Our Diamond Dave repairs motorhomes for a living, which makes him the technical guru to consult when things go wrong
Satellite-navigation systems are one aid that has transformed travelling by motor vehicle. When they first became available, they were almost all expensive, built-in units.
Portable systems were limited by their battery and memory capacity. Nowadays they are available at ever lower prices, with longer battery life and bigger memory. But there are still good reasons to opt for a built-in unit. They’re powered by the vehicle’s 12V circuits, so there’s no limit to the operating time and you don’t have to plug them in.
They also generally have a connection to a road speed signal, allowing accurate tracking once calibrated, even without GPS signals.
I’ve just fitted a new entertainment head unit in the Duchess (our home converted camper). I opted for a Pioneer double DIN head unit with 6.5” fixed screen, FM/DAB radio/CD/ DVD player/Bluetooth (for hands-free mobile use and audio playback from compatible devices)/USB for media playback, and a built-in sat-nav system.
This is not a cheap option, but it does provide everything we need in one neat unit, plus excellent sound quality and digital radio reception.
Know the limit and stick to it
This story is from the October 2017 edition of Practical Motorhome.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the October 2017 edition of Practical Motorhome.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
ACE NOVELLA COACHBUILTS
Each month we focus on a great secondhand mainstream motorhome. We then tell you which is the best of the bunch, what to pay and which problems to look out for
A touch of NORFOLK SUN
The smart new McLouis Fusion made an ideal base for a summer weekend break
PANAMA P12
If you're looking for a camper that can ferry the whole family about during the week, the new P12 might be the answer, says Peter Baber
VOLKSWAGEN GRAND CALIFORNIA 600
More space makes the big Cali suited to those who want extra creature comforts from their camper.
48 HOURS IN CROMER
The charming coastal town of Cromer, in Norfolk, is especially renowned for its picturesque beauty and vibrant atmosphere.
AND DID THOSE FEET IN ANCIENT TIME...
Having returned to the UK following his European Odyssey, Marcus Leach seeks out the highs of the Peak District
BE SURE TO GET THE RIGHT COVER
In his latest column, podcaster Motorhome Matt Sims finds that when it comes to insuring your pride and joy, cheapest isn't always best
PROTECT YOUR MOTORHOME
We all love our motorhomes, but sadly, there are criminal types out there who love stealing them just as much. So what steps can you take to prevent the worst from happening to you? Our tech expert Peter Rosenthal explores your options
THE ROMANCE OF THE EUROS
Sports fan David Dowling combined his twin passions motorhoming and football for on a German adventure to the Euros and the Romantic Road.
SOUTHERN SEES
Titanic struggles, medieval halls and playful otters are among the highlights of Victor Charles' Hampshire tour.