XCarLink questions, tips, tricks, and issues!

[promoda]

I have a question, when ever I look up xcarlink for a4 b8 I see people connecting their iPod, or I phones to it, it displays on the car screen what ever is displayed on the iPod.... But y is it that when i connect my iPad via a/v all it shows are movies, music... I just got the xcarlink and I'm curious if it'll display the same as the iPhone, or the same as at home... N e know?

Thanks

[MYFASTA4]

I have a question, when ever I look up xcarlink for a4 b8 I see people connecting their iPod, or I phones to it, it displays on the car screen what ever is displayed on the iPod.... But y is it that when i connect my iPad via a/v all it shows are movies, music... I just got the xcarlink and I'm curious if it'll display the same as the iPhone, or the same as at home... N e know?

Thanks

i use my jailbroken iphone with the tv out 2 application from cydia.
if you have netflix and an iphone 4 , it now supports tv out. you can watch a whole movie in your car over 3g.

[mrafpinho]

Hi

One question to who installed the reverse camera:
- Which reverse camera did you use? Does it fit in one of the license plate light holes, or in the boot lid opening button?

Best Regards

Marco

[promoda]

NEED HELP!!!!!!

brought the carlink to a proffessional installer, he clipped all the wires into their correct places... installed the rear view cam, but everything is really really dark, like you can hardly see n e thing. we arent able to see the factory screen mode. we followed all the instruction on the pdf manual they sent me and still nothing. the installer said its gotta be a problem because everything fits perfect in its proper place... is there anything else im missing?

[boostinfd]

Any more updates on this project? I'm thinking about ordering the unit for my S5... but am kind of skeptical about the whole audio issue.

I just want to play some dvd's... My iphone is only 16gb and i dont' really want to fill it up with Movies. What other options have you guys used for playing movies?

Thanks

[NJDeVsFaN]

I'm going to record some video and show you guys how I'm able to stream live video (CNN as an example) from my iPhone to the car. I use the Justin.tv app and it works great.

[boostinfd]

Have you done anything else with the audio, are you still just having the Aux cable plugged in and using the xcarlink cables for everything else?

[MYFASTA4]

Have you done anything else with the audio, are you still just having the Aux cable plugged in and using the xcarlink cables for everything else?

the audio quality is not bad ( at least nnot fpr me ) , i dont use the aux cable.
justin tv is great , but my new favorite is netflix, it now supports video out on the iphone 4!!!!!!

[promoda]

n e one????

[boostinfd]

I just ordered mine... Will I need anything else in order to have a clean install? For right now, i guess i'll just use my iphone 4 as a video/audio source.

[hender]

so im a little confused here...i have the AMI ipod interface - the one that links your ipod playlists along with your MMI, so you can scroll thru your ipod stuff using MMI. will i lose this if i get the xcarlink?

[boostinfd]

no. That and xcarlink are 2 seperate things. You'll have that thru MMI and then you can switch to Xcarlink and have other inputs.

[hender]

no. That and xcarlink are 2 seperate things. You'll have that thru MMI and then you can switch to Xcarlink and have other inputs.

[up] danke

[mrafpinho]

Hi

Has anyone installed Xcarlink for rear view camera?
Which rear view camera can be used? Is the camera in the boot lid opener or on the license plate light?
Does someone have some pics of how the image in the display?

Thanks!
Mrafpinho

[MYFASTA4]

so im a little confused here...i have the AMI ipod interface - the one that links your ipod playlists along with your MMI, so you can scroll thru your ipod stuff using MMI. will i lose this if i get the xcarlink?

you will have to plug and unplug in the glove box depending what your listening to.

[jcboiz]

so im a little confused here...i have the AMI ipod interface - the one that links your ipod playlists along with your MMI, so you can scroll thru your ipod stuff using MMI. will i lose this if i get the xcarlink?

This depends on what type of radio you have. If you don't have the full MMI, (I only have concert III) you won't have an actual AUX port, therefore you will have to buy another cable that goes from your AMI to 3.5mm to enable the "AUX" so that sound will go through the xcarlink. So if you still want to go from AMI to iPOD, you will have to switch those cables around if you want both options. Unless we did something wrong here, please correct me if I am wrong.

[hender]

you are corret in that i don't have an auxiliary port, just the ipod hookup. but that is a seperate entity on the MMI (2G) - the MEDIA button (rather than radio or sat)

[jcboiz]

you are corret in that i don't have an auxiliary port, just the ipod hookup. but that is a seperate entity on the MMI (2G) - the MEDIA button (rather than radio or sat)

Then at that point, you will need to purchase an AMI to 3.5mm connector in order for your radio to detect the AUX port. From there, you will just use the iPhone, iTouch, iPod composite cable to plug into your device, with the other end of the composite cable to the xcarlink rcas. You will be able to get video and sound. Make sure you do not connect anything to the AMI to 3.5mm as it is simply there to "activate" your AUX port on your radio. Hope this makes sense.

[mrafpinho]

Hi

Did you check the Xcarlink Video settings like brightness or something? I believe there is a menu like this...


By the way, what type of reverse camera did you use?

Best Regards

[jcboiz]

Hi

Did you check the Xcarlink Video settings like brightness or something? I believe there is a menu like this...


By the way, what type of reverse camera did you use?

Best Regards

I just purchased a Kenwood CMOS-200 to install, but I am having issues tapping into a 12v reverse wire. I have a 2010 version where they use LEDs, but I don't think they use LEDs for the reverse light? Can anyone help out with that?

[GTMRS4]

How difficult was the install? I'm planning on doing it this weekend. What are all the different pin configurations? How did you guys set it up?

[MYFASTA4]

I don't think it's difficult, just time consuming , just be careful not to brake anything.

[GTMRS4]

So after installing my rear head rest monitors, I decided that I didn't like having the FM modulator for sound. I already had the x-carlink unit, so I ordered their MOST system. The X-carlink Most system, just allowed me to access 4 different audio inputs managing the sound directly through the stereo. It shows up as the 7th CD and once chosen you get to choose from the four options. Did not interfere with my AMI, Nav, or CD player.

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa93/GTMRS4/audimost.jpg

Picture of DVDs playing through all the monitors in the car. Apologies for the bad photos, it was taken with my iphone. I'll be posting a DIY in a few days.

http://i198.photobucket.com/albums/aa93/GTMRS4/AudiMMI.jpg

[GTMRS4]

I tapped the 16 wire with the white wire, but I can't seem to access the Xcarlink via the steering wheel. I can only access it via the nav button. I only have the av1/av2 dip switches turned on am I missing something? Also, has anyone else had problems with the module working in the cold. It seems that when my car sits outside at night, the module needs to "warm up" before I can access anything.

[promoda]

hey guys i just installed the XcarLink and added a rear view cam, but when i use it it works for like 2 seconds then it gets statics and starts freaking out... anybody know a way to fix this issue? i bought the cam from an ebay seller... is there a cam that you guys know works well?

[eboosted]

I bet you bought the US$ 60 wireless rearview cam.

I bought the Boyo wired cam and it has been working perfect so far.

[MYFASTA4]

if the other video sources are ok, i would check the camera

[TexasEric]

I keep going back and forth on doing this mod. The fact that I would have to keep swapping out AMI cables pulls me away. I installed a homemade iPhone doc and I prefer not to mess with the wire.

Incidentally, I have seen that the discount still exists with the 'AudiForum14' code.

[promoda]

No no the video picture and sound is perfect, the camera is not wireless it's connect to the stock screen via the xcarlink. I bought it on ebay....

[NJDeVsFaN]

Link to cam? How were you able to wire the cam?

[promoda]

http://http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260621109969&ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT

I had best buy instal the whole thing for me!
, I was nervous to mess with the car myself...

[Syed_a4]

hey guys i just installed the XcarLink and added a rear view cam, but when i use it it works for like 2 seconds then it gets statics and starts freaking out... anybody know a way to fix this issue? i bought the cam from an ebay seller... is there a cam that you guys know works well?

U need additional resistor bro

[promoda]

resistor? where do I get that? how is it installed?

[promoda]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rfgDlBZn0eo

[hender]

effyeah!
dan, pics of your installed rear cam??

[promoda]

Thanx Bro!

yup http://carphotos.cardomain.com/ride_images/4/453/2689/38631344007_large.jpg

[promoda]

i ordered a new cam though, because after the car is in motion the cam starts to static freak out! to much interference... so I bought the pioneer rear view cam....

[hender]

wouldn't the cam shut off once it's in motion? or do you mean reverse-motion?

[promoda]

reverse motion...

[hender]

stupid question.
sorry. [:D]

i just wasn't sure if you meant you hear some static for whatever reason when driving forward.

[promoda]

naw its all good bro! ill post a vid later its sooo annoying !!!!!

[promoda]

installed the new cam works GREAT and pic quality is amazing!

[jan31]

hey promoda how did u connect the wires on the 6mt? i got xcarlink but i dont know how to do the connections, any help will be appreciated.

[promoda]

Hey Jan31,
honestly I had it installed by professionals, Im too nervous to play around with the electrical of the car.... sorry bro.

[Snuffy]

Here's the funny thing about this setup. For those of us with AMI, you have to have the AMI AUX-IN cable plugged into a device in order for audio to work, whereas non-AMI people do not. Now here's the kicker- AUDIO ISN'T COMING THROUGH THE AMI AUX-IN cable!!! I realized this when I had my iPod video (yellow) cable plugged in and the AMI AUX-IN cable, but no iPod audio cables. I got no sound. As soon as I plugged in the iPod red and white cables I got sound. So NJ is absolutely correct when he says he can switch video sources and not have to change his AMI AUX-IN cable. All the AMI cable is doing is telling the Audi headunit that there is AUX audio coming from SOMEWHERE which will allow uinits (with AMI) to show the "external AUX source" option.

I hope that makes sense...

Piombino: Thanks to you and everyone else for the discussion on getting audio with AMI and XCarlink. I got an xcarlink for Christmas and just installed it, only to find that the audio didn't work because of the AMI. Thanks for posting the results of your troubleshooting here.

Before I go and get the AMI AUX cable, is it possible to have the xcarlink installed but ALSO be able to charge and control my iPod using the Audi display and factory installed controls the way I did before installing the xcarlink? The main reason I bought the xcarlink was to be able to install a rear view camera, but if I am going to lose ipod charging and controlling capability through the Audi display (rather than using an iPod-to-Red, White Yellow RCA jacks and controlling it through the ipod itself in the glove compartment), I'm not sure it's worth it.

Thanks.

FYI, xCarlink has a new version of the box and new instructions (Version 3). Link to the new installation instructions is at http://issuu.com/xcarlink/docs/audi_a4_a5_multimedia_interface_instructions.v3 but for a few things, it seems like they simply used the Version 2 instructions without fully updating it for Version 3. But, they have been very good about answering my questions via email. PM me if you have Version 3 and want copies of my email exchange with them.

[NJDeVsFaN]

Whats new with version 3?

[Snuffy]

Whats new with version 3?

Slightly different connectors (AV connectors are split into 2 separate harnesses instead of 1), and no ipod wiring harness or ipod-specific connector so you have to use the Apple or scosche SneekPeek ipod to video connector. But basically it's the same as version 2.

Unfortunately that also appears to include the same audio issue if you have AMI.

[autobahnaudi]

I installed my xcarlink today everything works av1, av2, steering wheel controls.
I can't get the interface to switch to the camera view via the reverse gear.
The rearview camera I installed does work because I viewed it through AV1 and AV2.
Any one have this porblem or know how to fix it it?

[hazuremon]

Hi guys, newbie to Audizine... After spending last eights years with different BMWs, it's finally time for a change!
Going to pickup 2011 A4 Premium with S Line package in two weeks. It's Canadian specs, so not sure how much difference with US specs on packages. But I got some questions for experience group members here on XCarlink and Backup Camera option.

My B8 comes with MMI in premium package but no navi, so not sure whether I have MMI High or MMI Low... I have been reading most of XCarlink articles here, and found most people experienced audio issue with it. What audio issue will I experience with XCarLink and any solution other than AUX input? And for Backup Camera, there are tons of 3rd party one out there, which is the best backup camera? How about OEM backup camera, can it be use with XCarLink?

Thanks in advance!

[Calbee]

hi sorry to ask a question instead of answering your questions. aftermarket backup cameras, do they show up on a different monitor, or isit hooked up to the mmi screen?

[hazuremon]

hi sorry to ask a question instead of answering your questions. aftermarket backup cameras, do they show up on a different monitor, or isit hooked up to the mmi screen?

With XCarLink, you can display backup camera on MMI screen...

[Comp4k]

Without nav, you have MMI low.

[jcboiz]

For those who installed a backup camera with this xcarlink interface, did you guys have to "enable" the parking lines when reversing the car? My camera works fine, but the lines just do not show up at all. Thank you in advance!!

[eboosted]

I installed my rear backup camera and it works awesome, same as my TV receiver, morning news are much interesting now. The DVD is out, I didn't find any use for it as there was no good time to watch a DVD movie while driving to the office or to home.

The lines on my rear backup cammea are enabled by xcarlink not from the mmi itself as the source is completely different than the OEM cam

[jcboiz]

thanks for responding eboosted! Ok, now that I know its not enabled through MMI, do you remember what it was that I have to enable to get those lines? Thank you!

[eboosted]

they were automatically enabled on the xcarlink device version that I got

[jcboiz]

odd...ok...I guess I have to email support to see if they know anything..Thanks!!

[hazuremon]

Any recommendation on what backup camera to get? Seems to have tons of 3rd party out there, and does OEM backup camera work with XCarLink?

[jcboiz]

This is the one I have on my car. I heard horror stories about people who tried the wireless ones. As long as the camera is supplied with a yellow video cable that can connect to the xcarlink, then it should work with it. The only complaint about this camera is that it is quite bulky and doesn't hide as well as the factory ones. The picture is super crisp though. If you purchased the xcarlink device after august or sept of last year, you may not get the guidelines that others got in the older generation xcarlink. I sent support an email yesterday and this is what they had told me..."Whilst the manufacturers had planned to make the lines available through the interface, it is not something which had been fully developed and therefore is not available. For this reason, we had never advertised the interface as being able to do so. "

http://www.kenwoodusa.com/Car_Entertainment/Accessories/CMOS-200

[hazuremon]

This is the one I have on my car. I heard horror stories about people who tried the wireless ones. As long as the camera is supplied with a yellow video cable that can connect to the xcarlink, then it should work with it. The only complaint about this camera is that it is quite bulky and doesn't hide as well as the factory ones. The picture is super crisp though. If you purchased the xcarlink device after august or sept of last year, you may not get the guidelines that others got in the older generation xcarlink. I sent support an email yesterday and this is what they had told me..."Whilst the manufacturers had planned to make the lines available through the interface, it is not something which had been fully developed and therefore is not available. For this reason, we had never advertised the interface as being able to do so. "

http://www.kenwoodusa.com/Car_Entertainment/Accessories/CMOS-200

Nice, how's the quality in low light, or angle coverage?

[jcboiz]

The quality is pretty good in my opinion. Our reverse lights work quite well. Depending on where you mount it, I mounted it just to the left of the right license plate bulb. You won't be able to see either sides of the bumper. I mainly use it to see how much distance I have from my center bumper and the object. I assume if you mount it more to towards the left or right, you MAY see part of the left or right bumper...

[hazuremon]

Just did some searching, quite expensive for CMOS-200, cheapest one I found is $150...
I am justifying whether I need to see the corner with the camera... But having live with parking sensor for the past three years and moving to a car without it, makes me like a new driver on parallel parking...

[jcboiz]

Yea, that was about how much I paid for mine. I was hoping to see the guidelines for parking, but unfortunately the company has been quite IFFY about it. Had I known I was going to have issues with these issues with it, I might have thought twice about it. I've probably spent 400 bucks on the whole set up...I guess you get what you pay for.

[hazuremon]

Just placed an order for XCarLink... hopefully it arrives the same time I pick up my B8... now need to do some research on backup camera...

[pierbout]

Hello everybody,

For those of you who have factory bluetooth their car, could you please tell me how your xcarlink react when you are watching a video and you receive a phone call ? Does the MMI automatically displays the phone number and cuts the sound of the video?

I have a MMI high with navigation and might buy a xcarlink (mainly to add a camera but maybe also for for a car pc)

Thanks

[eboosted]

Hello:
I just installed the kufatec bluetooth device on my car, it works awesome! I was very regreted that I didn't choose the bluetooth option when I first purchased ther car, the option was too expensive. Now it works perfect and I also have the xcarlink.

When I receive a call the audio is automaticaly set to mute, no matter what audio setting you have, it just goes off.

[eboosted]

Just bought a xcarlink and saw your installation posting, and have quite some questions in mind. Hopefully you can help me out!

For the rear camera, do you have any recommendation on which one to get? Will OEM one works in XCarlink? And I can't seem to find any installation procedure for rear camera...

I also found some posting regarding audio with xcarlink. My B8 comes with audi music interface but no navi, do I need special cable for audio to work? I probably will go with an iPhone for GPS, music and video.

I first installed a rear wireless backup cam from ebay, worst crap ever!!!

I then went with this one:

http://www.amazon.com/Boyo-VTL300C-ALUMINUM-LICENSE-CAMERA/dp/B001DFX6RU/ref=sr_1_10?ie=UTF8&qid=1296704293&sr=8-10

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31ek5Tw5tpL._SL500_AA300_.jpg

I'm quite happy now!!!

The installing instructions aren't difficult at all, but you will need to wire two cables from the rear cam to the xcarlink device, it took me 20 minutes to do it, the first wire is for the video signal and the second one from the rear backup light to switch sources on the xcarlink

On MMI cars, with or without navi, you will need to buy a special audi cable in order to get audio signal.

http://www.audi-collection.ru/shop/index.php?productID=712

http://www.audi-collection.ru/shop/products_pictures/4F0051510F_b.jpg

[hazuremon]

Great info eboosted! What does the cable suppose to do, and anywhere else to get this then Russia? Thanks again!!

[pierbout]

When I receive a call the audio is automaticaly set to mute, no matter what audio setting you have, it just goes off.

That's good news!!! Thank you.

[Snuffy]

Just curious: Did anyone else who purchased an xcarlink get an unsolicited bill from TNT Express for Customs and Handling Fees, totaling $37.68? I looked through the paperwork I got from xcarlink and on their web site, and I didn't see anything about these charges anywhere. Additionally, I'm planning to return my xcarlink (because of the ipod charging/controls conflict--see Post #88 above), and TNT told me that it didn't matter if the item was being returned. I still had to pay.

While I'm waiting for return instructions, please PM me if you want to buy my xcarlink and camera and save yourself customs fees.

[danko]

I found a guy in Ukraine who makes touchscreen interface for Garmin GVN53 navigation.. He charges $240 (~180 euros) for controller&7" touch panel.

Here is how it looks and how it connects to the navi:
http://i.imgur.com/A7W9w.gif

PM me for details.

[Snuffy]

I posted this on the other B8 Xcarlink, but after installing my xcarlink and discovering that because I have the AMI (but no MMI), using the xcarlink means that I lose all control capability of my ipod/iphone from the center stack and steering wheel, plus I can't charge it up. That's not really worth it to me, so at this point I'm planning to return the unit.

The other thing that's frustrating about dealing with xcarlink (besides their sending the wrong instructions and MANY MANY emails back and forth trying to get tech support) is that I got hit with customs fees $37.68 from TNT Express on top of the roughly $60 I paid for shipping and handling. And even though the xcarclink web site mentions nothing about the customs fees, they refuse to pick up the tab. So any way I look at it, I'm going to be out about $100 bucks on shipping and customs fees, and that's ONLY if xcarlink gives me a full refund. (They are threatening to take a 30% restocking fee as well.)

Bottom line: If anyone is looking to buy an xcarlink, please PM me.

[TexasEric]

So any way I look at it, I'm going to be out about $100 bucks on shipping and customs fees, and that's ONLY if xcarlink gives me a full refund. (They are threatening to take a 30% restocking fee as well.)

May be worth putting up on ebay.

[GTMRS4]

I love my xcarlink, it plays video through my screen very well, except for the really cold mornings, when it takes some time to warm up. With that said, if I take long rides, i've noticed some imaged degradation with green blocks here and there. Has anyone else experienced this?

[liberty603]

Hey Jan31,
honestly I had it installed by professionals, Im too nervous to play around with the electrical of the car.... sorry bro.

how much did installation cost?

[ZLC022]

Hello ANYONE, SOMEONE[rolleyes] - I have huge issue and need urgent help please...[o_o]

I have connected my interface with rearview camera, works well and switches when car in revers... I have since the install come across the following issues:

1) My Bluetooth Car Cellphone has lost it's Audio... works great with selecters and can dial and answer, but no AUDIO

2) No Audo from any devices connected to the AV inputs on xcarlink.... Video plays well and stable

3) After about 30 seconds rolling white lines apear when car in reverse... it's starts off perfect picture, then the lines - about 2 - 3 cm- apart, starts rolling from the bottom...

Any help please...

thanks

Z [facepalm]

[94jdh]

Do you have AMI? If so I seem to remember from reading posts here you have to have the AUX in plugged in on the car but not connected to anything to enable the audio, on this link perhaps:

http://m.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/367962-XCarLink-Question..../page6?styleid=12

[ZLC022]

Mybe I am bit dumb when it comes with these things, but I dont really understand??? The way I understand is that I need something from the interface to the AUX jack in the center arm rest console, that when I switch to the interface by holding the MODE button in for + 2 seconds, that it will play sound on what I have connected?

[94jdh]

No your not dumb! My understanding is if you have AMI you need the Aux in plugged in (but not connected to iphone/media player) to activate the sound, see here:

Originally Posted by NPuter:
wait - I'm confused....

I thought you guys were using an AMI 3.5mm aux in cable for audio - doesn't that bypass X-carlink for audio...

Or are you guys connected the red/white composite audio cables the the x-carlink inputs then connecting its 3.5mm audio out to ami?

Why don't you guys try using something like this to bypass x-carlink for audio:
http://www.computercablestore.com/5_...ab_PID457.aspx
The AMI Aux input isn't necessary for audio, but it is necessary to "activate" the Aux input option (if that makes sense to you). In other words say you have an iPod plugged into the XCarLink unit via the composite Apple cable. Without the AMI Aux cable you will get video but no audio. With the AMI Aux cable you'll get both, but you don't even need the AMI Aux cable plugged into the iPod. It's weird, but it basically activated the Aux audio option in the "MMI" that will then allow the audio to go through the XCarLink unit.

I don't have mine yet, but this is the best info I can find from here

[ZLC022]

Thanks man, I appreciate you're helping here, the link no longer exists, if they have name of the cable or connector I can try and search for it.

[94jdh]

Thanks man, I appreciate you're helping here, the link no longer exists, if they have name of the cable or connector I can try and search for it.

I think reading it, you need the Audi AMI Aux cable from the dealer

[MYFASTA4]

Yes you need the aux cable , that way the radio will register the source of audio, you can disable the rear cam on the xcarlink so it's nit looking for it when on reverse.

[ZLC022]

Hi guys, so I finally got the whole thing sorted... if you have factory fitted BLUETOOTH setup in your car, make sure that when installing xcalink, the original harness that goes into the back of your radio, will have a blue and a green adapter that will not be connected anywhere when you connect it to the supplied harness from xcarlink... take those connecter off from the original harness and connect it to the new harness from the xcarlink supplied... simply connect back to your radio and it's all done...

cheers

[hazuremon]

Hi eboosted,

Still haven't install my xCarLink, but got a couple questions for you

http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/4327/p1030616.jpg
What's that black socket board?

http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/4384/p1030621e.jpg
Is this shot taken from the glove box taken out? So xcarlink box is hidden in the pillar between glove box and stereo?

Thanks again!

[pierbout]

On MMI cars, with or without navi, you will need to buy a special audi cable in order to get audio signal.
http://www.audi-collection.ru/shop/index.php?productID=712
http://www.audi-collection.ru/shop/products_pictures/4F0051510F_b.jpg

Are you shure that this cable is for any MMI? According to the reference, it seems that it is for the AMI (Audi Music Interface). You can also see it here:
http://cgi.ebay.de/Audi-4F0051510F-Anschluss-Adapterleitung-AMI-Neu-/140520949122
http://cgi.ebay.pl/Audi-3-5mm-Klinke-4F0051510F-fur-Audi-Music-Interface-/280519736265
http://audi.dealerfit.com/store/audi-a4-3-prod1151_32115.php

[MYFASTA4]

Hi eboosted,

Still haven't install my xCarLink, but got a couple questions for you

http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/4327/p1030616.jpg
What's that black socket board?

http://img9.imageshack.us/img9/4384/p1030621e.jpg
Is this shot taken from the glove box taken out? So xcarlink box is hidden in the pillar between glove box and stereo?

Thanks again!
if i recall correctly, mine didnt have the board on the back

[pierbout]

if i recall correctly, mine didnt have the board on the back

The black socket board is to protect the cable and avoyd it to unplug. And the second photo is indeed the inside of the pillar, when the glove box is removed.

[hazuremon]

Thanks pierbout, but I wonder where the black socket board is since the other two pictures prior to it doesn't have that...

http://img2.imageshack.us/img2/8242/p1030608.jpg
http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/9250/p1030610q.jpg

[NJDeVsFaN]

The black board was the first version of xcarlink. The newest version only has a cable connecting the screen to the xcarlink box.

[hazuremon]

Finally got xcarlink installed today, but have some trouble with BT... wondering if anyone has that problem...

I have AMI (ipod interface) and factory BT, but after installing xcarlink, my BT audio fails to work... It connected my phone and switched to Phone interface, but there is no sound coming from speaker... I tried voice control as well but has no audio confirmation after I cancelled it...

I haven't install the Aux cable in AMI yet, will that be the reason for BT and voice control has no sound?
http://www.audi-collection.ru/shop/products_pictures/4F0051510F_b.jpg

[autobahnaudi]

Do you have mmi or radio?
If Radio on back the can bus the big square block. This is the best pic I would find
http://shop.acr-iserlohn.de/product_info.php?info=p21024_CAN-BUS-INTERFACE-RTA032-005-0.html&XTCsid=0ebfe727190c15fa14576f97314ffebb
You 2 smaller blocks that go in the bottom you need to remove them from the orignal can bus block that came out of the radio and was hooked to the xcarlink one and then install them in the new xcarlink block on the radio it self.
I try and clarify with pics later in a rush right now.

[hazuremon]

Thanks autobahnaudi, I have the big square block similar to eboosted one.
http://img199.imageshack.us/img199/7559/p1030617bk.jpg

I think I understand what you mean. So I need to transfer the smaller blocks from original to xcarlink block? Any re-wiring require or more like plug and play removal?

[MYFASTA4]

how did you do the install?

[autobahnaudi]

http://i1201.photobucket.com/albums/bb351/aarafat6120/imagesCAR21935.jpg
http://i1201.photobucket.com/albums/bb351/aarafat6120/imagesCATNGIPM.jpg
Alright Pins 1,2 and 7 are for audio from ami I believe might be wrong.
So The Green and Blue blocks that you see in the second picture are the smaller blocks I was talking about. These must be removed from the can bus that came out of the radio and installed into the xcarlink's can bus then back into the radio.
The Xcarlink can bus wire harness does not take these 2 blocks into account there can bus is blank where the 2 blocks should be.
They provide the sound for the telephone and ami. I had this problem on my first xcarlink install.
Easy fix
See if that works for you.

[autobahnaudi]

Thanks autobahnaudi, I have the big square block similar to eboosted one.

I think I understand what you mean. So I need to transfer the smaller blocks from original to xcarlink block? Any re-wiring require or more like plug and play removal?

All plug and play but you will have a lot less wire to move around makes putting the radio back in a little harder as the wire get very tight.

[hazuremon]

Thanks autobahnaudi...

I will give it a try!

I also sent a request to xcarlink on the problem, and they have the same reply as you... They also mentioned to transfer fibre optical cables if they exist (green and black cable in picture.)
http://img69.imageshack.us/img69/8273/dscf4006y.jpg

[vitchie]

I received the XCarLink unit today and attempted to install it. First I just connected a video source and not the rear view camera, it worked like a dream. Next I connected the rear view camera and when I switched the head unit on, I saw a spark inside the XCarLink unit and there was some smoke as well. The fuse was blown. I disconnected the rear view camera, replaced the fuse, but now it just keeps fuses. The camera’s power cable (red) was connected to the green cable on the xcarlink unit marked Camera +12v.
What is the procedure to follow? Shipping back to the UK will take quite a while and cost quite a bit. Wonder if a local electronics shop can fix it (and lose my warranty, I know) or should I ship it back to them?
I have not opened the unit, warranty seal is still in place, but if there is a change of fixing it locally I don’t mind paying someone here. Having to deal with SA customs is a nightmare.

I wish they will update the instructions as it clearly is meant for a previous version of the product and doesn’t match up with the unit provided.

[hazuremon]

Vitchie, what backup camera are you using?

I have my xcarlink installed yesterday too, haven't proceed on my backup camera. Would like to know whether the camera power cable should go with the green cable on xcarlink or should go to car's fuse box... Since I thought the green cable is more like reverse detection cord and not for power...

I got kenwood cmos-200, see page 6 of below documents on the wiring...
http://images.kenwood.eu/files/prod/1708/5/CMOS200_300_(EN).pdf

[vitchie]

Vitchie, what backup camera are you using?

I have my xcarlink installed yesterday too, haven't proceed on my backup camera. Would like to know whether the camera power cable should go with the green cable on xcarlink or should go to car's fuse box... Since I thought the green cable is more like reverse detection cord and not for power...

I got kenwood cmos-200, see page 6 of below documents on the wiring...
http://images.kenwood.eu/files/prod/1708/5/CMOS200_300_(EN).pdf

I got the camera that they include in the kit.

[NJDeVsFaN]

How did you wire the backup cam so that it to looks OEM (without wires showing)?

[vitchie]

I didn't install the camera in the bootlid yet, I had it in the front with me while testing the xcarlink unit.


Sent from my turbocharged iPhone

[vitchie]

I received the XCarLink unit today and attempted to install it. First I just connected a video source and not the rear view camera, it worked like a dream. Next I connected the rear view camera and when I switched the head unit on, I saw a spark inside the XCarLink unit and there was some smoke as well. The fuse was blown. I disconnected the rear view camera, replaced the fuse, but now it just keeps fuses. The camera’s power cable (red) was connected to the green cable on the xcarlink unit marked Camera +12v.
What is the procedure to follow? Shipping back to the UK will take quite a while and cost quite a bit. Wonder if a local electronics shop can fix it (and lose my warranty, I know) or should I ship it back to them?
I have not opened the unit, warranty seal is still in place, but if there is a change of fixing it locally I don’t mind paying someone here. Having to deal with SA customs is a nightmare.

I wish they will update the instructions as it clearly is meant for a previous version of the product and doesn’t match up with the unit provided.

[autobahnaudi]

You hooked the green +12v to the camera power cable?
The green should go to a 12v reverse switching source like your reverse lights.
Where is the power for the camera hooked to?

Ya but that sucks the fuse in mine was blown on first install it was a 1a fuse I now have 10a fuse and all is well.
You should maybe contact xcarlink and see what they suggest maybe they will cover the additional shipping cost or something under warranty.

[vitchie]

You hooked the green +12v to the camera power cable?
The green should go to a 12v reverse switching source like your reverse lights.
Where is the power for the camera hooked to?

Ya but that sucks the fuse in mine was blown on first install it was a 1a fuse I now have 10a fuse and all is well.
You should maybe contact xcarlink and see what they suggest maybe they will cover the additional shipping cost or something under warranty.

Yes the camera's red power was connected to the green cable and the camera's black cable to earth. The instructions mentions nothing about that cable. Doesn't it pick up that you're in reverse through the CAN interface?

[vitchie]

You hooked the green +12v to the camera power cable?
The green should go to a 12v reverse switching source like your reverse lights.
Where is the power for the camera hooked to?

Ya but that sucks the fuse in mine was blown on first install it was a 1a fuse I now have 10a fuse and all is well.
You should maybe contact xcarlink and see what they suggest maybe they will cover the additional shipping cost or something under warranty.

Yes the camera's red power was connected to the green cable and the camera's black cable to earth. The instructions mentions nothing about that cable. Doesn't it pick up that you're in reverse through the CAN interface?

[autobahnaudi]

Ya I thought that also, no it doesn't know you are reverse via the can-interface it needs to be told through a 12v reverese source (reverse lights).
This how I hooked my carmera up.
Red from camera to reverse lights to supply power only when in reverse.
Black to ground.
Then the green wire from the xcarlink, I added extra wire to run from the glovebox where I have it mounted to the trunck then hooked it to the reverse light also.
(Side Note) I would get a lot of video static, from the back up camera, line scrolling across the screen when the engine was running. Engine off was no problem.
I added dc to dc converter so that camera was only getting 12v dc instead of 13-14 which is what the car makes when engine is on.
This worked for me.

[vitchie]

Cool, thanks for the insight. Wish they explain this in their useless instructions. Did anybody ever open one of these units? Wonder if there is just a electronic component in there that I can replace to get it working again.

[quality_sound]

Ya but that sucks the fuse in mine was blown on first install it was a 1a fuse I now have 10a fuse and all is well.


You might want to rethink that decision. Replacing a fuze with one 10x the rating is not fixing the problem. It's like replacing a 30A fuse for an amp with a 300A fuse because the 30A keeps blowing. It's not safe.

OP - Send it back. It's not worth the risk to you or your car to fart around with something that should work fine and is under warranty.

[vitchie]

Problem is the shipping and duties, will almost cost the same as the unit to ship it back to UK and then back here afterwards.

[hazuremon]

I contacted xcarlink yesterday regarding the green cable (reverse +12), it's for wiring to car's reverse signal and not for camera use...

In my kenwood cmos-200 case, reverse signal detection is not needed as it will be detected by xcarlink...

[NJDeVsFaN]

how do you mount the kenwood? I'd like an OEM finish as xcarlink's camera has you replacing one of the license plate lights...and I have LED's on mine so I don't want to lose that.

[MYFASTA4]

I contacted xcarlink yesterday regarding the green cable (reverse +12), it's for wiring to car's reverse signal and not for camera use...

In my kenwood cmos-200 case, reverse signal detection is not needed as it will be detected by xcarlink...
does that mean theres an additional connection to make the rear cam work? or does the unit automaticly knows?

[quality_sound]

Get in touch with them. They should cover at least the shipping back to you and you don't pay the customs/duties, they do. Use USPS Flat Rate boxes and shipping will be WAY less expensive. Look on the USPS site for the rates but you're going to be quite surprised about how much lower it is than UPS and FedEx.

[autobahnaudi]

[QUOTE=quality_sound;6419092]You might want to rethink that decision. Replacing a fuze with one 10x the rating is not fixing the problem. It's like replacing a 30A fuse for an amp with a 300A fuse because the 30A keeps blowing. It's not safe. [QUOTE]

Agreed I was not saying to do that I forgot to mention I have changed mine back to the 1a already I just had to order one off the net since I couldn't get one here.
Sorry if that was mis leading.

[vitchie]

Red from camera to reverse lights to supply power only when in reverse.
Then the green wire from the xcarlink, I added extra wire to run from the glove box where I have it mounted to the trunk then hooked it to the reverse light also.

Just a question, essentially that is what I did minus connecting to the reverse light, on yours green is essentially also connected to camera's red. Why would mine have blown then?

[pierbout]

This is how I understood that it works. Can someone confirm?

-AV1 and AV2 are selected via the button, and the camera video is selected when you give 12V to the green plug. This occurs, for example, if you put the green plug to permanent 12V (with a switch),
or if you plug it to the reverse 12v of the reverse light. Then, when you put the gear in reverse, you hear the xcarlink switch (and you get a black screen). If you change the gear again, you get the initial screen back.
So the green plug is used as a switch, but it doen't provide energy to anything.

-the camera needs the black plug to the ground and the red plug to 12v. One way to get 12v, as it will be used on reverse, is to plug it to reverse 12v of the reverse light

As a conclusion, the red plug of the camera and the green plug of xcarlink should be both connected to the reverse 12v of the reverse light


This is what I did. When I put in reverse, the screen switches, the IR lights of the camera switch on... but I don't get picture on the screen yet (but if I use the camera of my still camera, it works).
So I think I have a bad contact somewhere

[MYFASTA4]

dont you have to wire the rear cam to the stop light to keep the light that comes on over the lic plate?

i wouldnt wire them both together

[MYFASTA4]

VERSION 3 looks like this: but it doesnt have a connector for the gps ant, that part is empty. other difference i found is that the cable going to the lcd screen is pre wire for touch screen, i wonder if this is something in the works , or it was just cheaper to make like this and re use from

[pierbout]

dont you have to wire the rear cam to the stop light to keep the light that comes on over the lic plate?
i wouldnt wire them both together .

There are two kinds of rear cameras with leds:
-IR leds: switched on in the same time as the camera. It uses the same red and black cables as the camera
-white leds to light the plate: they use the oem cables of the plate light. They are used to light the plate and not to light what is in front of the camera

[malish]

http://img225.imageshack.us/img225/4503/p1030648.jpg

Do you have an OEM reverse camera? Just wondering if Xcarlink displays these lines and adjusts them based on the steering input even if the car was not equiped with the reverse camera from the factory, or if its a plain video feed from the cam.

[vitchie]

Do you have an OEM reverse camera? Just wondering if Xcarlink displays these lines and adjusts them based on the steering input even if the car was not equiped with the reverse camera from the factory, or if its a plain video feed from the cam.

The camera that comes with the XCarLink unit outputs the lines, whether you connect it to xcarlink or just normal tv. The lines look different than the picture above, it has distances marked as well. It doesn't change direction with turning the steering wheel.

[fayazpunjani]

Hi ZLC022,

I have the same issue as you (no sound from av, no bluetooth sound). I have a new model (2008>) Audi A4 B8, with no AMI or MMI and no Aux input... will this solution work for my car ?

Thanks !

[nebuchadnezzar]

Me too. I have instaledl SKU2539 - Audi Multimedia Video Interface new Audi A4 A5 Q5 (B8) 2008> . Backup camera and video-in works fine, but I lost the sound from voice command and bluetooth. Please post detail solution if you have one. Thanks!

[vitchie]

As ZLC022 said, you need to move the 2 connectors in the harness (blue and green) to the xcarlink connector that goes into the back of the radio. I did that and my oem bluetooth is working perfectly.

[autobahnaudi]

3) After about 30 seconds rolling white lines apear when car in reverse... it's starts off perfect picture, then the lines - about 2 - 3 cm- apart, starts rolling from the bottom...

You need a resistor for your back up cam to regulate volatge take it to your local car video/audio shop and they can do it for cheap I paid 30 dollars for them to fix the lines on mine.
I only paid cause I was tired of dealing with it my self. The lines where very annoying though.

[vitchie]

You need a resistor for your back up cam to regulate volatge take it to your local car video/audio shop and they can do it for cheap I paid 30 dollars for them to fix the lines on mine.
I only paid cause I was tired of dealing with it my self. The lines where very annoying though.

I tried a couple of capacitors and eventually gave up. Found a much easier solution, just took switched 12v from the rear fusebox instead. Works like a charm without any of the interference lines caused by the pulsated reverse light wire.

[autobahnaudi]

I tried a couple of capacitors and eventually gave up. Found a much easier solution, just took switched 12v from the rear fusebox instead. Works like a charm without any of the interference lines caused by the pulsated reverse light wire.

Just curious which 12v source you tapped in to I wanted to do that originally but since I didn't have the factory back up camera that fuse was missing. Is it a constanst 12v so your camera is always on or is a reverse only 12v source?

[frozone]

Do you have to have Navigation for a backup camera? I just bought an '09 Prestige (being shipped here). In the description it says it has navigation, but after looking at pictures and then comparing, it does not... and now the dealership just confirmed it does not have NAV. It supposedly has the B&O system, though...

[jaysen]

I'm in the middle of my install and cannot figure out how the hell to remove the Glovebox. I've got the AMI box out and a total of 9 screws; 7 inside and 2 underneath. It seems to be latched on at the top right however I can't seem to find any more screws holding it in place.

Any help would be appreciated - its 3am PST !!!

On a side note - before I began my install I went ahead and opened up the new Version 4 box I received... Check out the slot for SD + markings for GPS ANT. Curious if this is something we can eventually modify to output GPS or if XCarlink has future plans

https://dl-web.dropbox.com/get/Public/IMG_20110606_161659.jpg?w=969b3206

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/9051346/IMG_20110606_161646.jpg

https://dl-web.dropbox.com/get/Public/IMG_20110606_161219.jpg?w=1858844b

Right corner is where I assume the female GPS ANT connector would go
https://dl-web.dropbox.com/get/Public/IMG_20110606_161224.jpg?w=60307420

[NJDeVsFaN]

Pop out the side panel where the fuse box is and there is a screw there that holds the glove box.

[jaysen]

ERRRR! I knew it, I was trying to pry it off but it wasn't coming off and eventually convinced myself it was suppose to come off when the glove came off. I'm gonna go back downstairs and fiddle with it.

[NJDeVsFaN]

What does the SD slot do?

[jaysen]

What does the SD slot do?

No Idea - Nothing, I'm assuming but haven't tested just yet and to be quite honest don't know what to test with...

[joshpbrown5]

I am installing a rear camera in my 2009 A4. I cant figure out if the camera i have is bad, or if i am not hooking up power correctly. I am trying to tap my right rear tail light. There are 4 wires...black w/ white stripe, brown and 2 grey wires. The black w/ white is the reverse power. I think I connect the red(positive) wire from the camera to the black w/ white. I am not sure where to plug the black(neg) from the camera, so i just tried the brown. I get a picture with a bunch of lines going through it, but no camera image... Any suggestions? Thanks in advance.

[joshpbrown5]

Also - i have the Xcarlink. thanks for any advice.

[MYFASTA4]

I use a tap a fuse, there's a fuse thing on the right side of the trunk, but if u must use the reverse light the brown is negative and white with a black stripe is positive

[joshpbrown5]

I use a tap a fuse, there's a fuse thing on the right side of the trunk, but if u must use the reverse light the brown is negative and white with a black stripe is positive

Great - thank you for clarifying. I will try the fuse tap. I suppose I can find the correct fuse to tap - but never having done this before - where does the negative (black) wire go? Can i just ground it to something or is there a better spot in the fuse box? Sorry for the dumb questions, but I appreciate your help.

[MYFASTA4]

There's a place really close to the box , you will see a screw with a bunch of brown wires attach to it near by , you can use that for ground, I'll see if if I can a picture

[DavidB8]

http://audienthusiasts.com/images/DSC_0092.JPG

[MYFASTA4]

Great - thank you for clarifying. I will try the fuse tap. I suppose I can find the correct fuse to tap - but never having done this before - where does the negative (black) wire go? Can i just ground it to something or is there a better spot in the fuse box? Sorry for the dumb questions, but I appreciate your help.

make sure if you tap the fuse to use one that doesnt stay on all the time. i was going to copy the picture in website david, thats it

[dfost24]

Do you have to have Navigation for a backup camera? I just bought an '09 Prestige (being shipped here). In the description it says it has navigation, but after looking at pictures and then comparing, it does not... and now the dealership just confirmed it does not have NAV. It supposedly has the B&O system, though...

I sure hope you got a discount, that's a pretty pricey "listing error".

[frozone]

$500... not huge, but it'll pay for something fun :)

[danko]

Let's settle these issues with xcarlink and reversing camera once and for all...

Instead of spending one hour today installing the camera, I've spent 6+ hours troubleshooting this stupid problem, which could easily be solved if even once had the guys from xcarlink actually tested these cameras they sell.

Let's start with the camera. I've purchased xcarlink multimedia interface togetger with the camera they sell. I burned the first one (I found out today that it wasn't my fault), and ordered new one:

AUDI A4 A5 TT REVERSING REAR VIEW CAMERA
http://www.xcarlink.co.uk/product.php?productid=119&cat=4&page=2

The main problem with this camera is that voltage they specify for it (12V) is simply too high, let alone the voltage in the car itself which is in range od 12-13.8V (normal voltage for the car).

After I have burned the first camera by connecting it to the external 12V power supply, I've cut open the rubber casing and found out that this camera reduces the voltage from 12V down to 5V, and from there it reduces it to 3.3V which is actually used to power the camera itself.

Now this rubber casing is poorly engineered as the IC power regulators were supposed to be mounted on a heatsink, and not on a PCB+enclosed with rubber... The way this camera is built means that if you connect it to laboratory 12V supply it will last for about 20minutes before it dies, and if you connect it to your car, it should take anywhere from 5-10 minutes until it eventualy burns out.

CONCLUSION:

1. Reduce the input voltage
2. DON'T USE THE +12V REVERSING LIGHT VOLTAGE TO POWER THE CAMERA! (interference is just too high and the camera will not be usable if you power it with reversing light)

SOLUTION:

1. Purhcase some simple linear voltage regulator. It happened that I had some L7809 in my garage (converts 12 to 9V), but you could use any one you find... I suppose that anything from 5-9V output will work. These are really easy to find and you shouldn't have any trouble finding one in your local electronic store
The one I have used is similar to this one:http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail&name=497-1448-5-ND

2. While in the store purchase a nice aluminum heatsink for the L7809 so that it can be nicely cooled.

3. From your glovebox compartment you want to put 3 cables to your trunk lid:
• Video cable
• +12V reversing light signal cable
• +12V power supply

4. Connect your reversing light +12V cable (black/gray on the connector) with the green wire on the xcarlink (red arrow)
http://i.imgur.com/INUkb.jpg

5. Power supply for the camera should be taken from the voltage regulator whose schematics is below. Connect the output leg of the voltage regulator to the red wire of the camera power supply, and to power up the input leg of the voltage regulator, use the same +12V that you power the xcarlink or your navi. DO NOT USE THE +12V FROM THE REVERSING LIGHT AS YOU WILL GET HEAVY INTERFERENCE. GND leg of the regulator you can connect to any GND you can find in your car, it doesn't matter they are all the same. The schematics looks like this:
http://i.imgur.com/UuI8C.jpg

5a. Optional: If you have any two electrolytic capacitors, you should connect them like this schematics and it will increase quality of the image:
http://i.imgur.com/74D5m.jpg

6. You don't need to connect GND (black) wire of the power supply for the camera, since it will get it's ground from the video connector, don't worry.

7. Connect the video cable to the xcarlink harness (yellow arrow). There are three yellow connectors on that single harness. I have found that the one which was marked with "reverse cam" was wrong one, and it worked when I connected to a different one.. So if it doesn't work on the first try, try the other two connectors, since xcarlink may have messed up cable labels.

8. Pull down dipswitch no.5 to activate the reversing camera option.

9. Connect the LED power cable to the connector for the light above your licence plate which you have just removed.

10. Test it out and congratulations, you have successfully installed the reversing camera!

[jfo]

If you use an alternate power source to the reverse light to avoid interference, does that mean the camera is powered on constantly while the car is running? I assume the video display switch to the camera view when in reverse only affects the xcarlink and doesn't switch the camera power on/off.

[danko]

Yes, using alternative power source rather than reverse light means that the camera will always be on.

If you would like to switch the camera off when the reverse light is not on, and still use alternative power source, you could hook up the camera power trough a relay..

[quality_sound]

I use a tap a fuse, there's a fuse thing on the right side of the trunk, but if u must use the reverse light the brown is negative and white with a black stripe is positive

Just some gee whiz info, brown is ALWAYS ground in a German car.

[promoda]

Had the unit for a total of 3months then one day screen went black, went to my installer to ask him what the problem was and he told me the wires flexed and and it was due to poor quality wires. I contacted xcarlink via email, told them the issue and the said they'd send me replacement wires. 1 month later got them, they were the wrong ones. Had to wait another month to get the right ones. Finally got them and they didn't work. Told them the problem, they said it was probably my unit, they offered to replace it with a newer one but I had to buy a new one and they would reinburs me once I send back the old one. Bought it waited 1 month to get again and guess what the wires included in the box were broken!! I just got the replacement ones today, the unit worked for a total of 5mins then went black again!

Pure crap during this whole wait period my cars screen has been black since february!

Does any one have this issue?

Back to stock for me :(

[promoda]

Forgot to mention, each time I get something I rush to my installer to do it and obviously costs me $ every single time :(

[autobahnaudi]

Agreed xcarlink f en sucks bad my screen is always going on and off. The connections ate been tripe checked my me and audio video shop. I will be pulling it out and getting the touch screen nav unit when I get the money.
Very very unhappy with xcarlink.

[promoda]

is there any other company that supports the same thing? basically i can live with out dvd player while i drive but the back up cam and the navi plug in is awesome. they just need to use better quality stuff! I hate the fact that there is no number to call....

[jfo]

I would like to add the reverse cam and was almost ready to buy this. Maybe I'll wait a bit longer! I only plan on using the camera so I don't need the full xcarlink capability. it would be good to know if other options exist to interface with the display for the reverse camera only.

[The Infiltrator]

Where could I get a good screen with NAV for my car anyway?

[promoda]

Where could I get a good screen with NAV for my car anyway?

X2?

[MYFASTA4]

im sorry to hear about your troubles, i agree xcarlink has horrible cust service, and the device could have been made better.
i used black electric tape to secure the wires to the connectors and zip ties and velcro to keep everything else in place been using same unit for 2 years and no problems. your installer might want to get a little creative or just do it yourself.

[joshpbrown5]

I got a pretty good fuse tap - and had to get a new camera as I fried the other one. These cameras are such pieces of $hit. Anyway, can anyone recommend a good fuse to tap in order to power the camera? Im looking at my schematics in the owners manual, and I noticed that the fuse that powers the rear camera (#12 in the Brown box) is not there in my car. Exactly - i didnt have it from the factory. Shoot.
Anyone have any ideas on the best one to tap? There is not one dedicated to the reverse light (at least according to the owners manual.) Thanks guys.

[eboosted]

I got the xcarlink camera, but now I'm affraid to install it. Where are you guys tapping it to?

[joshpbrown5]

I got the xcarlink camera, but now I'm affraid to install it. Where are you guys tapping it to?
Exactly the way I feel!

[linet90]

you can follow Davids install step on the trunk cig adapter and use that as your power.
http://www.audienthusiasts.com/Project_AccessoryPlug.html

[eugeneflim]

Sorry for possibly resurrecting the old thread, I have the module, and all works fine for maybe 20 secs, after I first start the car, and switch to reverse, but then I get jitters on the screen, and camera view eventually disappears. After that I may or may not get the camera again. My setup is very simple, no video inputs (and corresponding DIP's are off), just camera video. Reverse signal seems to be connected properly too, gets 12V when switched in reverse. I have the latest v3 I believe. Oh, and there seems to be 2 bright blue LED's, I noticed that only one is on, when does the second one become lit up?
Any help would be appreciated!

[eboosted]

I got this problem in several cars as well, here is the solution, you need to use a clean 12v signal to power up the camera, the best choice would be ussing a relay and give power to the camera only when reverse is engaged.

[MYFASTA4]

what kind of camera do you have? in the xcarlink tips and tricks someone posted a solution with a voltage regulator.

[eboosted]

what kind of camera do you have? in the xcarlink tips and tricks someone posted a solution with a voltage regulator.

yeah, I saw that link as well but I already installed 2 xcarlink cameras and none have failed with a regular install process.

[eugeneflim]

yeah, I saw that link as well but I already installed 2 xcarlink cameras and none have failed with a regular install process.

I have an ebay-purchased camera (xcarlink didn't have Q5 cameras), and the video is actually really good. Can you please provide the link to both solutions?

[eboosted]

The xcarlink camera is pretty nice and well built, made in china though.

What camera did you get from ebay?, the one I first bought was a wireless, very crappy one, and costed more than the xcarlink for the OEM location one

[eugeneflim]

I got item number 200577905844, BUT it's not good, already broke after only a couple of days on the car!

[eugeneflim]

I am also facing another issue - Bluetooth is always on Mute after the install. Tried to reset phone settings, unpair/pair, nothing. I think the unit is coming off the car soon...

[MYFASTA4]

I am also facing another issue - Bluetooth is always on Mute after the install. Tried to reset phone settings, unpair/pair, nothing. I think the unit is coming off the car soon...
http://www.audizine.com/forum/showthread.php/367962-XCarLink-questions-tips-tricks-and-issues!/page11

your answer is on this page

[eugeneflim]

I understand about BT now, the installer didn't move all the plugs from old harness to the new one!

[MYFASTA4]

u used an installer? dam i was in chicago last week i would have stoped by and helped you for free ;-(,
if you look at the diy that ebosst made its really not that hard. the instructions are horrible that came with it.

[eugeneflim]

Yes, used an installer (BestBuy), I am really good with electronics (EE), but not good with car trim. And, it was hot in Chicago! We would be toasted in my garage! But he is a good guy. I am going back this Sunday, to try to install a resistor between camera and 12V, to drop supply voltage to maybe 5-6V, based on the tips thread. I've got the potentiometer, so we'll find the exact resistance and then install permanent resistor. Hope this will help with picture becoming jerky and disappearing after 15-20 secs. Also, he didn't move all the wires to the new harness, based on you hint above, this will take care of BT, and maybe other issues. Thanks!

[eboosted]

The problem with image corrupting after 20 seconds has nothing to do with reducing the voltage, you need to use a clean signal from the battery or accesory and ill be fine.

[eugeneflim]

The problem with image corrupting after 20 seconds has nothing to do with reducing the voltage, you need to use a clean signal from the battery or accesory and ill be fine.

I see, maybe I didn't quite get the tips correctly. Both camera supply and green wire come from the same source - reverse signal going to the backup light (the installer used black/white wire from the fuse box). Are you saying to use a different signal? Where would it come from? Or, are you suggesting to separate them, and use clean signal for perhaps camera wire? The green wire needs to be connected to the reverse, to cause the module to show the image, correct?

[eugeneflim]

SUCCESS!!! I was almost ready to give up (and I rarely fail in these projects), but I decided to try again. I made the regulator exactly as the last picture in post #470 in xcarlink tips and tricks thread. Radioshack people were clueless, but pointed me to the rack with components, $7 with tax gave me all the parts. I do have some wire at home, so this was not very difficult. I do have a degree in EE though [headbang]. I connected both green wire and camera power supply to the output of the regulator, and reverse from the fuse to the input, and viola - all works with not a single drop of frame.
Oh, and of course, the same thread (post #432) solved my Bluetooth problem - after moving the plugs into new harness, and some tight fitting, all works. Now need to wait for the Vag cable, to get rid of a couple of fault codes.
If someone lives in Chicago/NW Indiana/Milwaukee WI area, I can suggest the same installer. After my car, it should be a breeze. Inexpensive too. But I would not recommend someone without electric/electronic experience or not handy, making this regulator.
Thanks for all the help!

[gino.baldini]

ok i dont know how helpful this is going to be for you guys but i just installed my xcarlink today together with a reverse camera. the reverse camera works fine.

Hi, do you still have some pictures/indications as of how you managed to pass the wiring from the reverse camera (in the back) all the way to the control unit ?

[MYFASTA4]

i dont have any pictures, but i ran the cable down the trunk lid on the right, i took off the black arm cover and tucked the cord in along the trim all the way to the front.

[Kandiru]

just wanted to clarify a couple of things , if you have a car with mmi you need the most adapter for the digital conection for audio, if you want to and have a digital audio source to connect.
if you dont you will need this adapter :
http://valleymotorsaudi.oemdealer.com/a4-3-prod1151_2471_32115.php
to get audio to the system via the aux ami interface.
the xcarlink doesnt input audio unless you have the most adapter from xcarlink (that is only for a digital signal with mmi).
the xcarlkink only over writes the video signal going to the screen, meaning you can have any video playing on the screen while you listen to the radio or memory card or cd or sat.
hope this info helps

Even better, keep it A2DP advanced digital stereo all the way with the Audi OEM adapter:

http://img410.imageshack.us/img410/6700/img0727.jpg
================================================== =====

Let me know if it works. My iPhone is jailbroken and there is a hack were I can enable video out for any app.

Also if anyone is interested in the A2DP bluetooth AMI adapter, I'm selling mine since I'll be installing xcarlink. Here's the link to the classifieds..

http://www.audizine.com/classifieds/showproduct.php?product=36591&title=bluetooth-a2dp-ami-adapter&cat=76

Not necessarily a good thing, in the digital realm there is no signal degradation unless you hear crackling, if you bring it donw to the 3.5mm realm you get multiple D/A conversions in the source, then A/D in the radio, but i know, not everyone here is that HiFi crazed.
================================================== ====

I am now gathering the parts for a Mac Mini (late 2009, alas the new ones are too compact
and hard to splice into for MP3car.com's remoter powerup cable with the Carnetix 2140 regulator),
and will use BT streaming into the radio via this gadget to keep it all digital and pretty.

Will be navigating and watching DVDs among other things. Will post after i get her done.

[TexasEric]

Will be navigating and watching DVDs among other things. Will post after i get her done.

Does this adapter provide for a video signal as well? If not, are you intending to use an XCarLink for the video? More info, please. This sounds interesting.

[Kandiru]

Does this adapter provide for a video signal as well? If not, are you intending to use an XCarLink for the video? More info, please. This sounds interesting.

The above adapter will solely input purely digital sweet undistiorted (albeit compressed, oh sweet SACDs) sound, i will splice an old high quality RGB cable to link video like this:

Mini-DVI to HMDI adapter > ViewHD VHD-H2YVs (5v will get it from the Carnetix)> RGB to Xcarlink inputs.

This way i will have an extra HDMI port which i will extend with a male-female cable for that PlayStation or
whatever we need.

Wish me luck, at least the ViewHD is highly rated on Amazon and i doubt it will fail me.
http://www.amazon.com/ViewHD-Component-Converter-Support-Surround/dp/B004F9XVBC/ref=sr_1_5?s=electronics&ie=UTF8&qid=1316479943&sr=1-5

Sxxx, with so much hardware i will be scratching my head to find locations for all components as i also have
a long range N wireless adapter i plan sticking into the center vent side by side with the GPS antenna.

I promised myself to keep it custom, with everything recessed in the dash (AMI and BT adapter will be hidden), and
the Mac Mini painted black in the single-DIN
slot along with the extra HDMI, USB port extension from Mac, and another USB from the Carnetix PSU (to allow
me tweaking the PSU with my Windows laptop via PowerMoni) neatly tucked in the little space to the right of the Mini,
fyi the fat Mac Mini (03-10 2009) is 6.5x6.5x2", all sorts of neat delays, and even battery
voltage based shutoffs can be programmed. A 5v fan will blow air into the glovebox via the holes at back of the shelf.

Right now i need to wait for everything to arrive, the rear cam install will be done with the Bosch ParkPilot acoustic parking,
just have an awful time finding Audi 0C0C paint to cover the sensors.

Unfortunately chronic insomnia with my job is a problem, but i promised myself to drive around with glovebox off if i have to,
i have not once botched installs d/t fatigue and desire to finish quickly.

Hey gurus, can i start the Xcarlink with this button mounted behing the E-Brake button, it is so cool and matching, i will use
it for the Mac Mini with the Y splicer to start it, the PSU will turn it off delayed after ignition off :
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0039OCO9O/ref=ox_sc_act_title_5?ie=UTF8&m=A9WD26COETCRX
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/216E5oRqV0L._SL500_AA300_.jpg

[DavidB8]

I don't know, I'm an OEM fan. I'd be looking at a button your not using. Like how about adding the Start/Stop switch that goes to where the coin holder is? It will match your ebrake just smaller I think.

[Kandiru]

I don't know, I'm an OEM fan. I'd be looking at a button your not using. Like how about adding the Start/Stop switch that goes to where the coin holder is? It will match your ebrake just smaller I think.

1. I don't want my Mac Mini to fire up on every startup, although it would be OK for Xcarlink.
I plan on hooking the Xcarlink piggybacked into the MacPac cable, the secondary 5v output
will power the video converter, scroll down on this document to the Mac digrams:
http://carnetix.com/installation/P2140_Users_Manual_V1_2.pdf
So i will program the PSU via the Monitor app to only shut the system off.
The Mac power button Y splitter will allow me to wire the button. This way i can
navigate just starting up the system, with the 3D mouse attached in the gap at left upper
end of monitor doing the scrolling to POIs with RouteBuddy or Google.

2. The location behind the E-brake is more ergonomic in a 6MT car, heck any
car, the Start button is there in OEMs.

[DavidB8]

1) The switch only activates it when you trigger it. Not sure why you would think it would come on automatically with the car.

2) More ergonomic? OK that's your opinion not fact, I personally find the start stop position to be a fairly natural position. Incidentally no North American car has the start/Stop switch which is why I suggested it. If you have it OEM then I guess yours is a German Import sorry didn't read that in your post being your in the US.

Anyways it's your project, I'll refrain from further interjection.

[MYFASTA4]

i like where your going, but how will you use a mac in your car?

[Kandiru]

Photos removed from quote:

Let's settle these issues with xcarlink and reversing camera once and for all...

Instead of spending one hour today installing the camera, I've spent 6+ hours troubleshooting this stupid problem, which could easily be solved if even once had the guys from xcarlink actually tested these cameras they sell.

Let's start with the camera. I've purchased xcarlink multimedia interface togetger with the camera they sell. I burned the first one (I found out today that it wasn't my fault), and ordered new one:

AUDI A4 A5 TT REVERSING REAR VIEW CAMERA
..........

The main problem with this camera is that voltage they specify for it (12V) is simply too high, let alone the voltage in the car itself which is in range od 12-13.8V (normal voltage for the car).

After I have burned the first camera by connecting it to the external 12V power supply, I've cut open the rubber casing and found out that this camera reduces the voltage from 12V down to 5V, and from there it reduces it to 3.3V which is actually used to power the camera itself.

Now this rubber casing is poorly engineered as the IC power regulators were supposed to be mounted on a heatsink, and not on a PCB+enclosed with rubber... The way this camera is built means that if you connect it to laboratory 12V supply it will last for about 20minutes before it dies, and if you connect it to your car, it should take anywhere from 5-10 minutes until it eventualy burns out.

CONCLUSION:

1. Reduce the input voltage
2. DON'T USE THE +12V REVERSING LIGHT VOLTAGE TO POWER THE CAMERA! (interference is just too high and the camera will not be usable if you power it with reversing light)

SOLUTION:

1. Purhcase some simple linear voltage regulator. It happened that I had some L7809 in my garage (converts 12 to 9V), but you could use any one you find... I suppose that anything from 5-9V output will work. These are really easy to find and you shouldn't have any trouble finding one in your local electronic store
The one I have used is similar to this one:http://search.digikey.com/scripts/DkSearch/dksus.dll?Detail&name=497-1448-5-ND

2. While in the store purchase a nice aluminum heatsink for the L7809 so that it can be nicely cooled.

3. From your glovebox compartment you want to put 3 cables to your trunk lid:
• Video cable
• +12V reversing light signal cable
• +12V power supply

4. Connect your reversing light +12V cable (black/gray on the connector) with the green wire on the xcarlink (red arrow)
.....
5. Power supply for the camera should be taken from the voltage regulator whose schematics is below. Connect the output leg of the voltage regulator to the red wire of the camera power supply, and to power up the input leg of the voltage regulator, use the same +12V that you power the xcarlink or your navi. DO NOT USE THE +12V FROM THE REVERSING LIGHT AS YOU WILL GET HEAVY INTERFERENCE. GND leg of the regulator you can connect to any GND you can find in your car, it doesn't matter they are all the same. The schematics looks like this:
...................

5a. Optional: If you have any two electrolytic capacitors, you should connect them like this schematics and it will increase quality of the image:
..................

6. You don't need to connect GND (black) wire of the power supply for the camera, since it will get it's ground from the video connector, don't worry.

7. Connect the video cable to the xcarlink harness (yellow arrow). There are three yellow connectors on that single harness. I have found that the one which was marked with "reverse cam" was wrong one, and it worked when I connected to a different one.. So if it doesn't work on the first try, try the other two connectors, since xcarlink may have messed up cable labels.

8. Pull down dipswitch no.5 to activate the reversing camera option.

9. Connect the LED power cable to the connector for the light above your licence plate which you have just removed.

10. Test it out and congratulations, you have successfully installed the reversing camera!

Danko bratko, many thanks! Great ideas.

Here is what i am getting:

1. L7809CV input (5-18v) 9v out. It is a type TO-220. Ignore the generic photo:
http://www.amazon.com/American-Microsemiconductor-L7809CV/dp/B001GQ7TF6

2. Radio Shack part # 276-1638 "TO-220/TO-202 Aluminum Heatsink":
http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2102857&CAWELAID=107591883

I would have loved to dig out a TO-3 type L7809CT as the metal construction
is more dissipative but alas they are nowhere to be found.

[Kandiru]

i like where your going, but how will you use a mac in your car?

Will post the whole install with part numbers soon.

[MYFASTA4]

Will post the whole install with part numbers soon.
how will you control the mac and will it be used only for video?

[Kandiru]

Flickering is due to the video cables. They are very brittle, the techs at the dealership changed my blower and messed up video by moving the wire around too much. I ordered the Xcarlink and the most since I have the 2G High, and I don't have an aux - in separately.

1. Read Danko's report on the crummy Xcarlink backup camera. I got a 12v to 9v converter with a heatskink, but will still power from reverse light, for camera longevity. Eugenefilm mentions that link in his post at top of this page.

2. You need nicely shielded video cable, a long a/v-phile grade run. I have plenty hanging in my basement from the pre-HDMI times.

[Kandiru]

I just received this. Out of the box several questions:

Got v.2 manual here, but connections still different:

http://www.megaupload.com/?d=S2SJR8NO

Questions i still have, not answered in v.2:

http://pages.suddenlink.net/bobpaule/Xcarlink%20Unit.jpg

1. On the "Dip S/W" menu, what are "4.CN" and "8.NC"?

2. On the RGBS inputs, ground is BLACK? Please confirm.

I know about the connections to preserve AMI, i will implement
Danko's 9v backup cam, will power from rear light fuse, but video
cable will be highest quality quad shielded, this should make routing
to front a real biatch:(


Thank you.
===============================================

....
3. From your glovebox compartment you want to put 3 cables to your trunk lid:
• Video cable
• +12V reversing light signal cable
• +12V power supply

4. Connect your reversing light +12V cable (black/gray on the connector) with the green wire on the xcarlink (red arrow)
http://i.imgur.com/INUkb.jpg

...

Our units are different as you can see from the photo. My V.3 camera only has
two connectors, power and video (light excluded).

I believe after some thinking that powering the camera from the reverse light
would ruin the benefits of the sine wave PSU simply by inducing potential for
heavy interference due to ground looping with the rear. I will power the camera
from the front 12v sine wave, with the 9v regulator, I will bench test it first. If it
works your regulator stays.

Am i correct in assuming the Xcarlink only powers up connector 7 on the power
bundle when reverse is detected?
==========================================

[Kandiru]

Manual v.4:

http://www.xcarlink.co.uk/helpdesk/index.php?pid=file&id=3F1AB9&[email protected]&fileid=5305

OR

http://pages.suddenlink.net/bobpaule/Audi%20Non%20MMI%20Installation%20Manual.pdf

[MYFASTA4]

switch 4 cn, i believe its to the use of can bus, so you can switch from wheel, i dont think both the swith and and the wheel mode button can work at the same time. but i could be wrong. the rgb i was never able to install, the wires were not clear. dip switch 8 i dont know.

you might just have to use the trial and error method ;-(

[Kandiru]

switch 4 cn, i believe its to the use of can bus, so you can switch from wheel, i dont think both the swith and and the wheel mode button can work at the same time. but i could be wrong. the rgb i was never able to install, the wires were not clear. dip switch 8 i dont know.

you might just have to use the trial and error method ;-(

Thanks, new manual i linked above says #4 and #8 are nonfunctional
so i will leave them UP.

Support contacted me, dipswitch 5 has to be DOWN if using the Xcarlink camera.

Also Xileh and Autobahn's A/C CAN connections for reverse not for this version,
you have to physically connect the green wire to the reverse.

Also, no "Sync on Green" so no component video input allowed. I got this unit, my
last hope, luckily i do have some old connectors from the projector that i can splice,
and an HDMI-DVI cable laying around:

Gefen EXT-DVI-2-RGBSS DVI to RGBS with Scaler:
http://www.comegacity.com/images/dhvideo-specialty-products/DHEXTDVI2RGBSS.jpg
Splicing this cable:
http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/31ZjZAmpKFL._SL500_AA300_.jpg
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0002RVPI2

Good news is that Xoom tablets are also non-HDCP.

Bench testing is the only way to go, otherwise i may take off the glovebox
so many times that i may need a new one:)

[Kandiru]

OK, after a weekend out of Hell and IMHO Xcarlink is junk!

Here is how it went, i had everything ready with the purest 12v
supplied by the Carnetix P2140, piggybacked into the red wire
to the unit, carefully built up RGBS cable from the Gefen (5v from
the Carnetix sec output) to the
inputs on the Xcarlink, great picture on my old Sony monitor.

I rip the dash, carefully install the ignition wire and ground at the
right fusebox (good grounding bolt, left lower fuse row 5A add-a-fuse)
carried 15 ft shielded video cable with noise suppressor at end, recessed
the Gefen into the fender in front of the fusebox wrapped in foam, the P2140
in an alcove above the venting duct in front of the glovebox, carefully removed
dash trim, vent, A/C unit, and radio (surprise Panasonic), removed the blue and
green connectors and transplanted them, everything plugged in. Oh, when i was
plugging the monitor connector i noticed that several of the wires popped out as
i was pushing, did not think much of it. Neatly tucked the Xcarlink in the pocket
left of the glovebox after i transplanted the smaller relay occupying it safely. I
tested the interface and picture showed up from the Xoom's HDMI-DVI with Gefen
at at 576i, washed out but passable. Paired BT stereo with the interface, played a
song from the Xoom's Winamp application, fantastic sound, watched a bit of Netflx.
Turned everything off, carefully passed all the wires (HDMI and 12V to Xoom) via the
slit i made at the back of the AMI slot, with the Audi Stereo BT module moved behind
the glovebox for extra room. Nice and clean.

Reconnected battery negative, and oh xxxx, no image, no display. Removed everything
sure enough on wire had popped out of the Xcarlink LVDS out connector behind the LCD.
Let me explain, Xcarlink has sub-millimetric cable looms that are not fully protected, that
is if tensioned the wires will have to take the stress, yes it is true, very flimsy construction.

So I put everything back again, now pic looks all grainy, the Gefen has a hard time syncing.
You have to understand that in any install there will be gently pressure on cables, sleeves
in Audi and all cars go all the way to the connectors and are heat-shrunk on them to they can
take some stress, not with Xcarlink, here naked wires are the norm.

One more teardown, now day 2, looks that the radio end of the video cable came loose, how
would it not, as there is no retaining clip, and before i put it back i cut off all AV inputs apart from RGBS and
camera so to avoid parasites, wrapped electrical tape around the Xcarlink and over all cables so if tensioned
the sleeves take the hit, still ugly picture, now the radio is flickering. Das ist it! Xcarlink cheapo flimsy interface
not for Audis. I took everything out except the Carnetix regulator with the Xoom power cord.

I used silver bearing solder on all terminations, crimping connectors, cable conduit, zipties, plenty of tolerance,
every velcroed some metal parts to avoid rubbing.

Needless to say i am disappointed, but also feeling relieved that i took the POS interface out of my car. At least
now i have 12v and 5v regulated power right at the glovebox, and long enough that any occupant in the car can
take the Xoom around while charging.

So Xcarlink is a great idea with piss poor execution, atrocious tech support, not worth the pain and aggravation.

[jfo]

Wow..what a frustrating exercise! I only want the rear camera function but I've held off waiting for some positive posts about the xcarlink. Think I'll wait longer! I know there are some out there who have got it working..at least for the camera, but it still seems to be a hit and miss operation.

[latestgood]

Hello,

I have 2010 A4, AMI included, but no MMI. I installed Xcarlink today and it doesn't work. My audio and bluetooth doesn't work and I can only watch video through iphone. Video works, (youtube, video files) but when I go to main menu, it's showing me black screen. Is there any solution to this?

Thank you,

[MYFASTA4]

Audio comes from aux input and the I think you did switch the blue tooth search for tip and trick xcarlink and you will find a picture

[eboosted]

Audio comes from aux input and the I think you did switch the blue tooth search for tip and trick xcarlink and you will find a picture

I had that problem as well on other car, I guess you commit the same mistake as I did way back. Check tyhe blue and green connectors from the OEM cable and connect them into the Xcarlink end, its an easy task

[promoda]

this mod is like the best thing, but mine keeps acting up. It will work for like a day or so, but then the screen blacks out for like a day or two? I emailed Xcarlink, they sent me a new one, installed it and same thing? my installer thinks it may be due to cheap wires. It sux because i hooked up a rear view can, i plug in my ipad and use it as navi, movies.... but i'll be driving and it just goes black! any one have this? is there any fix? every time i email or call xcarlink they take like forever to get the wires/ unit to me, in the meantime im driving with no control of heat....

[eboosted]

Your problem is in the screen connector itself, very easy to fix, you only need to take the screen off and replug it. A brand new xcarlink inferface won't be of any help at all. The problem is your installer.

[Kandiru]

Xcarlink's screen and radio video connectors alike lack retaining clips, and furthermore
lack the heatshrink thick tubing extending over the connector to take away the stress
from the wires if the cable were to be pulled, so two potential problem areas.

I am disgusted with the whole interface, i had to pull the radio 3 times, just the dubious
quality of the harnesses should raise brows, after all this goes into a premium sedan.

[promoda]

okay sorry, Im really not too tech savvy lol whats would you suggest we do, because my installer removes the whole thing everytime and says its right. its almost as if the connectors touch for a while then dont, then do, then dont.... its a pain in the ass!

is there like an aftermarket harness i can buy thats better quality?

[eugeneflim]

My interface works with no issues, maybe for 4-5 months now. Bluetooth issue is an easy fix - you must move 2 cables into new harness (see tips/tricks).
One comment I would like to make (see my posts earlier) - It is my firm beleive that you must have an adapter built between the backup signal light, and your unit. This will provide clean voltage and make all thing much more stable. It fixed my issues once and forever. Again see my posts and tips/tricks thread.

[promoda]

bump, need help, i would say 4times out of 5 the screen is black is there no after market wire?

[eugeneflim]

I may be missing something, but I am not sure aftermarket wire would help you. The signal SOURCE is very unstable/erratic, if you are using backup bulb as power source, and apparently it's causing interference. You need to try to make/use a voltage regulator, to clean that signal.

[promoda]

okay, where would I get get a voltage regulator? your right the source is unstable

[eugeneflim]

okay, where would I get get a voltage regulator? your right the source is unstable
Please look at previous posts (mine included). One example: http://electronics.howstuffworks.com/digital-electronics4.htm, except that I would suggest to use a 12V regulator. Part 7812 from Radioshack would be the one, or, if you are not comfortable with this stuff, buy one, something like http://www.ebay.com/itm/Power-Supply-DC-AC-DC-12V-Converter-/250672057446?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3a5d380c66#ht_1854wt_1163 or http://www.ebay.com/itm/Electronic-Voltage-Regulator-Converter-35V-DC-12V-/250929959825?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3a6c975391#ht_2573wt_1396. Just look for "voltage regulator 12V" and make sure output says 12V. I guess 9V output is ok too, if not better, but it may be heating up a bit more, since it needs to dissipate more power.

[promoda]

just so i dont mix myself up lol

are you talking about the screen or the back up cam? because i just spoke to my installer, and he told me the only thing that has anything to do wit the back up bulb is the cam. my issue is that the whole screen black out all the time, not just when reversing...

like the whole uint actual works well but for some reason the screen doesnt?

[eugeneflim]

just so i dont mix myself up lol

are you talking about the screen or the back up cam? because i just spoke to my installer, and he told me the only thing that has anything to do wit the back up bulb is the cam. my issue is that the whole screen black out all the time, not just when reversing...

like the whole uint actual works well but for some reason the screen doesnt?

OK, don't want to confuse you, you may have a different issue. In my case, screen was going black ONLY when in backup mode. In that mode, camera was simply "locking" into black screen.
Your issue sounds different, and I would suspect connectors/cables between the head unit and Xcarlink. Although Xcarlink is just a pass-through in this mode. Make sure power is supplied properly to Xcarlink.
Good luck.

[promoda]

thank you!
thats what i figured.... my installer thinks its due to cheap wiring.... Xcarlink sent me two brand new units and still same issue
i dont know what to do , because the units work its just the screen that gets buggy...

[danko]

Connecting GVN53 to xcarlink video interface using component signal (Red, Green, Blue, Sync, GND).

Harness that comes with GVN53 does not have the cables for the component signals installed. In order to do so you must find two floppy disk connectors from old PC power supply and take the connector pins (best to leave them on the cable, and to pull them out from plastic casing using exacto knife). The floppy drive connector looks like this:
http://users.cscs.wmin.ac.uk/~wooda/components/conn/connector-berg.jpg

Then you need to solder the wires to appropriate lentgh, and insert the new pins to the garmin connector according to the following schematics:
xcarlink (white) SYNC -> Garmin Pin 4 Video Sync (RGB)
xcarlink (black) GND -> Garmin Pin 14 video ground
xcarlink (blue) B -> Garmin Pin 2 Video Blue
xcarlink (red) R -> Garmin Pin 3 Video Red
xcarlink (green) G -> Garmin Pin 15 Video Green

(insertion doesn't go quite seamless, so you will need to use a bit of force, needle nose pliers and a lot of patience. There are five cables in total, and they are grouped pretty much together)

After you've done everyting, the image quality as compared to the factory default composite signal (single yellow RCA connector) is much better, and definitelly worth the hassle. If you currently have it connected trough standard composite connector, you may notice that the black isn't exactly black, that the colors and the resolution isn't quite nice... Conect it this way trough RGB composite video, and you'll be blown away.

This is the original manual I have taken the pinouts from:
http://www.hinkebein.de/RGB_GVN.pdf

[danko]

Just to update the thread with pictures of my install.

I have following setup:
2011 Audi A4 B8
xCarLink non-MMI video interface (link to store) (http://xcarlink.co.uk/product.php?productid=63&cat=4&page=1)
xCarLink Reversng Rear View Camera (link to store) (http://xcarlink.co.uk/product.php?productid=119&cat=4&page=2)
Viseeo Talk2Can Bluetooth Handsfree Kit (link to store) (http://xcarlink.co.uk/product.php?productid=158&cat=4&page=2)

This is the navigation after I have connected it using the RGB component video signal as described in previous message:
http://i.imgur.com/6R4uV.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/pbSDA.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/SR37L.jpg

Viseeo Bluetooth
http://i.imgur.com/ybeOr.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/QQtFl.jpg

Reversing camera
http://i.imgur.com/90ttJ.jpg

[hanyoung]

Hello

I have a 12 a4 avant B&O P+ no-NAV but Audi AMI adapter.
My goal is to add a rear view cam but not lose any AMI capability.
Is the XCarlink a good option for me?
Would a local car stereo installer be able to do this? Typical cost?
I am in IA but drive to Chicago occasionally. Could you pm me your installer?

Thank you!

[quattroboosted]

I got mine for x-mas, its not a perfect solution but I installed the rear cam and I get to watch videos , this thread and the tips and tricks thread were very helpful during the install. I just took my time and had fun with it.

[hanyoung]

Thanks to everyone on the forum for their help.

I recently purchased the Xcarlink unit from a fellow member, unfortunately it did not come with an instruction manual. Trying to chase down a manual has been harder than it seems, I cannot access it through the xcarlink website and my emails to the company go unanswered. My car is a non-MMI 2012 A4 B&O unit with AMI. My goal is to:
- Install a rear view camera. After much research on the forums I believe what I have learned is that: I will need to "remove the connector from the original blue/green adapter harness and connect it to the new Xcarlink supplied harness to have bluetooth functional." This seems a little confusing to me. Also that in order to install a backup cam I will either have to: hook up a voltage regulator to backup Cam or connect it to switched 12V from rear fusebox. I did not purchase the rear view cam yet, I was planning on asking for your recs or asking the stereo install store for theirs.

- It would be great if I could also hook up and mirror the display of my iphone4; thereby giving me on-screen nav. This would be icing on the cake, but certainly not necessary

- I realize I would lose my AMI compatability with the ipod. I plan on transferring my playlist to an SD card for functionality.

Any words of advice? Could anyone forward / pm me a copy of their manual to ehchang AT gmail.com?

I have read through the tips/tricks section of the Xcarlink, thanks for all the info that you guys put up there. Ideally though I could print out a manual to give to the stereo shop.

Thank you in advance.

[hanyoung]

Xcarlink emailed me the manual! Still would love advice on other questions.

[Pared]

You should post it for others to find and be helpful to them.

[hanyoung]

Update on the XCarlink install:

Had the XCar link install done today by a local stereo shop. THe install took 2 hrs labor time ($75 x 2). They also installed an ipod charge / component video output for me to have video hook up on the screen with the cord through the glovebox. Rear camera was also installed (AUdiovox rear cam $150, RCA cable $20, install time/price $100).

Comments from the installer:
Opening the dash/glove fairly easy, the XCarlink was easy to hookup
My AMI and bluetooth work great!
Can watch video through the component ipod video cable. Initially had no audio (may plan to get the empty AMI to 3.5mm jack). But I noticed that I actually do get audio (it's just overpowered by whatever else is playing; so there are actually two competing audio sources).
Rear camera install was a pain (ran cables through the headliner as it's a hatchback)
Signal from rear camera is beautiful EXCEPT for some gay love color lines on each side that try to replicate Audi's steering lines (but don't move). Anyone know how I can turn off this setting on the Xcar link!

My plan was just for the rear camera, but I figured why not add the video as a future option since everything is disassembled. Ideally I would love to hook up my iphone and use WAZE (free navigation) tool. Unfortunately I don't want to jailbreak my phone to do it. Anyone have any iphone navigation apps that will output to external video?

Thanks for everyone's help!

[ahkim]

I read through this entire thread, it sounds like there are some issues with this unit working well all the time, is that right? I'm considering this so I can install a backup cam for my 2010 S4 w MMI and Nav. NAV-TV is what my installer recommended but it's twice the price.

[eugeneflim]

This may be hard to comment on, since:
- most on this thread have non-MMI units AND XCarlink;
- not sure if any here tried NAV-TV. When I went on their website, it seemed non-complete for Audi;
But, you can try and let us know.

I read through this entire thread, it sounds like there are some issues with this unit working well all the time, is that right? I'm considering this so I can install a backup cam for my 2010 S4 w MMI and Nav. NAV-TV is what my installer recommended but it's twice the price.

[ahkim]

Thanks for the reply. The website is out of date but they do have units for the B8 MMI. I would assume that means they also have units for the B8 non MMI.

[hanyoung]

Installed MotionXDrive GPS on the iphone4 to the Xcarlink. Works beautifully!

Quick question: Does anyone know how I can either adjust the lines on the rear view camera, or eliminate them altogether? They are driving me crazy!

[hanyoung]

Anyone been able to get rid of the rear view camera lines? XCarlink claims they are on the camera, but I know they are not as the camera is aftermarket (Audiovox), and does not show lines on any other setup.

[danko]

Did you try hooking up any other video source to check if the lines are still there?


****-
I am here: http://tapatalk.com/map.php?hb3urc

[Quattro2012]

I recently purchased a 2012 A4 Quattro Premium Plus with bluetooth and AMI but no Nav. I am considering purchasing the XCarlink so that I can install a backup camera. I have read through the entire thread and I feel like I can install it myself with little problem.

Before I pull the trigger, I was just curious if the system is still working well for those of you that have installed it over a year ago. Also, since I won't be cutting any wires in the dash, I shouldn't have any issues with the factory warranty if I have any problems with the radio or bluetooth, right? I can always remove the unit before I take it in for warranty service and the dealership wouldn't even be aware that I had aftermarket equipment.

Thanks in advance. Awesome thread.

[Edit 3/2/2012}

Couple more questions.

I purchased the Audi Bluetooth Adapter so I can stream music from my devices such as my tablet. I only want the XCarlink for the reverse camera. Could I leave the Audi Bluetooth Adapter plugged into the AMI port and expect it to work directly with the factory Audi radio. Is the AMI port still connected directly to the factory radio or is running through the XCarlink box?

[danielnl]

i have the xcarlink multimedia interface , for my audi a4/b8 2009 non-MMI.
Everything is connected just 1 cable !!
The original cable that i unplugged from my monitor , that cable must be connected to the xcarlink right?
Obviously that cable isn't long enough and has a different harnas(jack) so you have to use the cable that is supllied with the xcarlink.
I have connected that cable to the xcarlink but the other end that i have to connect to the original cable in my car is female!!!
So both cables are female how could i connect both?

cable that goes into the xcarlink, and other end(wich you can see is female) should be connected to the cable that i unplugged from monitor

http://i1056.photobucket.com/albums/t377/danielpanning/xcarlink/xcarlinktolcdcableorg.jpg

the cable that i unplugged from the monitor wich is also female

http://i1056.photobucket.com/albums/t377/danielpanning/xcarlink/inlcdoriginal.jpg

[quattroboosted]

the cable doesn't connect to the monitor cable , the cable goes on the back of the lcd screen

[danielnl]

@quattroboosted i'am think you confused with the other cable with 14 pins that i already have plugged into the xcarlink(lvdsout) and the other end into the lcd. see picture below.



http://i1056.photobucket.com/albums/t377/danielpanning/xcarlink/xcarlinkintolcd.jpg

i'am confused where does the original cable goes that i unplugged from the lcd?

What i'am doing wrong here, help me please.

[danielnl]

problem solved typical problem when u don't read the manual first!
i couldn't download the manual for weeks and now the site is ok and i downloaded it. the cable goes into the back of the headunit so simple.
I stalled everything and have a halfdin dvd player it works fine only you hear a little peep(zoom) that goes along with the throttle of the car tru the speakers.My friends don't noticed it but i do i hear it specially when you pause the movie and turn up the volume.
I think there is some distortion somewhere in the ground cables.

[MarkoD]

does the xcarlink ever turn off? or or is the LED light always on?

[MarkoD]

Anyone?

[Quattro2012]

Anyone?

Led turns off when the ignition power turns off. I think there is a little delay after you turn the car off.

[Ryan_T]

Connecting GVN53 to xcarlink video interface using component signal (Red, Green, Blue, Sync, GND).

Harness that comes with GVN53 does not have the cables for the component signals installed. In order to do so you must find two floppy disk connectors from old PC power supply and take the connector pins (best to leave them on the cable, and to pull them out from plastic casing using exacto knife). The floppy drive connector looks like this:
[MG]http://users.cscs.wmin.ac.uk/~wooda/components/conn/connector-berg.jpg[/IMG]

Then you need to solder the wires to appropriate lentgh, and insert the new pins to the garmin connector according to the following schematics:
xcarlink (white) SYNC -> Garmin Pin 4 Video Sync (RGB)
xcarlink (black) GND -> Garmin Pin 14 video ground
xcarlink (blue) B -> Garmin Pin 2 Video Blue
xcarlink (red) R -> Garmin Pin 3 Video Red
xcarlink (green) G -> Garmin Pin 15 Video Green

(insertion doesn't go quite seamless, so you will need to use a bit of force, needle nose pliers and a lot of patience. There are five cables in total, and they are grouped pretty much together)

After you've done everyting, the image quality as compared to the factory default composite signal (single yellow RCA connector) is much better, and definitelly worth the hassle. If you currently have it connected trough standard composite connector, you may notice that the black isn't exactly black, that the colors and the resolution isn't quite nice... Conect it this way trough RGB composite video, and you'll be blown away.

This is the original manual I have taken the pinouts from:
http://www.hinkebein.de/RGB_GVN.pdf


This has been the crux of my project. What's the best way to convert VGA or DVI to RGBS? I'm talking about PC/Mac output to the screen.

There are expensive DVI-RGBS converters, but they're meant for HD applications, and surely we don't need something as sophisticated.

Kandiru didn't have great success with his Gefen box. (http://www.ramelectronics.net/audio-video/video-converters/dvi-to-vga-rgb-hv/dvi-to-rgbs-converter-ext-dvi-2-rgbss/prodGEF00266.html)

Danko, what manner of RGBS connection did you use between the GPS and the xcarlink?

[eclimax13]

Just an update. After reading through this entire thread I want to reassure people that this thing does work. I have had the xcarlink installed for two months without problems. Just added the rear view camera from ebay with led's. Had the interference lines at first because I hooked the power up to the reverse lights. I changed to a separate power source straight from the fuse bank in the trunk and everything works perfectly. No dc to dc converter or voltage regulator needed.

[jfo]

Just an update. After reading through this entire thread I want to reassure people that this thing does work. I have had the xcarlink installed for two months without problems. Just added the rear view camera from ebay with led's. Had the interference lines at first because I hooked the power up to the reverse lights. I changed to a separate power source straight from the fuse bank in the trunk and everything works perfectly. No dc to dc converter or voltage regulator needed.
In this setup the camera is always powered on,unless you used a switched (ignition) fuse. Any idea of the draw?

[Quattro2012]

Just an update. After reading through this entire thread I want to reassure people that this thing does work. I have had the xcarlink installed for two months without problems. Just added the rear view camera from ebay with led's. Had the interference lines at first because I hooked the power up to the reverse lights. I changed to a separate power source straight from the fuse bank in the trunk and everything works perfectly. No dc to dc converter or voltage regulator needed.

I can also verify that it all works great. I did the installation myself. I chose to go ahead and use the reverse light power source because I would rather deal with the lines than have the camera power on all the time when the car is running because I feel like I would burn through backup cameras faster. I installed a voltage regulator and I installed a 12V NOISE FILTER I got off of Ebay for $5.98 because the camera would go crazy if the car was running for a while before I put it in reverse. It fixed the problem.

Here is the link to the Noise Filter incase anyone is looking for one. http://www.ebay.com/itm/260741326774?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

[jfo]

I can also verify that it all works great. I did the installation myself. I chose to go ahead and use the reverse light power source because I would rather deal with the lines than have the camera power on all the time when the car is running because I feel like I would burn through backup cameras faster. I installed a voltage regulator and I installed a 12V NOISE FILTER I got off of Ebay for $5.98 because the camera would go crazy if the car was running for a while before I put it in reverse. It fixed the problem.

Here is the link to the Noise Filter incase anyone is looking for one. http://www.ebay.com/itm/260741326774?ssPageName=STRK:MEWNX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1439.l2649

I've been holding off because of the problems others experienced, but i think I'll proceed now. Can you also indicate which camera you went with and a source for the voltage regulator?

[Quattro2012]

I've been holding off because of the problems others experienced, but i think I'll proceed now. Can you also indicate which camera you went with and a source for the voltage regulator?

I used the camera that came with the XCarlink. I like it because it just replaces one of the license plate lights so it looks stock.

Here is a link to the voltage regulator http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140595955287&ssPageName=ADME:L:OC:US:3160

You also want to buy a heat sink from the same ebay store http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=400275309095&ssPageName=ADME:L:OC:US:3160

It will only cost you a few bucks for 4 of each so that you have some spares in case you break one when installing.

Good luck. Let me know if you have any questions.

[jfo]

Great...thanks! I'll order the parts and will likely be back to you with a few questions after I go through the thread again.

[overjagi]

Hi, I have bought a trunk rear camera, fits perfect in my b8 2010. I am looking for a DYI or manual or instruction about the best and shortest way to send cables from the MMI video input (i have an aftermarket device with camera video in). I know how to make the connection but not idea how to send the cable to the trunk, appreciate any help about this job

[Ryan_T]

Route it down the side of your car under the kick panels under the doors. You can pry them out and there's enough space in there to tuck the cables in.

If anybody can chime in how to remove the bulkhead by the rear seats, I'd appreciate it. I sorta just pried mine up and sneaked the cable through, but I'm sure there's a better way of doing it.

[overjagi]

Route it down the side of your car under the kick panels under the doors. You can pry them out and there's enough space in there to tuck the cables in.

If anybody can chime in how to remove the bulkhead by the rear seats, I'd appreciate it. I sorta just pried mine up and sneaked the cable through, but I'm sure there's a better way of doing it.

Good Ryan, yes it seems easy to take the cables from MMI to the trunk (kick panels) as pictured below, but not sure how to send the cables to the license light where I will put the rear camera, do i have to make a hole in the license light area? this is my rear camera
http://www.clubelitedecompras.com/temporal/purchased.png
this picture shows how to put cables inside but nothing about the trunk task
http://www.clubelitedecompras.com/temporal/how_cables_inside.png
Thanks for replies

[eclimax13]

Just run the cable through the right side of the trunk and up the trunk arm. The plastic cover comes right off. Then fish the cable through to the license plate light. It's very easy. There is an access flap for the rear lights on the trunk that will allow all the room you need.

[overjagi]

Just run the cable through the right side of the trunk and up the trunk arm. The plastic cover comes right off. Then fish the cable through to the license plate light. It's very easy. There is an access flap for the rear lights on the trunk that will allow all the room you need.

Thank you, it is almost done, cable is in the trunk, now i have to find out how to replace the license light and put the camera without any damage...
http://www.clubelitedecompras.com/temporal/purchased.png
And second thhis is a picture of my IGO/witson touch system, and has a blue cable that need to be connected to the reverse switch. where is this switch/cable in the front of the a4??
http://www.clubelitedecompras.com/temporal/bluecable.png
I do not want to send this cable until the trunk where I know where is a reverse switch cable that can be connected, instead I would like to know next in the front.
thanks again

[Ryan_T]

The license light slides (can't remember which direction), and then you can pry it down. There should be plenty of pics on the LED Plate Light threads. You slide it to unclip the inside tab.

[jfo]

I'm in the middle of installing the XCarlink and camera and on testing the functions I have a problem with no video image being passed. The interface is powered and audio functions work, but the screen is blank in any mode, including the Audi screen . Reconnecting the OE screen cables restores normal function. I've sent an email to XCarLink support but thought I'd ask for any idea's or feedback on similar problems. I've checked the obvious things like the cable connections.
Annoying...I was really hoping I'd be one of those with a successful installation!

[Quattro2012]

I'm in the middle of installing the XCarlink and camera and on testing the functions I have a problem with no video image being passed. The interface is powered and audio functions work, but the screen is blank in any mode, including the Audi screen . Reconnecting the OE screen cables restores normal function. I've sent an email to XCarLink support but thought I'd ask for any idea's or feedback on similar problems. I've checked the obvious things like the cable connections.
Annoying...I was really hoping I'd be one of those with a successful installation!


Sorry to hear about your troubles. The cables are a little touchy. I did have some issues with the cables. During installation I was loosing video signal then I would unplug and replug in the cables and the problem would go away. Once I had everything working correctly, I didn't touch the unit anymore and I haven't had any more troubles. Also, The cable for the video was labeled incorrectly. It has two yellow RCA male connectors. They labeled the wrong one as camera. I tried the other and it worked.

[AudiTLC]

Guys,
Been reading through this thread and it is exciting and frustrating.

Quattro2012, seems like you have it working.

My wife has a 09 non-nav model and I would only like 2 things:
1. Navigation to show on the screen. Is the Garmin GVN the only option?
2. Rear camera when she puts it in reverse

I understand the camera- the info is pretty clear.

On the Navigation, i'm a bit lost. If you use the GVN, you can only enter info with the remote?
Honestly, i'm thinking of getting a regular Garmin and using a mount- although it is definitely more cluttered looking

thanks for any clarification

[Ryan_T]

So I finally found some time, and the right collection of jailbreaks, combined with decent apps, to make it happen smoothly, and somewhat cleanly with a super-low-profile stand. I took apart the glove box and the center console this afternoon, so now all cables are hidden, except for the one that plugs into the iPhone. Didn't have time to set up and test the RGBS cable with my laptop, and it most likely won't work anyway unless I build a composite sync combiner. On top of that, I can't spare this laptop, there's no good car UI to run, and still need to get a separate GPS module.


So instead opted to make this option work first.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VCpmPNDZIfU



Just goes to show that factory Nav/MMI is VERY worth it. I'm seriously considering getting our resident guru's hand-me-down for 3G MMI.

[jfo]

While testing for continuity in the cables that connect to the screen, I noticed that 1 row of wires in a connector seemed to be in reverse order. I sent a photo to XCarlink and they confirmed it was wrong. I just received and installed the replacement cable and the camera is now working fine. I connected to the reverse light for power using the engine noise suppressor and regulator suggested by Quattro2012 and the video image is quite good.


I'm in the middle of installing the XCarlink and camera and on testing the functions I have a problem with no video image being passed. The interface is powered and audio functions work, but the screen is blank in any mode, including the Audi screen . Reconnecting the OE screen cables restores normal function. I've sent an email to XCarLink support but thought I'd ask for any idea's or feedback on similar problems. I've checked the obvious things like the cable connections.
Annoying...I was really hoping I'd be one of those with a successful installation!

[Quattro2012]

Glad to hear you fixed the problem.

[Ryan_T]

Sorry to hear about your troubles. The cables are a little touchy. I did have some issues with the cables. During installation I was loosing video signal then I would unplug and replug in the cables and the problem would go away. Once I had everything working correctly, I didn't touch the unit anymore and I haven't had any more troubles. Also, The cable for the video was labeled incorrectly. It has two yellow RCA male connectors. They labeled the wrong one as camera. I tried the other and it worked.


Have you ever had issues with video feed (not reverse camera) cutting out after random time intervals? Mine does that every 5, 10, or 30 minutes, and every combination in between. The interruption can be a few seconds or a several minutes.

[Liquid Smoke]

interested in getting this to connect my phone to and a backup camera in the near future as well. maybe we can get another group buy going if we have enough people?

also, whats the easiest way to do the wiring into the glovebox? do i have to take apart the glovebox or is there a way to get the wiring through the side or something without taking the whole thing off? just seeing if there's a good quick DIY. also anyone have detailed DIY instructions yet? the few pics in the first post dont say much and hard to tell without any captions, couldnt find install instructions on xcarlink site either.