Entertainment Systems: Description and Operation

Video System

Rear Seat Entertainment - Component Location







General
The fibre optic, Media Orientated System Transport (MOST) based system provides video and audio entertainment for the rear seat occupants. The system allows DVD (digital versatile disc) video and TV to be viewed on two RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screens, listen to audio output via the vehicle speakers or cordless headphones or display video images on the RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screens from an external source, such as a video player or games console. The video images can also be displayed on the Touch Screen Display (TSD) if the vehicle is below a predetermined speed threshold.

The system comprises the following components:
- RSE Module
- TV Tuner
- Four TV Antennae
- Four TV Antenna amplifiers
- Two RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screens
- DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger
- RSE remote control
- Headphone transmitter module
- Cordless headphones
- AVIO panel.

The RSE system also uses other components which form part of the audio system as follows:
- TSD
- Steering wheel switches
- CD (compact disc) autochanger
- Audio amplifier (DSP or Logic7)
- Vehicle speakers
- IHU.

Touch Screen Display







The Touch Screen Display (TSD) is located in the center of the instrument panel and is the driver control interface for the infotainment system. The TSD is connected to the MOST ring and communicates with the other components in the audio/infotainment system.

The TSD communicates with the RSE module via a co-axial cable. The TSD processes its own video for system operation but receives the video image data from the RSE via the co-axial cable.

The TSD also provides driver display and control of the audio system, telephone, the rear view camera, VentureCam, the Traffic Message Channel (TMC) and the navigation system.

The RSE and other systems are operated by a combination of the physical buttons located on each side of the screen and the 'virtual' buttons displayed on the touch screen. For clarification, the physical buttons are referred to as 'buttons' and the touch screen virtual buttons are referred to as 'icons'.

The TSD is a touch sensitive, 800 X 480 pixels LCD (liquid crystal display) VGA screen which displays in a 15.9:1 format.

Care should be taken with the TSD to ensure its correct operation:
- The screen should be cleaned with a lightly, water moistened cloth. Do not use chemical agents or domestic products to clean the screen or any part of the surround.
- Only use your finger to operate the touch screen. Ensure you only use one finger to avoid incorrect entries.
- A short light press of the touch screen is sufficient. Excessive pressure can damage the screen.

Rear Seat Entertainment Module







The Rear Seat Entertainment (RSE) module is located in the LH (left-hand) rear corner of the luggage compartment. The Alpine manufactured RSE module is an interface between the video and audio inputs from other system components and the video display and audio outputs.

The RSE module communicates with the audio systems via the MOST connection. Audio output from the DVD autochanger and the AVIO panel is processed by the module and passed on the MOST ring to the audio amplifier to allow audio output to be played on the vehicle speakers or on the cordless headphones.

Video input from the TV tuner, DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger and the Audio Video Input/Output (AVIO) panel is also processed by the module and passed to the two RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screens and the TSD on separate video connections. The RSE module also controls the power supplies to the RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screens and relays the infra-red remote control signals received by the RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screen infra-red sensors to the DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger. The infra-red signals are passed from the RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screens to the RSE module on a bus system known as the IS bus.

The DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger outputs some of its information to the RSE module on an Alpine proprietary bus known as the Ai Net. The Ai Net is a bus system used to communicate between the RSE module and the DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger.

The RSE module has two modes of operation; engine running mode and reduced operation mode. With the engine running the RSE module has full functionality. When the engine is not running the RSE module has reduced functionality to prevent excessive drain on the vehicle battery. The reduced functionality comprises a reduced audio volume and time limit on system operation.

The reduced audio volume is only active when the engine is not running. The audio volume is limited to a maximum of setting of 12 to reduce battery consumption. If the volume was set at a higher level than this when the engine was running, when the engine is subsequently started, the volume level will gradually increase to the previously selected setting. This prevents the user being distracted by a sudden increase in volume.

The time limit operation is active when the key is removed from the ignition and the system is manually switched on using the TSD. The system will operate for a maximum of one hour. The battery voltage is continually monitored by the IHU. If the IHU detects that the battery voltage has fallen to a predetermined level, the IHU will shut the infotainment system down to prevent further battery drain. Once the system has shut down due to low battery voltage, it can only be restarted when the engine is running and the battery voltage has risen above the threshold level for more than one minute.

The module is connected into the infotainment system with five harness connectors.

DVD Autochanger







The DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger is located in the LH (left-hand) rear corner of the luggage compartment. The DVD (digital versatile disc) player is a six disc design which will accept DVD (digital versatile disc) movies, video CD (compact disc) (VCD) and music CD (compact disc) on CD-R or CD-RW. The discs are housed in a magazine to allow six discs to be stored in the unit. Additional magazines can be purchased to allow greater flexibility. The magazine is accessible via a sliding door on the front of the unit. An eject button, located behind the door automatically ejects the magazine from the unit when pressed.

The DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger is operated using a remote control unit supplied with the vehicle. The remote control is an infra-red unit which transmits the infra-red signal to receivers located in each RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screen.

The DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger receives the remote control information from the RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screens on a bus system known as the IS bus to the RSE module. The information is then passed from the RSE module on an Alpine proprietary bus known as the Ai Net to the DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger. The Ai Net is a bus system used to communicate between the RSE module and the DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger.

A Sony Philips Digital Interface Format (SPDIF) is used to output the audio from the DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger to the audio amplifier. The SPDIF is an optical system connected between the DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger and the audio amplifier. SPDIF is a standard audio file transfer format which allows the transfer of digital audio signals from one device to another without having to be converted first to an analog format which maintains the viability of the digital audio signal.

Remote Control







The remote control for operation of the DVD autochanger is a universal type. A switch on the rear of the control selects either the LH (left-hand) or RH (right-hand) screens and allows the individual settings for each screen to be changed as required. The switch has a central position which disables the remote control and prevents battery drain.

The remote control transmits an infra-red signal in response to operation of a button. The infra-red signal is received by a receiver sensor located on each RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screen and is passed, via an IS bus to the RSE module and from the RSE module on an Alpine proprietary bus known as the Ai Net, to the DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger. The remote control also allows selection of an auxiliary input from the AVIO panel (video or games console) or selection of audio (radio or CD (compact disc)).

The remote control is powered by two 'AAA' batteries located in the rear of the control and are accessible by removing a sliding cover. When inserting the batteries it is important that the battery polarity is observed as marked in the battery compartment. LED (light emitting diode) at the top left and right hand corner of the control indicates that the remote control is operating when a button is pressed. Only one LED (light emitting diode) will illuminate depending on which screen is selected. If the LED (light emitting diode) fails to illuminate when a button is pressed, the battery voltage may be low or the switch on the rear of the control may be set in the central 'off' position.

Headphone Transmitter







The RSE headphone transmitter is located in a central position in the rear roof console. The transmitter comprises a printed circuit board and sixteen infra-red LED (light emitting diode) transmitters positioned radially facing the rear of the vehicle.

The headphone transmitter is connected to the audio amplifier. Audio output is passed from the amplifier on a harness to the transmitter. The audio signals are then converted by the transmitter into infra-red signals which are passed via the sixteen transmitters and received by the headphones infra-red sensors.

The transmitter is connected to the infotainment system using an 8 pin harness connector.

Cordless Headphones







The system can support up to two pairs of cordless headphones. The headphones have an adjustable headband which operates on a ratchet mechanism.

The LH (left-hand) side of the headphone houses the infra-red receiver sensors which collect the transmitted signals from the RSE headphone transmitter, two AAA batteries located below a sliding cover and the power on/off switch. When inserting the batteries it is important that the battery polarity is observed as marked in the battery compartment.

The RH (right-hand) side of the headphone houses the volume control, a channel switch and a power 'ON' LED (light emitting diode). The volume control is a rotary control to allow the user to adjust the volume output of the headphones. The channel switch allows the source frequency to be changed preventing interference with other infra-red systems. The power 'ON' LED (light emitting diode) is illuminated when the on/off switch on the LH (left-hand) headphone is pressed. This will remain on and the headphones powered until the switch is pressed for a second time. If the headphones have not received an infra-red signal from the transmitter for several minutes, they will automatically switch off to prevent battery drain.

LCD Screens







The RSE LCD screens are located in the rear of the front seat head restraints. The screen is secured in the head restraint with three screws which are covered by a removable surround. The screen is a 6.5 inch, auto dimming, high resolution LCD (liquid crystal display) monitor, manufactured by Alpine An infra-red receiver sensor is located centrally in the upper screen surround. The receiver sensor receives infra-red transmissions from the DVD (digital versatile disc) remote control and passes them to the DVD (digital versatile disc) autochanger, via the RSE module on a bus system known as the IS bus. All screen settings can be changed using the RSE remote control.

The screen should be cleaned with a lightly, water moistened cloth. Do not use chemical agents or domestic products to clean the screen or any part of the surround.

Each RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screen is connected to the infotainment system using a 20 pin harness connector.

TV Tuner







The TV tuner is located in the left hand rear corner of the luggage compartment. The TV tuner allows the rear seat occupants to view television transmissions on the RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screens. The front seat occupants can also view the TV transmissions on the TSD but only when the vehicle is stationary. The TV tuner is capable of receiving local terrestrial TV transmissions in most locations.

The TV tuner is connected on the MOST ring which it uses to output its audio signals to the amplifier. Video output from the tuner is on a screened co-axial cable to the RSE module. Four further connections provide for the signal input from four TV antenna amplifiers and four antennae.

The TV tuner contains three internal tuners. Two of the tuners are connected to the antennae. These tuners receive the audio and visual signals. The tuner with the strongest signal is automatically used to display the required TV channel.

The third internal tuner is connected to only one of the antennae and is used to scan the locality for receivable channels. The tuner can detect different frequencies transmitting the same channel and can select the strongest signal for use.

To cope with changes in technology, the TV tuner is able to receive both analogue and digital TV signals. In certain areas both analogue and digital signal strengths will vary. When in an area of weak reception, you may experience a break-up in picture and sound quality, or a blank screen and audio muting. It may be of benefit to retune the viewed station, and possibly switch between analogue and digital TV stations.

The TV tuner is connected to the infotainment system using four harness connectors.

TV Antennae

NOTE: On vehicles with Telestart park heating, the RH (right-hand) rear antenna is fitted with a combined Telestart/TV antenna amplifier.

Two TV antennae are located in each rear side quarter window. There are three antennae in each window; the forward antenna is a high frequency antenna and the rearward antenna is a low frequency antenna. A third antenna, located between the two TV antennae is for radio reception.

Each antenna is connected directly to a TV RF antenna amplifier which is located just below the rear quarter panel, behind the trim. The four TV antenna amplifiers boost the received RF signal before it is collected and processed by the TV tuner. The TV antennae can receive RF signals of between 48 and 860 MHz.

Audio Visual Input Output Panel







The AVIO panel is located at the rear of the center console. The panel provides for the connection of auxiliary audio and video inputs from an external source, such as a games console, via seven plugs on the panel. The plugs are covered by a lift up panel.

Two sets of video and audio phone plugs are provided and are designated as AV1 and AV2. The plugs are connected to the RSE module and allow the auxiliary input video to be played on the RSE LCD (liquid crystal display) screens and the audio to be played on the vehicle speakers or on the cordless headphones. The auxiliary input video cannot be displayed on the TSD.

An additional single, 3.5mm jack plug allows for the attachment of an auxiliary audio input, such as a personal stereo or MP3 player. This plug is connected directly to the IHU and allows audio to be played on the vehicle speakers.

The AVIO panel is connected to the infotainment system using two harness connectors.

Control Diagram

NOTE: A = Hardwired; D = CAN Bus; K = I Bus; P = MOST







VentureCam(TM) - Component Location







General
VentureCam consists of one or more remote cameras which transmit their images onto the Touch Screen Display (TSD) to provide the driver with a number of benefits, for example manoeuvreing the vehicle or connecting a trailer. Additionally, the system can receive video transmissions from other compatible camera units such as a home CCTV camera. The system can support up to sixteen VentureCam's and an additional four external video input units.

The system comprises one or more VentureCam's and a docking station. The system is connected into the infotainment system and the video images are displayed on the TSD.

The VentureCam receives signals via a UHF transmission from the docking station for remote operation of the camera. The frequencies can be 433 MHz or 915 MHz depending on the market. The VentureCam transmits its video images to the docking station on a 2.4 GHz RF microwave transmission. The video is provided in an NTSC format at 25 frames per second. The microwave transmission is limited to an output of 10 mW to avoid conflicting with broadcasting legislation in most countries.

The VentureCam can receive and transmit signals at a distance of between 20 and 30 meters (65 and 98 feet). This range is dependant on the surrounding environment, i.e. the signals may be blocked or limited by buildings, vehicles etc.

The VentureCam system is connected to the TSD for video display by a co-axial cable. A CAN (controller area network) connection allows the Integrated Head Unit (IHU) to communicate with the docking station for transmission of infotainment relay energized signals etc.

VentureCam can be accessed by selecting 4X4i information on the TSD using a physical button or an icon on the screen. VentureCam is then selected by pressing the camera icon on the TSD.

VentureCam







The VentureCam is a compact unit containing hardware and software for control of video image capture and transmission, six red LED (light emitting diode) for an additional light source and a control button.

The control button allows the VentureCam to be switched on or off and to activate the LED (light emitting diode). The selections are made sequentially with the button, e.g.; the first press switches the camera function on, the second press switches the camera off and switches the LED (light emitting diode) on (torch function) and a third press switches the whole unit off. Using this button on the VentureCam, only the camera or the torch function can be selected, they cannot be selected to work together at the same time. However, when in the camera function mode, the LED (light emitting diode) can also be made active by pressing the torch icon visible in the TSD. This will allow the LED (light emitting diode) to enhance the VentureCam view in low ambient light levels.

When the camera mode is selected, by pressing the button once, the area around the 'Land Rover' logo button is illuminated in a green color. If the illumination flashes, this indicates that the camera is awaiting a command from the TSD.

The VentureCam has an integral re-chargeable battery which, when fully charged, allows approximately 3 hours continuous use of video transmission. If the unit is used solely as a torch with only the LED (light emitting diode) illuminated, the battery will provide approximately 4 hours continued use. The VentureCam battery has a serviceable life of approximately 8 to 10 years, depending on its usage. The battery cannot be replaced separately, so if the battery fails, the VentureCam must be replaced.

The VentureCam is an electronic device and therefore should be handled with care. If the unit becomes dirty, clean only with a damp cloth, do not use detergents or solvent based cleaners. Avoid high temperatures, do not store the VentureCam in direct sunlight, always store in the docking station, glovebox or door pocket.

VentureCam Mount







An accessory mount is available with a suction cup which allows the VentureCam to be located inside or outside the vehicle. The holder has a removable holster into which the VentureCam is secured. The holster has a standard camera thread which allows it to be mounted on a tripod for instance. The suction cup has a control lever which creates a vacuum to provide the suction to secure the mount. To release the suction cup, lower the lever to release the vacuum.

Battery Charging
The battery is re-charged when the unit is in the docking station. Two spring loaded pins in the docking station connect with contacts on the VentureCam. The charging will occur only when the VentureCam is in the docking station and the ignition switch is in position II. Power is supplied direct from the vehicle battery via a fuse in the CJB (central junction box) and is permanently live. However, charging will only occur when the IHU receives an ignition on signal via the CAN (controller area network). The IHU then sends a charge message to the docking station via its CAN (controller area network) connection. The docking station software will allow further charging of the battery for a period of 30 minutes after an ignition off signal is received from the IHU.

The battery condition is shown on the TSD VentureCam display. A charge level indicator is displayed to indicate the charge level of the VentureCam battery.

One segment on the battery display indicates that the battery is almost fully discharged. The docking station will apply a slow charge to the battery to ensure the battery charge is fully recovered and may stay in this mode for a long period of time, depending on how low the battery charge has become. If a rising row of segments is indicated on the battery display, the docking station is applying a fast charge to the battery and will fully charge the battery in the minimum period of time. A complete and stationary row of segments indicates a fully charged battery.

If the battery is completely discharged, it will take approximately 2 hours of continuous charging with the vehicle engine running to restore the battery to a fully charged condition.

It is recommended that the VentureCam is stored in the docking station when not in use. The docking station will ensure that the battery is kept at the optimum charge level. If the customer has more than one VentureCam, it is recommended that the units are cycled on a weekly basis to ensure that the battery charge level is maintained.

Docking Station







The docking station is located in the upper glovebox. When the VentureCam is installed into the docking station, the illumination around the 'Land Rover' logo button changes to a green color to indicate that a good connection has been established with the charging contacts and that charging has commenced.

The docking station receives a permanent battery feed via a fuse in the CJB (central junction box). A CAN (controller area network) connection provides a link with the IHU for transfer of information. A co-axial cable transmits the video signals from the docking station to the TSD.

The software contained within the docking station contains a power management strategy which monitors ignition status via CAN (controller area network) messages from the IHU and controls power operation for battery charging for a 30 minute period after the ignition is switched off.

VentureCam Operation
The VentureCam image is accessed using the 4X4I off-road information screen on the TSD. Each VentureCam must be learnt and saved to the memory before it can be used. If more than one VentureCam is configured to the system, each one can be selected in turn using the camera selection icons.

The VentureCam screen is accessed by pressing the VentureCam 'movie camera' icon at the bottom of the screen. The right hand side of the TSD will display a black screen with text stating 'VentureCam Docked' if a VentureCam is known to the system and located in the docking station. The chassis view will remain on the left hand side of the TSD until the VentureCam icon is pressed again. The chassis view will then be replaced with camera select information.







The currently selected camera icon is highlighted. Scrolling up or down the available camera's allows selection of a different VentureCam or an external video input.

A new VentureCam can be added to the system by placing the VentureCam into the docking station. A small window will appear prompting to 'Learn Camera'. Selecting 'OK' saves the VentureCam into the memory. A second window will appear asking if the user wants to use the new VentureCam now. Selecting 'Use Now' will use the new VentureCam, selecting close will continue with the VentureCam highlighted in the camera select list. When a new VentureCam is added, it will be placed in the first numerically available position in the list.







VentureCams can also be deleted from the memory by selecting the applicable camera input to be deleted and pressing the 'Delete' icon on the TSD. A small window will appear asking for confirmation of the deletion. Selecting 'OK' deletes that VentureCam from the list and leaves that position empty.

If using the VentureCam to reverse the vehicle, the view seen on the screen can become confusing to the driver. To assist with this, a mirror view is available which reverses the image similar to that seen in the rear view mirror.

The VentureCam should not be used unless the vehicle is off-road. The VentureCam should only be used on the exterior of the vehicle. The mount could cause injury if attached to the vehicle interior and an accident occurs.