Connects2 CT90-MC04

Description

Video input interface for Mercedes S-Class W220 2004-2005 / CL-Class C216 2006 by Connects2. Useful for rear view camera installation.

Price: EUR 120.

Produced by Connects2 in 2009 (see page 69). Not sold anymore, but can be bought from some retailers.

The interface has been tested on MOST based COMAND, but it should fit also on the widescreen D2B based COMAND (confirmation needed).

This interface allows additional video inputs to the original COMAND screen:

• 2 video inputs;
• automatically switchable (rear) camera input;
• RGB Navigation input.

There are also 2 video outputs and an audio output.

Selection can be made by infra-red remote control or by the NAV button on the COMAND. The Remote control can also be used to adjust the picture via an on screen menu. If a camera and reverse signal wire are connected it will automatically switch when the vehicle is put into reverse gear.

The interface works by hijacking the connector that goes to COMAND LCD screen and COMAND left button panel. The RGB connector box converts analog composite video signal to digital signal used by COMAND LCD screen.

The head unit shown in the installation instructions is taken from a 2006 Mercedes S-Class W220 LHD. The modification of the head unit will be similar in the CL-Class.

During the installation it is advised that the keys are removed from the ignition, until all components are reconnected.

Disclaimer: Please observe the law in the country where this product is installed. It may be illegal for TV/DVD pictures to be in view of the driver whilst the vehicle is moving.

Kit Contents

CT90-MC04 package contents.

RGB Converter

2 PCBs

Power Cable

RGB Output

RGB Cable

AV In/Out

3 Flat Cables

Infra-Red Receiver

Remote Control

Interface Connections

Installation

Remove the COMAND from the vehicle using COMAND removal instructions.

W220 COMAND.

Remove the screws from the indicated positions.

Take apart the case and unplug the indicated flat cable.

Remove the screws from the indicated positions.

Remove the cassette mechanism.

Remove the 3 screws from the indicated positions.

Remove the PCB.

Remove the indicated screw to reveal the brown flat cable.

Unplug the revealed brown flat cable (do not use the force - push up the clip which tightens the cable) and the indicated white flat cable.

Assemble the supplied PCBs and flat cables as shown.

Connect the 2 PCBs together with the flat cable as shown.

Connect the inserted flat cables to the head unit and the original brown cable to the PCB.

Connect the original flat cable to PCB.

Connect the RGB cable to the PCB. The PCB should be located with the hole over a resistor.

Reassemble the head unit.

Leave the RGB cable outside to connect to the interface.

To pull the RGB cable through the hole in COMAND case the wires must be disconnected from the connector.

Reassembled head unit.

With all connections made, securely mount the interface module and head unit back into the vehicle.

Power source

The interface consumes around 190mA of current, therefore, it should not be left connected directly to the battery. It is safe to connect the interface to ignition wire (e.g., cigarette lighter wire) since if not connected to power source, the COMAND will work in pass-through mode acting as if multimedia interface is not installed.

Operation

Operate by NAV button.

Operate using remote control.

Test the unit; the 'NAV' button should now switch through the AV sources. Use the remote control to adjust pictures:

• PWR: Power.
• AV: Switch between: AV1/AV2/V3/RGB/MMI.
• OSD: Function key to setup program and adjust picture.
• SEL+/SEL-: Move between main menu and sub menu.
• CON+/CON-: Select menu and change picture values.

Audio

The kit supports video input only. To input the audio an FM transmitter or modulator will be required. The interface will act as an audio switch. The output will repeat AV1 or AV2, depending on which picture is selected.