Tuffbot

Right now I'm in the early stages, the research stage, of a near-future tablet install on my 2011 2WD Regular Cab I've been watching a lot of videos on YouTube, reading posts here on the installs, and more.

I plan on connecting using the USB2 Mod, and possibly even taking advantage of my background and wiring in cameras for backing up, and elsewhere. Dependent on the final device, I have mulled around modifying the tablet so any rear mounted cameras are USEFUL. I'm passable with soldering.

The reasons why I'm strongly considering a tablet is functionality, ease of use and hopefully lower overall cost versus an Alpine or Pioneer system with similar capabilities. The install would be a slide-in, or permanent one. Also, a tablet install is much easier on Sync, and less problematic.

What I want it is something that has, or can do, the following:
* - 7" to 10" Screen
* - Can charge via USB2 with GPS running. I've heard the Nexus 7 has this issue.
* - Large, easy to use native buttons or dedicated programs like on Android for car applications.
* - Accurate GPS Navigation (on-board GPS chip)
* - Internet Radio
* - Stored Media Playback (Audio, Video, etc.)
* - Siri or Google Now capabilities. This is a must for quick destination entries, and quick Internet Searches.
* - Internet Access. Either with LTE, or a separate HotSpot installed in cab.
* - OBDII Connectivity. With the tablet connected to (and hopefully charging off of) USB2, I'd like to load an app for a Bluetooth or a WiFi OBDII device to read computer and engine parameters.
* - Remote access. This is so I could boot up the tablet remotely, and manage it, in the case of a permanent install.
* - Whatever EEVILL purpose I can think of.

KDD555

Ipad mini with retina display,they are simple and easy to use. Also reliable and fast with a great screen display

Tuffbot

I have considered a mini, and I do have plenty of either iOS or Android apps to load on either of those two operating systems. I already have a Samsung Galaxy Tab 2 7 inch, but, it is kind of slow and has minimal available on-board storage for maps. It does have a memory card slot for expansion and media storage. But, with the Tab 2 devices Samsung handicapped them in regards to card read and write speeds. With the right program and time invested it is a great universal remote control.

tmath23

I have a nexus 7 2nd gen in my truck, The size its ok, it looks good but I'd prefer a larger screen but didn't want to have to mod the dash kit. I am thinking about getting rid of it though, I couldn't find a good offline navigation app and that's all I would have used It for. But if you have Data or Wifi all the time it becomes a lot more useful.

GetYaFordOn

One other thing you should consider in your checklist depending where you live, max/min operating temperatures of the hardware you install.

Tuffbot

That, is something to consider I hadn't thought of. I live in Tucson Arizona where the weather most of the time is pretty moderate and has been comfortable this winter. Actually, we've been damn warm this winter compared to the rest of the country. We will probably be VERY hot this winter to pay for it.

I'd like to, and prefer, a slide in installation simply because I could remove the device and take it with me.

schmart

I'm somewhat in the same stages as you are. That being said, I suggest you check out the following thread:
https://www.f150forum.com/f38/genos-...nstall-183878/

This has an amazing amount of information on how to install a tablet, connect it, etc.

That said, there are very few tablets (if any) that can charge off of the usb2 connector. This only provides 1/2 amp and most tablets ask for 2 amps to charge. Especially using WIFI and GPS, the actual power draw from the tablet is more than the USB2 will provide, so the battery would be decreasing in charge.

The general consensus is that the Nexus 7 v2 is about the best android tablet to install, but it is missing a micro SD card slot. Therefore, I'm looking seriously at the ASUS MeMo 7. It seems it will do everything you are asking and more. I'm wanting to verify the ability to use a USB Video input device and have the tab work as a backup camera before I pull the trigger on one.

--Rick

Tuffbot

Hmm. Now I see why more people use iStreamer and similar devices. I don't mind doing the same. I was unaware that USB2 put out such low current. I wish there was an aftermarket replacement option for the atrocious Ford Sync system. I have had such terrific luck with mine that it would be a deciding factor not to buy another Ford with the Sync system. Now, I'm not going to be such an idiot to say that someone elses system is superior.

poskwally

You could use something like this or something similar to take care of your lack of charging power.


It could probably be disassembled, hard wired, and hidden away in a custom mount. Should have plenty of current flow to charge any tablet. You could use a USB Y splitter to connect to SYNC for power and data on one end and this charger on the other end of the Y just for power. Just thought I'd throw that possibility out there.

Tuffbot

The Y-Splitter idea is a sound one. I have an external hard drive that gets additional power using a Y-splitter. My concern would be with the Sync system and possibly damaging it. I'm still learning a LOT and I want to be as prepared as possible before jumping in. I've been reading through that MASSIVE thread mentioned above.

I am between 32GB versions of the iPad Mini with LTE or the Nexus 7 with LTE. The Nexus, though, is on AT&T or T-Mobile networks even though it is quite a bit cheaper. The wireless capabilities either on board, or via HotSpot, are very important to me. The main reason why is for enhanced navigation accuracy as well as the benefits of having the internet. With Google Calendar, or iCloud syncing I can keep my appointments, events, and even notes synced on the tablet as they are on my iPhone. That is something a head unit replacement can't do.