Mobile tv tuners / DTV?

[A/V1]

Hey guys. I have a regular (analog) tv tuner in my 4Runner (well, I actually just removed it), but, just like everyone else who has one installed, I'm going to have a useless paperweight come Feb '09.

I've been keeping an eye out for new mobile tv tuners, but haven't seen anything. Has anyone else seen any new components on the mobile electronics market for picking up the digital signals? If not, I was wondering if anyone has tried using a set-top converter to pick up the signals? I just applied for a coupon, and I'm going to try it.

I just wonder if our reception will be any better. Using an analog tv tuner, reception is mediocre at best when on the move. Sometimes you'll get a strong signal, but usually there's ghosting and static. Hopefully there will be a positive change with the DTV signals.

Anyway, if you've had any experience with this, let us know.

Thanks
Brad

 

[riceandpho]

all u need is a power soucre to the coverter box, it needs ac power, also if ur tv have a/v inputs use that as well, also u will need a good uhf antenna, i think it still clear, i have tried this on my truck as well, it works flawless on my pioneer avx-p8.

 

[A/V1]

So you have one in use in your truck? Or did you just hook it up in the driveway? How's the signal while in motion? Does it still flutter in & out?

One thing I haven't really looked into is if it's used in conjunction with an analog tv tuner, or does it (can it) completely take it's place?

I'm not too worried about power. Some of the ones I've looked at have the AC - DC converter in the plug itself (which would give it a DC input), and if it has a straight AC input, I'm sure it converts to DC inside it on the PC board where I can just tap in there.

Also, the ir eye for the remote would have to be relocated externally so you can use the remote.

One thing I don't remember is if it only has the coax input (UHF/VHF). Did you use an antenna with a regular coax plug, or were you able to use diversity antennas (or at least an antenna with a mini-plug on it)? I'm sure it doesn't have a diversity input, since it's intended to be used in the home, so a diversity set-up wouldn't be necessary (in a home situation). An antenna with a mini-plug could probably be adapted to it somehow though.

 

[riceandpho]

i did it in the drive way and also watched t work parking lot, only works good if ur parked, also i had use a uhf antenna with it, just throw the box in the glove compartment and b done with install.

 

[A/V1]

Ironically enough, I just found this while looking at some other things...

http://sfgate-cnet.com.com/8301-13855_1-9848080-67.html?tag=more

So it looks like they are finally tackling the DTV issue for the mobile environment.