The Basics (continued):

The images below show the body of the device where we can see all of the connections. The unit plugs straight into your 12V cigarette lighter, and the display extends out a few inches. A hinge near the middle of the body allows you to adjust the angle of the display between six positions that span about 110 degrees.


In the above left image we see the 1/8" audio jack where you connect the included stereo cable to either a CD/DVD/MP3 player, or any other audio source for that matter. In the above right image we see the standard female USB port where you connect your USB thumb drive. Pretty simple, and quite convenient.

The end of the cigarette lighter connection screws off, and the fuse can easily be replaced if you should every need to.


Operation:

There are two means of operating the Roadmaster USA VRFM8 MP3 FM Modulator; with a USB thumb drive or with a separate audio device (CD/DVD/MP3 player). Of most interest to me was USB thumb drive operation, so we will cover that in greater detail.

In the image below you can see the VRFM8 in operation. It plugged into the 12V outlet and allowed me to physically adjust it for optimal viewing. As shown, the display provides a clear view of what channel the device is tuned to, but pretty much nothing else is shown. You do not have any indication of what file is playing, volume level, or any other setting you might expect to see on a traditional audio player. The VRFM8 is a simple device, and the basic screen definitely saves cost, size, and the need for much interaction from the user.