entire phone, and that's more of a Samsung problem)
If you found this confusing, or you just think me or my presentation is absolute trash (Trying not to make a Seinfeld reference here), check out my friend LazyGameReview's "Review" here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6uNfkYvYag
If you are considering purchasing one of these headsets, and need a Bluetooth controller, Stay away from moga like the plague. I personally own one. Cheap plastic, cheap connectors, cheap buttons, and I payed $80 for it. It doesn't even connect every time and it might drop off the connection if you just look at it weird. Really don't get one. I've heard steelseries makes a pretty good android specific controller.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Can yout provide some model number/name/code details? Barcode? QRCode?
Don't take it wrong, the review/comment you gave, was informative... but i cant go to a shop a say "hi! i need to test your device, plugged to my notebook" or something like that. I need to ask for some serial number or something like that...
tux_topo said:
Can yout provide some model number/name/code details? Barcode? QRCode?
Don't take it wrong, the review/comment you gave, was informative... but i cant go to a shop a say "hi! i need to test your device, plugged to my notebook" or something like that. I need to ask for some serial number or something like that...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You're lucky I keep the boxes to all my electronic stuff. Razer and Samsung both know how to make REALLY damn cool boxes. Anyway, BRB.
...
Keep in mind, I picked this up from the verizon store when I got my S7. anyway...
$99.99
"Also compatible with Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge"
Ahh here it is. Two codes. The one on top is "GH69-25929A" and the bottom one is "SM-R322"
Hope this helps!
I have used chinese vr box 2.0, it is ok quality but nothing compared to pc based vr
Shadow Giratina said:
You're lucky I keep the boxes to all my electronic stuff. Razer and Samsung both know how to make REALLY damn cool boxes. Anyway, BRB.
...
Keep in mind, I picked this up from the verizon store when I got my S7. anyway...
$99.99
"Also compatible with Samsung Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 edge"
Ahh here it is. Two codes. The one on top is "GH69-25929A" and the bottom one is "SM-R322"
Hope this helps!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks!! I'm go to search about it!!
Rufus66 said:
I have used chinese vr box 2.0, it is ok quality but nothing compared to pc based vr
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Here, i'm talking about using some mobile VR, plugged to a PC, and with some 3rd party software, be able to play some pc vr games (instability, incompatibility, and a lot sort of problems and issues, are expected).
If you want to search something about it, go and check Rifcat and Trinus...