GPS underneath the dash - it might work for ya

**the_dude** · 06-05-2004, 10:04 PM

Just thought I'd throw out another installation option for gps devices.

I have the delorme earthmate usb gps running street atlas 2004. I originally tested in the front dash and it worked great, rarely ever had less than 4 satelites to pick up from. I wanted to put it in the back window but for some reason it just barely worked sometimes. Maybe it's the rear defroster or the window, I don't know but I knew I had to put it in the front windshield.

So I decided to install it underneath the dashboard right in the center. I have a 2004 accord and you can pull off the top center piece in the dashboard and intall it underneath that and it will work fine(at least for me). I didn't notice any difference between being on top and underneath.

So if you have a dahboard with a panel that can be removed it might be an option for you. It's better than letting it sit out with the ever so attracting "steal me yellow" color.

- Kyle

**gubon13** · 06-05-2004, 10:15 PM

It pains me when I read about you lucky people who can put your GPS units inside your cars. My Ford F150 has something in the glass because inside the truck I get ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. Not one bird locks on. As soon as it goes out the window, I get 10-11 within 30 seconds. Very frustrating...

**rando** · 06-05-2004, 11:26 PM

That's where I have mine...right inside the dash where the OEM navigation antenna is supposed to go. It's not quite as good as sitting it on top of the dash, but still good.

**robiewp** · 06-06-2004, 12:11 AM

inside the tundra my earthmate locks onto 8+ sats. In the jeep.... i'm lucky to get 3.

**rgardjr** · 06-06-2004, 01:08 AM

Originally Posted by gubon13

It pains me when I read about you lucky people who can put your GPS units inside your cars. My Ford F150 has something in the glass because inside the truck I get ABSOLUTELY NOTHING. Not one bird locks on. As soon as it goes out the window, I get 10-11 within 30 seconds. Very frustrating...

2003 GMC Sierra 8-9 satellites sitting on the dash ...

**the_dude** · 06-06-2004, 02:38 AM

I'd definately say that different types of windshields and rear windows seem to come into play. I have know idea what sets them apart but it's something.

- Kyle

**carpcnoobie** · 06-06-2004, 06:04 AM

This is exactly where I was planning on putting my GPS mouse, in the dash. I tried it the other day by simply putting the mouse in the glove compartment and I still had a signal, although I may have lost one sat. Well hidden.

**DaRacerz** · 06-06-2004, 10:32 AM

The reason some of you guys are having trouble is some car manufactures are experimenting with 'metalic' glass as far as i know. And metalic glass is deadly for an type of radio signal, especially such a weak one like a gps signal.

**gibsonian** · 06-06-2004, 02:34 PM

So if I have a GTP with the heads up display, am I going to have a weak signal because of the special glass?

**carpcnoobie** · 06-06-2004, 06:15 PM

Originally Posted by gibsonian

So if I have a GTP with the heads up display, am I going to have a weak signal because of the special glass?

I always that that 'special' glass was for the defrosting of windows. Not because of the HUD. If I remember right, the HUD windshield has a special reflective layer that keeps the HUD from producing a double image and makes it more visable in daylight.

There are several members in here with HUD that would probably know for certain.