Overview

The Android Auto portable head unit (HU) is a do-it-yourself project for developers wanting to test and demonstrate their Android Auto application outside of an in-vehicle implementation. Assembling the portable HU involves modifying a standard toolbox to house an Android Auto-capable head unit:

Hardware

26” Toolbox
Box Divider - 2 layer acrylic plexiglass (refer to divider specs)
Android Auto Unit - Includes Mic, USB extender and wiring adapter
AC/DC Converter - US only 110v to 12VDC @ 5.8 Amp
Speakers - (2 speakers, 1 pair) 5.25” or 4" depending on preference
Screws + Nuts - (30 needed) 10-32 x 0.5"
L-Brackets - (4 needed) 2.5” x ⅝”, for mounting head unit to box divider
Hinges - (2 needed) 1.5” hinges
Switches - (2 needed)

Tools:

Double sided velcro tape (to secure AC/DC to toolbox)
Wire stripper
Drill with the following bits:
- 3/16 bit for Screw ports
- 11.5mm for Mic port
- 11mm for Switch ports
Phillips #2 (star) screwdriver
Electrical tape and/or wire crimpers

Step 1: Box Divider Layout

Step 2: Wiring

Step 3: Assembly Tips

L-Brackets - screw brackets to closest opening holes to front display on headunit
AC/DC Converter - after cutting cig lighter adapter, wire with white text print is usually positive charge
- please use region specific converter for countries outside US
- another alternative would be to add a universal voltage adapter
Hinges - Align and install hinges with pivot divider midpoint to edge of toolbox opening