Multimedia system for cars: main functions

Understanding the prospects of the automotive electronics market, modern multimedia system manufacturers are trying to use all the latest technologies in creating new models. Until recently, the presence in the radio navigation system was perceived as something outlandish and exclusive. For the current market, this functionality is basic, and competitive struggle is gradually shifting to the field of wireless communications. In addition, the new generation car multimedia system has improved audio and video playback capabilities. And this is not speaking about the ability to connect to a wide range of devices and media that can act as sources of content.

General information about multimedia systems for cars

Despite the development of functional filling and technical stuffing, the form factor and design parameters of such devices remain the same. In this respect, the creators strive to make the equipment as simple, compact and reliable as possible. Usually it is a small block that is embedded in a special niche located on the front panel. Of course, it can not be denied that the multimedia system for cars has an effect on the aesthetic merits of the interior in the cabin, so the design of the device is of particular importance. The presence of a touchscreen display also became an indispensable component in modern head units. It is through it that the functions of the instrument are controlled - from changing tracks to assigning a route in the navigator. The requirements for automotive electronics are particularly stringent with respect to ergonomics, so the design and control method should be selected with a detailed study of the smallest details.

Acoustic Features

In recent years, audio systems have become transformed into multifunctional equipment. But the original task of such systems, as before, is to reproduce the sound. And in this direction, manufacturers are developing their products no less actively. In the best modern versions, the multimedia speaker system is a whole complex that is equipped with all the capabilities of an audio player, and is also able to work with a wide range of third-party technology. Such models, as a rule, have a sound processor, so they can be connected to a subwoofer. There are also a lot of options with integrated speakers, but in any case, such devices will allow you to customize the sound picture for every taste by an extensive scale of parameters.

As for connection possibilities, first of all they assume standard line outputs. If you need a multimedia system to watch the video, then it will not be out of place to pay attention to the HDMI connector, which is considered the best channel for playing sound and movies.

Navigator function

Although this option has long become almost mandatory for radio, such systems are still considered as hybrid. On the market, similar devices are easy to find on the 2DIN labeling, which indicates the support of the navigator function. With this equipment, the driver can digitally route the route with the map output to the display screen. Today, even a multimedia navigation system from the budget segment provides a fairly attractive set of tools for working with maps. They can be rotated, enlarged and reduced, marked and, of course, regularly updated and updated with a database of routes. The most experienced car owners should recommend more functional hybrids, equipped with GPS-antennas and DVRs. This bundle eliminates the need to purchase a separate video recording tool. But that's not all. To avoid trouble with the road inspection, you can purchase a device in which there will also be a radar detector. For a few hundred meters before approaching the fixation of high-speed modes, this device will notify about this driver's area.

Communication skills

Along with traditional connectivity, multimedia devices are also equipped with a number of technology interfaces. Among them is worth mentioning USB, through which you can connect audio and video equipment, as well as connect the system with mobile devices and a computer. In addition, the multimedia system for cars in modern design can provide wireless connections to mobile gadgets and portable electronics. One of the most popular options in this regard was the connection of the Bluetooth module to communicate with the phone. With this connection, the driver can make calls and send SMS using the multimedia system, without reaching the mobile device from his pocket. In addition, the "blue tooth" allows you to configure the playback of sound from the same smartphone. For most models of the new generation, the possibility of access to the Internet is also open.

Digital TV

Television on the central panel of the car may seem inappropriate, but this function will not be superfluous. Manufacturers usually complete such devices with special antennas with magnetic holders and a wide range of options. Actually, in terms of management digital car TV can be compared with full-fledged receivers and tuners. The same settings with support for surround sound, auto search, equalizer, etc. In addition, the multimedia system, depending on the modification, can actively work with local transmission networks. For this, the LCN system is used, which improves the efficiency of signal reception and the quality of the broadcast.

What else to consider when choosing?

Before purchasing a car head unit, you should determine the list of tasks that the system will have to perform. In particular, it is necessary to determine the sources of content and devices that will need to be connected to the equipment. Also, you should assess the need for a GPS-sensor, radio, Bluetooth and digital TV. These are, of course, useful options, but in such equipment, the multimedia system costs several times more expensive than the standard model intended solely for sound reproduction. However, in the case of hybrid devices - on the contrary, functionality helps to save. The fact is that multifunctional complexes exclude the need to purchase a separate DVR and navigation system.

Installing a Multimedia System

Installation of devices of this type is usually performed according to the standard scheme. Manufacturers complete the equipment with special frames for panels and fasteners, which make it possible to easily integrate the equipment into niches prepared for this purpose. True, if you plan to install a monitor with multiple speakers, then the installation configuration may be non-standard. If the standard multimedia system is installed in the central panel, then the equipment with large displays is usually integrated into the ceiling niche. But this configuration is more common when equipping minivans and SUVs.

Conclusion

Multimedia systems designed for cars, outwardly resemble entertainment complexes, and in some versions - and home theaters. Of course, according to the power characteristics and dimensions, such comparisons can not be said, but some functional "chips" from traditional systems have long migrated to the field of automotive electronics. Suffice it to say that a modern multimedia system allows any driver to use such means of communication as Bluetooth, USB and HDMI. And this is not to mention the built-in navigation system, digital television and the possibility of access to the Internet. Another thing is that such a rich filling may not be required by the car owner. Especially taking into account the cost of similar devices, which can reach 50-60 thousand rubles.