EAS VSM DVD Install write-up

[Dr_Smith]

A brief write-up on my DVD install. I decided to go with the EAS VSM from Tom at European Auto Source. I think I was probably one of the first to buy the VSM and the kit was/is excellent. Included is the Video Module itself, a high quality RGB cable to extend the input to the front for Video iPods, the remote input ports, and detailed instruction on installation. Installation was a breeze really. All you have to do is tap into the Video out at the back of the MKIV, provided + plus switched +, plug in your source, and provide a method of grounding. This unit also has input for a backup camera (wish I hadn’t missed out on the group buy!). Since I was using this primarily for the DVD screens in the backseat I opted to run a ground up to the front to trigger the video on the front screen, so I can see where the menus etc are at (while my 2yr old is smart, I don’t think I want to hand over the remote just yet).





I installed an ON/OFF Video button in the front ashtray as well as the IR pickup for the DVD player, pictured here.



In the rear stack I mounted an Alpine DHA-S680 6 player DVD player. You can see the VSM mounted in the top slot, but I may move that later to open up the top slot for future expansion. I went with the SAVV 7” screens, a SAVV AVM-X5050 5 in 5 out Video Selector pictured here, and SAVV IR headphones fed by the screens. The SAVV headrests come with leather covers when not in use. Later I will add a second DVD player in the First-Aid box location as the video selector will allow screen to view inputs independently.





One of the nice things about the VSM is it includes the Aux input. I won’t go through the wiring of this as it has been covered in previous threads. One of the most difficult tasks was running the wires under the carpet and into the seats. I basically gutted the X, removing seats (front and rear) mid pillar trim, sill plate trim etc. The Alpine DVD changer was also a pain to fit in there as the wiring is quite tight, but all works well and my wife and I can have conversations again. It also sounds fantastic to listen to your favorite concert DVD through the AUX input, in my case George Harrison Tribute Concert.

Sorry for the picture quality, I’m still learning with this DSLR.







Thanks to Tom for his help in getting this system going, I had to call him a couple of times about wiring and he was immediately available and very helpful!

[benathon]

Looks amazing. I was wondering what you used for the on/off video button in your ashtry? I

[Dr_Smith]

Originally Posted by benathon

Looks amazing. I was wondering what you used for the on/off video button in your ashtry? I

thx. basically it grounds the VSM allowing video to be displayed on the NAV screen. So I'll turn the video on the NAV screen until I get the little guys DVD going, and then turn it off so I can drive...

[benathon]

That wasn't what I was asking; haha. I was asking what you used to fabricate the area in your ashtry? Sorry for the inconveience. Do you have more close up pics?

[Tom G.]

The new system looks awesome - great work!

[CanadianX5]

Sexy
Good to see people using quality Alpine gear.

[WOOD56]

I like the setup. I look forward to adding this mod to my X soon..

[Tom G.]

Originally Posted by WOOD56

I like the setup. I look forward to adding this mod to my X soon..

Let me know if you have any questions beforehand, we're happy to help.

[benathon]

Originally Posted by benathon

That wasn't what I was asking; haha. I was asking what you used to fabricate the area in your ashtry? Sorry for the inconveience. Do you have more close up pics?

I'm still interested in what you used to fabricate the ashtry...

[cuteboy]

Tom, very impresive system.

I am new to this kind of stuff. I have a startup question for everyone. How do you pull the cable through the back of the seat? Do you have to take off the pad in the back to pull the cable out? When I push the cable through the holes, nothing is comming out in the bottom.

Anyone help, please

Thanks in advance,

~Cuteboy