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Topic: Mounting Electronic Gadgets (Read 810 times) previous topic - next topic

Mounting Electronic Gadgets

Here's my thought...I simply need examples of clever applications or suggestions...and heaven knows there's plenty of creative talent here to ponder this.

I have the following electronic gadgets looking for dash space:

1.  VMSpc using 10" ASUS Tablet - Currently using a plastic mount screwed to the dash just ahead of the rounded coach instrument dash so VMSpc tablet must be removed to open rounded dash
2.  Garmin RV 770 LMT‑S - currently using a bean bag mount on top of the rounded dash (perfect for visibility but not permanent
3.  SiriusXm Onyx Plus satellite radio - currently suction cupped to drink holder in middle of dash
4.  TST Tire Pressure Monitor Display - currently suction cupped to drink holder in middle of dash
5.  IPhone  - no real good idea yet

For the driver I'd like to able to mount the GPS, VMSpc and TST monitor permanently.  Is there a way to build a platform containing the dock mounts and power cords and permanently affix it to the round instrument dash in such a way that the gadgets could be removed for storage or access to the electronics below this part of the dash but leaving the docks and power cords?

Build a second platform permanently affixed to the center dash area which also flips up for service.  This platform would contain the docks and power cords for the Sirius XM and 1 or two iPhones.

The goal is something secure and aesthetically pleasant (maybe walnut) that would allow proper positioning of the electronics, ease of removal for storage of the devices and not limit the ability to flip up these various dash components to access wiring below?

Thanks

Randy

Re: Mounting Electronic Gadgets

Reply #1 –
Here's how I hold our 10" 2-in-one VMSpc laptop.  Bracket is built from aluminum and designed to straddle the steering column and rest against the dash just above the air vents.  Self adhesive felt in the channel keeps the laptop snugly in place and protected against marring.  Machine screws through existing holes in the steering column bracket hold the bracket securely in place.  Painted black the assembly blends in very well.  If centered on the dash a bit of the air gauges would have been covered so allowance was made to position the laptop slightly left of center.  Wires routed along the bracket disappear under the dash.  Likely a smaller channel could be sourced for thinner notebooks. 

Re: Mounting Electronic Gadgets

Reply #2 –
Quote from: Rick & Robyn –
Here's how I hold our 10" 2-in-one VMSpc laptop.  Bracket is built from aluminum and designed to straddle the steering column and rest against the dash just above the air vents.  Self adhesive felt in the channel keeps the laptop snugly in place and protected against marring.  Machine screws through existing holes in the steering column bracket hold the bracket securely in place.  Painted black the assembly blends in very well.  If centered on the dash a bit of the air gauges would have been covered so allowance was made to position the laptop slightly left of center.  Wires routed along the bracket disappear under the dash.  Likely a smaller channel could be sourced for thinner notebooks. 

this was something you custom fabricated I assume?

Re: Mounting Electronic Gadgets

Reply #3 –
Yes, it was a quick and easy fabrication. 

Re: Mounting Electronic Gadgets

Reply #4 –
Can you post a pic of the holder and tablet in place in the FT for context?  Cool idea.

Re: Mounting Electronic Gadgets

Reply #5 –
I will post a pic of mine in a day or 2... phone is in my back pocket usually as I drive. I have everything but the tire monitor as of right now.. my 10" tablet lays against my gauges instead of the actually gauges.I might move it above where my visor was mounted as I do not like adding any more holes than I have to.

Re: Mounting Electronic Gadgets

Reply #6 –
1.  Just open pc and set on dash near windshield.  Can store when parked

2.  Just use suction attachment for garmin to side window, easy to tilt and see.

3. XM built into dash radio

5.  Phone just lay on dash mat

A. Go Pro is suction mounted to windshield

Do have dash mat made by MOT

Re: Mounting Electronic Gadgets

Reply #7 –
The previous owners, Jeff & Carol, had made a wooden shelf to hold the back-up display.  I made a larger one from black acrylic that I had left over from a job at my business.  The glue is a special solvent that welds the acrylic together.  It is only attached to the dash at the curved part with heavy duty Velcro.  The brackets are for a Sirus satellite radio control and a Rand McNally GPS.  The clear plastic thing is a small brochure holder from Staples that I use for a note pad, pens and loose stuff.  If you decide to make one I have some sheets left over.  Let me know.

Keith

Re: Mounting Electronic Gadgets

Reply #8 –
Here is mine, as promised

Re: Mounting Electronic Gadgets

Reply #9 –
This isn't permanent but it worked pretty well for the VMS on our 300. Put the notebook wherever along with a cheapo router, also wherever. Then just use a windshield suction cup iPad mount for the VMS. No wires on the dash and you just slip the iPad out of the mount for use.
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