iPod conn for jap-spec

[supergripen]

hi guys..been looking for a satisfactory solution to connect my ipod to the idrive sys on my jap-spec car.thus far,i haven't found one yet.any heads up on this? looking for an uncomplicated system that can display the menus on the idrive screen and also make selections via the idrive knob,all this while the actual ipod is hidden in the glovebox.thanx

 

[owen]

hi guys..been looking for a satisfactory solution to connect my ipod to the idrive sys on my jap-spec car.thus far,i haven't found one yet.

any heads up on this?

looking for an uncomplicated system that can display the menus on the idrive screen and also make selections via the idrive knob,all this while the actual ipod is hidden in the glovebox.

thanx

I need to do this as well. But doubt we can find a solution in Malaysia. I understand that the UK/MY version updates done here just isn't compatible with Japa-spec cars.

The only option seem to be converting the system to UK/MY. Sounds expensive. There should be Jap-spec based updates with the amount of reconds being imported here.

 

[bmw_wmn58]

If you have a cdc on board, then it's supposed to be an easy install...no progman updating. just ge the oem iPod retrofit kit which will cost around RM2,000.00-2,500.00...(i'm not sure about this, but you guys can inquire from Sapura/Ingress for this part. they'll say that a progman update is needed, but if you have CDC it's supposed to be Plug&Play. It emulates CD1-CD6 for it to function...)but, you will have to sacrifice your CDC 'coz it'll use the MOST bus connection from CDC and there is no way of retaining the CDC.

fyi, i have a Dension GW500 on my car which is way more superior than oem iPod retrofit kit...i get to retain my CDC!:top: and o top of that i get iPod+iPod Video+USB+bluetooth A2DP+Extra Adio Aux functions with it!!!...
for a Jap spec, you have no choice but to convert it first to an EU/MYS spec CCC if this route is desired...GW500 needs mp3 enabling retrofitted or else it won't work.
for Jap spec E60's, i don't think there's any mp3 enabling retrofit available...

 

[owen]

If you have a cdc on board, then it's supposed to be an easy install...no progman updating. just ge the oem iPod retrofit kit which will cost around RM2,000.00-2,500.00...(i'm not sure about this, but you guys can inquire from Sapura/Ingress for this part. they'll say that a progman update is needed, but if you have CDC it's supposed to be Plug&Play. It emulates CD1-CD6 for it to function...)but, you will have to sacrifice your CDC 'coz it'll use the MOST bus connection from CDC and there is no way of retaining the CDC.

fyi, i have a Dension GW500 on my car which is way more superior than oem iPod retrofit kit...i get to retain my CDC!:top: and o top of that i get iPod+iPod Video+USB+bluetooth A2DP+Extra Adio Aux functions with it!!!...
for a Jap spec, you have no choice but to convert it first to an EU/MYS spec CCC if this route is desired...GW500 needs mp3 enabling retrofitted or else it won't work.
for Jap spec E60's, i don't think there's any mp3 enabling retrofit available...

Hey bro, read your mod on the Dension. Very nice. I love the audio/video and USB connectivities (don't care much for bluetooth). Only problem are the costs: system conversion + program update + ipod + dension = not enough cash for M5 steering, shifter, wing mirrors.

My recond didn't have CDC with it either.

So with all these issues, I'm thinking of simply getting a DVD changer + AUX to enable dvd movies and mp3 discs. You've done this mod too I see... think my setup is doable?

 

[bmw_wmn58]

Hey bro, read your mod on the Dension. Very nice. I love the audio/video and USB connectivities (don't care much for bluetooth). Only problem are the costs: system conversion + program update + ipod + dension = not enough cash for M5 steering, shifter, wing mirrors.

My recond didn't have CDC with it either.

So with all these issues, I'm thinking of simply getting a DVD changer + AUX to enable dvd movies and mp3 discs. You've done this mod too I see... think my setup is doable?

In order for you to add a DVD changer + video interface, there is no issue whatsoever...picture will definitely come up on the screen as it is a plug&play mod. but, where do you plan to get sound input?

if your car came with aux input, then i suggest you carry on with this mod. but if it didn't, then it has to be retrofitted via Progman update.

If you dare to take the risk of Progman updating via SSS for your Aux input, then carry on...this is the only way to make it sound good. unless you don't mind using radio frequency. but i definitely know that you won't be satisfied!!! well, the "end result vs. money spent" for this mod (via fm transmitter) is considered not a satisfactory...you'd definitely regret it!

Anyhow, it's your car and your money...so, do whatever you think is best for you. i'm just giving my piece of mind...fyi, i've been through your situation before...

 

[supergripen]

money spent indeed..seems whatever route we choose,its gonna cost a lot of money.i'm just not happy with the money spent vs end result angle at the moment.the solutions are just so expensive.with other cars,its just a matter of adding relatively inexpensive solutions to the system,and off ya go.

which makes the situation more frustrating since i have Logic7..would be nice to be able to take full use of it.getting pretty tiresome,listening to the same CDs.

for the moment,i'm just not convinced tho.i guess it all boils down to my decision to get a jap-spec car instead of a uk-spec one..i know,bad decision.

the ICE aspect just got relegated to 2nd place in my book..well,at least until a more acceptable solution comes along la.meantime,i can add more funds to my ESS supercharger savings account.

heard bmw is getting apple to help with the idrive replacement project slated for the new 7..and the rest of the range in the future.now that'll be interesting.

 

[owen]

In order for you to add a DVD changer + video interface, there is no issue whatsoever...picture will definitely come up on the screen as it is a plug&play mod. but, where do you plan to get sound input?

if your car came with aux input, then i suggest you carry on with this mod. but if it didn't, then it has to be retrofitted via Progman update.

If you dare to take the risk of Progman updating via SSS for your Aux input, then carry on...this is the only way to make it sound good. unless you don't mind using radio frequency. but i definitely know that you won't be satisfied!!! well, the "end result vs. money spent" for this mod (via fm transmitter) is considered not a satisfactory...you'd definitely regret it!

Anyhow, it's your car and your money...so, do whatever you think is best for you. i'm just giving my piece of mind...fyi, i've been through your situation before...

Yep, the car came with AUX input surprisingly. Glad to hear dvd changer installation is a simple plug and play affair. My aim is just to play movies when I need to kill time, and play mp3 discs since CD-R is dirt cheap.

Thanks for the advice :top:

 

[bmw_wmn58]

Yep, the car came with AUX input surprisingly. Glad to hear dvd changer installation is a simple plug and play affair. My aim is just to play movies when I need to kill time, and play mp3 discs since CD-R is dirt cheap.

Thanks for the advice :top:

You're a lucky guy, bro!!! Good for you...

Is it a late 2005 (post 09/05) car with the new keyfob and N52 engine?

Usually Jap Specs don't come with Aux input...Well, at least you get to accomplish your aimed goal with the most cheapest and efficient route + crystal clear great sound! When you play DVD movies on the car with HiFi Pro (it's standard on Jap specs), it'll sound like you're in a cinema!!!

Just make sure you send it over to a good workshop/accessories shop that's familliar with E60's.

Since you're planning to add-on a DVD changer, i'd recommend the Panasonic 8 disc changer. It plays all media formats (wma/wmv/mp4/mp3/aac/dvd/cd/vcd/etc. as long as it's stored on a disc) and you can atleast load 8 discs at once...And the best part, it's not expensive!!!

Good luck with your mods...

 

[owen]

You're a lucky guy, bro!!! Good for you...

Is it a late 2005 (post 09/05) car with the new keyfob and N52 engine?

Usually Jap Specs don't come with Aux input...Well, at least you get to accomplish your aimed goal with the most cheapest and efficient route + crystal clear great sound! When you play DVD movies on the car with HiFi Pro (it's standard on Jap specs), it'll sound like you're in a cinema!!!

Just make sure you send it over to a good workshop/accessories shop that's familliar with E60's.

Since you're planning to add-on a DVD changer, i'd recommend the Panasonic 8 disc changer. It plays all media formats (wma/wmv/mp4/mp3/aac/dvd/cd/vcd/etc. as long as it's stored on a disc) and you can atleast load 8 discs at once...And the best part, it's not expensive!!!

Good luck with your mods...

Thanks man.

It's 05/05 (according to realoem), N52 engine, and I have no clue whether it's old or new keyfob. I haven't kept myself updated on BMWs since 2003.

That Panasonic changer sounds great...hope it's not selective when playing certain CD-Rs. I'm really excited about watching dvd's...I can finally watch some tv in between work.

The video interface you were referring to is the ACM module, right?

 

[bmw_wmn58]

Thanks man.

It's 05/05 (according to realoem), N52 engine, and I have no clue whether it's old or new keyfob. I haven't kept myself updated on BMWs since 2003.

That Panasonic changer sounds great...hope it's not selective when playing certain CD-Rs. I'm really excited about watching dvd's...I can finally watch some tv in between work.

The video interface you were referring to is the ACM module, right?

If you're on a tight budget, it doesn't have to be and ACM...That'll cost you at least RM2.5-3K just for the module, another RM500-1K at least for the install...(it's not actually an easy install, you know!) There are other aftermarket products that also serve the purpose of using up the screen as an AV input...these aftermarket products now also tap in through the MOST/CAN bus of the car, so it's also integrated with the system...meaning that you don't actually need a remote to switch screens (i-Drive--->AV1--->AV2--->RGB--->Cam--->i-Drive) just by pressing shortcut buttons/sliding i-Drive knob...what will lack from these aftermarket products is that it won't show the accessories menu and information on engine temp/batt voltage/etc...But, the main purpose is actually to play dvd's on the car right? The choice is actually in your hands...

 

[owen]

If you're on a tight budget, it doesn't have to be and ACM...That'll cost you at least RM2.5-3K just for the module, another RM500-1K at least for the install...(it's not actually an easy install, you know!) There are other aftermarket products that also serve the purpose of using up the screen as an AV input...these aftermarket products now also tap in through the MOST/CAN bus of the car, so it's also integrated with the system...meaning that you don't actually need a remote to switch screens (i-Drive--->AV1--->AV2--->RGB--->Cam--->i-Drive) just by pressing shortcut buttons/sliding i-Drive knob...what will lack from these aftermarket products is that it won't show the accessories menu and information on engine temp/batt voltage/etc...But, the main purpose is actually to play dvd's on the car right? The choice is actually in your hands...

Sweet!

I'll go for the aftermarkets, so the extra money can be channelled to aesthetics. A BMW deserves it :wink: . I can always get ACM at a later stage, like when I'm ready with camera installs.

Really, thanks very much for your help. Wish I can treat you lunch or something hahah.

 

[bmw_wmn58]

Sweet!
Really, thanks very much for your help. Wish I can treat you lunch or something hahah.

Your wish is my command! Name a place and date, i'll definitely be there...Ha,Ha,Ha!!! or is this "ajak2 ayam" aje?

 

[owen]

Your wish is my command! Name a place and date, i'll definitely be there...Ha,Ha,Ha!!! or is this "ajak2 ayam" aje?

I'm serious if you are!

But I didn't literally mean "lunch", KL traffic is terrible and I stopped taking lunch over 5 years ago. How about high tea or dinner? I'll PM you the details.

 

[supergripen]

one question... with the ACM,when u play DVD,does it use up the whole screen or does it just take up the left 3/4 of the display?

care to post a pic of the display when u play DVD?

 

[owen]

It's supposed to show up on the whole screen. Some have had trouble configuring it like that, probably i-drive settings issue. I've seen quite a lot of pics but forgot to save to hard-drive. Search for ACM on e60.net.

 

[bmw_wmn58]

one question... with the ACM,when u play DVD,does it use up the whole screen or does it just take up the left 3/4 of the display?

care to post a pic of the display when u play DVD?

Yes, it shows up in full screen if you're on the 6.6" screen (M-ASK w/o Sat Nav@Business Nav)

and

No, it doesn't use up the whole screen if you're on the 8.8" wide screen (CCC Sat Nav Pro). When in DVD/Camera mode, it will leave two black bands on both sides to maintain the aspect ratio of the picture/movie...

But, if you connect Dension Gateway 500 + IVE1000, it will show up in full screen for iPod video when settings in iPod is set to Wide Screen Display...this might be due to the IVE1000 module (add-on accessory for GW500) which converts the iPod video to the ACM module...

 

[supergripen]

Yes, it shows up in full screen if you're on the 6.6" screen (M-ASK w/o Sat Nav@Business Nav)

and

No, it doesn't use up the whole screen if you're on the 8.8" wide screen (CCC Sat Nav Pro). When in DVD/Camera mode, it will leave two black bands on both sides to maintain the aspect ratio of the picture/movie...

But, if you connect Dension Gateway 500 + IVE1000, it will show up in full screen for iPod video when settings in iPod is set to Wide Screen Display...this might be due to the IVE1000 module (add-on accessory for GW500) which converts the iPod video to the ACM module...

nice..thanx bro.mine's 8.8" with a partition for nav/computer info.so when u play DVD via the ACM,does the movie image appear distorted/elongated too much or would u say the image is okay/acceptable?

i was also told that to connect ipod to the idrive of a jap-spec car like mine,the only solution would be Dension.so i guess u have the best setup so far IMO.

anyway thanx bro..i'm warming up to the idea but i've got other plans for the car as well so we'll see how things develop.thanx again..:top:

 

[bmw_wmn58]

nice..thanx bro.mine's 8.8" with a partition for nav/computer info.so when u play DVD via the ACM,does the movie image appear distorted/elongated too much or would u say the image is okay/acceptable?

i was also told that to connect ipod to the idrive of a jap-spec car like mine,the only solution would be Dension.so i guess u have the best setup so far IMO.

anyway thanx bro..i'm warming up to the idea but i've got other plans for the car as well so we'll see how things develop.thanx again..:top:

Sorry to say, bro, it's not doable on Jap Specs...Dension Gateway 500 requires mp3 capability and fyi it's not offered@retrofitable in Jap Specs...

So, you're left with only 2 options-
1) go the aux input route- but it won't integrate with i-Drive
2) go the OEM iPod kit route - but you'll have to sacrifice your CDC for this to work...

 

[supergripen]

i've got 2 slots below the a/c controls that i can use to play CDs(top slot) and MDs(a smaller bottom slot) which i think is typical for jap-spec cars.when i play a CD uing this slot,it'll appear as CD1 on the screen.
now,can i use this particular avenue to connect an ipod if i change this panel(below the a/c controls)to a euro/mal one? use the CD input from here to connect an OEM ipod connector? i don't need the MD player onviously,and i'm more than willing to sacrifice the single CD slot.
maybe i should take the car somewhere and let the experts have a look..

 

[bmw_wmn58]

i've got 2 slots below the a/c controls that i can use to play CDs(top slot) and MDs(a smaller bottom slot) which i think is typical for jap-spec cars.when i play a CD uing this slot,it'll appear as CD1 on the screen.
now,can i use this particular avenue to connect an ipod if i change this panel(below the a/c controls)to a euro/mal one? use the CD input from here to connect an OEM ipod connector? i don't need the MD player onviously,and i'm more than willing to sacrifice the single CD slot.
maybe i should take the car somewhere and let the experts have a look..

It's not because of CD/MD slots...what's needed is the mp3 capability. The MOST connector of the iPod module (OEM/Dension) is through the CD Changer...Do you have CDC? this is also a must! in order for the iPod Module (OEM/Dension) to work, you also need this...or else, it has to be updated via Progman for the CDC and mp3 enabled...

In summary, what you need for Dension GW500 to work :
1) CCC Nav Pro - which in your case is Sat Nav Pro but CCC MD instead of CCC DVD...
2) mp3 capability - try putting in an mp3 disc in your cd slot...if it can play the disc (which will usually fit at least 100 songs on a CD and about 1000 songs on a DVD disc) then it's mp3 capable!!!
3) CD Changer enabled - if you have this, under Entertainment-->CD menu it'll show DVD Drive, CD, CD1, CD2....CD6

For the OEM iPod to work :
1) CCC/M-ASK will both work. Not sure whether mp3 capability is needed...
2) CD Changer enabled - if you have this, it will work quite similar to Dension GW500. but if you don't have this, then you'll have to update the car via Progman and instead of retrofitting CDC, they'll straight away retrofit iPod which will show when in CD menu CD, MP3-1, MP3-2....MP3-6
(But i'm not quite sure about this since i didn't follow this route...you'll have to check with the place that will retrofit this for you!)