Abstract: The system includes a removable entertainment device including an information retrieval device. The information retrieval device is configured to receive removable storage media. The removable entertainment device includes a controller in electrical communication with the information retrieval device to retract the media into the information retrieval device when the controller receives a signal indicative that the removable entertainment device will be moved. Such signals may include a screen closure sensor, a movement sensor, or a player supported sensor.

Abstract: The system includes a controller, a portable media reader, and an input device. The controller is in communication with the portable media reader and the input device. The controller detects when a particular portable media is inserted into the portable media reader for a first time. When the controller detects the initial insertion of the portable media, the controller records a macro. As the user configures the system, user input is recorded by the macro. The controller is configured to play the macro when the portable media is subsequently loaded into the portable media player.

Abstract: The system includes a removable entertainment device that interfaces with a docking station. The removable entertainment device includes a controller that implements a software lock to disable the removable entertainment device, if it is improperly removed from the docking station. The docking station uses a challenge and response message to provide a secure methodology to control the unlocking of the removable entertainment device.

Abstract: A removable vehicle entertainment system is provided. The system includes a video display screen for displaying entertainment to an occupant of the vehicle. The system can be removed from the docking bracket in the vehicle, and attached to an external docking station such that the system can be used independently of the power supply and speakers of the vehicle. Further, the system can be used as a self-contained personal entertainment system. The system includes mechanical and/or electrical componentry that determines audio mute and video display configuration based on a power signal and a docked signal.

Abstract: A vehicle multimedia system having a safety interlock mechanism. The vehicle multimedia system comprising a portable multimedia unit having a support sensor for sensing support thereon and a docking station configured to interlock the portable multimedia unit therein. The docking station comprises a main frame having a receiving port to receive the portable multimedia unit. The main frame includes a locking assembly for securing the portable multimedia unit to the main frame and a microprocessor for communicating with the locking assembly and the support sensor.