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Can I remove the IR sensor, install the empeg in the back by the factory 6-pack CD player, put the IR on a 15-25 wire, running it all the way up to the front of the car where I can still at least control it?


The IR control part is the trivial thing to solve: Instead of extracting the IR-sensor, get/make an IR-extender with a new detector that you mount up front, and mount the new "sender" end in front of the empeg. The signal from the remote is picked up by teh new sensor, sent across wire to the new sender that again emits IR that is then picked up by the empeg.

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What about the display, would it be possible to run it on an cable extension so that I can mount it up front somewhere? I've searched the forums, and didn't find anything - perhaps my searching wasn't so good - any info greatly appreciated!

OK - found the FAQ re: moving the display - but then I found a forum regarding a working solution, but no activity on there for some time...


As you found, it has been done - but requires skill (or some decent money to have someone else design/implement it) as you need buffering electronics.

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Next thought - there is a TVonNAV solution available for the BMW, with an RCA video-in that would be visible on the display.. Q is how to output the Rio 'video' to the video in - short of using a computer and a VNC solution? I would need a pretty small computer to be able to stash it in the back factory 'pockets'.


Patrick, (aka God, or pca here on the BBS) did create (for some serious cash) a TV-out for the empeg (limits the player to one drive as it operates over one of the IDE channels). IIRC, the design isn't available for other clients, even if you were willing to pay for having the boards made, components (if still available) and assembly. I think he said something about having 3 ideas about the project originally: quick and dirty, reasonably nice way and "the proper way", with increasing cost. The client went for the "proper way". Maybe you could explore one of the other ways with him. Don't know if he's interested, has the time etc etc. Probably still cost you a fair amount. Best bet/easiest solution is probably a small computer in the trunk or glove compartment and VNC. Or maybe a PDA w WiFi up front and a WiFi bridge in the trunk, and run VNC over that?
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/Michael