Thread: VGA upgrade for TM-701L

First let me apologize to those that have been waiting for the 700YYV monitors from us. I've decided not to buy them at this time, here is my reasoning - I bought 5 pcs. as samples and they all had problems: Power cable would not fit all the way in and would constantly fall out, VGA cable would not fit properly and every time it moves a little the image distorts, the most annoying problem is the shadows that appear on the screen (Example)
Does anybody else have these shadows on their xenarc monitors?

However I still wanted to find a way to have a VGA solution in an in-dash package (TM-701L) so I opened one of the xenarc monitors and... We have a match! The LCD panel used in both monitors is the same Panasonic panel meaning that all the cables and wires connecting the VGA controller, inverter and the LCD panel are the same. There are a few issues with the install: 1. adopting TM-701Ls buttons to work with the new board (Done) - once installed they worked perfectly, 2. Installing the Power ON LED and running the wire to the original location - this is not too hard and I already have a good place for it. 3. Running the VGA cable and a power line through the in-dash housing - this is going to be the hardest part. From doing the touchscreen installs I learned that there isn't enough room for too many cables and everything gets in the way. Here is the pic of the VGA board and buttons installed. That is as far as I got because unfortunately I was working late one night and shorted something out on the board and it is not working anymore When done this new monitor will have all the features of the new xenarc monitors (resolution, auto ON/OFF, touch kit, etc...)

I talked to the manufacturer about the shadows problem and finally got a positive response:

we improved the control board of GA-700Y, through our test, the question you inquired are never happen again.

also I am going to try to work with them to make a custom VGA cable (ribbon cable maybe) that will work better with the in-dash housing.

Pricing - $600
$200 - TM-701L (this is without the RCA controller)
$100 - Touch Kit (USB)
$250 - VGA Upgrade
$50 - Installation + Shipping

This should be the final pricing unless something unexpected comes up. Everything will be available in parts so if you already have TM-701L then you can buy the VGA controller or if you have a xenarc monitor and want to make it an in-dash you can just get the in-dash housing + LCD Panel. The only thing you can't get is empty in-dash housing because I can't get it my self.

Lastly, I also asked the manufacturer about the new VGA + Touch motorized 7" in-dash monitor (per xenarc.com) and they confirmed. Mass Production will start in May, pictures or pricing is not available yet.

Comments?