When it comes to car DVD players, you might encounter the term: mobile DVD player which stands, in fact, for video system DVD player included. All you need is:
- a video monitor to display images
- a DVD player (the source) which means a built-in monitor, portable TV, laptop computer, anything that allows you to watch video information
- an audio component, such as wireless headphones. But also an in-dash receiver, amplifier or speaker system, surround processor, even a TV monitor with a built-in speaker.
Usually, the device is installed on the dashboard as long as it is large enough and the car type allows it. Otherwise, there is another system, more sophisticated, consisting of a car DVD player (the source), installed under a front seat. The audio signal gets from the DVD player into an in-dash receiver, connected to a five-channel amplifier and speakers. The video signal runs from the DVD player to a flip-down video monitor placed in the roof of the car.
A portable DVD player might be:
- ready to install or self-contained player/monitor combination, easy to install and convenient. But it might not install exactly as you wish, which may limit its visibility;
- separate components which require installing, but the sound and picture quality is better.
- front-seat systems, the monitor is in the dash;
- back-seat systems, the monitors are in the front-seat headrests. The passengers might be uncomfortable slicing their headrests open, mounting a bracket, and sewing it back. So, brackets that secure to the posts of the front-seat headrests appeared; the monitor mounts on an arm of the bracket, which is adjustable. There are also headrests with monitors already installed.
- overhead systems. The monitors are installed on the ceiling. They may be folded down for easy viewing, and folded up for storage when they aren't in use.