I just received my TST Wide Screen color monitor yesterday and got it up and running on the bench. Wow! The display is real nice with larger digits and added color. However, I do have a few issues I'd like to report.
- The new monitor is now powered by a 5 volt mini plug just like what one uses for their smart phone (Android, not Apple). This presents a challenge as I had the previous 12 volt monochrome monitor's power cord hard wired into the overhead console in my Tundra which was a nice clean installation with no power cord draped across the dash. I spoke with the TST tech last evening who was largely responsible for this new upgrade and he informed me they should have a 12 volt to 5 volt wire conversion coming out soon that should fit in the overhead console. Fortunately, the monitor is supposed to be able to run off it's battery for 5 to 7 days. I may just install it and do without a power cable for now and charge it when parked.
- I had a problem trying to see the individual sensors displayed. This is what prompted my call and by the time the tech called back after leaving a message, I had figured out the problem. There is a provision to where one can disable the trailer function which might be useful if disconnected and using the TV to run around checking out sights. Apparently, the new displays are being sent from the factory with the trailer disable function engaged and ergo, no sensors are displayed. Re-engaging the trailer is a simple two button push.
- When programming the display to learn the code from each sensor, some of them required repeated attempts to get the display to recognize the particular sensor I was programming into the system. I don't recall the old monochrome display having this problem but it has been a long time.
- When programming and scrolling through the various functions, there were a few that weren't even mentioned in the online manual. I asked the tech about what each one does and he said some were non functional. Others such as "trailer ID" don't pertain to my type of usage. The impression I got talking with the tech is that it sounded as if this online manual is a "work in progress" of sorts. It is a new product and maybe being rushed out the door a bit early? Nah.....it looks fabulous and once the quirks are figured out, is mucho better IMHO.
Things I like besides the awesome new display look,
- The monitor has a motion sensor inside that allows it to go into sleep mode As soon as the vehicle starts to move, the motion sensor wakes up the monitor. A great feature for conserving battery life.
- Gone is the external antenna and in it's place is one that's inside the display. According to the TST tech, this new monitor has much better range and should help eliminate the need for a repeater.
- All the buttons have been moved from the top to the front. This is important for folks like myself who mount the monitor right below the rear view mirror. Access is now uninhibited.
- The new monitor has the ability to store and utilize sensors for up to 4 separate trailers. This could come in VERY handy if one owns and tows more than one trailer, ie: a boat, travel trailer, utility trailer etc etc. Instead of having to purchase 4 separate monitors, one could simply change the code to whichever trailer is being towed.
- The new display should be much easier to see in certain lighting conditions. There were times when the monochrome display was very difficult to read such as mid day sun and sunglasses being worn.
- There are more alarms and screen alerts than before.
Here's a side by side photo. Yes, it is a bit larger (the old display is about 2" closer than the new so it appears the same size in the photo) but so what!
So far I'm impressed. It hasn't been road tested yet and that will happen in a few days as we head south to the Buellton rally. I plan to leave both monitors up and running so will be able to directly compare the new to the old and not have to rely on memory.
To be continued......
