Carl Smith

Audio Visual Specialist Technician

The addition of in-car entertainment specialist Carl Smith to the Southdowns workshop team has added a new dimension to the service we can offer our customers.

Q What attracted you to work for Southdowns?
A I was working for a local vehicle security and electronics equipment company when the job came up and I fancied doing something a bit different.

Q What are your key responsibilities?
A I’m an electrician by trade and as part of the Southdowns workshop team, I specialise in fitting Oyster digital satellite and DVD set-ups and satellite navigation systems. I also fit add-on systems such as solar panels, reversing cameras, security systems and microwave ovens. I enjoy carpentry too and I’m pretty competent so I also offer a bespoke service to our customers, whereby I can build units to house equipment like microwaves and TVs to their personal specifications. I always use sympathetic materials so the new cupboards or shelves look as if they were part of the original motorhome spec.

Q What have been your most interesting projects to-date?
A I have adapted a number of motorhomes for customers with disabilities, so that equipment is within easy reach. I designed a special camera layout for one customer so that he could keep an eye on his dog in it’s custom-built cage in the garage of the motorhome. I also recently installed a digital satellite system so that a customer could watch UK TV in the lounge of his motorhome, while his wife tuned into Russian channels in the bedroom.

Q What is the best thing about working for the company
A Every day is different because no vehicle is the same as the last one. I’m really enjoying the variety.

Q Does working with motorhomes hold an appeal for you?
A I’m developing an interest in them so I’m hoping Michael (the Southdowns MD) might let me borrow one.

Q If you could take a motorhome anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A Motor racing...

Carl lives in Gosport with his wife Vicky and their daughter Jasmine.