dipkat

Ok. So I placed my order for the basic video interface module from AutoToys.com, which is functionally similar to those sold by NavTool, TvandNav2go and such. However, instead they will now be shipping a newer module that also has the following extras (from AutoToys.com) -

- USB charging port (for use with APPLE A/V cables which allows you to plug in video and audio and charge your ipod right at the module)
- 2 Video inputs
- Wireless remote control INCLUDED
- Wired IR Repeater plugs in and then you run your remote eye to a dash location and aim your wireless remote to the repeater
- IPOD control and AUDIO feed into SOME cars ( not all cars compatible Feeds sound in directly )

Link to product page: (Many pictures provided)

http://www.autotoys.com/x/product.php?productid=9231

I have ordered the product and there is a short ETA.

Let me start by saying that I have no additional information besides what you see on the product page. Also, the sales people at AutoToys.com have no additional information as it is a new product in their catalog (I have been emailing back and forth with them)

All you experts out there, what can you make from the pictures and product information? Initially I was planning to use the PXAMG for the audio aux i/p solution along with the navi video interface to give me full AV integration with my iPhone 3G. Now with this, I may not need an additional solution for audio . I would assume that the audio input into the unit will be output to the navi along with video 1. Again I have no detail's, and I am only speculating.

Also, pics show a USB port for charging. The product page claims that the unit allows for iPod control. Now, wouldn't you need the ipod data port to control the iPod?

Lastly, I wonder what the IR remote is used for. I am assuming that it will be used to switch the video source and not for iPod control.

Any other speculations?

dipkat

Navi unit


Remote

godizus

looks interesting...how much was it?

dipkat

$189 shipped (Paypal payment required).
I paid for the older product but they will be sending me the newer product which has a new price tag of $209.

timmahh

Looks interesting.. I would like a backup cam and my current iPod (DICE) unit will flat out not work with my iPhone so I cannot charge it or anything

Post install pics plz!!

dipkat

I am not sure if I can get pics. I am having a install shop work on this. I am only theoretically technical but not technical enough for DIY's. . I will see if I can get the installer to pull some pics.

dipkat

Ok, here's the situation. I have received the product as described. The only problem is that since the product is so new, there is no installation help available either online or from Autotoys tech support. The product looks very promising and rather than return the product, I still want to go ahead and install it. Here are some pictures of the product ...

Unit unboxed



Remote

(functions for OFF, VIEW CAM, AV INPUT, AUX AUDIO ONLY, ON OFF FOR NAV OVERRIDE, RADIO VIEW, AUX VIDEO 1, SCAN SELECT VIDEO, AUX VIDEO 2, STOP SCAN, SCAN SPEED, SCAN SPEED +, DAY MODE, NIGHT MODE, SAVE SETTING, RESTORE DEFAULT, CONTROLS with - and + for BRIGHTNESS, CONTRAST, COLOR and TINT)




Back of the Unit ( OEM Harness 1 , OEM Harness 2 , Dip switch)



20 pin adapter




14 pin adapter



Pictures of the front of the unit and the IR receiver at the beginning of the thread.

The biggest question is whether the product is installed in the trunk at the navi module or in the front behind the radio unit. Autotoys.com themselves are not sure where it is installed - The product page mentions the navi unit in the trunk , the tech support thinks it is behind the radio unit in the dash. I tend to think the latter is true, but I am not sure.

First I need to understand the cables. Clearly included is the 20 pin Navi Y adapter for the video interface.
Then there is another 14 pin Y adapter. I assume it is for the audio interface. Is this the Y adapter for the XM unit or is it some other audio interface? Can someone who has knowledge of the interface on the navi / XM receiver in the trunk and / or on the back of the radio unit look into the pictures and guess what these cables are and where they could fit?

Also, any speculations on how the installation should be done? It looks pretty straight forward plug-n-play, except I am clueless where to plug the cables in the TL.

I am sold on the product, as this one unit adds both a video and audio interface. Additionally it is very feature-full as is evident from the product information available - I just want to make it work. The USB charging and the remote is another additional benefit .

Any help is appreciated.

dwb993

iTrader: (13)

Judging from the pics, you are correct in that the second cable (14 pin) is audio. It looks just like my Blitzsafe cable that plugs into the back of Headunit (in the dash).
The 20 pin looks like the adapter I used to tap the navi unit in the trunk with my NavTool. How you are supposed to get them to where they need to go may be a problem.
There MAY be a connector behind the Navi in the dash that you could tap just like you would in the trunk, but I am not sure about that. If there is, installation would all be done in the dash and you may have to pull the radio to do it. There is a thread on converting your Navi to a CarPC that may have pics of the back of the headunit for you to look. I was able to access the audio cables for my Blitzsafe without pulling the radio, but it was REAL tight.
I like the unit and especially like the remote control feature.

dipkat

dwb993 - Thanks for the confirmation on the 14 pin Y adapter. I think I will look into the thread you mentioned earlier to see if the 20 pin Y- adapter can fit behind the dash, just like the navi unit interface in the trunk.

dipkat

My search did not yield any pictures of the back of the radio unit. Does anyone know of a thread where I can find pictures?

dwb993

iTrader: (13)

try this one:
https://acurazine.com/forums/showthr...ighlight=CarPC

RPB29

I just had to buy a new Head Unit for my 05 TL W/Nav.
I can send a picture if you want to supply an email? I just tried to insert a picture and looks like I have to find a host website or something.
While I have my Head Unit out I was going to install a quick and easy way for an ipod. Any suggestions. I will poke around on this site too.

Thanks

dipkat

Just PMed with email-id. Too many options for ipod connectivity. Depends on whether you want a pure Aux solution or proper ipod integration.

Look here in the 3G TL Garage for options.
https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-2004-2008-93/3g-tl-garage-faq-3g-tl-newbies-553554/

dipkat

Thanks mate.

Radio unit back side - picture copied here



Starting clockwise, can anyone with the knowledge tell me what ports are for which interface (XM, NAVI, etc ...)?

dipkat

So I have been evaluating the options that I have based on the unit and the interface cables I have;

I think this unit is very versatile .. so here are my options.

Assumption 1: The audio interface plug is the same for XM adapter and the navi DVD unit in the trunk and on the back of the in-dash radio unit

Assumption 2: The video interface plug is the same for both the navi DVD unit in the trunk and on the back of the in-dash radio unit

Assumption 3: The XM adapter and the navi unit in the trunk are co-located such that the wires from A/V interface unit can be physically connected to both.

Location Option 1: Install A/V unit in the trunk
Pros: Easier install, bcoz no need to remove radio head unit
Cons: Need to run composite A/V cables and USB cable 15 ft. from the iphone installed at the head unit, all the way back into the trunk.

Location Option 2: Install A/V unit at in-dash radio unit
Pros: Shorter cables from iPhone to A/V unit.
Cons: Difficult install, bcoz no need to remove radio head unit


Connection Option 1: Navi video interface + Navi audio interface
Pros: Keeps XM intact, if using XM ( I dont need XM)
Cons: Navi Audio lost if routing to destination and playing music from iPhone

Connection Option 2: Navi video interface + XM audio interface
Pros: Navi audio intact, if listening to audio and routing to destination and playing music.
Cons: XM interface lost. Will have to source XM for listening audio from iPhone

Again, I am postulating these based on my assumptions and the pictures I have seen of the interfaces on the navi-dvd unit, the XML adapter and the head unit. I may also be speaking through my rear end and I would'nt know.

Any opinion on the above? Can someone validate my assumptions?

This will be last straw in my planning effort before I have the vehicle opened up by my installer tomorrow morning. I want to go to him with answers and do not want to make this into a R&D project for him. (He charges by the hour).

BTW ... seriously I do not need XM -> I have Pandora, AOL radio and many other options available from my iPhone 3G ...

dipkat

Oh ... and I do plan to post pictures / video after it is done.

dwb993

iTrader: (13)

[QUOTE=dipkat;11002774]So I have been evaluating the options that I have based on the unit and the interface cables I have;

I think this unit is very versatile .. so here are my options.

Assumption 1: The audio interface plug is the same for XM adapter and the navi DVD unit in the trunk and on the back of the in-dash radio unit

AGREED

Assumption 2: The video interface plug is the same for both the navi DVD unit in the trunk and on the back of the in-dash radio unit

AGREED

Assumption 3: The XM adapter and the navi unit in the trunk are co-located such that the wires from A/V interface unit can be physically connected to both.

AGREED

Location Option 1: Install A/V unit in the trunk
Pros: Easier install, bcoz no need to remove radio head unit
Cons: Need to run composite A/V cables and USB cable 15 ft. from the iphone installed at the head unit, all the way back into the trunk.

Don't forget power. Also, if you want to add a rearview camera, it will be easier to do. This is where my NavTool is located. Yes, you will have to run cables, but there are quite a few routing options for you and it really shouldn't be too bad.

Location Option 2: Install A/V unit at in-dash radio unit
Pros: Shorter cables from iPhone to A/V unit.
Cons: Difficult install, bcoz no need to remove radio head unit

This option will most likely involve removing the radio. Not that big of a deal, but definitely more work than Option 1.

Connection Option 1: Navi video interface + Navi audio interface
Pros: Keeps XM intact, if using XM ( I dont need XM)
Cons: Navi Audio lost if routing to destination and playing music from iPhone

The stock radio will mute the music for Navi instructions and HFL. However, it cannot pause the playback which is controlled by the iPod.

Connection Option 2: Navi video interface + XM audio interface
Pros: Navi audio intact, if listening to audio and routing to destination and playing music.
Cons: XM interface lost. Will have to source XM for listening audio from iPhone

Probably your best option, given what you want it to do for you. Good Luck!

Again, I am postulating these based on my assumptions and the pictures I have seen of the interfaces on the navi-dvd unit, the XML adapter and the head unit. I may also be speaking through my rear end and I would'nt know.

Any opinion on the above? Can someone validate my assumptions?

This will be last straw in my planning effort before I have the vehicle opened up by my installer tomorrow morning. I want to go to him with answers and do not want to make this into a R&D project for him. (He charges by the hour).

BTW ... seriously I do not need XM -> I have Pandora, AOL radio and many

dipkat

dwb993: Thanks for the excellent feedback. I will sleep over the options tonight before I finalize on a given option.

dipkat

The buggers at Autotoys.com set me the wrong video interface cable. The video interface cable you see in the pic is the wrong harness.

dipkat

Firstly, I talked to the tech support last night and I was informed that the new unit only attaches at the dash and not in the trunk. This is the Connection Option #1 in my earlier post. So, once the install was on with the dash open, I find myself in a fix when we find that the video harness is incorrect. We also looked at the navi DVD-vide unit in the trunk to check if this can be hooked there and it does not fit.
Now either I can board up the dash and go for broke (I still have to pay the installer 3 hrs of labor for trying the install and also getting the rearview backup cam installed) or leave the car with the dash and install open at the installer's place until I receive an unconfirmed replacement harness from Autotoys.com.
After the nightmarish experience I have had dealing with Autotoys.com tech and sales support over the past month, there's no way I am dealing with them for the unverified replacement harness. Also, I am not ready to go for broke either.

Fortunately, I had a third option available - So, rather than go for broke I took a spot decision to go with my original plan for ElegantType S 's iPhone 3g with P.I.E X3 mod.
The only difference is that instead of using P.I.E X3 as the aux port solution, I went for the PXAMG.

https://acurazine.com/forums/3g-tl-audio-bluetooth-electronics-navigation-94/my-iphone-3g-integrations-setup-lots-pics-even-videos-704403/

The install shop had one in stock (brand new) with the Honda/Acura harness (PGHD1). I am now hooking up my iPhone 3G to the AUX port of the PXAMG. I have a iPod classic at home which I will connect to the iPod harness of the PXAMG.

The only difference is that instead of the PXAMG being connected at the SAT tuner interface of the XM adapter in the trunk, it is now connected at the head unit and this works.

This will complete the audio part of the install. The video interface and rearview camera connections still remains incomplete. This will now be connected via NavTool when I have the funds to buy one.

Being into mods and not being a DIY person is a severe handicap when things go wrong as is evident here. But, I take pride in giving this mod a honest try.

I hope someone who has more balls than me and the technical aptitude and patience to deal with Autotoys.com can complete this mod using the right video interface harness. I resign myself from trying to make it work with this unit.

Although, I must admit that I am still fascinated and attracted by the potential this unit holds if it can be made to work.

I have taken some clear pictures of the harness provided and also at the back of head unit which I will post later tonight. In the meanwhile, it is back to dealing with Autotoys.com to get a refund for this unit ($189) if I can get it.

Thanks to all of you for your help and advice. I really appreciate it. I am deeply saddened for not being able complete this and provide my regrets to those who are tracking the mod.

dipkat

Debugging the whole screw up, I find that the a**holes gave me the 32-pin navi video interface cables (I believe for the new 4G TL's) instead of the 20-pin for the 3G TL.

I feel stupid for not catching that earlier. .

jhal

Hi dipkat, I purchased this unit also to install in my 2005 RL. I was hoping to install it last week, but I'm also having trouble getting timely responses from autotoys, so I probably won't attempt until this weekend. One question for which I'm waiting for a response from autotoys is "The pink wire is unlabeled, to what should this be wired?"

When you received your unit, was the pink wire labeled? From your pictures, it doesn't look like it was. When you went to install it, did you our your installers figure out how the pink wire should be wired? I'm guessing it is for the parking brake, but want to be sure before I hook it up so I don't ruin it.

mssidah

i just ordered mine and i made sure that they know the make and model of my car(2008 Acura TL S) i hope they send the correct Kit.

since i'm still in iraq, im in no ruch to get the system, i will be home in 3 weeks

godizus

please keep us posted if any of you get this thing to work, I am still looking for a solution as eloquent as this seems

dipkat

I have been emailing back and forth with them and they have provided me with the installation diagram. Here's the link ...

http://www.autotoys.com/pics/VTech_U...lation_Diagram[1].pdf

dipkat

I have an email channel open with Autotoys.com tech support and here's some important installation sound bytes I have from them;

- The harness MUST be wired at the radio, since the pins are reversed, if you wire at the nav-DVD, it will burn out the unit, the dvd player or worse.

- The Telephone red & green buttons and the scan buttons on the remote are for future expansion. They are not unsupported for now.

- The audio adapter works ONLY at the radio location. You cannot plug it in at any other place. It replaces the XM plug at the back of the radio unit. The XM functionality is not lost and you can switch between XM and the audio input on the unit using the remote. The audio switching works for non-XM traffic navi radio's. (No information on whether it works with XM traffic)

- The DIP switch settings on the unit for the Acura TL are - put switch 2 in ON and 1,3,4,5 in OFF

- The unmarked wires are;
--The Red Wire is one 12 VOLT ACC OUTPUT for some external device.
--The Black wire is the GND ( ground ) INPUT. (GROUND THIS)
--The Pink has one special function: Connect to GND to Activate the video of the REVERSE Jack and the AUDIO input of the interface. This can be used for some special installations (No idea what this means)

- 12 Volt / 12 volt ACCESSORY power - You should FUSE this wire with a 3-5 amp fuse for protection of 12 volt switch when car is on.

Hope this helps.

I have the installation rescheduled for this Saturday with my Installer. I hope everything works this time around.

mssidah

Thank you, i will make sure the installation shop get this information when i m ready to install the unit. like i said before im Still in Iraq and wont be back for another 3 weeks. ones i get it installed i will post pic for you guys and provide any information that i might know . thanks again keep the info flowing on your side too

mssidah

what i was really wondering , when i connect the USB for my IPod is that going to be the audio and video source ? or i will have to connect my ipod with the AV cable ? please note i wont be adding a DVD player at this time, i will only use my IPod for video and audio .

Thanks

dipkat

The Autotoys.com unit has a 12 V USB port for optional charging of an iPod. Since my A/V source is a iPhone 3G, the 12 V needs to be converted to 5V for charging. Fortunately, Peripheral electronics has a extension cable which does just that;

http://www.peripheralelectronics.com/?ProductId=463

The IS 710 will connect the Apple composite A/V cable to my ProClip iPhone 3G holder. The composite end of the Apple cable will plug into the A/V inputs while the USB end goes into the USB charging port of the Autotoys.com unit . The IS 710 will provide the following advantages ...

1. Saves the 12V ACC power in the center console/arm-rest from being used.

2. The black color of the cable blends better with the interior compared to the white Apple A/V cable which sticks out like a sore thumb.

Additionally, I have purchased a Boyo VTL 405 backup camera which will be connected to the 12V optional ACC power of the unit.
http://www.amazon.com/Boyo-VTL405-Ch...6889194&sr=8-1

I thought I will pass on this information to the few who have this planned.
This should make the installation more simpler and cleaner.

Keeping my fingers crossed, hoping things go as planned this time around

mssidah

I have the installation rescheduled for this Saturday with my Installer. I hope everything works this time around.[/QUOTE]

so i guess you are going to keep it after all, sorry i didn't read this part before. good im glad. also, i see that you are in NJ, Im in NY and i don't mind driving 5 or 6 hours to your guy if he get it right. keep us updated.

Thanks

dipkat

The USB port only supports charging ... it does not support data. You will need to use the Apple composite A/V cable which gives you a A/V output.

mssidah

Okay i might be slow or something, but i dont see how that cable will connect to the Apple composite A/V cable.

dipkat

Sure ... will keep you posted.

dipkat

Apple composite A/V cable has a firewire pin that connects to the iPhone/iPod firewire data port.

The female side of the firewire end attaches to the male firewire pin of the Apple composite A/V cable and extends it. Now the male side of the IS 710 plugs into the iPod/iPhone.

You are simply extending the Apple cable.

jhal

I'm unable to open the link with the wiring diagram. I even logged into the autotoys site hoping I would then be able to access it, but no luck. Any suggestions?

BTW, thanks for all the info! This will greatly help me in my install!!

dipkat

I converted the PDF to JPEG's
(the PDF is buried deep inside the site and requires a tech support login)





Can someone look at the pin-out diagram's and validate if the harness/pins will work? I do not trust these a******s ! Once bitten twice shy !

dipkat

When and where are you getting your install done? Thx.

mssidah

wow Dude thats nice thanks a lot

mssidah

http://www.autotoys.com/x/product.php?productid=11455

what do you think of this cable instead of using 2 cables, the Ipod and the converter. this one plugs directly into your rca audio/video (usually red/white/yellow) input. It also had a red (12 volts) and black (ground) wire on it so you can charge your iPhone/iPod wia the Apple Dock Connector. You will need to hard wire the red/black wire to enable this cable to charge. It comes with installation instructions for this. The red wire should go to a switched 12v (ignition) source and the black wire to chasis ground.

jhal

Excellent, thanks for the JPEG version of the diagram!

I'm planning on installing it myself. I'm hoping to work on it over the weekend. I'll try to take pics and let you know if everything works ok.