Understanding the prospects of the automotive electronics market, modern manufacturers of multimedia systems strive to use all the latest technologies in creating new models. Until recently, the presence of a navigation system in the radio was perceived as something outlandish and exclusive. For the current market, such functionality is basic, and competition is gradually shifting to the field of wireless communications. In addition, the next generation in-car multimedia system offers enhanced audio and video playback capabilities. And that's not to mention the ability to connect to a wide range of devices and media that can act as content sources.
General information about multimedia systems for cars
Despite the development of functional content and technical stuffing, the form factor and design parameters of such devices remain the same. In this regard, the creators strive to make equipment as simple, compact and reliable as possible. Usually this is a small block that is embedded in a special niche located on the front panel. Of course, it cannot be denied that the car multimedia system has an impact on the aestheticthe dignity of the interior in the cabin, so the design of the device is of particular importance. The presence of a touchscreen display has also become a mandatory component in modern head units. It is through it that the functions of the device are controlled - from changing tracks to assigning a route in the navigator. The requirements for automotive electronics are particularly rigid in terms of ergonomics, so the design and control method must be selected with a detailed study of the smallest details.
Acoustic features
In recent years, audio systems have begun to transform into multifunctional equipment. But the original task of such systems, as before, is to reproduce sound. And in this direction, manufacturers are developing their products no less actively. In the best modern designs, a multimedia speaker system is a whole complex that is equipped with all the features of an audio player, and is also capable of working with a wide range of third-party equipment. Such models, as a rule, have a sound processor, so they can also be connected to a subwoofer. There are also many options with integrated speakers, but in any case, such devices will allow you to customize the sound picture for every taste on an extensive scale of parameters.
As far as connectivity options are concerned, first of all they involve standard line outputs. If you need a multimedia system for watching video, then it will not be superfluous to pay attention to the HDMI connector, which is consideredthe best channel for playing sound and movies.
Navigator function
Although this option has long been almost mandatory for car radios, such systems are still considered as hybrid. On the market, such devices are easy to find by the 2DIN marking, which indicates the support for the navigator function. With such equipment, the driver gets the opportunity to digitally plot the route with the map displayed on the display screen. Today, even a multimedia navigation system from the budget segment provides a rather attractive set of tools for working with maps. They can be rotated, zoomed in and out, marked and, of course, regularly updated and added to the route database. The most sophisticated car owners should recommend more functional hybrids equipped with GPS antennas and DVRs. This package eliminates the need to purchase a separate video recording tool. But that's not all. To avoid trouble with a road inspection, you can purchase a device that will also contain a radar detector. A few hundred meters before approaching the place where the speed limits are fixed, this device will notify the driver about this area.
Communication Skills
In addition to traditional connectivity, multimedia devices are equipped with a variety of technological interfaces. Among them, it is worth noting USB, through which you can connect audio andvideo equipment, as well as link the system with mobile devices and a computer. In addition, a modern car multimedia system can provide wireless connections to mobile gadgets and wearable electronics. One of the most popular options in this regard was the connection of the Bluetooth module to communicate with the phone. With this connection, the driver can make calls and send SMS using the multimedia system without taking the mobile device out of his pocket. In addition, the "blue tooth" allows you to customize the playback of sound from the same smartphone. For most models of the new generation, the possibility of accessing the Internet is also open.
Digital TV
TV on the center console of the car may seem out of place, but this feature will not be superfluous. Manufacturers usually complete such devices with special antennas with magnetic holders and a wide range of options. Actually, in terms of control, digital car TV can be compared with full-fledged receivers and tuners. Same settings with support for surround sound, auto search, equalizer, etc. In addition, the multimedia system, depending on the modification, can actively work with local transmission networks. For this, the LCN system is used, which improves signal reception efficiency and broadcast quality.
What else to consider when choosing?
Before buying a head unit for a car, you should determine the list of tasks that the system will have to perform. In particular,you should decide on the content sources and devices that will need to connect to the equipment. You should also evaluate the need for a GPS sensor, radio, Bluetooth module and digital TV. These are, of course, useful options, but in such equipment, the multimedia system is many times more expensive than the standard model, designed exclusively for sound reproduction. True, in the case of hybrid devices, on the contrary, functionality helps to save money. The fact is that multifunctional complexes eliminate the need to purchase a separate DVR and navigation system.
Installing a multimedia system
Installation of devices of this type is usually carried out according to the standard scheme. Manufacturers complete the equipment with special frames for panels and fasteners that allow you to easily integrate the equipment into niches prepared for this purpose. True, if you plan to install a monitor with several speakers, then the installation configuration may be non-standard. If the standard multimedia system is installed in the central panel, then equipment with large displays is usually integrated into the ceiling niche. But this configuration is more common when equipping minivans and SUVs.
Conclusion
Multimedia systems designed for cars look like entertainment complexes, and in some modifications - home theaters. Of course, bythere is no need to talk about such comparisons in terms of power characteristics and dimensions, but some functional “chips” from traditional systems have long migrated to the field of automotive electronics. Suffice it to say that a modern multimedia system allows any driver to use communication tools such as Bluetooth, USB and HDMI. And that's not to mention the built-in navigation system, digital TV and Internet access. Another thing is that such a rich filling may not be required by the car owner. Especially considering the cost of such devices, which can reach 50-60 thousand rubles.
