Initial requirements and desired functions where to be able to play MP3's and videos whilst still keeping nav and radio functions of the existing 16:9 nav unit.
Whilst browsing the web I came across an application called CARX which maintains the look of the existing nav gui and is also controlled via the nav and wheel controls which removes the need for any additional input devices in the cabin or an expensive touchscreen that needs to be mounted in place of the nav.
Hardware Required
PC that has TV out.
Serial IBUS interface
BMW connectors
Power Inverter (600W)
30A Relay and holder
Various Audio and Video Leads
The Installation.
The installation was done following a guide I found here. Install Guide.
The guide is for an X5 which isnt an issue as the audio/nav systems are pretty much the same.
To power the PC I decided on using a 12v-240v inverter so that I can use other 240v equipment should the need arise.
The inverter is connected to the battery via a 30A relay that is switched using an ignition live to save having to manually turn it on and off.
The PC's bios is also set to start up when power is restored removing the need to manually start the PC.
After an hour or 2 under the floor panel inserting connectors into the existing plugs on the NAV module and cutting and soldering the tape input wires on the radio module everything worked as planned.
The only issue I have is that the audio output from the PC is about 75% of what it would be from the tape deck so the volume needs to be set quite high to get a reasonable listening volume.
Some pics of the install and function.
PC in Boot. (I will get a smaller case etc in the future as I just wanted to prove the concept before committing to any further expense.
Cabling at rear of PC which is fed under the floor to the radio and nav modules.
Power inverter in drivers side load area storage compartment.
- CARX Main screen.
- MP3 Main menu.
- MP3 Playing Screen.
- MP3 Title on OBC.
- MP3 Options. (numbers correspond to numbered buttons on the nav)
- Video Menu.
- Video Playing.
- CARX Radar feature.
- IBUS Log
- Web Browser.
- XP Desktop
Video showing operation.
[YOUTUBE]jZCjqpBM8lM[/YOUTUBE]
All in all I'm quite happy with what I have acheived with little cost.
*NOTE* Text copied from http://www.bimmerforums.co.uk/forum/...nstall-t19013/
Installation Guide Link - Step by Step.
http://s113117221.onlinehome.us/How%...your%20car.doc
Whilst browsing the web I came across an application called CARX which maintains the look of the existing nav gui and is also controlled via the nav and wheel controls which removes the need for any additional input devices in the cabin or an expensive touchscreen that needs to be mounted in place of the nav.
Hardware Required
PC that has TV out.
Serial IBUS interface
BMW connectors
Power Inverter (600W)
30A Relay and holder
Various Audio and Video Leads
The Installation.
The installation was done following a guide I found here. Install Guide.
The guide is for an X5 which isnt an issue as the audio/nav systems are pretty much the same.
To power the PC I decided on using a 12v-240v inverter so that I can use other 240v equipment should the need arise.
The inverter is connected to the battery via a 30A relay that is switched using an ignition live to save having to manually turn it on and off.
The PC's bios is also set to start up when power is restored removing the need to manually start the PC.
After an hour or 2 under the floor panel inserting connectors into the existing plugs on the NAV module and cutting and soldering the tape input wires on the radio module everything worked as planned.
The only issue I have is that the audio output from the PC is about 75% of what it would be from the tape deck so the volume needs to be set quite high to get a reasonable listening volume.
Some pics of the install and function.
PC in Boot. (I will get a smaller case etc in the future as I just wanted to prove the concept before committing to any further expense.
Cabling at rear of PC which is fed under the floor to the radio and nav modules.
Power inverter in drivers side load area storage compartment.
- CARX Main screen.
- MP3 Main menu.
- MP3 Playing Screen.
- MP3 Title on OBC.
- MP3 Options. (numbers correspond to numbered buttons on the nav)
- Video Menu.
- Video Playing.
- CARX Radar feature.
- IBUS Log
- Web Browser.
- XP Desktop
Video showing operation.
[YOUTUBE]jZCjqpBM8lM[/YOUTUBE]
All in all I'm quite happy with what I have acheived with little cost.
*NOTE* Text copied from http://www.bimmerforums.co.uk/forum/...nstall-t19013/
Installation Guide Link - Step by Step.
http://s113117221.onlinehome.us/How%...your%20car.doc
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