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BMW E38 - User Manual

BMW E38
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Summary

Safety Precautions and Initial Checks

BMW Panel Key Functions

BMW E38, E39 Panel Key Descriptions

Details the functions of control panel keys for BMW E38 and E39 models.

BMW E90, E91, E92 Panel Key Descriptions

Details the functions of control panel keys for BMW E90, E91, and E92 models.

Basic Operation Guide

Power On;Off Function

How to turn the device on and off.

Navigation Mode Switching

Switching between navigation and previous modes.

Remote Control Operations

Operations Overview

Main Interface Navigation

Overview of the main user interface and modes.

Main Interface Introduction

Radio Mode Operation

How to operate and adjust radio settings.

Radio Interface with RDS

Touch Screen Operation Sections

Main Interface Touch Area

Touch area to return to the main interface.

Setup Menu Touch Area

Touch area for setup menus.

Previous Track Touch Area

Touch area to go to the previous track.

Function Control Touch Area

Touch area for function controls.

Next Track Touch Area

Touch area to go to the next track.

Search Menu Touch Area

Touch area for search menu and playback.

Disc USB;CD Playback

USB;CD;WMA Disc Usage

Playing music from USB, CD, or WMA discs.

Player Interface Elements

Track Selection by Number

Selecting tracks by number.

IPOD Access and Control

SD Card Playback

Bluetooth Hands-Free Communication

Bluetooth Device Pairing Steps

Step-by-step guide for pairing Bluetooth devices.

Making Phone Calls

How to make phone calls using the system.

Answering Incoming Calls

How to answer incoming calls.

AUX IN Auxiliary Input

Rear-View Camera Functionality

System Setup

DVD Setup Options

Setup options for DVD playback.

Setup Options

Rating Password Setup

Setting a rating password for content.

Parental Control Management

Managing parental control settings.

Radio Setup Options

Radio Region Selection

Selecting the country for radio reception.

RDS Function Control

Enabling or disabling RDS for FM radio.

ASP Setup Options

Bass Center Frequency Setting

Setting the bass center frequency.

Bass Q Value Adjustment

Adjusting the Q value for bass output.

Audio Settings Adjustment

MID Center Frequency Setting

Setting the MID center frequency.

MID Q Value Adjustment

Adjusting the Q value for MID output.

TREB Center Frequency Setting

Setting the TREB center frequency.

Video Setup Configuration

General Setup Options

Rear-View Camera Image Setting

Setting normal or mirror display for rear-view camera.

System Configuration

System Time Configuration

Setting the system time.

Touch Screen Calibration

Calibrating the touch screen for accuracy.

System Parameters

DVD;CD Player Specifications

Specifications related to the DVD/CD player.

FM Radio Reception Details

Technical details for FM radio reception.

AM Radio Reception Details

Technical details for AM radio reception.

Display Screen Specifications

Specifications of the display screen.

Summary

Safety Precautions and Initial Checks

BMW Panel Key Functions

BMW E38, E39 Panel Key Descriptions

Details the functions of control panel keys for BMW E38 and E39 models.

BMW E90, E91, E92 Panel Key Descriptions

Details the functions of control panel keys for BMW E90, E91, and E92 models.

Basic Operation Guide

Power On;Off Function

How to turn the device on and off.

Navigation Mode Switching

Switching between navigation and previous modes.

Remote Control Operations

Operations Overview

Main Interface Navigation

Overview of the main user interface and modes.

Main Interface Introduction

Radio Mode Operation

How to operate and adjust radio settings.

Radio Interface with RDS

Touch Screen Operation Sections

Main Interface Touch Area

Touch area to return to the main interface.

Setup Menu Touch Area

Touch area for setup menus.

Previous Track Touch Area

Touch area to go to the previous track.

Function Control Touch Area

Touch area for function controls.

Next Track Touch Area

Touch area to go to the next track.

Search Menu Touch Area

Touch area for search menu and playback.

Disc USB;CD Playback

USB;CD;WMA Disc Usage

Playing music from USB, CD, or WMA discs.

Player Interface Elements

Track Selection by Number

Selecting tracks by number.

IPOD Access and Control

SD Card Playback

Bluetooth Hands-Free Communication

Bluetooth Device Pairing Steps

Step-by-step guide for pairing Bluetooth devices.

Making Phone Calls

How to make phone calls using the system.

Answering Incoming Calls

How to answer incoming calls.

AUX IN Auxiliary Input

Rear-View Camera Functionality

System Setup

DVD Setup Options

Setup options for DVD playback.

Setup Options

Rating Password Setup

Setting a rating password for content.

Parental Control Management

Managing parental control settings.

Radio Setup Options

Radio Region Selection

Selecting the country for radio reception.

RDS Function Control

Enabling or disabling RDS for FM radio.

ASP Setup Options

Bass Center Frequency Setting

Setting the bass center frequency.

Bass Q Value Adjustment

Adjusting the Q value for bass output.

Audio Settings Adjustment

MID Center Frequency Setting

Setting the MID center frequency.

MID Q Value Adjustment

Adjusting the Q value for MID output.

TREB Center Frequency Setting

Setting the TREB center frequency.

Video Setup Configuration

General Setup Options

Rear-View Camera Image Setting

Setting normal or mirror display for rear-view camera.

System Configuration

System Time Configuration

Setting the system time.

Touch Screen Calibration

Calibrating the touch screen for accuracy.

System Parameters

DVD;CD Player Specifications

Specifications related to the DVD/CD player.

FM Radio Reception Details

Technical details for FM radio reception.

AM Radio Reception Details

Technical details for AM radio reception.

Display Screen Specifications

Specifications of the display screen.

Overview

This document describes a car multi-media system, offering a comprehensive overview of its functions, usage, and maintenance. The device is designed for installation in vehicles with a 12V power supply and ground wire, specifically mentioning compatibility with BMW E38, E39, E90, E91, and E92 models. Professional installation by a car acoustics dealer is recommended to ensure proper function and safety.

Safety Precautions and Installation:

Before installation, users are advised to read all instructions carefully. To prevent short circuits, the car should be turned off, and the ACC and B+ connections should be disconnected. The device is not suitable for 24V trucks or buses. Only official compact discs should be used to avoid affecting the device's lifetime. Fuse replacement should only be done by professionals. For safety, drivers should not operate the device or watch programs while driving, though passengers can view content on a back display screen. Disassembly or repair by unauthorized personnel is discouraged to prevent damage or accidents. The device should be kept away from damp environments or water to avoid electric shock, damage, or fire. When navigation is active, the SD card should not be removed to prevent damage to the device and card.

Unpacking and Cleaning:

Upon unpacking, users should verify the presence of a remote control, power line, cleaning cloth, and user manual. For cleaning, a polishing cloth or dry cloth can be used to wipe dust. For dirtier surfaces, a soft cloth dampened with a neutral cleaner (diluted 5-6 times with water) should be used, followed by drying with a dry cloth. Harsh chemicals like thinner, benzene, or insecticide spray should be avoided as they may erode the surface. If chemical cleaning cloths are used, users should read their manuals carefully, and any residue should be cleaned with a dry cloth. The device should be turned off before cleaning.

Basic Operations and Main Interface:

The system offers various operation modes including Radio, DISC, SD, IPOD, Bluetooth, AV input, Rear-view camera, and Aux-in. The main interface is accessed by clicking the top-left corner of the touch screen in any mode. Icons for Disc, SD, IPOD, and Camera appear grey when there is no signal source, indicating they are inactive.

Radio Functionality:

In Radio mode, parameters such as RDS can be adjusted via the touch screen or remote control. The radio interface displays the current mode, frequency, AF indication, LOC/DX status (for strong signal reception), Bluetooth status, system time, PS indication, and REG indication. Users can page up/down through preset radio frequencies, view the current radio band, and select preset frequencies by clicking them (long press to save). The volume can be adjusted using the VOL button.

Disc (USB/CD/WMA) Playback:

To play a disc, the TFT screen is opened, and the disc is gently inserted. The device automatically pulls in the disc, and the TFT screen moves into position for playback. The system then reads the disc, and the USB/CD play interface appears. Music can be selected directly from the interface or by inputting a number using the on-screen keyboard. The interface includes controls for mode switching, Bluetooth icon, time display, setup, current play mode, song selection list, cycle play (repeat), current/total program numbers, play time, volume bar, and play/pause.

IPOD Access:

The system supports IPOD access and can play various audio and video files. Users must ensure the IPOD is properly connected. The IPOD interface is accessed from the main system interface, and operations are similar to those for USB or CD players.

SD Card Playback:

SD card playback is controlled via the touch screen, with an interface similar to USB/CD play mode. To extend the SD card's lifetime and prevent read errors, it is recommended to insert or remove the card only after switching to other modes when the SD card is not being read.

Bluetooth Hands-Free Communication:

The system offers Bluetooth hands-free communication and A2DP functionality. To enable Bluetooth, users enter the Bluetooth setup menu and set it to "On." The flashing Bluetooth icon indicates it's not yet matched. Users then enable Bluetooth on their mobile phone and initiate pairing by clicking "PAIR" on the system's Bluetooth interface and searching for new devices. After the mobile phone finds the system, users confirm the connection and input the password (1234). A non-flashing Bluetooth icon indicates a successful connection. To make a call, users input the phone number on the screen and click the green answer key. The call audio is routed through the car speakers. The red ring-off key ends the call. During a call, the switching key allows toggling the audio between the car speaker and the mobile phone. For incoming calls, the system automatically switches to the Bluetooth hands-free interface. If the answering mode is set to "Auto," calls are answered automatically; if "Manual," users can choose to answer or refuse. The incoming number is displayed in a message box. MP3 music saved on the mobile phone can be played using the interface controls. An external microphone can be connected for calls.

AUX IN (Auxiliary Device Input):

The AUX IN mode is accessed from the main interface or by pressing the SRC key. This function allows external media sources such as cameras, game players, walkmans, or external GPS boxes to connect to the system. If no AUX IN source is detected, the screen displays "No signal." Clicking section A of the touch screen returns to the main interface.

Rear-View Camera:

The rear-view camera mode is accessed from the main interface or by pressing the Camera key. If a rear-view camera is installed, the system displays the camera feed on the screen to aid in safe backing up.

LCD Display Shutdown:

For driver safety, especially at night, the LCD display can be shut down by clicking "LCD OFF" on the screen. This turns off the display while audio playback continues in the original mode. Touching any point on the screen or pressing any key on the panel exits the LCD OFF mode.

System Setup:

The system setup interface is accessed by clicking the gear icon. It includes ASP, Video, General, Radio, and Media setups, allowing users to customize parameters.

  • DVD Setup: When playing DVD video, clicking section D of the touch screen brings up the play control menu. From there, clicking the gear icon enters the system setup interface, and then "Media" to access further settings.
    • Language Setup: Users can select audio, DVD menu, and subtitle languages (English, French, Spanish, German, Italian). DivX subtitle language can also be chosen (Europe).
    • Parental Control (Child Lock): This feature allows parents to restrict movie playback based on a grade system (Kid, Safe, G, PG, PG-13, PG-R, R, NC-17, Adult). A password can be set to unlock the child lock.
    • Load Factory Password: Allows resetting the password to its default value.
  • Radio Setup: Accessed by clicking the gear icon during radio play, then "Radio."
    • Radio Region: Selects the radio system for the user's country (USA, Europe, China, OIRT, Japan).
    • RDS: Enables or disables the RDS function for FM Radio.
    • TA Volume: Adjusts the TA (Traffic Announcement) volume.
    • Clock Tune: Synchronizes the device's display time with the RDS radio channel when "On."
    • TA Option (Seek/Alarm): "Seek" automatically searches for radio channels if TP (Traffic Program) information is lost. "Alarm" does not search but emits a "BEEP, BEEP" sound.
    • TA Retune (Long/Short): "Long" searches for 3 minutes after TP information is lost; "Short" searches for 45 seconds.
  • ASP Setup: Accessed by clicking "ASP" in the system setup interface.
    • Bass Cent Freq: Selects the appropriate bass center frequency (60Hz/80Hz/100Hz/200Hz) based on speaker characteristics and playing source to adjust dynamic sound range.
    • Bass Q Value: Adjusts the Q value (1.0, 1.25, 1.5, 2.0) for different bass outputs when the bass center frequency is fixed; a larger Q value results in more prominent bass.
    • Bass DC Gain: Enables or disables Bass DC Gain.
    • MID Cent Freq: Selects the appropriate MID center frequency (500Hz/1KHz/1.5KHz/2.5KHz) based on speaker characteristics and playing source to adjust dynamic sound range.
    • MID Q Value: Adjusts the Q value (0.5, 0.75, 1.0, 1.25) for different MID outputs when the MID center frequency is fixed; a larger Q value results in more prominent MID.
    • Treb Cent Freq: Selects the appropriate TREB center frequency (10KHz/12.5KHz/15KHz/17.5KHz) based on speaker characteristics and playing source to adjust dynamic sound range.
    • LOUD Cent Freq: Selects the appropriate LOUD center frequency (400Hz/800Hz/2400Hz) based on speaker characteristics and playing source.
    • Power on Vol: Sets the volume after power on (Fixed Vol or Last Vol).
    • Fixed Vol: Sets a fixed volume value (10-30).
    • Radio Level: Adjusts the relative level of radio volume output (0-6).
    • Media Level: Adjusts the relative level of media volume output (0-6).
  • Video Setup: Accessed by clicking "Video" in the system setup interface.
    • Camera Image: Sets the rear-view camera input picture to normal or mirror display.
  • General Setup: Accessed by clicking "General" in the system setup interface.
    • System Time: Sets the hour and minute using the touch screen keyboard or remote control selection keys.
    • Time Format: Sets the time display to 12h or 24h.
    • OSD Language: Chooses the desired subtitle language (English, French, Spanish, German, Italian).
    • Beep: Enables "Beep" key sound or sets it to "Silent."
    • TFT Auto Open: Sets the TFT screen to Open, Closed, or Manual.
    • Ts Calibrate: Calibrates the touch screen by following on-screen prompts to click specific points.
    • Use Default Settings: Restores all settings to default values.

BMW E38 Specifications

General IconGeneral
Body Style4-door sedan
Drive TypeRear-wheel drive
Production Years1994-2001
Width1, 862 mm (73.3 in)
Engine Options2.8L I6, 3.0L I6, 3.5L V8, 4.0L V8, 4.4L V8, 5.4L V12
Transmission Options5-speed manual, 5-speed automatic

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