jp360cj

I've been looking around for options to mount a windows tablet in my 2012, mainly for dog tracking with Garmin Basecamp. Convenient access for Forscan would be an added bonus. I haven't found anything I really like for the mounting the tablet with a RAM mount or similar setup so I started kicking around the idea of mounting it as a headunit.

Currently have the base Sync with 2 line display, so I think it would be a good upgrade if it works well.

So has anyone done this? I've found a lot of info for iPads and Androids, but not much on windows. Mainly curious on the integration and function of normal headunit functions, such as fm radio with the tablet.

jp360cj

I've read a lot of Geno's tablet install thread and now know that I wouldn't be removing the factory radio, just the controls. The steering wheel controls will still work, not ideal but for the advantages of the tablet, I can live with that.

To do what I want, I'll need access to a USB input while still being able to charge the tablet. And I still need to figure out how to turn the tablet on/off with ignition. I'd really like to have something like Tasker for windows.

Anyone have any suggestions on a tablet, or some work arounds?

jbarr89

like you said, there's a ton of info on the ipad/android mount, can't imagine a windows tablet would be much different. I did a android tablet in mine but have since removed it due to lack of access to the menu button to change bass/treble, and bluetooth settings. with mine, I bought a double din install kit on amazon, put my tablet in a foodsaver to protect it, made a fiberglass shell around the tablet, then mounted it to the double din faceplate.

jp360cj

IMO, this is a much bigger downfall than the volume and radio tuning controls. Will also lose the clock setting function. I'll have to be able to plug the controls in at least twice a year to set the clock for DST. Also, sometimes my iPhone and Sync don't connect via BT & I have to use the menu controls to do so. I found a download for an android app that may take care of this issue. Or I may be able to address some of it through Forscan, which I plan to run on the tablet.

I've found a few tablets that should fit well and do what I need. Currently trying to verify one that can charge and connect to a USB device at the same time. I have even found a couple dual OS tablets running Win and Android, but not sure if that's the best route.

TimelessR1

Plugging the radio face plate in twice a year for me is super easy since the wire harness for the face plate reaches to the glove box...i just pull the harness out..connect it , change the time, disconnect it and close up. maybe takes 1 min. I've had an ipad mini installed for the last 5 years and love it!

jp360cj

Timeless, that sounds easier than I was expecting! Did you have to extend the wires?

jbarr89

Which app? if you maybe found a solution to BT dropping off on occasion, this might fix my frustration since this was another reason I don't run a tablet as a HU any longer. I thought about pulling the cable to the glove box or even making a pigtail that extends to the center console and I keep the stock menu controls minus the entire faceplate in a anti-static bag or something of that sorts.

TimelessR1

Nope..didnt have to extend the wires at all! I want to say the wire harness will pull out from the glove box maybe 5 inches or so...enough to plug the oem faceplate in make your changes and then unplug. The only thing you really have to do is take everything out of your glove box bc you have to fold it down by pressing in on both stoppers...but other then that...super easy!

TimelessR1

Also..why not hard wire the tablet into the stock radio through the USB? this way the tablet charges and there's no worry about BT connecting or dropping? Its basically the same theory as having any additional source plugged into the sync usb and sitting on your seat...but instead of having the tablet sitting on your seat your mounting it in place of the radio for easier access.

jp360cj

Don't remember the name, it was near the end of Geno's tablet install thread.

The problem is the stock radio's USB doesn't put out enough power to charge a tablet. It would barely charge my old Samsung S4 Mini when playing music (it would gain less than 5% over 45 minutes). Running a Nav app (or any app using GPS) it would sometimes lose charge, even while plugged into the USB jack. I've found a few combo's that may work; I may try to find a used tablet to play with until I can get it figured out.