Information and Entertainment Systems - Premium Plus
Information and Entertainment Systems - Premium Plus
Component Location
Overview
The audio system consists of an 8 speaker system with an AM/FM single CD ACM (Audio Control Module), 8 inch touchscreen FDIM (Front Display Interface Module), audio amplifier, redundant steering wheel controls, SYNC(R) with media hub, optional navigation and optional satellite radio.
The SYNC(R) system is a hands-free communication and entertainment system that provides the ability to:
- Send and receive phone calls via a Bluetooth-enabled phone
- Send and receive text messages via a Bluetooth-enabled phone
- Connect media devices (such as an iPod or USB (Universal Serial Bus) device) in order to play audio files
- Play media files via a Bluetooth-enabled audio device
- Access a WiFi signal receiver for in-car internet access (requires customer-supplied USB (Universal Serial Bus) modem)
- Produce vehicle health reports
- Initiate an emergency call (eCall) when the air bags deploy
In addition to entertainment system control, the operator can also control the climate control system, the ambient lighting system (if equipped), and several other vehicle systems using either the touchscreen or voice controls.
While SYNC(R) supports many features, not all features are available with every phone. For example, text messaging is supported by SYNC(R) , but not available with most phones.
System Operation
System Diagram
Network Message Chart
Module Network Input Messages - ACM (Audio Control Module)
Module Network Input Messages - APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module)
Module Network Input Messages - FCIM (Front Controls Interface Module)
Module Network Input Messages - GPSM (Global Positioning System Module)
Module Network Input Messages - IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster)
AM - FM Radio
The roof-mounted antenna receives AM/FM (Amplitude Modulation/Frequency Modulation) radio waves. The audio signals are sent from the roof-mounted antenna, via the AM/FM (Amplitude Modulation/Frequency Modulation) antenna cable to the ACM (Audio Control Module). The ACM (Audio Control Module) converts the radio waves to a fluctuating AC (Alternating Current) output voltage to the system speakers.
Satellite Radio
The AM/FM (Amplitude Modulation/Frequency Modulation)/satellite antenna receives digital signals and sends them to the ACM (Audio Control Module) through the satellite radio antenna cable. The satellite radio receiver is built-in to the ACM (Audio Control Module).
Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) Infotainment Display
The RH (Right Hand) side of the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) contains an infotainment display. This screen displays a subset of infotainment information, and it is controlled by the 5-way RH (Right Hand) steering wheel switch.
Navigation
The navigation system guides the user to a pre-entered destination. Map data is read from the map data SD (Secure Digital) card plugged into the media hub. The APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) calculates route information based on GPS (Global Positioning System) data received by the GPSM (Global Positioning System Module). The APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) also uses vehicle speed and transmission gear selected signals received through the network to detect vehicle speed and direction, resulting in more accurate navigation tracking. The navigation display is shown on the FDIM (Front Display Interface Module).
The compass heading is derived from the GPS (Global Positioning System) antenna signal. There are no serviceable parts for the compass.
The voice recognition system allows the user to interface with the system without using the touchscreen. A microphone, located in the headliner, provides a direct input to the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
Steering Wheel Switch Function
The RH (Right Hand) steering wheel switch consist of an integrated 5-way upper switch and three 2-way toggle lower switches. The 5-way steering wheel switch operates the IPC (Instrument Panel Cluster) infotainment display. The three 2-way toggle steering wheel switches operate the audio system functions including SYNC(R) .
Voice Recognition
Voice recognition is used for many vehicle functions, including audio system and climate controls. The microphone relays the microphone input to the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) through dedicated wiring. The TTS (Text-To-Speech) and voice prompt features speak certain text information and interaction requests to minimize driver distraction by having to look at the audio system display while driving. The ringtone alerts the driver to an incoming call. The microphone is also used to detect outgoing audio during a phone call.
Audible prompts can range from a simple tone to more elaborate spoken text, based on the customer setting. When interaction mode is set to standard, detailed guidance is provided. When interaction mode is set to advanced, most prompts are tones only and minimal audible guidance is provided. Refer to the Owner's Literature for further information on voice interaction.
The audio signals for the TTS (Text-To-Speech) and voice prompt features, the ringtones, and audio from the outside device during a phone call, are sent from the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) to the ACM (Audio Control Module).
Bluetooth Mode
Bluetooth is a secure, short-range radio frequency that allows devices to communicate wirelessly through radio waves. The operating range of a Bluetooth signal is a maximum of 9.75 m (32 ft).
The Bluetooth interface can accommodate both Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones and Bluetooth-enabled media devices. The SYNC(R) system allows interaction with several types of customer Bluetooth devices, including mobile phones and media devices. The APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) contains an on-board Bluetooth chipset, which enables certain wireless devices to interact with the system. Any Bluetooth device used with the SYNC(R) system must first be paired with the system before it is operational.
Only one Bluetooth phone and one Bluetooth media device can be connected to the system at any one time. If an additional device of either type is paired with the system and made active, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) disconnects any active connection and establishes a connection with the new device.
When a new Bluetooth device is added, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) and the Bluetooth device must be paired together. Most Bluetooth devices can pair with the SYNC(R) system, although functionality may vary. To determine if a Bluetooth device is supported, verify the customer device is on the compatibility list for the current APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) software level.
Pairing a Bluetooth device is accomplished through the "Add Device" selection of the phone menu. When pairing a device, the SYNC(R) system generates a unique PIN (Personal Identification Number) that must be entered on the Bluetooth device in order for the pairing process to be successful. There are also some device-specific actions that must take place. For additional information on the pairing process, refer to the Owner's Literature.
It is important to understand that not all mobile phones have the same level of features when interacting with the SYNC(R) system. For a list of compatible phones, REFER to www.syncmyride.com.
USB Audio Mode
The USB (Universal Serial Bus) port can be used for connecting a media device (such as an iPod) with the device's available cable, or for directly plugging in a portable mass storage device (such as a "thumb drive"). When playing media files stored on a mass storage device, the SYNC(R) system only plays files that do not have DRM (Digital Rights Management) protection. The USB (Universal Serial Bus) port can also be used for uploading vehicle application upgrades. The USB (Universal Serial Bus) port is powered by the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module), so no external power source is needed to power a device plugged into the USB (Universal Serial Bus) port if the device supports this feature.
In addition to audio information, metadata (information as artist, album title, song title, and genre) may also be sent to the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) from a device plugged into the USB (Universal Serial Bus) port. The APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) uses the metadata to create indexes that can be used to sort for particular music, based on customer preference. Not all USB (Universal Serial Bus) devices can send metadata to the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module). When a new media device is connected to the SYNC(R) system, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) automatically indexes the information. This may take several minutes (depending on the amount of data on the device), and is considered normal operation. When a device that was previously connected to the SYNC(R) system is reconnected, the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) updates the index (rather than creating a new one), which reduces the amount of time needed to index the device.
USB Video Mode
The USB (Universal Serial Bus) port has the capability to view photos stored on memory devices and display them on the FDIM (Front Display Interface Module).
SD Card Audio Mode
The SD (Secure Digital) card slot can be used for playing audio content that is stored on the SD (Secure Digital) card.
SD Card Video Mode
The SD (Secure Digital) card slot has the capability to view photos stored on memory SD (Secure Digital) cards and display them on the FDIM (Front Display Interface Module).
Speed Compensated Volume
The ACM (Audio Control Module) adjusts the audio system volume based on the VSS (Vehicle Speed Sensor) signal to compensate for speed and wind noise.
Audible Prompts
The APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) receives both stereo and mono sound inputs, and can also transmit both stereo and mono sound. The mono function is used to receive the microphone input. It is also used to send sound to the ACM (Audio Control Module) for voice prompts, the TTS (Text-To-Speech) feature, ringtones, and any audio received through a connected mobile phone. The TTS (Text-To-Speech) feature speaks information so that it does not have to be read from the display.
Composite Audio-Video Input Mode
The composite audio and video inputs consist of the RCA jack connections that are used for playing video or audio content from an external device (such as a gaming system). The media hub contains an internal composite audio/video translator connected to the external RCA jacks, which output video and audio signals to the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) via a shielded audio and video harness.
SIRIUS(R) Data Services
The satellite radio system has SIRIUS(R) data services that are separate subscription services which are received through the satellite receiver. In navigation mode, the traffic/weather is displayed and is used to anticipate traffic delays and find alternate routes to the destination.The data services include periodic updates for:
- Traffic
- Movies
- Weather
- Gas prices
- Sports score tracking
Some services may be available separately while others are only available as packages.
APIM Programming
APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) Programming
The APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) for this vehicle requires specific programming procedures for correct operation. APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) programming is required when:
- APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) is replaced
- Programming is required when the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) is replaced.
- Directed by a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin)
- Updates to resolve SYNC(R) performance concerns can only be performed when directed by a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin).
- Upgrades are requested
- Occasional upgrades and/or new applications can be programmed when they become available. This type of programming is available upon customer request and expense.
Types of Programming
There are 3 types of APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) programming available:
- Module Replacement - used when the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) has been replaced. This type of programming performs the required provisioning.
- Standard - used to update the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) and any currently installed Applications to the latest software level.
- Custom - shows all available software options (including Applications that may not have been previously installed) that can be programmed into the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module). Use this selection when upgrades become available or as directed by a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin).
Software Installation Methods
There are 3 types of software installation methods:
- Full Flash (Force CIP (Consumer Interface Processor)) - a CIP (Consumer Interface Processor) program is the entire software package for the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module). Performing a Full Flash erases the existing APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) software and installs the complete program. A Full Flash should only be performed if a Service Pack is not available. If a Full Flash is performed, all Applications must be re-installed. Performing a Full Flash by selecting Force CIP (Consumer Interface Processor) requires additional programming time and is not necessary unless directed by a TSB (Technical Service Bulletin).
- Service Pack - a Service Pack update only provides the necessary software to update the existing APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) program to a new level. For example, a Service Pack would change the software program from and 'AA' to an 'AB' version level. It does not delete or overwrite the existing APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) software. A Service Pack is a much smaller program than a Full Flash and requires less downloading and programming time. A Service Pack software installation should always be performed instead of a Full Flash, if possible.
- Applications - Applications are special software programs that may be installed on the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module). Applications necessary for each vehicle are determined by the vehicle build information stored in the Ford online database. Selecting individual Applications for installation may not be necessary every time the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) is programmed.
General Programming Instructions
NOTE: VIP (Vehicle Interface Processor) programming is not selectable because the VIP (Vehicle Interface Processor) is configured automatically during programming.
There are some general programming guidelines that are applicable to multiple types of programming:
- Service Pack and Applications
- A USB (Universal Serial Bus) flash drive with a minimum 1 gigabyte (GB) storage capacity is required.
- The file is downloaded from the Ford online database onto the flash drive. The files are then transferred via the flash drive to the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) through the vehicle USB (Universal Serial Bus) port.
- Full Flash/Force CIP (Consumer Interface Processor)
- The scan tool, along with the SYNC(R) Re-Flash Kit (or equivalent) are required to complete the flash procedure.
- All previously paired phones are deleted from the SYNC(R) system.
- The file needs to be downloaded from the Ford online database. Allow for extra time in order to complete the download. The compressed files are between 200 and 400 megabytes (MB), and once downloaded will be extracted to the full size of approximately 2 GB.
- Once scan tool programming is complete, Applications need to be installed with the USB (Universal Serial Bus) flash drive. This should be accomplished by connecting the USB (Universal Serial Bus) flash drive to the media hub.
To perform module replacement programming, REFER to Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Module Replacement Programming Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Module Replacement Programming.
To perform standard programming, REFER to Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Standard Programming Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Standard Programming.
To perform custom programming, REFER to Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Custom Programming Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) Custom Programming.
MyKey(R) Audio Operation
When a MyKey(R) is in use, the audio system is muted whenever the Belt-Minder(R) is activated until the safety belts are buckled. This is a standard setting and cannot be changed.
The MyKey(R) also has an optional setting that limits the audio system volume. The maximum volume of the audio system is limited to 45%. In an attempt to exceed the limited volume, the MyKey(R) VOLUME LIMITED message is displayed in the centerstack infotainment display.
Battery Load Shed
The BCM (Body Control Module) uses the battery current sensor to keep track of the battery state of charge. The battery current sensor is a hall-effect sensor attached to the battery ground cable. When the engine is off, and the BCM (Body Control Module) determines the battery state of charge is below 40% or 10% of the charge has been drained or 45 minutes have elapsed, a load shed message is sent over the CAN (Controller Area Network). This message turns off the audio/navigation system to save the remaining battery charge. Under this condition, SYS OFF TO SAVE BATT is displayed on the centerstack infotainment display to notify the driver that battery protection actions are active.
Engine off load shed occurs when the engine is not running, and the ignition is in the ACC or RUN position. To clear the load shed state, restart the engine.
SYNC Traffic, Directions and Information
The SYNC(R) traffic, directions and information service is a subscription-based service that includes precise turn-by-turn directions, personalized real-time traffic updates with text alerts, business search, entertainment, news, sports, stocks, travel and weather. The customers mobile phone is used to access and download the SYNC(R) services. The GPS (Global Positioning System) antenna, that is integral to the GPSM (Global Positioning System Module), is used to detect the location and direction of the vehicle. For additional information on the traffic, direction and information services subscription REFER to www.syncmyride.com.
Component Description
Antenna
The roof-mounted antenna has an integrated antenna module that is powered by the ACM (Audio Control Module) to improve AM/FM (Amplitude Modulation/Frequency Modulation) reception. If the vehicle is equipped with satellite radio, the satellite antenna is integrated into the roof-mounted antenna.
Media Hub
The media hub allows for various audio and video devices to be played through the vehicle speakers and viewed in the FDIM (Front Display Interface Module) display.
The media hub receives inputs from:
- 2 USB (Universal Serial Bus) ports
- 1 SD (Secure Digital) card slot
- 1 set of component RCA jacks
Microphone
The microphone receives the voice command and sends a signal to the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module). The microphone is also used to detect outgoing audio during a phone call and voice commands for the SYNC(R) system.
Steering Wheel Switches
The RH (Right Hand) steering wheel switch consists of a series of resistors. Each steering wheel control switch function corresponds with a specific resistance value within the switch. The SCCM (Steering Column Control Module) sends out a 5 volt reference voltage to the RH (Right Hand) steering wheel switch on the input circuits and monitors the voltage drop when a button is pressed. The voltage drop varies depending upon the resistance of the specific button pressed, providing indication to the SCCM (Steering Column Control Module) which switch is pressed.
Audio Control Module (ACM)
The ACM (Audio Control Module) can be operated with the ignition in RUN or ACCESSORY. The accessory delay feature allows the audio system to be operated for a preset period of time after the ignition is turned off and a front door has not been opened. The ACM (Audio Control Module) requires PMI (Programmable Module Installation) when it is replaced.
Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM)
The APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) consists of 2 internal modules: the CIP (Consumer Interface Processor) and the VIP (Vehicle Interface Processor). The modules are not replaceable individually, but can be flashed independently, if required.
The CIP (Consumer Interface Processor) interfaces with all of the inputs to the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module). It contains an analog-to-digital-to analog converter, as well as the Bluetooth chipset. Any application upgrades that are available to the consumer are loaded directly to the CIP (Consumer Interface Processor) through the USB (Universal Serial Bus) port.
The VIP (Vehicle Interface Processor) provides an interface between the CIP (Consumer Interface Processor) and the vehicle. Its main functions are controlling the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module) power management and translating both inbound and outbound signals. In addition, the VIP (Vehicle Interface Processor) queries the modules on the network to retrieve any DTCs (Diagnostic Trouble Codes) when a vehicle health report is requested.
Front Controls Interface Module (FCIM)
The FCIM (Front Controls Interface Module) is one of the customer interfaces to the audio system and the HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) module. It is separate from the ACM (Audio Control Module).
Front Display Interface Module (FDIM)
The FDIM (Front Display Interface Module) provides for customer interaction through the touchscreen display. The FDIM (Front Display Interface Module) plugs directly into the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module), and therefore does not communicate directly on any network and no external circuits are connected.
Global Positioning System Module (GPSM)
The GPSM (Global Positioning System Module) provides vehicle location for real-time traffic reports and re-routing, and for identifying vehicle location in the event of a collision.
For vehicles with navigation, the GPSM (Global Positioning System Module) acts as the antenna for the navigation system.
The vehicle location information is broadcast to the APIM (Accessory Protocol Interface Module).
Audio Amplifier
The audio amplifier receives audio signals from the ACM (Audio Control Module). The audio amplifier increases and strengthens the input audio signals from the ACM (Audio Control Module) and outputs the signals to the front door speakers. The ACM (Audio Control Module) and the audio amplifier provide internal protection for shorts to ground and shorts to voltage. The audio amplifier does not communicate directly on any network.
The ACM (Audio Control Module) sends voltage through the enable/clip circuit to enable the audio amplifier. The circuit acts as both an output (to enable the amplifier) and an input (to detect an amplifier overload condition). The voltage sent by the ACM (Audio Control Module) passes through a variable resistor in the audio amplifier, then to ground. As the amplifier reaches maximum output, the resistance in the variable resistor decreases. This decreases the voltage drop, resulting in the ACM (Audio Control Module) detecting a higher voltage on the enable/clip circuit. When the voltage reaches the clip threshold, the ACM (Audio Control Module) clips the audio output signal to the amplifier (heard as distortion), to prevent damage to the amplifier and speakers.
The enable/clip status is based on voltages, as detected by the ACM (Audio Control Module):
- Less than 0.4 volt: amplifier disabled
- Between 3.8 and 6.7 volts: amplifier enabled
- Greater than 8.5 volts: amplifier clipped