New tint killed GPS... Have to go outside.. Need advice..

TheJack · 06-24-2006, 12:39 AM

Currently have an Earthmate attached under false deck-lid of hatchback... I just got my windows tinted dark today and, as I figured would happen, GPS is no link.

OK.. So I have to go outside the car. Earthmate is not waterproof or magnetic.

I remember seeing a walkthough to hack connect external antenna to Earthmate, but can't find it..

Should I mess with unit (like Deluo thing) with external antenna? OR just a new USB/mouse receiver that is waterproof and magmount?

Product recommendations appreciated..

psyrex · 06-24-2006, 01:11 AM

there was some thread on a waterproof substance found at Lowe's or Home Depot. just grab the mouse by its tail and dip a few layers. Voila! mouse > weather.

miztahsparklez · 06-24-2006, 05:29 AM

but you still need to attach it to the car... id say go with a waterproof unit. or go OEM gps...

TheJack · 06-24-2006, 09:56 AM

I found the Plasti-dip threads right after I posted.... Also found a conceiled place, under plastic molding between windshield and hood (plastic housing for windshield wiper, etc).... Once Plasti-dipped and wedge in the space I found, it will be far better than previous location... And not a dime spent...

Thanks

sebberry · 06-24-2006, 07:45 PM

Can you put it under your dash?

Queenambeach · 06-26-2006, 10:24 AM

What % is your tint? Cause I have 20% and I get a lock in less than 5 seconds.

psyrex · 06-26-2006, 10:46 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by Queenambeach

What % is your tint? Cause I have 20% and I get a lock in less than 5 seconds.

The percent you're asking about only affects visible light. Tints based on metallic films shield the receiver from the GPS signals. Tints based on plastic or ceramic films don't. It's the type/brand that affects GPS, not the percent of light let through.

Queenambeach · 06-26-2006, 10:47 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by psyrex

The percent you're asking about only affects visible light. Tints based on metallic films shield the receiver from the GPS signals. Tints based on plastic or ceramic films don't. It's the type/brand that affects GPS, not the percent of light let through.

Okay, thanks for clearing that up.

MatrixPC · 06-26-2006, 10:58 AM

If you get metalic tint, it will affect signal reception of GPS, WiFi, Radio antenna if you have those device/antenna under the tinted windows.
I have my on the dashboard in the Supra and deep inside teh dash on the matrix, and both has no problem with reception.

Megalomaniac · 06-26-2006, 12:50 PM

I just put 5% Madico Onyx tint all around(the front is only the 5 " brow) I didnt get signal for the 1st day then i took my gps inside my house and it worked,then i took it back to my car and it worked again,i think my gps was just too hot it needed to cool off(darn TX Heat).ZAt 1st i thought it was the tint,but it was just a coincidental that i picked one off the hottest days to get a tint job.

TheJack · 06-26-2006, 11:08 PM

FYI... It was limo tint on back window... I figured it would cut GPS and I was right...

Held in my hand outside the car, I get good lock.. under the tint ZIP.

TheJack · 06-28-2006, 10:48 PM

MAN I'm a glad I got the tint, because it forced me to move my mouse. Plasti-dipped Earthmate is now under my plastic "wiper" cowl.... and I am soo glad. Last night after finishing relocation I got 8 of 9 satellites, atleast 3 more than before.