Looking for a cost-efficient Android for vehicle tracking - Connected Car

I'm having a hard time looking for cost-efficient phones for vehicle tracking.
Especially, there is no list of phones that can be set to boot on charge. This seems to be possible at least in most Samsung phones by replacing the battery-charging animation with a reboot script. Also, some phones seem to support fastboot oem off-mode-charge 0 but it might not always be reliable.
The most important requirements:
Can be set to boot when a charger is connected (at least all Samsung phones)
Cheap price (preferably 20-60 eur)
Bluetooth 4 (for power-efficiently connecting an NFC reader)
Available (need about 100 ASAP)
Also, if you have any knowledge about NFC readers that would be nice. Requirements here are Bluetooth LE, cheap prize and small size.

Related

FOR SALE - XDA 2s (x2) + BT-338 Sirfstar III GPS + 1GB SD + Car kit

Due to an upgrade to a Kaiser, I have the following for sale:
TWO O2 Branded XDA IIs - One complete, one lacks stylus - Both are UNLOCKED.
One, my spare second one - the battery *may* be faulty. The reason I have two is that I had issues with it rebooting when i first got it, O2 sent a replacement and neglected to send a return bag . It ended up that it seemed to be the battery, so I used the original handset but the replacement battery, and I slung the replacement handset and original batt in a drawer. After rooting it out of the drawer (where it had lain for a couple of years) the battery seems to work fine and power was still over 84%. I will run it some to check. Maybe I was just being a noob or the backup battery hadn't charged.
Both handsets have some minor wear on the corners but otherwise are fine. No loose sliders etc. The rubber cap over the headphone socket on the main one is starting to split.
Also, there is a GlobalSat BT-338 SirfStar III Bluetooth GPS unit. I should have the wall charger lying around somewhere lol, I never used it though, I always used the car charger (Which I definately have and is included). A really great unit.
Also, there is a windscreen sucker mount for the XDA. Just a cheapo halfords one, but it fits perfectly and doesn't obstruct power or headphone sockets.
Also included is a retracting mini-sync cable - USB one end, custom XDA connector the other. Get a car lighter -> USB adapter (No! You can't have mine!) and leave that in your car, then you can use the mini sync you keep in your pocket with any PC or in your car to charge or transfer files.
Also included is a 1GB SD card. It is Integral branded card, it shows no speed but it seems to have enough bandwidth to play DivX off the card
Also included are two cradles - one for work, one for home
There should be two holsters, but I mislaid one the other day, I am sure it will turn up lol.
Would anyone be interested in the job lot? May split the 2nd phone off for a spares sale, but would rather sell the lot as one.
I can provide pics, I will need to bring the 2nd cradle from work, and see if I can find the missing holster / GPS wall charger first...
I live in the UK, but I suppose I would consider sending elswhere in europe. Would be unwilling to send to Nigeria even if were is for £10,000
Offers please
I think you will get your best deaL on on ebay here.
I suggest you list them separately
Might be interested in bidding on the spare one...
hardingt0110

[INFO] i'm Watch hardware

I did some research on the internal hardware of the i'm Watch Android watch and found out a few things:
The CPU is probably a MCIMX233CJM4B or maybe a MCIMX233DJM4B (the latter is only spec'd for temperatures down to -10 C, which wouldn't be suitable for a watch) and come in BGA169 packages.
Since the CPU only has 32 KB SRAM, external RAM is needed (supported types are mDDR and DDR1) and can most likely be seen next to the 4 GB flash and the CPU itself in the presentation video on their site (3:42).
The CPU has many things built-in such as a resistive touch screen controller, 1.5W speaker amplifier. It also has a host of interfaces; SAIF (Serial Audio Interface) which according to the data sheet could provide hardware accelerated Bluetooth audio, I2C, 2x SSPs, 2x UARTs, JTAG and USB with host mode.
The circuits are split into 2 separate boards, maybe with the Bluetooth chip on the board opposite to the one with the CPU on it.
The SSPs are basically highly configurable serial interfaces and also natively support the SDIO interface, which in turn might enable us to hack in some cheap SDIO WiFi card (found out there's a TI 1271 chip which someone used with Android and a Beagle Board link). Reaching this connector might not be possible from either the hardware nor the software side, but I'm an optimist .
Data sheet for the CPU is available here, I'd recommend page 33 and 1411 to get your inspiration going.
TL;DR
CPU is narrowed down to 2 options
WiFi might be possible with extensive hacking
Djhg2000 said:
I did some research on the internal hardware of the i'm Watch Android watch and found out a few things:
The CPU is probably a MCIMX233CJM4B or maybe a MCIMX233DJM4B (the latter is only spec'd for temperatures down to -10 C, which wouldn't be suitable for a watch) and come in BGA169 packages.
Since the CPU only has 32 KB SRAM, external RAM is needed (supported types are mDDR and DDR1) and can most likely be seen next to the 4 GB flash and the CPU itself in the presentation video on their site (3:42).
The CPU has many things built-in such as a resistive touch screen controller, 1.5W speaker amplifier. It also has a host of interfaces; SAIF (Serial Audio Interface) which according to the data sheet could provide hardware accelerated Bluetooth audio, I2C, 2x SSPs, 2x UARTs, JTAG and USB with host mode.
The circuits are split into 2 separate boards, maybe with the Bluetooth chip on the board opposite to the one with the CPU on it.
The SSPs are basically highly configurable serial interfaces and also natively support the SDIO interface, which in turn might enable us to hack in some cheap SDIO WiFi card (found out there's a TI 1271 chip which someone used with Android and a Beagle Board link). Reaching this connector might not be possible from either the hardware nor the software side, but I'm an optimist .
Data sheet for the CPU is available here, I'd recommend page 33 and 1411 to get your inspiration going.
TL;DR
CPU is narrowed down to 2 options
WiFi might be possible with extensive hacking
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
does anybody have one?
karonatui said:
anybody know how to do it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
huh, how to do what?
I picked one up
is there a major forum discussion somewhere for this watch?
I have one (since 3 days) and i think it is too soon for this kind of products.
The software is slow, battery should be longer than at least 5 days and bluetooth it is a technology than i never like it at all. By the way, if you try to use the i'm watch as a speaker, the quality is very poor for your calls.
on the other hand, this tecnology it is beginning and i believe future will be based on this kind of products.
C u!
santjust said:
I have one (since 3 days) and i think it is too soon for this kind of products.
The software is slow, battery should be longer than at least 5 days and bluetooth it is a technology than i never like it at all. By the way, if you try to use the i'm watch as a speaker, the quality is very poor for your calls.
on the other hand, this tecnology it is beginning and i believe future will be based on this kind of products.
C u!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
any other places where there is more talk on this watch?
it has a LOT of potential, im sure some smart folks can tweak it

Any ideas how to access vehicle information through USB socket?

I own a SEAT IBIZA car with Android Auto and Mirror-Link features.
I'm curious to know if there is a possible way to read some information Via CANBUS protocol like RPM, Speed, Oil temperature etc.
through the original USB plug and not from the OBD II.
Thanks in advance!
Chen_Gold said:
I own a SEAT IBIZA car with Android Auto and Mirror-Link features.
I'm curious to know if there is a possible way to read some information Via CANBUS protocol like RPM, Speed, Oil temperature etc.
through the original USB plug and not from the OBD II.
Thanks in advance!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Of course there is! Not everyone uses those damned rigged* Autel DS708 scantools anymore (even though they have been the gold standard for years, the UI has always been such a......tool.) VAG makes a scanner (not a code reader) that has a USB adapter for some foreign and domestic higher end vehicles.
Just do a Web search for a diagnostic auto scanner with USB adapters, or for the cars with USB diagnostic ports (sometimes they hide diag ports under the hood, too) - I threw it into a Google search and the Seat Ibiza was just the first car I came up with, followed by several scanners with matching port adapters.
Not to sound like a heifer, but finding a tech who is savvy enough to be able to tell the difference between a 16-pin OBD2 port and a USB port is a boon in and of itself. You'd do well to find a well rounded tech with a some history in electronics (wave forms are a marvelous thing when applied to the dynamics of an internal combustion engine and it's components!)
Automotive technicians are a rapidly changing group of people, with those who can't make the cut quickly fall by the wayside, so just be politely persistent about your needs, and [eventually] you may run across someone who specializes [which can be costly] or someone who has enough general knowledge to put a scanner to good use.
Just don't pay a ton of money for the "service" of plugging a scanner in and reading codes or resetting your sun roof - dealerships escalate the costs tremendously, but with intelligent scanners running anywhere from several hundred to several thousand dollars, I'd look for a smaller shop or individual. For what some of the dealers/specialists charge to plug in a scanner you could buy your own scantool!!
All that said, check with your favorite garage and inquire about the make/model of their scanner. The techs who stay up to date may charge a bit more for diagnostics, but it makes the repair a LOT less expensive when they can pinpoint the issues right away, and most are quick to offer up their services to show off that shiny new gadget that can read the cars' minds.
Depending on where you are, I may be able to offer a connect through a tech in your area. They may or may not have a scanner or a friend who does, but I don't mind asking if you'd like.
Good luck!
CC~
EDITED TO ADD: *The Autel Maxidas DS708 is, and has been planned as a terminal application, neatly coinciding with the termination date of Wince 6.x. Want more info? Drop me a line.

RAVPower RP-WD03 FileHub Plus - Unboxing & Review

RAVPower RP-WD03 FileHub Plus - Portable NAS and 6000mAh Power Bank
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Unboxing
Presented as a thicker than usual power bank, it does not come with many accessories: 1x Micro-USB Cable and 1x User Manual. A compact LAN cable should have been included.
It is completely made of Plastic and it feels solid enough, but the glossy border is slightly useless in my opinion since, as you can notice, it looks already scratched/used.
As regards the size, it is as big as an old-style Power Bank, being 9.79x5.48x2.82mm, with a weight of 157g.
On the front, there is the Power/Mode button with an Activity LED (for SDCard R/W status) underneath, the usual Power LEDs required to check how much battery is left, and a Wireless LED that indicates whether LAN or Wireless mode is on (Wireless = Blue, Wired = Green).
Just like all Power Banks, also this one features all specs on the back about the USB Rating and Battery Capacity.
Underneath the rubber-made cover, there is the LAN port (10/100) required to use the Access Point feature and a standard USB port to charge other devices.
On one side there is a Micro-USB port to recharge the internal battery.
And finally, on the rear, there is a SD Card reader, fundamental for the NAS/File Sharing feature.
Efficiency and Battery Capacity
My USB Tester confirms that the battery capacity is correct, even slightly higher than what is declared by the manufacturer. (real ~6160mAh, declared 6000mAh)
It's a pity that the internal board has been capped to only 1A of USB Output. As soon as i switch from 1A to 2A, it stops providing power via the USB port. Anyway, at 1A, its efficiency is pretty good, with a stable 4.97V of output voltage.
NAS - Network Attached Storage / File Access
The most interesting feature about this "evolved" power bank is the possibility to share files between an SD Card and other devices, basically a Portable NAS running on a removable storage.
First of all, it doesn't necessarily require an ad-hoc app, since it is possible to access to the NAS even using a browser (10.10.10.254 address, no password by default), but using the app it is possible to get a more optimized experience.
The app is available on the Play Store (for Android of course), and is really well-made, polished and with no noticeable design flaws. RAVPower also made an app for Windows and Mac OS, but, considering that this is meant for portable usage, i will focus on Android only.
It is possible to access any file directly from the SD Card without downloading it locally on the device. It takes a bit to load, but it is still better than nothing.
Networking
Starting from the Wireless Access, the FileHub provides by default a WiFi connection, that can be configured later in the Settings. Even though it is only 2.4GHz, it is good enough for this usage, since it supports up to 300MBps in WiFi N mode (2x2).
In order to use the Bridge mode instead, it is necessary to connect the FileHub to another Wireless Network. Basically what you get is a WiFi repeater or extender, with the extra possibility to access all files. Just consider that this mode will cut down wireless performance, in my case more than half speed disappeared.
The Wired Access instead is more limited, since it doesn't give access to the FileHub but it works directly as an Access Point for a Wired Connection, disabling the Web Interface or any NAS feature. It works pretty good though, with no performance loss compared to my primary WiFi 2.4GHz connection.
Conclusions
For a reviewer, it is nice to have a way to access all Camera Photos without having to use an OTG Adapter, and the possibility to use the same device for multiple usages is an huge bonus, at least for me.
This is a great product and considering the quality of the firmware, as well as the software's quality, it is clear that RAVPower is supporting this device more than what i would have expected.
So, do i recommend? Yes, but consider that this is not a super-cheap product so, before choosing it, be sure that this is the right product for you, as a sort of niche product.
P.S.: Battery Life can vary based on the usage, thus i can't provide some reliable data about it.
Pros:
- Multiple Features in such a small device
- Well-Made firmware and apps
- Excellent WiFi Performance
Cons:
- No LAN Cable included in the box
- Useless Glossy Frame
- Limited USB Power Output (5V/1A)
Rating: 8.4
Packaging and Accessories: 7
Design and Materials: 7
Performance: 8
Features: 9.5
Software Quality: 10
Power Efficiency: 9
Price: 8 (based on Amazon price)
Official Product page: https://www.ravpower.com/rp-wd03-filehub-6000mah-power-bank-portable-wireless-router.html
You can find full-res images (I know, Quality isn't excellent) here: https://imgur.com/a/mYMz6​
Alberto96 said:
RAVPower RP-WD03 FileHub Plus - Portable NAS and 6000mAh Power Bank
Unboxing
Presented as a thicker than usual power bank, it does not come with many accessories: 1x Micro-USB Cable and 1x User Manual. A compact LAN cable should have been included.
It is completely made of Plastic and it feels solid enough, but the glossy border is slightly useless in my opinion since, as you can notice, it looks already scratched/used.
As regards the size, it is as big as an old-style Power Bank, being 9.79x5.48x2.82mm, with a weight of 157g.
On the front, there is the Power/Mode button with an Activity LED (for SDCard R/W status) underneath, the usual Power LEDs required to check how much battery is left, and a Wireless LED that indicates whether LAN or Wireless mode is on (Wireless = Blue, Wired = Green).
Just like all Power Banks, also this one features all specs on the back about the USB Rating and Battery Capacity.
Underneath the rubber-made cover, there is the LAN port (10/100) required to use the Access Point feature and a standard USB port to charge other devices.
On one side there is a Micro-USB port to recharge the internal battery.
And finally, on the rear, there is a SD Card reader, fundamental for the NAS/File Sharing feature.
Efficiency and Battery Capacity
My USB Tester confirms that the battery capacity is correct, even slightly higher than what is declared by the manufacturer. (real ~6160mAh, declared 6000mAh)
It's a pity that the internal board has been capped to only 1A of USB Output. As soon as i switch from 1A to 2A, it stops providing power via the USB port. Anyway, at 1A, its efficiency is pretty good, with a stable 4.97V of output voltage.
NAS - Network Attached Storage / File Access
The most interesting feature about this "evolved" power bank is the possibility to share files between an SD Card and other devices, basically a Portable NAS running on a removable storage.
First of all, it doesn't necessarily require an ad-hoc app, since it is possible to access to the NAS even using a browser (10.10.10.254 address, no password by default), but using the app it is possible to get a more optimized experience.
The app is available on the Play Store (for Android of course), and is really well-made, polished and with no noticeable design flaws. RAVPower also made an app for Windows and Mac OS, but, considering that this is meant for portable usage, i will focus on Android only.
It is possible to access any file directly from the SD Card without downloading it locally on the device. It takes a bit to load, but it is still better than nothing.
Networking
Starting from the Wireless Access, the FileHub provides by default a WiFi connection, that can be configured later in the Settings. Even though it is only 2.4GHz, it is good enough for this usage, since it supports up to 300MBps in WiFi N mode (2x2).
In order to use the Bridge mode instead, it is necessary to connect the FileHub to another Wireless Network. Basically what you get is a WiFi repeater or extender, with the extra possibility to access all files. Just consider that this mode will cut down wireless performance, in my case more than half speed disappeared.
The Wired Access instead is more limited, since it doesn't give access to the FileHub but it works directly as an Access Point for a Wired Connection, disabling the Web Interface or any NAS feature. It works pretty good though, with no performance loss compared to my primary WiFi 2.4GHz connection.
Conclusions
For a reviewer, it is nice to have a way to access all Camera Photos without having to use an OTG Adapter, and the possibility to use the same device for multiple usages is an huge bonus, at least for me.
This is a great product and considering the quality of the firmware, as well as the software's quality, it is clear that RAVPower is supporting this device more than what i would have expected.
So, do i recommend? Yes, but consider that this is not a super-cheap product so, before choosing it, be sure that this is the right product for you, as a sort of niche product.
P.S.: Battery Life can vary based on the usage, thus i can't provide some reliable data about it.
Pros:
- Multiple Features in such a small device
- Well-Made firmware and apps
- Excellent WiFi Performance
Cons:
- No LAN Cable included in the box
- Useless Glossy Frame
- Limited USB Power Output (5V/1A)
Rating: 8.4
Packaging and Accessories: 7
Design and Materials: 7
Performance: 8
Features: 9.5
Software Quality: 10
Power Efficiency: 9
Price: 8 (based on Amazon price)
Official Product page: https://www.ravpower.com/rp-wd03-filehub-6000mah-power-bank-portable-wireless-router.html
You can find full-res images (I know, Quality isn't excellent) here: https://imgur.com/a/mYMz6​
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm surprised to read about the WD03 in 2017 - afaict it's four years old now and firmware support has long ceased. I would have loved to read about the fw version that came installed with the device, and whether the gaping security holes still exist (well-known root password plus telnet access, to name some).
Nevertheless, the device (and it's predecessor, the WD02) is, if properly hardened, still useful (search for filehub-config on github). To expect a fix for the wpa2 issue would be very optimistic though.
Thanks for the review.
Hi - latest firmware for the RP-WD03 is not sooo old, it's 2.000.056 from 2017-09-01...
Rofor said:
Hi - latest firmware for the RP-WD03 is not sooo old, it's 2.000.056 from 2017-09-01...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm surprised to see that downloads are back (after two years or so) - but only for the WD03 (guess which model I have). Will have a closer look when back home from travelling. Thanks!
I don't know if the last fw is very bad, or my wd is almost broken...
Anyway in the new fw if you see the new web interface under services you can find a very useful tool! Sd backup button!!! It is very useful!
020 firmware
steve8x8 said:
I'm surprised to read about the WD03 in 2017 - afaict it's four years old now and firmware support has long ceased. I would have loved to read about the fw version that came installed with the device, and whether the gaping security holes still exist (well-known root password plus telnet access, to name some).
Nevertheless, the device (and it's predecessor, the WD02) is, if properly hardened, still useful (search for filehub-config on github). To expect a fix for the wpa2 issue would be very optimistic though.
Thanks for the review.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes not much written in a while but the devices are still available, as is support and now so are the firmware updates. Looks like the 'factory' build has firmware 020 fitted (from a poll of 2 !) which has a few glitches but mainly when reconfiguring which I wouldn't expect to happen normally. Some may confuse if you expect to just plug and play. In answer to your query for 020 ;
EnterRouterMode.sh is still available
Root is not available (until you address using above)
Telnet (port 23) is still open and available
Other open ports are 80, 81, 85, 135 and 445
That's ok for the savvy who realise and can address but not so good for the plug and play user.
I am interested in upgrading to 056 but not so sure after comment from dettofatto. Anyone else care to comment on its 'stability'. Also any one checked is EnterRouterMode sill available on 056, easy to test just use your favourite search engine. I suspect telnet will be closed. Finally if 056 is unstable what recommendations are there for earlier versions.
A lot has already been written about the previous versions (01 and 02) and some about this version (03), I will be exploring further and if I find anything I think hasn't been written up I will.
Sorry for my english...
I think that my ravpower is broken, now amazon are sending me a new copy.
The new firmware has telnet closed, but has introduced the new backup button (under 10.10.10.254/app/services/sdbackup.html ).
Anyway You can restore an old firmware for restoring telnet.
Can you give us your fw, if <.20?
FW:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B4AhwoH61-dkWDFXUkZZZUlSYkU from https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=66322258&postcount=70
I've used this hack, you have used which of these?
https://github.com/digidem/filehub-config
https://github.com/derfrankie/RAVPower-FileHub-SD-Backup
https://github.com/steve8x8/filehub-config
dettofatto said:
Sorry for my english...
I think that my ravpower is broken, now amazon are sending me a new copy.
The new firmware has telnet closed, but has introduced the new backup button (under 10.10.10.254/app/services/sdbackup.html ).
Anyway You can restore an old firmware for restoring telnet.
Can you give us your fw, if <.20?
FW:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/0B4AhwoH61-dkWDFXUkZZZUlSYkU from https://forum.xda-developers.com/showpost.php?p=66322258&postcount=70
I've used this hack, you have used which of these?
https://github.com/digidem/filehub-config
https://github.com/derfrankie/RAVPower-FileHub-SD-Backup
https://github.com/steve8x8/filehub-config
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hopefully when you get the replacement ravpower all will be much better and you can confirm that 056 is stable.
I assume enterroutermode is still available in 056 because you reference hacks which require it
I have not tried any other versions of firmware other than 020 which is what it came with.
For that hacks I am aware of all of these and think these are all I have seen. So far I have only used a simple one line command to re-enable the root password which you can find elsewhere on this forum. This is all I needed because telnet is already enabled In 020.
Mine was broken...
Now the new copy is almost perfect.
This is the new option:
Thanks for the info. I also notice there is an ADMIN and GUEST user account. But seems only Admin user can ever see the files. I was hoping Guest account could see all and be given Read-only access. But no good. Makes hard to share, anyone can delete.
Admin/Guest account and Read-only guest access
Got it working, so 'Guest' account only has read access. At least it seems to work. You need to read detail PDF on RAV website. Talks about Admin & Guest accounts, and that the device automatically creates a directory called 'Share' and that 'Guest' account can only see inside here.
Further the 'delete' is grayed out for everything I put in 'Share' from Admin, so Guest can't delete stuff. Although Guest can create new directories and copy new stuff in. Maybe it knows what stuff Guest created.
Regardless this is perfect as it allows Guest users with no password to share move files for a long drive. They can all log in a Guest.
One other odd note (below) in manual about charging. Not really sure this is true, that it would hurt battery. I thought with amps a device pulls what it needs, its just an issue if you don't have enough amps. As in a 2a charger does not PUSH 2a, the device only sucks 1a. Anyone know for sure?
"Using a charger with an output higher than 1.0 A will damage the internal battery more or less"
Hello RavPower gang! I have my SanDisk formatted to exfat and can see the files when it is connected to my Windows 10 PC. I cannot see them when connecting through the FileHub app on my phone. I also tried reformatting the card with my Note 8. I've tried formatting 2 cards on my PC and on my Note 8 and no dice! All I can see is a "Safely Remove" notification, but it won't let me do anything from that screen except go back or home. What do I need to do?
Thanks All!
Is it possible to use the filehub as a simple smb/cifs fileserver on a 192.168.0.n network?
Yup.
I prefer Gl.inet.
I know that they missing the powerbank feature, but they are customizable as hell, quite affordable and very nice as VPN/TOR/NAS/Pineapple clone or whatever you can build resp. program with OpenWRT/lede.
Highly recommended.
PS
Very detailed and elaborate review.y
Kudos.

Yet another android tablet as a head unit

Hi,
I'd like to introduce my project...
I'm building a vintage kit car using the BMW Z3 (2000 model year) as the base car. I want the car to have access to tech but for the tech to be hidden in the centre console, actually on the underside of the top of the console. The concept is that when no tech is needed (for example at shows) the car will retain its vintage looks but when tech is required (i.e. when being driven) the tech becomes available. I'm imagining a top section of the console which will hinge up and reveal the tablet. There isn't going to be much space on the underside of the console which is why I'm going for a tablet rather than one of the many Chinese android units.
As an aside, I've just ordered an Icebox Octa core 64G Rom / 4G Ram unit (TTF1983 ) for my facelift (2015) Vauxhall Insignia which I expect to arrive in the next week or so.
I've already researched other people's projects which has helped me to get to where I currently am. Where I currently am is ordering many of the bits and pieces which I expect to need.
My tablet project is intended to be a much simpler affair than the Icebox unit:
DAB and FM radio
Rear and, hopefully, front camera
Sat nav
OBD II
Mirror my phone if needs be
What I won't need includes:
Steering wheel controls
Air con management
Electric roof control
Pretty much everything else that an android head unit offers
What I might need is:
BT Phone but in a convertible that's going to be a bit of an issue any way
Because the car will only be used sporadically I need an effective power management system, one which will kick in after perhaps a month's lack of use.
My tablet of choice is a Galaxy Tab S 10.5 (SM-T800) which I happen to have lying around, it's currently running stock Android 6.01 . The tablet is a wifi model so the plan is to hotspot it to my Galaxy S8 when I'm on the road
I've already ordered
a 12V to 5V 3A dc-dc converter
a 4 port USB2 hub
an OTG Y cable to take power from the dc-dc converter to feed the tablet and to move data between the devices
an easycap UTV007 video capture device (for the parking camera units)
a USB to USB relay to allow the easycap to feed the video through to the USB when reverse is connected
an 'intelligent' video selector which has two video inputs (front and rear cameras) and one video output (to the head unit via the USB relay). The unit keeps the relevant camera connected to the output. I need to take delivery of this and play with it to see what it can really do.
an ELM327 bluetooth OBD II device
a NooElec Smart DVB+ device
a Creative Soundblaster DAC
I know that I'm going to need a decent amplifier between the DAC and the speakers (suggestions and recommendations welcome). I might also want a manual volume control, possibly with a push button mute facility. I've probably missed a bunch of stuff...
I've rooted the tablet and tweaked it (overwritten lpm) so that when the ignition is switched on then the tablet will boot. I've used MacroDroid to tell the device to switch off 10 seconds after the ignition is switched off (unless the ignition gets switched on again within those 10 seconds)
I'm looking very closely at the Agama Car Launcher to pull much of it together. There are some aspects of this launcher that I'd like to see improved. For example I'd like to be able to get back to the home screen from the maps screen (or other screens) CarWebGuru places a button on the screen to allow this. It would be nice also to have a split screen so that I can have maps on one side and Audio / OBD / any other app on the other side. I'm aware that I might not get all that I wish for
One thing I'd REALLY like to see improved is the cold boot time which is currently 50 seconds. I might consider a custom ROM if anyone knows of a ROM that will fire up quickly, or any other tweak which will significantly shorten the cold boot time. 10 seconds or less would be nice. I've looked at Cyanogenmod 12.1 or 13 with the quick boot utility but I understand that the quick boot is basically hibernate and may not survive a month without the ignition being switched on.
Hopefully I've given a reasonable overview of what I'm looking to achieve and hopefully there will be people out there that can help tie everything together and troubleshoot when the time comes.
Russell
nice project, good luck with it..
Keep us posted on your project progress...
Wondering how this is coming along?
My question for you is, will the tablet charge and use data via the OTG cable simultaneously? Did you need to run a custom kernel to enable that?
thanks.
Quite in consonance with what I've been wanting to achieve. Nevertheless, the plan was frustrated by other priorities. Would love to see how this emerges. Meanwhile here's a basic experiment I've tried.

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