Adding an audio/video system in about an hour
The one great thing about technology is that you can always count on it getting smaller and less expensive. Several years ago, installing a DVD player and multiple monitors was nothing less than a custom installation. Today, there are simple systems that are more compact and simple to install.
One of the simplest that we’ve come across is a compact headrest video monitor system with a built-in DVD player. VizuLogic’s A-1000 unit is probably the easiest system you can install on your tuck or SUV. The unit sells for around $1,200 and although it can be installed by a professional, a savvy home mechanic can do it in about an hour.
We asked Matthew Valbuena, special projects manager at Vizualogic to demonstrate the A-1000 system and how it can be installed into a 2004 GMC Yukon. The installation took a little over an hour but did not require any special tools. The only thing needed was a volt-meter to find a 12-volt ignition on source under the dash of the vehicle and the rest simply plugs together. The system plays through a built-in FM Modulator that was hidden in the vehicle’s center console. The DVD player and monitors are built into the head rests that simply replace the factory units. The wiring is also easy to install and the A-1000 system comes with a game controller with built in games that can be played on the system, if you purchase an auxiliary line input.
Once our system was installed and wired, the sound was great and the wireless Headphones also offer multiple functions, allowing one passenger to listen to the DVD, while the other listens to the arcade games from the controller. The monitors also provide a clear picture and the adjustable head rests allow the back seat passengers some angle adjustments for the monitors. Should the owner of this vehicle ever want to upgrade his head unit, the system also allows for integration into an aftermarket unit with an auxiliary channel, or it can continue to operate separate from the system.
Source
Vizualogic
A Division of TMI Products, Inc.
1493 Bentley Drive
Corona,CA 92879
951.272.1996
 |  Vizualogic’s A-1000 system consists of a factory headrest that has a built-in monitor and DVD player all in one unit. The headrests also have a built-in FM modulator that allows the audio to play through the factory stereo head unit. |  The system transmits its audio signal via an audio/video control module that also features dual source video inputs. |
 Vizualogic’s A-1000 system also comes with a video game controller that features several built-in games. Wireless head units are also included in the system. |  Installation of the system is simple and begins by removing the factory headrest. |  On GM models, the headrest can be removed by depressing the pin on the adjustment mechanism. |
 The same release pin must also be depressed in order to feed the Vizualogic monitor’s wiring into the seat back. |  Once both sides of the monitor’s wires are installed, the Vizualogic head rest can click into place on the factory seat. |  The bottom of the seatback uses a plastic clip that attaches the upholstery to the seat frame. This must be loosened so that you can get access to the wires. |
 Valbuena pulled the wires through the seatback and began routing them alongside the seat hinges so that they remain hidden but away from being snagged. He also left enough slack in the wires to allow for full seat adjustment. |  The monitor wires were routed under the seats and were tucked in under the factory center console. There’s enough space on the sides of the console to easily tuck the wires underneath it. |  Valbuena removed the under-dash panel to have access to the vehicle’s wiring. Using a voltmeter, he located a ignition on, 12-volt source. This would be used to power the monitors. |
 Once the 12-volt and ground wires were attached under the dash, the wiring was also routed to the center console, where Valbuena installed the A/V source input module. |  In order to use the game controller, a separate A/V plug must be added. Valbuena decided to mount it at the back of the center console and needed to remove this section. |  The A/V auxiliary input is not included in the kit, but is available at any audio store. It features RCA inputs. |
 With the rear section of the center console removed, Valbuena drilled a hole for the wiring and attached the auxiliary input jacks to the bottom of the console. |  The rear of the console was put back in place and all of the wiring was attached to the A/V source box. This was then bolted to the frame of the center console. |  Here you can see where the game controller attaches to the system with the auxiliary jack we added. The controller has multiple games built in and uses AA batteries to operate. |
 We turned the ignition key on and our DVD system sprang to life. Push the top of the monitor and if flips forward so you can install a DVD. The multiple channels also allow for one passenger to watch and listen to the DVD while the other passenger can play and listen to the video games from the controller. | | |
