i noticed that when a HU (tape/cd/etc) is running at high levels, the display goes dim when the bass hits. ive seen this with most decks and even with the factory units. it seems like the power supply is not strong enough to run it. is it possible to install a small capacitor with the head unit? would this make a difference? is this the problem or is it just a lack of amplifier power that makes it dim?

Do you have an amp? if you do.. then you can get a 1 fareit ( sp>) cap.. but for a stock deck to be doing that.. I"m concern if it'* the alternator.. thats my 2 cents

im not using an amp right now.... i mean that head units in general (stock /aftermarket) seem to suffer the same problem of dimming. could it be because of weak charging systems? it does this when the car is running AND when it just runs off the battery. i was just wondering if a capacitor smaller the 1 farad could be used (1 f is pretty big) maybe something like 1/4 farad or so?

I dont know if there is much room or wires to do that on. Head units power is fed thru two places, one always on for some functions, and one switched for main functions.

but theoretically speaking, could it be done?

If your not using an amp then you are having a problem with your charging system. The only reason why you lights should dim if there is a draw from low bass. Adding a cap isnt going to do anything. Itll still dim when bass hits. If your alt. cant keep the cap charged itll do the same thing, so you just wasted your money. I would check your alt. and make sure it charging to the full potential, then check your battery and see if it is maintaining a constant volt. Then turn the radio on and monitor it when the bass hits.

if a cap doesnt help with this problem, then what is a cap for? im not trying to be an expert so please correct me if i am wrong, but i thought caps are to supply current that is greater than the nominal current value of the charging system (for very short peaks). so assuming that the charging system and battery are working properly, is there anything that can be done to eliminate this problem? other than buying a better amp?

You might need two caps, one for switched, and one for always on power.

get a optima battery

No you are right what a cap does, but if the charging system isnt working properly its not going to keep the cap charged. But also I thought you said you werent running an amp. So what new amp were you reffering to?

BonneMeMN
Im still confused by your reply of:

I dont know if there is much room or wires to do that on. Head units power is fed thru two places, one always on for some functions, and one switched for main functions.