Mobile video, front and center

The easiest way to get a mobile video system that serves the front seats in your vehicle is to install an in-dash receiver with a built-in monitor. These receivers feature monitors (usually LCD, and 6-1/2 or 7 inches) which act as TV screens for your videos, system information displays, and system controllers.

Mobile video receivers are also generally capable of extensive system expansion; most allow you to connect extra audio or video components, plus useful gear like DVD navigation and backup cameras.

Mobile video receivers, like this model from Clarion, fit in standard dash openings, and feature retractable LCD video monitors.

If you choose to go this route, you'll most likely want a receiver with DVD playback, which basically acts as an all-in-one solution. In order to play a DVD, you'll have to have your vehicle parked and the emergency brake engaged — this is strictly for safety reasons; you certainly don't want to be distracted by the captivating images of your favorite films while cruising the Interstate at 65 m.p.h.! When you're not watching a film, however, the display will act as your system's command central, and, depending on the model, might even offer touch-screen control. Many video receivers also feature cool graphics, such as equalizer displays, that accompany your music.

The receiver installs just like a standard deck does. The only extra connections you'll need to make are to your emergency brake and any accessories you've chosen to make your ride more enjoyable.

Warning: removing your seat could deactivate your vehicle's SRS system.

Front-seat monitors are essential if you're thinking about installing a GPS navigation system (see our Navigation article in the Learning Center for more detail about how these systems work) for turn-by-turn guidance to just about anywhere in the country. Most mobile video receivers have dedicated navigation inputs for same-brand navigation systems, and many have navigation already built-in. And unlike watching a movie, you'll be capable of using the navigation system when the vehicle's in motion (it wouldn't be too useful otherwise, right?), since it's providing essential information.

A GPS navigation system can give you detailed visual directions and voice prompts to get you just about anywhere you go accurately and safely.

Backup cameras can come in very handy, too, especially with larger vehicles. The camera, mounted on your rear bumper, gives you a clear view of what's behind you as you back up. Many video receivers have dedicated backup camera inputs. They'll also automatically reverse the image on the screen, so it'll look completely natural to you as you use the screen to navigate backwards.

Possibly the most impressive feature most video receivers have is dual- or multi-zone capability. Receivers with either of these capabilities will have at least one set of audio/video outputs, as well as at least one set of audio/video inputs. Separate monitors and a transmitter for wireless headphones for the back seat can be hooked up to the outputs. Additional sources, such as a video game console, can connect to the A/V inputs. When you engage the dual-zone feature, you can send the signal from one source, like the DVD player or video game console, to the rear monitors and headphone transmitter; the folks in back will be able to enjoy that source. Meanwhile, you can still play the radio, for example, over the car's speakers. The more zones a receiver can control simultaneously, the more diverse your entertainment options get.