Specialty Equipment: DirecTV in an SUV
02/01/2006
In-car entertainment has long been one of the components of a good ride. Whether it was the in-dash radio of the ’50s or the 8-track player under the seat in the ’70s, consumers always have looked for something bigger and better to enhance the motoring experience. Witness a recent J.D. Power and Associates study, which reports that one-third of all the SUVs sold in the United States in 2004 were equipped with video screens. In recent years, with some built-in DVD systems playing Shrek 2 for the umpteenth time, it was almost inevitable that live satellite TV would become the next step in mobile entertainment.
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Launched in September 2003, KVH Industries’ TracVision brings DirecTV programming to your car. Already a leader in RV and marine satellite systems, satellite phones and the like, KVH has years of expertise in the mobile satellite market, and it is the first company to overcome the technical challenges involved with a phased-array antenna by utilizing mechanical components that continually rotate and tilt to find the clearest and strongest signal. The dish measures only 5 inches high and 32 inches wide, and can be mounted onto most roof racks. TracVision ($2,295) can be a simple addition to an in-seat video-screen installation, or it can be decked out with surround-sound speakers and subwoofers.
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While the technology affords great reception on the open road, the satellite signal tends to fade in and out when you are driving around canyon roads or other natural or man-made obstructions, which can be frustrating when watching a close Flyers game on NHL Center Ice. However, mount a wide-screen plasma TV in the cargo area, and you can host the most popular tailgate party in the stadium parking lot.
KVH Industries, 401.847.3327, www.tracvision.com