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Automotive Dashcam Features Explained

Dashcam Features

A dashcam is a compact camera system designed with automotive-specific features to capture video of everything that happens in front of your car or truck. The video files from a dashcam can protect you from fraud or false accusations in the event of an accident. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular options available to enhance the information captured by these amazing safety systems.

Dual Camera Systems

Dashcam FeaturesMany dashcam solutions are available with a secondary camera that can be positioned to monitor the interior of the vehicle or the traffic behind your car or truck. These systems record from both cameras simultaneously to give you a complete record of everything happening. Uber, Lyft and taxi drivers are particularly fond of these dual camera systems to record the behavior of their customers.

Built-In LCD Screen

Dashcam FeaturesTwo types of dashcams are commonly available: Those with and without an LCD screen. In most products, the addition of a feature like a screen is perceived as an upgrade, but with dashcams, this isn’t always the case.

Dashcam systems without displays are often physically smaller, allowing your installer to mount the camera under your rearview mirror for a nearly invisible installation. These dashcams typically include a series of LEDs to indicate when they are powered up and are recording. The drawback to these designs is that you need a smartphone or computer to view videos stored by the system. You will also need to make system configuration adjustments using a phone or computer, so the installation time is longer.

Cameras with integrated displays are often physically larger than those without a screen. Depending on the design of the camera, color displays measure from 1.5 to 3.5 inches diagonally. In addition to letting you look at videos directly on the system, cameras with displays typically have easy-to-understand setup menus right on the unit. Many higher-end cameras include a touchscreen to make adjusting the system even easier.

Integrated GPS Antenna

Another popular dashcam feature is a built-in GPS antenna. The software in the camera will use the information transmitted by the GPS receiver to store vehicle speed and location along with the video information. Most quality dashcam manufacturers offer PC and Apple playback software that will show your location and speed along with the video recording.

Dashcam Features

Integrated Accelerometer

Another great feature to look for is a camera with an integrated accelerometer. These cameras store information about G-forces in all three axes along with the video. Your installer can typically configure the camera to automatically store video files if the camera detects a sudden jolt that might have been caused by an accident.

Parking Mode

Dashcam FeaturesMany solutions offer what is called parking mode. In most cases, when your installer has wired the camera to a constant power source (one that is active even when the ignition is turned off), the camera will stop saving video to the memory card. If the camera detects changes in the video image (from someone or something entering the field of vision) or motion from the built-in accelerometer, the system will wake up and automatically store a video file. In most cases, the recording starts 5 to 10 seconds before the trigger so you can see what led up to the event.

An important note about parking mode: Please make 100% sure that your camera has a low-voltage shutdown feature to prevent the battery in your car or truck from being killed and leaving you stranded. If your camera doesn’t have this feature, several manufacturers make external battery packs and control modules that will reduce or eliminate the load on your vehicle battery. If you don’t drive your car or truck every day, an external battery pack or at least a power management controller is a very wise investment.

High-Resolution Cameras and HDR Mode

Most quality dash cameras have high-definition image sensors capable of storing 1920-by-1080-pixel video files. Compared with VGA or 720p recording, these high-res files allow you to see license plate information, phone numbers or other identifying marks on moving vehicles. Some of the newest cameras record at 4K (4096 by 2160) resolution for an increase in detail of 4.3 times over HD resolution. Yes, this higher resolution with fill up a memory card much more quickly, but the added detail is quite worthwhile. We suggest buying a camera with as much image resolution as possible for your budget.

Dashcam Features
Example of detail recorded in HD resolution setting.

 

Dashcam Features
Example of detail recorded in 4K resolution setting.

High Dynamic Range

Another popular feature is called high dynamic range. This is a video contrast compression technology that helps to make dark areas of the image brighter and bright areas darker to make everything in the video easier to see and understand during playback. Turning on HDR processing can help reveal more detail at night or in bright sunlight situations.

Dashcam Features
Nighttime setting with high dynamic range setting turned off.

 

Dashcam Features
Nighttime setting with high dynamic range setting turned on.

Wi-Fi-Enabled Dashcam Feature

Dashcam FeaturesThe last feature we will talk about is Wi-Fi. Many premium cameras include an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot that allows you to connect your phone to see videos or make adjustments to the system. This is a particularly convenient feature on cameras that don’t have a touchscreen as it makes adjusting menu options quick and easy. Apps for iOS and Android-based smartphones are typically available for dashcams with Wi-Fi built in.

Some advanced dashcams include the option to automatically connect to an internet hotspot to upload video files to the cloud to make information access easy and efficient.

Protect Yourself with a Car Dashcam

If you are concerned about fraud from other drivers or pedestrians, or you want undeniable proof of who’s at fault in the event of an accident, then you owe it to yourself to invest in a quality dashcam. Drop by your local specialist mobile enhancement retailer today to find out more about the systems that are available and arrange for expert installation in your vehicle.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Backup Safety, Driver Safety, RESOURCE LIBRARY

Pre-Owned Vehicle Backup Camera and Safety Systems

Backup CameraBack over accidents are responsible for more than 200 deaths and 12,000 injuries each year. The US Congress passed a law in 2008 that would enact measures to use technology to prevent accidents like these. After years of delays, the US Department of Transportation finally announced that new cars must come with a backup camera.

But what if you own or have recently purchased an older vehicle? Can you add a backup camera to an older car, truck or SUV? You most certainly can! In this article, we’ll explain how several different accident prevention and safety systems can make parking and maneuvering your vehicle safer.

What is a Backup Camera System?

Backup CameraIn the simplest of terms, a backup camera system includes a video screen within view of the driver that displays an image of the area behind the vehicle when the transmission is in reverse. The camera on the back of the vehicle will be mounted in a location that lets the driver detect objects or people that are normally blocked by the trunk or hatch. In essence, a backup camera system is like having a spotter behind your vehicle telling you if there is anything in your way.

All backup camera systems that have been integrated into the vehicle properly function without any input from the driver. The wiring in the car provides a signal to the camera system as soon as the transmission selector is put into reverse. There are no switches or buttons to press.

The image displayed on the screen mimics that of your rear-view mirror regarding left-right orientation. When looking at the screen, objects on the right of the screen are the right side of the vehicle and vice versa. As we are used to this perspective, it makes using a rear vision camera system much safer.

Rear Vision Camera System Integration

Backup CameraMost factory-installed cameras are mounted above the license plate on a car or in the handle or tailgate emblem of a truck. Aftermarket camera solutions are available to mimic these installation locations. Many vehicles like the Mercedes Sprinter, Ford F-150 and GMC Silverado and Chevy Sierra have aftermarket solutions that look identical to factory offerings. The cameras are water resistant and carry an IP66 (or higher) dust and water intrusion rating. This IP rating means that the cameras can withstand going through the car wash or exposure to the everyday challenges Mother Nature throws their way. Universal cameras are available in surface and flush mount applications. Your mobile enhancement retailer can help you choose the right style for your application.

Camera Quality

Just as when you go shopping for a video or still camera, lens and image sensor quality play a significant role in determining the quality of the image you will see. Inexpensive cameras from the local auto parts or big box store may not respond quickly to changes in image brightness and often can’t handle high-contrast situations. Higher quality cameras offer more resolution to help you see small or narrow objects behind your vehicle.

Video Image Display Options

There are four popular options available to display the camera image inside your vehicle. As we mentioned, all of these displays operate automatically without the need for any input from the driver.

1. Factory Color Display

Backup CameraIf your car or truck came with a color display for the factory radio or infotainment system, there are many companies that offer premium integration modules that allow the image from the backup camera to be displayed on this screen. Using a factory screen is the most integrated of solutions and truly mimics a factory-installed system.

Many interfaces have additional camera inputs for forward-facing and blind spot monitoring camera options. Talk to your retailer to find out what is available for your application.

2. Replacement Rearview Mirror with Integrated Display

Backup CameraIf your vehicle doesn’t have a color screen, another popular option to display a camera image is a replacement rearview mirror that features an integrated color display. When the camera is not in use, the mirror looks normal and will show you what is happening behind your vehicle. When you put the transmission in reverse, a compact LCD screen shines through the mirrored surface to display the camera image. While typically small in size (around 4 inches diagonally), they work very well and are quite popular.

3. Aftermarket Multimedia Radio

Backup CameraA popular upgrade for older vehicles is to replace the radio with an aftermarket unit that includes a color display. You can choose from simple AM/FM multimedia receivers costing only a few hundred dollars up to state-of-the-art systems with integrated navigation, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration and even vehicle integration and control options. These systems typically include at least one camera input to show what is behind your vehicle. Some will overlay information from factory-installed parking sensor systems for increased safety.

4. Stand-Alone Monitor

Backup CameraIf none of the above options suit your application or you require a larger screen, then consider having a stand-alone monitor installed in your vehicle. Commercial applications such as tow trucks, snow plows, garbage trucks, recycling trucks and delivery vehicles often choose a stand-alone monitor. The image is large, and the unit can be placed in a convenient location.

Additional Safety System Options

As we mentioned, the addition of a forward-facing camera is another popular option for large vehicles like 1-ton trucks where it is difficult to see curbs or even other vehicles over the large hood. In most applications, a button or switch would activate this forward-facing camera for parking purposes. These cameras are also great for making sure these large vehicles are parked as close as possible to the wall in a parking garage to reduce how far they stick out into traffic.

Backup CameraMany luxury vehicles combine a parking sensor system with a backup camera. The advantage of adding parking sensors is that they are an active safety device. You don’t need to remember to pay attention to them – they alert you to the presence of an object. Parking sensor systems can be installed in most cars, trucks and SUVs. Many solutions include options for forward-facing sensors.

Find out More About Rear Vision Cameras Today

If you’ve ever had a close call, or simply want to avoid the risk of damage to your vehicle or injury to a bystander, visit your local mobile enhancement retailer today. You’ll be able find out what options are available to add a backup camera system to your new or used vehicle.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Backup Safety, RESOURCE LIBRARY

Product Spotlight: Momento M7 Dash Camera

Momento M7

Protecting yourself against fraud and false accusations while driving is easier when you have a dashcam system installed in your car or truck. Momento, the collision avoidance and safety technology brand from Firstech, has just introduced a new and revolutionary video recording solution – the M7, also known as the MD-7200. This new dash camera system increases the camera’s recording resolution, adds support for up to two additional cameras, and includes a unique radar-based motion sensor for parking mode.

Momento M7
The heart of the new Momento M7 is a QHD dashcam that includes a color LCD touchscreen for easy control and configuration.

Dashcam Video Features

The M7 is a super-compact dashcam system with a body measuring just over 2 inches wide, 1.5 inches tall and a mere 1.14 inches deep. The camera includes a windshield mounting bracket with the power, rear camera and interior camera connections built in for a tidy installation. The GPS receiver is also built into the base to have a clear view of the sky to provide as much accuracy as possible.

Momento M7
The mounting bracket includes rear and interior camera connections as well as the power connection and GPS antenna.

A compact color LCD touchscreen is on the rear of the body. Your installer can configure the camera settings quickly and easily through the menu, and you can view videos right in the vehicle without needing a computer or smartphone.

Momento M7
The color touchscreen will display the forward or rear camera image and includes an intuitive menu system.

The integrated forward-facing camera features a QHD (Quad HD) 2560-by-1440-pixel image sensor. That’s an increase in detail of 1.78 times what’s offered by 1080p sensors. As we’ve mentioned numerous times, image sensor resolution is crucial for capturing vital information like license plates and other identifying marks. Low-light and high-contrast video performance are a key part of what separates good cameras from great ones. The 5-megapixel image sensor in the M7 benefits from class-leading light sensitivity, exceptional noise reduction in dark conditions and seamless dual-exposure HDR to ensure that every detail is captured with the utmost clarity. It’s designed around a native 16:9 aspect ratio.

A key feature of the M7 is that the system comes out of the box with a high-performance rear camera. Many competing solutions have secondary cameras as an optional upgrade. Momento felt it was just as important to capture what was happening behind the vehicle as in front. The rear camera has a 1080p sensor, and the mounting bracket can be adjusted for perfect coverage out the back window of a sedan, hatchback, SUV or pickup truck.

Momento M7
The M7 system includes a 1080p rear camera.

The optional IC6 (known formally as the MD-IC6) vehicle interior camera is also 1080p and includes infrared emitters so everyone and everything inside the vehicle will be visible in the recording, even when it’s dark.

Finally, the M7 system includes a 64 GB microSD memory card, so there’s nothing extra required before your installer gets to work. Of course, a power harness is also included, so your installer can wire the camera system into the power and ignition sources for seamless operation.

Eco Mode Parking

Most modern dashcams have a function called Parking Mode. When the camera system is stationary for a short time (usually a few minutes), it stops storing video on the memory card. Most cameras continue to monitor what’s happening around the vehicle, and then they store a video file when the image sensor detects that someone or something has moved. Parking mode operating requires roughly 240 to 250 milliamps of current draw from the vehicle battery. This amount of current can drain the battery significantly after just a day or two.

The new Momento M7’s Eco Mode doesn’t use the image sensor to monitor motion. Instead, the M7 has a built-in radar sensor, as you’d find in a commercial building security system. When the radar sensor detects motion, the M7 starts to store video again. The benefit of this design is that the radar sensor motion detector draws less than 30 milliamps of current. Unless someone is circling your car constantly, that’s a massive reduction in current consumption that translates into less draw from the vehicle battery.

Momento M7
An integrated radar sensor monitors the area in front of your vehicle for motion while in parking mode.

Just as with Momento’s previous flagship dashcam, the M6 or MD-6200, during regular driving, the integrated accelerometer can trigger an alert recording that captures 15 seconds before the trigger and 15 seconds after. In addition, you can start a manual event recording by tapping on the REC button in the lower right corner of the touchscreen should you witness something abnormal during your driving adventures.

Easy-to-Use Desktop Software

You can download the M7 PC or Apple viewing software directly from the Momento website to easily navigate videos stored on the card with your desktop computer. The software will also allow you to view the front, rear or interior video feeds along with vehicle speed and location information. The location information is overlaid onto Google Maps data to see exactly where the vehicle was headed. Finally, data from the three-axis accelerometer is also shown on the screen, so braking, sudden steering inputs or an impact are also visible.

Upgrade Your Protection with the Momento M7 Dashcam

If you’re looking for a premium dash camera system with a high-resolution image sensor, support for multiple cameras and the latest in power-saving parking mode monitoring, visit a local authorized Momento retailer and ask about the new M7 dual-camera dashcam with radar. You can find a retailer near to you using the online dealer locator on their website. Also, be sure to follow Momento on Facebook, Instagram and to keep up with their latest news and product releases.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Backup Safety, PRODUCTS, RESOURCE LIBRARY Tagged With: Momento

Vehicle Parking Safety Systems

Parking SafetyDid you ever wish you had eyes in the back of your head? When you are backing into a parking spot, being able to know where the car behind you is would save a lot of time and nervousness. If your car doesn’t have a backup camera or parking sensors, then it’s time to visit your local mobile electronics specialists. They can add these parking safety systems to almost any vehicle on the road.

Backup Camera Options

Parking SafetyThe classic backup camera system consists of a compact camera, typically about a 1-inch cube. The image produced by a backup camera covers a wide field of vision in both the horizontal and vertical planes. The image is reversed from that of a normal camera. When the camera is installed pointing rearward, this reversed image shows objects on the right side of the vehicle on the right side of the display screen. This orientation mimics what you would see in a rear view mirror.

Most cameras are water-resistant so rain, snow, mud and dust don’t affect their performance. The wiring for these cameras is also water-resistant, usually up to the first connection unless specified otherwise. That connection should be inside the vehicle.

Most good-quality cameras use wide-aperture shutters that allow the camera to capture a lot of light, even when it’s dark out. The reverse lights of your vehicle are often more than adequate to light up everything behind you. Most of these cameras are rated down to 0.5 or 1 Lux of light sensitivity. If you need to see in the dark, then there are cameras with built-in IR light transmitters. These can be used inside closed areas, like an engine compartment of a boat or the container of a delivery van.

Parking SafetyCameras can be installed at the top of or above your license plate. Some custom camera solutions are built into replacement tailgate, hatch handles and third brake light assemblies for many trucks and SUVs.

Several companies manufacture wireless camera systems. If you have a vehicle that is difficult to run wires in, then a wireless camera system may be a viable option. Just be aware that the quality of wireless cameras systems varies a great deal. The last thing you want is for an image to be full of noise, or not present at all due to interference. Wireless systems also have a small amount of delay inherent to their design. This delay can be as little as 100 mSec for some WiF-based camera systems up to almost 300 mSec for others that use more conventional AM and FM transmission techniques. You will need to work with your retailer to choose the right camera system for your vehicle.

Monitor and Display Options

Parking SafetyThere are many options for where the camera image can be displayed. Almost all aftermarket multimedia source units have dedicated rear view camera inputs and triggers. If your vehicle has a color display from the factory, several companies manufacture interfaces that allow an aftermarket camera image to be displayed on that screen. The third option is a dedicated display screen. This display can be a stand-alone monitor that is installed on the dash or in the center console, or is built into a new rearview mirror. Rearview mirror displays are a nice, clean option because nothing stands out as having been added to the interior.

Some camera systems designed for larger vehicles offer side and front camera locations as well. The monitors included with these systems can typically show all four cameras at once in a variety of on-screen configurations. The most elaborate of these systems will stitch the images from the four cameras together to provide a bird’s-eye view of what is around the vehicle. These 360-degree systems require careful calibration to work properly. Most of these multi-camera systems include reverse and turn signal triggers to automatically change which camera is being displayed.

How a Camera System Works

Parking SafetyWhen you put your transmission in reverse, a wire connected to your reverse lights or a reverse gear signal from your transmission triggers the camera system to turn on. You don’t need to press any buttons or flick any switches – it happens instantly and automatically. The camera should be installed and aligned so you can see the ground as close to the rear of your vehicle as possible.

Parking Sensor Systems

An alternative to a camera system is a parking sensor system. Instead of a camera, these systems use several ultrasonic sensors to detect the presence of objects. These sensors emit a very high-frequency signal, then measure how long it takes for that signal to bounce off an object and return to a receiving sensor built into the same small unit. These sensors are typically installed on the rear bumper of your vehicle. When installed properly, they do a great job of detecting even small objects like the post of a sign. This method of object detection is the same as what bats use for navigation.

Parking SafetyHow a parking sensor system works varies by brand. Some systems have a small display that shows you which sensor has detected an object and how far you are from that object. Most systems use a small beeper or buzzer to alert you to the presence of an object. The system will emit a beeping sound when it detects an object. The speed of the beeps increases as you get closer to the object. The warning beeps usually switch to a solid tone once you are within 12 inches of an object.

More-elaborate parking systems also include front-mounted sensors to help when driving forward into parking spot or garage.

Passive versus Active Warning Systems

Ultimately, cameras and parking sensor systems do the same job: They let you know when you are getting close to something.

One significant benefit of a parking sensor system over a camera system is that it is completely active. You don’t have to make a conscious decision to look at a screen or display to be warned of an imminent collision – the system beeps and tells you.

This isn’t to say that one system is better than the other – they simply differ in how they work. If you were trying to back a pickup truck up to a trailer, a backup camera system would be a huge benefit, while the parking sensor system just tells you there is something behind you.

The Importance of Parking Safety Systems

Here’s a chilling fact: More than 50 children are hit each week in the U.S. by a vehicle that is backing up. Sadly, roughly two of these children succumb to their injuries each week. We aren’t trying to scare you or make you paranoid – but accidents happen all the time while backing up.

If your vehicle didn’t come with a parking safety system, then drop by your local mobile electronics specialist retailer. They would be happy to inspect your vehicle and design a parking solution that meets your needs.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Backup Safety, RESOURCE LIBRARY

Buying A New Car Audio Head Unit

Head UnitWhen it comes time for buying an upgraded or replacement head unit for your vehicle, there are certainly a lot of options to consider. Size, features, compatibility and accessories are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to modern source units. Let’s take a look at some basic radio-buying knowledge and a few of the latest features and innovations that vie for space in your dash.

Size And Style

Head Unit
As the name implies, a double din radio is twice as tall as a single din radio.

There are two sizes of aftermarket radios available: single-DIN and double-DIN. The former is 2 inches tall, the latter is 4 inches tall and both are 7 inches wide. One size isn’t better than the other; they are just different. Single-DIN is the most popular size for AM/FM CD receivers, and double-DIN (also known as 2-DIN) is more popular for multimedia receivers. There are some small-screen single-DIN multimedia decks and a good variety that have motorized flip-out touchscreen monitors.

Audio Features

Here is where your pre-purchase homework begins. What do you want your new radio (also known as a source unit) to do – iPod audio playback? Bluetooth hands-free cellphone and audio streaming? Backup camera display? Digital media playback? Consider how you use your existing radio and what features you’d like to have. Make yourself a list and take it with you to the store.

Head Unit
The Kenwood DDX393 head unit offers 3 sets of preamp outputs.

It will help your salesperson if you know whether you want to expand the audio system with better speakers, an amplifier or a subwoofer. If so, then you should look for a source unit with six-channel preamp outputs rated at a minimum of 4 volts RMS. The unit should have adjustable electronic crossovers and a subwoofer level control built in.

Are you going to use an external signal processor for equalization, or is the built-in unit adequate? Look for as many equalizer bands as possible if you are going to use the on-board processing. Some source units offer time alignment to delay the signals to the speakers for better imaging and staging. Imaging and staging refer to where it seems as if the music is coming from. Most audiophiles prefer for it to sound like the performance is coming from as far out in front of them as possible. Some people like to be surrounded by the sound. Let your salesperson know which you prefer.

Smartphone Integration

Most radios these days have the option of a Bluetooth transceiver. Bluetooth is a low-power data communication protocol. It can be used for hands-free phone calls, audio streaming and – beyond the car audio environment – much more. Take your phone with you to the store and pair it to the radio you are thinking of buying. Turn the power to the radio on and off a few times and make sure it reconnects every time. Have the store call your phone to make sure it rings as expected. Finally, try streaming audio from your phone to the radio.

Head Unit
Many radios now offer the safety and convenience of Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

It’s critical to make sure the phone works properly before you purchase the radio. If the software on the phone is updated (something that seems to happen every few months), some features or functions may not work as intended. Some higher-end source units will allow two phones to be paired simultaneously. This could be beneficial to families who share the use of the vehicle.

There are several multimedia radios that include dedicated smartphone integration software for iPhone- and Android-based phones. Apple has developed the CarPlay system for the iPhone, and Google has Android Auto for newer Android devices. These interfaces let you talk to your radio to perform functions like reading and sending text messages, making phone calls, getting navigation instructions, and choosing what music to play.

Navigation

Head Unit
The Kenwood DNX892 offers sophisticated navigation features.

Multimedia source units have become synonymous with GPS navigation. Mapping software is built into the radio, and it knows where you are using a signal from a series of satellites that are in a stationary orbit around the world. These programs rely on complex algorithms and map data to plot an efficient course from your current location to a destination you choose. You are, however, at the mercy of the accuracy of the map data. You will want to inquire about the cost to upgrade maps, and what the procedure is. You will want to check to make sure that any state or province you want to travel to is included in the mapping on the unit.

Finally, ask about how many Points of Interest are included. If you love to get your coffee from Starbucks, then the more POI information there is, the faster you can get your java fix.

Digital Media Support

Most people now source their music from the Internet. Historically, MP3 and WMA files were popular. These files were very small, and you could put hundreds of them on a single CD and thousands on a DVD or USB stick. Their problem? The file size was reduced by throwing away some of the most subtle information in the music. The audio wasn’t completely ruined, but these didn’t sound as good as a CD.

Head Unit
The Sony RSX-GS9 is a high resolution player capable of playing FLAC files

The industry has seen a welcome focus on high-resolution audio files in the past few years with the rise in popularity of FLAC and ALAC file formats. FLAC stands for Free Lossless Audio Code and ALAC for Apple Lossless Audio Codec. These file formats are lossless – no audio information is removed. They are compressed in a similar way that “zipping” a computer file makes the file smaller for more efficient transmission by e-mail. These file formats also support higher resolution – audio frequencies up to almost 100 kHz and more detail in the form of 24-bit depth. If sound quality is your thing, then support for lossless audio might be worth investigating.

On multimedia source units, manufacturers have recently added support for the H.264 codec to the list of video file formats that can be decoded. H.264 is most often seen in video files with the MKV extension (known as Matroska). These files offer great image quality in relatively compact file sizes. Many newer multimedia units also feature an HDMI input so you can feed video into the unit from your phone, a video camera or even a game system. The better units have an associated feature called MHL. On Android phones, you can use the MHL connection to send touchscreen commands back to your phone. You can change source and play movies or music videos from your phone without touching it at all.

Accessories

We have grown accustomed to satellite radio being an option on many radios – in its current format, SiriusXM is now the only option. Be wary of older source units. They used tuner modules that are extremely rare these days. You may want to check for the inclusion of an HD radio tuner if there are stations in your area that use that as part of their FM broadcasting. Pandora and other cellphone-based streaming sources are also popular source unit options.

Head Unit
The Alpine HCE-C125 is a high-quality backup camera that offers great image clarity.

With a multimedia radio, you will want to look at adding a backup camera. Backup cameras dramatically reduce the chance of having an accident while backing up your vehicle. The camera image appears on the screen of your radio as soon as you put the vehicle transmission in reverse. Some multimedia radios have the provision for a secondary camera – a forward-facing camera is a great idea for lowered vehicles or sports cars that could bump into a parking curb.

Specifications

If you have read many of our articles, then you know by now that some companies like to play games with specifications. The worst offenders are the guys that rate head unit amplifier power. They put 45, 50 or 53 watt labels on the radio when, in fact, most produce no more than 18 to 22 watts of undistorted power. Look through the owner’s manual for the CEA-2006A compliant power specification for your vehicle. If you want to compare power, that’s the only specification you should consider.

Another important specification is preamp voltage. Nobody plays games with this specification any more, but you do want to look for a good, strong pre-amp if you plan on adding amplifiers. Look for a rating of 4 volts or more.

Why is this important? While it doesn’t make your amplifier play any louder, it does let your installer turn down the sensitivity adjustment on your amps, so you get all the power with potentially less background noise.

Integration

Head Unit
The Maestro Interface allows control of vehicle settings via the head unit.

Factory-installed source units often include different forms of vehicle integration features. The simplest are steering wheel audio controls. Thankfully, almost all quality source units can be made to work with factory controls via an external interface. If your factory radio also serves as the control screen for your heater and air conditioning, or for vehicle settings like headlight reminders, then fear not: The iDataLink Maestro system can talk to your vehicle and let you see what’s going on via the touchscreen of your multimedia radio. Axxess, a division of Metra Electronics, will be launching a similar interface very shortly.

Interface

Head Unit
How you interface with the radio is one of the most important aspects of head unit selection.

Above all else, the first thing you want to do after you have narrowed down your source unit options is to try them out. Is there a rotary or push-button volume control? If it’s push-button, does it respond fast enough if you want to turn the volume down quickly? Can you easily pair a new phone to the radio? Can you adjust the bass and treble? Set radio station presets? Make a phone call? You will want to spend a few minutes in the store playing with the radio to make sure it’s easy and safe to use while driving – not all of them are.

There are hundreds of different source units on the market, and your local car audio specialist can help you navigate all the options. There are still many more features and options that your salesperson can discuss with you, so work with your local car audio specialist retailer to make sure you get the radio that meets your needs.

This article is written and produced by the team at www.BestCarAudio.com. Reproduction or use of any kind is prohibited without the express written permission of 1sixty8 media.

Filed Under: ARTICLES, Backup Safety, Bluetooth, Car Audio, RESOURCE LIBRARY, Satellite Radio

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July 27, 2025 

A dashcam is a compact camera system designed with automotive-specific features to capture video of everything that happens in front of your car or truck. The video files from a … [Read More...]

The Alpine i407-WRA-JL

Product Spotlight: Alpine i407-WRA-JL

July 21, 2025 

If you’ve been paying attention over the last few years, you’ll know that the folks at Alpine have been offering many different audio system upgrade solutions for Jeep Wrangler and … [Read More...]

Battery Voltage

Understanding Specifications: Operating Voltage Tolerances and Protection Circuits

July 13, 2025 

To close out our series of educational articles on amplifier specifications, we are going to talk about operating voltage limits and, by association, the protection circuits built … [Read More...]

KICKER LX1200.5

Product Spotlight: KICKER LX1200.5

July 11, 2025 

If you’ve been paying attention, then you’ll know that DSP-equipped car audio amplifiers are pretty common these days. KICKER introduced a new series of amplifiers called LX. These … [Read More...]

Remote Level Control

Car Audio Amplifier Remote Control Options

June 29, 2025 

If you are thinking about having your local mobile enhancement retailer add a subwoofer amplifier to your car or truck, you may want to ask them about the remote level or bass … [Read More...]

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