[snkysnake]

I need to locate an "always hot" power source for my new XM. Everything else is a piece of cake, but the unit came with about three feet of wire with an inline fuse, built in to the main XM harness. Instructions say to connect this lead "to a terminal that is always supplied with power regardless of key position". Anyone know of a hot wire within three feet of the Head Unit that qualifies? Thanks in advance!

Never mind, got it finished. FYI on the Pioneer Nav unit, the yellow wire on the main harness is constant hot.

[2009ledxb]

do u have an aftermarket head unit if so there is a 12v yellow wire that says 12v memory which constantly provides your head unit with power so it saves your settings u can splice into that not sure what color it is on the stock head unit wires though hope this helps if not wire it to the battery i did for my 15 inch screen any questions pm me

wow didnt see the repost lol glad u got it

[XweaponX]

When I purchase a new vehicle, I always run a dedicated "constant" wire from the battery with inline fuse to a convenient spot under the dash. From there, I tie all of my devices (Garmin GPS, fuzz buster, extra outlet, etc) into a terminal strip attached to this wire and swap out the fuse with a rating enough to handle all devices currently attached.

Also make sure that the wire is rated for a reasonable load capacity for future upgrades (like 25-30 amp range)

For switched power, I will run a lead from my radio switched lead to a relay that can handle the current... then connect to another terminal strip. These alleviates the load from the single easiest known switch power source (radio) and allows for more capacity for switched needs.

Hope this is helpful to someone...

[DoctorWho]

weapon-

That is great tip. In my current vehicle (an 01 Mazda MPV), I have my radar and iPod connections running to an unused switched source (sunroof), and the trailer hitch wiring running to an unused constant source (power side doors). It works a treat, but isn't as neatly tucked away as the terminal strip you are using. I always think about it, but never have the time when install time hits.