DSM10000 Posted March 24 Share Posted March 24 I own a 2006 W203 C180 equipped with an aftermarket Android head unit, namely from Eonon, which has functioned impeccably for 2.5 years despite being of Chinese origin. The device has a DAB dongle; but, despite being situated in an area with adequate reception, I am experiencing difficulties in obtaining a signal. I would appreciate any advice on how to continue. Here are the attempts I have made so far: I first attempted to use a splitter from the vehicle's integrated antenna (standard W203 amplified antenna located in the rear window region). The splitter proved to be futile. I then used a magnetic antenna from Halfords affixed to the boot lid, with the wire routed to the front. Initially, it received 87 stations with full signal, with just typical dropouts; but, after many months, it corroded below and became mostly ineffective. My local auto specialist advised me to opt for window-mounted film options; however, I previously used one in another vehicle, which proved unsatisfactory. It was an inexpensive model, and perhaps I should consider a higher-quality version with its own 12V power supply. Nonetheless, I remain sceptical about the overall efficacy of window-mounted film solutions. I have been examining this item, which is costly although intriguing and straightforward to install; nonetheless, I do not comprehend its functionality. Another alternative I am considering is installing an exterior roof-mounted type, positioned on the boot lid in a shark fin configuration. A new head unit is forthcoming, and upon its arrival, I will install a reverse camera. Consequently, I will be disassembling the boot trim, allowing me to conveniently drill a hole for the aerial and run the wires alongside those of the reverse camera. I would appreciate insights on optimising the performance of my new device, which is fully equipped with advanced features, to ensure every element functions well. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
clk320x4 Posted March 24 Share Posted March 24 The InCarTech glass mount is inductively connected via the glass. I had a Cellnet mobile antenna identical to one installed in my vehicle, and it functioned well. An excellent alternative if you choose not to hole the roof or trunk for a shark fin style antenna. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
br1anuk Posted March 24 Share Posted March 24 If you are installing a rear camera, it is advisable to avoid routing the camera wire alongside the DAB line, since this may disrupt the DAB signal. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DSM10000 Posted March 24 Author Share Posted March 24 Excellent observation I had not contemplated it, and really, it is accurate and rather unwise. I am quite enticed by the glass mount; nevertheless, £70 is exorbitant if it proves to be no superior than a £20 internal film option. Additionally, I was attracted to the advertisement's statement: "If using with a DAB device featuring a switchable 12v phantom feed down the coaxial cable, ensure that this is activated." I am uncertain if this USB dongle has one; do you believe it would still function without one? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
br1anuk Posted March 24 Share Posted March 24 Pioneer and Kenwood both have individual film-type antennas. I lack expertise with either, but I would think that, considering the overall quality of their equipment, it is unlikely to be subpar. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DSM10000 Posted March 24 Author Share Posted March 24 I believe I need a device with an independent 12V power supply, since I doubt that these USB dongles can transmit phantom power, unless there exists a method to provide that power via an adapter. I have seen such adapters for FM antennas, but not for freestanding DAB units. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KissezFun Posted March 24 Share Posted March 24 I had the same problem with my 2009 CLK convertible. Attempted several alternatives, all unsatisfactory. Ultimately selected this option, which is tailored to the back quarter panel. The optimal reception, installed over a year ago, continues to function well, albeit it necessitates drilling into the bodywork. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KissezFun Posted March 24 Share Posted March 24 https://www.amazon.co.uk/Eightwood-Amplified-Extension-Compatible-Blaupunkt/dp/B072J3JYQW/ref=sr_1_4?crid=1APEV5FS7KY2B&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.C00gRfRMK-XeqejubinficuqwTw8WXtn4L878i3D4h3OGorv8Hc_xhr7tIALy8QiNTt31fFgayRz7c5Tc7l3ZC-XHN3KsWDxOPoRbSO1ipXdPNW8HM1538SPIiWCXnMuh9rM7zqAsXDgIM1y-xmeYdaiH1kTN18yI5mcsbGFszU63TCDx8Lzr2evKQnly6LFW8gmd8hPLDbQCYaFIMO_lJd_LMd6ct_ne9TAAeXqaE4.xnITNWc-5-SPB3LNG1AxKWJucwHkAikXCBhtSWCXloI&dib_tag=se&keywords=dab+car+aerial&qid=1742757252&sprefix=dab+car%2Caps%2C88&sr=8-4 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
DSM10000 Posted March 24 Author Share Posted March 24 I am very interested in one of them and considered installing it on the boot lid for accessibility and cable routing. However, it was noted that routing reverse camera wires along the same path might lead to interference. How did you manage to install it on the rear quarter panel? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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