Hey, I was looking around the Mazda3 and Rx8 option sites in Mazda Japan (http://www.rx-8.mazda.co.jp/option/), and they have an accessory for both cars (in the pull down menu, 6th from the bottom). It's called the "The external input terminal" with this description (translated from babel fish) -

"The external input terminal (image ･ sound) XXYEN 12,600 (price including tax) image equipment and connection such as stock video camera are produced, can enjoy image with the load monitor. * For manufacturer option DVD navigation attaching car. * While travelling image is not indicated. * As for installation position inside console box."

Anyone know anything about it ? Like the Part Number ? Or how someone in the US could get it ? It looks reasonablly priced - about $115. Of course with shipping, it'll be expensive, but still cheaper and easier to install than any other option right now.

errr
im having a headache cause i cant understand it
can some of our far east brother's help us out ?

From what I can gather, it looks like it is supposed to give you video and L/R audio into the nav system. As they suggest this would be used for an accessory input into the nav. It would appear that it is only an option when the car is not moving, however (makes sense for DVD in vehicle laws). Other than that...I'm hard pressed to venture much else.

'rshan' you may have come across a goldmine for Rx-8 Navi owners (Maz 3 owners too)!

This may be the ultimate access point for allowing high fidelity audio into the system (not including steering wheel controls though)

And possibly solving the video-in to the navi screen...this is critical since the cheapest option right now is around $200 (and is a mess to install...pioneer) and the best albeit most expensive option, the over $500 av electronics box.

If this will not function while the car is moving I'm sure there will be an easy way to hack that...

Plus this option could elliminate...complicated wiring installation, including wiring into the fuse box...and no worry of grounding as this is a factory option.

and all for $116 plus shipping (could be much less if we could find a company in North America, like trussville, canzoomer...whoever to bulk ship it here. Don't forget...$116 is the RETAIL price...maybe we can find a street price for this thing!

I may seem to optimistic but I might as well be since I was already going to lay down for the AV electronics box and saving $400 could go to my sub box install fund ; )

I'll do more research and post my findings...including, looking in the car for an installation point in the console, as the website says.

I wonder if it plugs into that pin port on the back of the radio... Come on JDM bruthas....help us out on this one!

Well after scouring my car for answers to where this thing goes...my best guess is that it fits inside one of the front cup holders...this is definitly a guess but possible based on the pic of the unit.

Also to answer flyboyindy...I'm pretty sure that this unit uses the extra plug on the back of the navigation unit...but I could be way off...and if it does connect using the radio it probably does the same way the Alpine PIE adaptor does...the same one that causes the those with the navigation unit problems in the form of a 'tv in/aux in' and a blue navi screen.

If the connection is through the radio's plug I'm thinking the cables then run down the center console and through that hole in the front cup holder console (the same spot where many have sent their tape aux-in hack wire through to their mp3 players...

engineers...help on this one!

(every time I get excited about something in this car it costs me LOTS of money, this may save me money!)

found more stuff!

after translation...I've found:

Back monitor system
YEN 81,375
(Control unit back monitor camera (substance) camera cover)

In other words...a rear view camera that hoooks into the navigation system...nice thing about this is...it is a mazda part.

Wholly crap...converted the yen and it is around $750...so much for that idea...
someone should order this thing...take it apart and write up the schematics...and put it together and return it...

here is an image for y'all

http://www.rx-8.mazda.co.jp/cars/rx-8/loption/DNBFE.JPG

truemagellen do u have AIM/AOL or yahoo?

hell yeah chat room on this
im kelrx8 on aim.

Isn't there an English site (With this video-in optional?)?

For those of you that can't read Japanese (myself included) try this - babelfish translator. http://babelfish.altavista.com/babelfish/tr. You can plug in a bunch of text or a website, and it will translate it for you. It's not perfect, but it gets most of the job done.

duh - it occured to me the part number may be there after all - in the photo name. GK3AV6590.jpg. Can anyone look up GK3AV6590 ? Maybe it's not.

We should redo this thread so that non-nav owners can get in on the discussion...the reason...this may tap into the audio system and could provide a factory Aux In for Audio...Not just video!

Help!

This is huge for us with navi, lets keep this on the front page. I basically gave up on my carpc project because of the costs associated, but this could be exactly what I need. Does anyone have any friends in Japan.

Yes, I have friends in Japan, and I have a business trip scheduled for Tokyo for August. However, I'm confused about the questions in this thread, so what exactly do you want me to ask my Japanese friends?

Along the same lines, I was in Japan last month, and they said ALL of their cars have NAV systems; it's an option they all need with the crowded streets of Tokyo. In addition, when they put the cars into reverse, the rear camera view illuminates on the NAV screen and overlays graphical boxes of possible backing locations. It's like guidance for backing into tight parking spots . . . COOL! I'll bet Mazda included some "plug" to include this camera.

I've been talking with a guy in Japan that imports parts. He can get one pretty easily. He charges $25 flat rate, plus shipping (in addition to part cost). But, he wasn't sure if it will work, and wasn't sure why anyone would pay so much for something that looked so simple.

hey 'CUE2'd RX-8' you can order that backing system from the same website (different pages) as the device we are discussing! Look around the site using babelfish from altavista.com to translate...if you need help just ask me or one of the other posters...this website is a goldmine of cool mazda parts!

-they have the backing system with overlay (expensive but awesome)
-they have just an independent rear view camera for reverse
-A/V inputs into the nav system...and much much more!

Here is the translation website:

http://babelfish.altavista.com/babelfish/tr

Enter the Japanese Website:

http://www.rx-8.mazda.co.jp/option/

Now you can wonder around the site wtih half assed translated English
(when you want to click on the picture to enlarge it...java popups wont work with the translater...so open the http://www.rx-8.mazda.co.jp/option/ website in a different window, in japanese, and click it to view enlarged image

holy SHHHH******TTT this may be it! my pioneer solution if 240 bucks but for a mazda plug and play for the nav!!! this is better than a wet dream!! well maybe not but still!!

RSHAN, find out from the guy you're talking to in Japan if he's interested in a group buy, cuz there will be LOTS of interested in this thing..

BTW, what the hell is this???
quote from site:

"オートライトシステム ￥18,585 (税込価格)
(オートライト本体・オートライト取付キット)
周囲の明るさを感知し、ヘッドライトとスモールライトの点灯・消灯を自動的に切り替えます。※装着の際には 、「本体＋取付キット」が必要です。※メダルコードは「本体＋取付キット」です。"

I've been talking with a guy in Japan that imports parts. He can get one pretty easily. He charges $25 flat rate, plus shipping (in addition to part cost). But, he wasn't sure if it will work, and wasn't sure why anyone would pay so much for something that looked so simple.

We need to find a way to split the costs on one of them and test it. If it does not work it would be a good test bed for a hack of some sort. And if it does work, well were in luck.

I'm in for spliting up the cost for a test... Navi owners...UNITE! (been watching X-men 2 too much lately after getting my car)

No... a nav system isn't needed because the streets are crowded. That is entirely incorrect. They are needed because the roads are so screwy that navigating Japan, especially Tokyo, is a serious PIA. I've got enough kilos by both car and motorcycle (which means no nav... and I don't have one in my car) to back this up.

BTW, what the hell is this???
quote from site:

"オートライトシステム ￥18,585 (税込価格)
(オートライト本体・オートライト取付キット)
周囲の明るさを感知し、ヘッドライトとスモールライトの点灯・消灯を自動的に切り替えます。※装着の際には 、「本体＋取付キット」が必要です。※メダルコードは「本体＋取付キット」です。"

Auto light system ￥18,585
(auto light base + auto light install kit)


Basically this system detects it's environment and turns the headlights and parking lights on and off.

humm sounds cool...

I'm up for the cost splitting.. shouldn't be more than $10 bucks per person if we get enough people, maybe less if there's many.. the person who collects will be the one who would try it out on their own car. if it works, great. they get to keep it, since they were the guinea pig heh

Has anyone of you installed the audio system...those with a Navi system?

if so...you should be the one tinkering with this if we split costs...I'm not at that level yet to be testing this system...but I'll help pay for the test unit

Any engineers? auto-mechanics? Help!

well i am game.. and currenlty runnign the avelectornic unit. but would love to find out if we can get clean audio to the head unit and such..

. but yes we have to split up the cost. I will install it in my 8 and then atelast we can decide witch system really works the best.. The avelectronics set up is also 700 bucks..

I'm fine with 'thew' doing this, I've seen his posts all over this forum and know he is competent...

so, how do we want to handle the money sending etc...who's in?

-also...Japan8 can you help us with the translation of the instruction manual?...'thew' could scan and post it for all of us to enjoy

I'm gett'in excited!

yea baby,, I want to run my avbox into this input. since i have already hacked my car apart and then rebuilt it . this makes sense..


turn me on to how to buy it.. and we can all work out the money thing as it goes on.. I did find the Ebreak and revers switch in the wireing loom.. the oem dvd map reader does not use this signal so. I am assuming that its there for this unit.. I bet it just plugs into the 2 plug on the oem dvd. that would be great ! ...

yea baby,, I want to run my avbox into this input. since i have already hacked my car apart and then rebuilt it . this makes sense..


turn me on to how to buy it.. and we can all work out the money thing as it goes on.. I did find the Ebreak and revers switch in the wireing loom.. the oem dvd map reader does not use this signal so. I am assuming that its there for this unit.. I bet it just plugs into the 2 plug on the oem dvd. that would be great ! ...

Hey Thew,

After we find out the exact costs, you can set up a pay pal account, unless you have one already. We can then get a list of people interested in donating and split the costs accordingly.

I think you are right that we won't have to worry about the e-brake messing with the signal on and off...

as for clicking into the back of the oem dvd-rom navi unit...it is very possible it goes there but I have a feeling that it will plug in to the same location as the alpine PIE unit does...my guess is based off the fact people with Navis are having a hell of a time with alpine PIE unit as the audio cuts out and the navi screen turns blue to 'tv aux' or 'tv input' or something like that...leads me to think the wrong connecter is going in their and causing the nav and audio to freak out...the correct unit? probably the one 'thew' is about to test out...

as for the extra plug on the navi unit? I'm thinking that may be where the backend (reverse) camera setup plugs into (the one from the same mazda website)...in otherwords...the navi unit probably takes 2 additional video inputs into the unit.
(note: there are 2 reverse camera units...one plain version...and one with the distance sensing video overlay version)

Oh and 'thew' in donating to this great cause all that I ask is that you document your adventure for DIY purposes

My M-6 has had these features since last September. We used a Pioneer Navigation System. Pictures available at: http://www.cardomain.com/id/caryb

However, the satellite radio uses an rf coupler.

As for the open connector on the back of the NAVI DVD, I have been told it is used only in Japan for a toll road system "EZ Pass","Fast Pass" or whatever they call it. Instead of redesigning and manufacturing for US they just left the connector in.

I am not sure(I haven't seen anyone who reported on this option in Japan yet) but, this video input option may use TV tunner's open connecter which is loacatecd in the trunk room.
I think there are a few differences between Japan and U.S. navi system. Does the RX-8 in the U.S. also have tv tunner unit in the trunk room?

already setup on paypal.. :)
Hey Thew,

After we find out the exact costs, you can set up a pay pal account, unless you have one already. We can then get a list of people interested in donating and split the costs accordingly.

no t.v. at all in the "b" spec cars
as for the connector in the back of the nav unit.. it is for aux video.. that is why the guys using the alpine system thee Aux t.v. .. MAzda Made the connector to access the video for the Toll road service so your screen shows you how much money just came out of your account. I cant see how the mazda input does not use the oem dvd units connection ...

anyway I have been all over this system like 10 times now.. so if it can be installed then i can do it.

lets get this orderd...

no t.v. at all in the "b" spec cars
as for the connector in the back of the nav unit.. it is for aux video.. that is why the guys using the alpine system thee Aux t.v. .. MAzda Made the connector to access the video for the Toll road service so your screen shows you how much money just came out of your account. I cant see how the mazda input does not use the oem dvd units connection ...

anyway I have been all over this system like 10 times now.. so if it can be installed then i can do it.

lets get this orderd...

Amen to that Thew!...my paypal account is itching to send mula

Yuhki posted this: http://www011.upp.so-net.ne.jp/tkus/for-8/VTR.htm but then it was taken down...I tried translating it but we may need japan8's help...what is this thing? is this a tv tuner...for some reason yuhki posted this then edited it out of the post (probably cause it is japanese)...Yuhki said the unit we want plugs into this...I'm not sure about that but lets look into it just incase

but I still believe thew is right on this one

Yuhki posted this: http://www011.upp.so-net.ne.jp/tkus/for-8/VTR.htm but then it was taken down...I tried translating it but we may need japan8's help...what is this thing? is this a tv tuner...for some reason yuhki posted this then edited it out of the post (probably cause it is japanese)...Yuhki said the unit we want plugs into this...I'm not sure about that but lets look into it just incase

but I still believe thew is right on this one

those pixs look intresting
thew any details on money needed ?

yes thats a input that is plugged into the tvrecever in the a spec cars.. we need the device that there t.v tuner is plugged into.. that thing is just a cable allowing you to get an input thru ther t.v. tuner.. :(

Kel
All i know is waht u see here ... I am ready to buy it if someone can turn me on to where...

pay pal money to

thew@sbcreative.com


https://www.paypal.com/us/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_transaction-run;)

truemagellen,your product is very interesting.
Does it work on rx-8?

Ok i just emaild Japan parts.com i sent them a link to the web site so they can get it.. I told them i want 10 .


Also for futher study on the site .. it does go in you cup holder.. and I am almost positive it uses the oem dvd unitl to tap in..

Hopefully JP can get them..

http://www.rx-8.mazda.co.jp/option/ i use babbel fish to go over this site but did not see any where i could buy it..

IF JP does not come thur perhaps our brothers over there may help.:rolleyes:

Yuhki posted this: http://www011.upp.so-net.ne.jp/tkus/for-8/VTR.htm but then it was taken down...I tried translating it but we may need japan8's help...what is this thing? is this a tv tuner...for some reason yuhki posted this then edited it out of the post (probably cause it is japanese)...Yuhki said the unit we want plugs into this...I'm not sure about that but lets look into it just incase

but I still believe thew is right on this one
its a tv tuner mounted in the trunk behind the liner. it is hooked into the nave screen most likly thur the unused plug on the back of our units..

very tempting...

Guys, I've been emailing this guy - jianmama@yahoo.co.jp. He already bought some because of all the initial interest, and is looking to sell some to guys in the US. He said he'll sell them for $131.00 shipped. He'll probably post some in eBay under the name JIANJDM. He seems very reasonable, and has been quick to respond. He may do a group buy if you guys ask.

If it's $131 shipped or cheaper count me in for a group buy, I'll just cross my fingers that it will work.

Count me in.

nothing on ebay..

rshan...maybe this guy can send us a copy of the installation instruction and how the device hooks up so thew and I can make some decisions about this thing (well mostly thew making the decisions : )

So has anyone figured out where this thing plugs into yet? I cant believe there isnt one person that has it installed yet... Im in for the test... let me know how much i need to pay...and who im payin it to.. =)

flyboyindy...I'm trying to get ahold of this guy from japan that 'rshan' recommended...trying to find the installation point for this device incase it doesn't connect into the nav system directly (if it needs the tv tuner)...I doubt we will figure it out online so that is where 'thew' comes in to acquire a unit and put together a diy for us (as a tester), he already has a paypal account setup for us to do this so hopefully we can get the ball rolling soon!

i email this rshan guy.. told him i wanted to buy one..

but nothing yet

Guys, feel free to email this guy in japan directly - jianmama@yahoo.co.jp. He's the one that can get the parts. I'm just a guy that found out about the part, and found a guy in Japan. I will ask for some help in installation, but I'm not sure what he can supply.

Keep in mind he's in japan, so with the time difference, he will unlikely respond right away.

i did ....

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Williams

I am located in Okinawa, Japan and the local Mazda Dealer
over here does not stock a lot of parts. Most of the
brand new parts are usually ordered through dealers in
mainland Japan like Tokyo or Kyshu and that is why this
usually take a several days or sometime weeks.

I ordered 10 of this navi module adapater.

I have save you email addy and will inform you on any development in terms or ebay posting or parts arrival.
Thank you very much.

Sincerely,

Mi of JIANJDM
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

thats what we know now..

cant we get trussvill mazda to get this ?

i did ....

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mr. Williams

I am located in Okinawa, Japan and the local Mazda Dealer
over here does not stock a lot of parts. Most of the
brand new parts are usually ordered through dealers in
mainland Japan like Tokyo or Kyshu and that is why this
usually take a several days or sometime weeks.

I ordered 10 of this navi module adapater.

I have save you email addy and will inform you on any development in terms or ebay posting or parts arrival.
Thank you very much.

Sincerely,

Mi of JIANJDM
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

thats what we know now..

cant we get trussvill mazda to get this ?


I contacted trussville a few days ago and they could not get it, maybe if there is enough demand they will stock it.

This thread is going to draw a huge crowd if you guys figure it out - count me in if it works! My company does business in Japan through a large company called Unico. Maybe I should see if anyone there owns an 8...

I'm very interested.

I'd like to know what kind of connector it lets you use with the navi system. And more details about how the process would work.

If this lets me tap into my navi screen to hook up external video sources, count me in :)

Also, does this allow for audio too?

Ditto what Jason said!! :) :) :)

Email response

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Matt

Ok check it out: I ordered 10 because of my Mazda Atenza
6, and Mazda Ford Tribute custmers. Some will be sold to
the RX customers.
This will be posted in two weeks or less. Thanks

Mi of JIANJDM

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

lastes from him .. also Japanparts says they can get it to !!! so i am trying to get them to send me a wireing diag..

From Japan Parts.com
Dear Matt,
Thank you for sending us E-mail.
Here is the estimation for you.

<For RX-8>
*MAZDA Video Input[10]: 13,200JPY x10=132,000JPY
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Sub Total: 132,000JPY
Shipping to U.S.A or Canada Via EMS: 11,900JPY
++It'll take about 15-20 days for preparing & delivery time++
(working to get to U.S.A or Canada since we receive your payment)
Mail Order Card Sale (5%) for Credit Card Company: 7,580JPY
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Total: 151,480JPY

Universal Currency Converter
http://www.xe.com/ucc/

<How To Order>
Please read about the payment at
http://japanparts.com/Howtoorder.htm
and fill out our Secure Server Order Form at
https://www.japanparts.com/partsorder.html

If you have any question,
please reply to my own E-mail address(koji@japanvehicles.com).

Thank you very much.
JAPANPARTS.COM
KOJI
__________________________________________________ ______

this is ging to take a while no matter wich way we buy it. I am trying to get at least 1 from JP now and as i said i asked for some more install info

151,480 translates to about $1380 I hope I'm doing this wrong...it is probably just $138

help?

yes thats for 10 units..
138 for one

hey thew I'm still up for paypaling you some mula for being the first one to dive in, install it (hopefully it will work) and make a DIY

Put me down for one too. I'd like to wait until I see some photos of the connectors first though :)

What is your ETA on getting them? I'm buying a dvd player for my son's birthday and knowing what can plug into it would be very useful.

Like I mentioned b4 - if this works I'm in. Put me on the list.

Does this input kit look like it will work as an audio in on non-nav equiped cars or is the nav system needed for this to work? I dont care about the video in since I dont have nav, but audio in would be great.

Does this input kit look like it will work as an audio in on non-nav equiped cars or is the nav system needed for this to work? I dont care about the video in since I dont have nav, but audio in would be great.

rjacobs...this is what we are trying to determine...there are 2 (possibly 3) connection points for this device...I'm betting it connects into the audio system like the Alpine Pie Adapter (which fails in Nav systems and is problematic in non-nav systems) and that only the audio would work...

others believe it connects to the back of the Nav unit... and third it could connect to something that is not on US spec cars (that would suck)

Believe me...once we figure this out (hopefully by end of next week at the latest), and if it works, we will be sure to notify the rest of rx8 club about this possible oem Audio and/or Video input...and then we can group buy this thing till it is really really inexpensive.

yep..


as for mula.. as soon as i dish out some .. ill let you all know..

ok its time to send me money..

----------------------------------------
Matt

The Module is in!!!! It has arrived in my house. What
forum do you want this posted? I meant for the picture?

Heres m latest pricing x 10 with EMS shipping to US will
be $1232.39 with a bonus of 1 extra. Can you please
notify RSHAN to get in contact with me as soon as
possible.

Mi of JIANJDM

_____________________________________________
Rshan he wants me to tell you there in.. I will buy all 10 if he will sell them.. but i need to know how many of us well buy them from me after i do.


as you can see he has them in.. and will be sending me a pic to look at..

Just warning you before Omicron, or another moderator does... you are skirting the line here. If you are going to do a "group buy" you need to PM Omicron and BOOSTD 7 for permission.

This is not a group buy... So far I am buying the stuff and putting it in my car so that we all may gain from the experiance.. Some peoplel have said they will throw me some money for the hassel... However i will have a bunch if this works and you can PM for the info later on.. after the install and we are sure this will work... :eek:

:)

Thew, thanks for the info. I was waiting for him to get them, and send out some photos and/or installation instructions. Hopefully he will get a chance to do that soon...

coool

That's about what I figured... which is why I said "skirting the line." :) Just trying to keep good threads from being locked...

Any pics yet? :)

not yet.. still waiting for that return email

Ok there on the way.. I am getting 3 to start with.. heres what i know..
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mr. Williams
Check it out:

http://img.ranchoweb.com/images/jianmar/picture167.jpg (http://img.ranchoweb.com/images/jianmar/picture167.jpg)

This firt picture showing what come in the box:

the wire harness, the module, tow side tapes and zip ties

and the instruction.

http://img.ranchoweb.com/images/jianmar/picture168.jpg (http://img.ranchoweb.com/images/jianmar/picture168.jpg)

Heres the part showing the harness, the black plug goes

into the stock factory Navi module.

http://img.ranchoweb.com/images/jianmar/picture169.jpg (http://img.ranchoweb.com/images/jianmar/picture169.jpg)

RX8 Installation instruction. 9 step process, the hard

part is making a hole to the desired location.

Very simple and photos clearly indicate placement of

wires, what to removed and what to cut. (Barney Style)

http://img.ranchoweb.com/images/jianmar/picture170.jpg (http://img.ranchoweb.com/images/jianmar/picture170.jpg)

This last picture is for whoever is interested in the JDM

RX8 brochure(shipping fee required)

I hoped this will help out and if interested, please

respond asap as I only have 3 remaining and similar

emails was sent out to the Tribute, MPV and Atenza 6

customers.

MY ebay feedback should give you a peace of mind regarding

my seller credibility and reputation. Please check it

out: JIANJDM, I am a power seller and 100% positve

feedback

Thank you very much.

Sincerely,

MI of JIANJDM

----------------------------------------

and it does look like it plugs into the Head unit. That unused plug.. :)

cant wait..

Threw, that product is great.How much for it?

I want one too! Let me know who i need to pay!

I wonder if the sound only goes to the driver side speaker like the NAV does...or if it channels stereo sound to all speakers?

no its stereo :)

thew...I think this is it...I'm so damn excited...two birds with one stone it seems...plus a third bird if you count the fact that you don't need to install a remote to switch to the video/audio in...it is already the AUX input button as part of the head unit controls!

cool thing is we can install this thing anywhere...not just the location in the manual...

hey 'thew' you have more of these...the ebay guy says he has 3 left but I'd rather buy it from you

yes.. DIy soon firt i have to get it... then I will make up the DIY... but its comming :) yea

im also very excited.
great pixs looks promising

Finally! The light at the end of the tunnel. :p

any status updates on this? How did it install?

those are pics from Japan...thew will be getting his unit very soon and will be installing it DIY style as soon as he gets it...this is very exciting indeed! (I may not have to void my warranty after all!)

ok .. latest info..


--------------------------------------------------------
Matt,

Theres only two left at this time: 8:23 am
Thanks and your response is greatly appreciated.

MI of JIANJDM
------------------------------------------------

So i sent him 230 for 2 .. Ill get them and install 1 in my ride and make up the diy with pics and details... as soon as i get it. .......

THen i will sell the other one to someone here.. Also Like i said before. Japanparts.com can also get this part. he will need the part number from me when i get it.

So .. if you want one of these.. I will handel buying the lot and then ill send them to you.

Email me at thew@sbcreative.com and ill make a list .

Now if you incliend to help me with the first pruchase for testing the install.. then paypal me something to the above email address.. So far i have invested $230 dollars for the 2 units he had. And yes Ill sell the other unit. I guess the fair way is for all you you that are intrested to email me.. Ill send the second unit to the farthest address from me ..

Then the rest will have to wait on japan parts.

But again.. email me if you are ready for one.

And I suggest we all wait untill i have gotten the first one and installed it .. it still may not work.. but it looks like a 95% thing now..

And.. dosent Omicron and the others want this unit as well.. this is what hes been working on now.. although i am unsure if it gives you compleate controll with the steering wheel buttons .. or if its just a Aux Video and audio input.. but ill know soon.

Keep your fingers crossed.

I will also post the Part number too.. i mean .. it seems that if we have all the right info we can get trussville to get um.. if not.. then Ill make this happen with Japanparts......:)

those are pics from Japan...thew will be getting his unit very soon and will be installing it DIY style as soon as he gets it...this is very exciting indeed! (I may not have to void my warranty after all!)Yep !

Hi guys!
I have been following this for 3 days, it seems like a godsend all right.
It occured to me that there is a number visible on the box in the first and second pics

GK3A-VS-590

Maybe this is the Part Number? I applaud thew for his effort. If there is a group buy once he tests his out, count me in too.

Ok,, latest.. info :)

-------------------------------------------------


Ok.. Thanks again.. You are great :)

I wll pass that info alon.. Once I confirm I can install this on the "b" spec cars.. You will have a flood of orders.


-----Original Message-----
From: ƒAƒX�J�|ƒ‹ ŽO�ç‘ã [mailto:jianmama@yahoo.co.jp]
Sent: Sunday, July 25, 2004 2:39 PM
To: Matt Williams
Subject: RE: Rx8 Video input tap.


Mr. Williams

5 more modules will be arriving in my house this coming wednesday. The part number for this module is:

GK3A-V6590


Also, please note that I can order anything for you in the Mazda RX8 JDM option brochure.

I sent you an email confirming your payment.

Sincerely,

Mi of JIANJDM


--- Matt Williams <thew@sbcreative.com> からのメッセージ
：
> Ok.. Il take them .. Don窶冲 sell um :0)
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: ニ但ニ湛ツ゛ツ－ニ停ケ ナスOツ静ァ窶佚」
> [mailto:jianmama@yahoo.co.jp]
> Sent: Saturday, July 24, 2004 4:24 PM
> To: Matt Williams
> Subject: RE: Rx8 Video input tap.
>
>
> Matt,
>
> Theres only two left at this time: 8:23 am
> Thanks and your response is greatly appreciated.
>
> MI of JIANJDM

P.S. he shipped them today as well.. its Monday there :)
Yea...

Yes.. if this works then well make it a real group buy.. OK mods ? get ready for it ...

thew...if this works...you know I'm in for a group buy

moderators...authorize this please

Can't wait to hear the results on this project. I think we all have been waiting for a solution like this.
-Rich

its got work
its just got too.
:)

I just (finally) bought my RX-8 a couple of weeks ago and it has the nav system. At first I figured that it was an expensive toy and sort of regretted paying the almost $2k for it. Now, if this works, suddenly it looks like a very good idea. DVDs, game systems, mp3 players...they should all easily hook up.

Sweet!

~ Matt (who is now subscribed to this thread and will be a definite customer once this hook up is proven :D )

hey matt.. I am a Matt To :)

Hey Matt! I'm a Matt V. and I lived with another Matt V. for about a year...talk about confusing!

I've been following this car for what seems like forever (my Join Date is one indication) and now that I've got one, all I want to do is spend more money on it. I think I blame Pimp My Ride and Monster Garage for my affliction.

~ Matt

I'm in for the group buy, too... looks good - can't wait to hook up the Xbox Media Player w/ 120 GB hard drive.

i shoudl have it next week.. so the Tracking system says..

hey Matt V .. MY wife was married to a MAtt before she married me .. hehehhee
talk about weird... She gets mad and lets a Maaat Slip !!! I dont know the diffrance.. I get mad and let my X wifes name slip and i get a cold sholder ! heheh

If it works as expected, you can count me in for the group buy too! :D

Hey guys, any more news?

waiting for thew to get his unit in from japan...and install and test it...we must be patient although I am antsy as all hell to see this thing working!

i think ill get it maybe friday .. if were all lucky.. seems easyer to get stuff from Japan to CAliforina then CA to NY :)

hehe tracking says it will be in SF tommrow.. if it clears customs ok i could see it friday :)

I am holding my breath, I am sure others are too....

I think I'll be shopping for Sirius soon, now that Mazda has officially given up on Sat Radio for RX-8s on the road.

hey, i got a question.

Are japan parts orderable from US Dealers? I have a gift certificate that can only be redeemed by a mazda dealer apparently

some parts are but not many..
check with Trussvill MAzda. one of our vendors.. If it can be gotten be a Dealer they will tell ya..

so thew what does tracking say?? (we must sound like kids in the back of the car 'are we there yet???')

oh I forgot it's not friday yet...damn I'm impatient

hehe .. Tracking says "shut up back there.. Dont make me reach back there and pop you one !" :)

still not in SF yet... I hope tommrow

i can still remember my Dad puting his Giant hand on the back of the front seat.... This was our Cue to shut up .. or suffer the Hand !! :)

it will take me about 1 hour .. and then ill snap pics and such. So far.. The stupid tracking web site says its still in the air.. hehe long 2 day flight....

There Here !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Saturday Delivery to :)


Now.. From the instructions.. (that i cant read) it looks like theres one of these for the non Nav cars to.. they make one that is just the Audio part of the connector... But Also from the instructions this is supposed to plug into the T.V. tuner that MAzda puts in the 8s in Japan... IT clearly plugs into the back of the tuner witch is mounted in the trunk behind the trunk lining on the passanger side. But the t.v tuner seems to plug into the Nav unit...

So I will be ripping my car apart to see if it can use the connector on the Head unit or the DVD player.. Also we may have the wireing in our trunk. I can see it on the wireing Diag in the shop manual.. So wish me luck .....

And I am not sure about the audio only version.. they clearly make one..

I'll be watching this post for updates tonight and tomorrow...this is a great day thew!

he guys any chance of a chat room on this or a final review on it tonight
if so im @ kel rx8 on aim.
cant wait to hear some good news.

Omicron .. I need you..


Do you have any info one the DVD unit in our 8's I think its a Panasonic but it says Matsushita on the bottem.. IN order to make this work we need the Wireing Diag for the DVD unit.

After taking the car apart. I have found that the Head unit connector is all wrong.. Just like I thought.. But the unused connector on the back of the map dvd is almost the same.. Upon futher inspecton I discoverd a hidden connector on the dvd unit.. its cover by some silver tape. Either one of these must be the Input path for the Mazda T.V. unit that we are missing.. It is there that this input is supposed to be plugged in.. IT would be mounted in the trunk. I took mine apart and found that the Wireing harness from the OEM DVD and Sound sysem runs to the spot where the t.v. tuner would be.. But theres no breaks in it.. No plugs nothing.. they just stoped short of givving us the connector to plug this in...

So If were going to make this work we need to get the wireing info for the DVD unit. I am so sure that its one of those to plugs i can taste it...

I need all of you to help me find this info ..

Heres what the DVD unit says on it. :

Matsushita electric industral co
serial no 10246

MOdel number FE0166DF0
ref no cn-vm4360a


I have been searching the web and my eyes hurt....


Whos got the Wireing Diagram ??

p.s i cant get the caht room to work for me.. but we can do it over MSN messager...
thew@sbcreative.com

omi is not on aim :(
but im on the hunt for some skematics
im check some resources and see what i can find
brb

I am not sure if he has taken his dvd player apart yet.. but mines here in my lap... God were so close !!!
Got my MSN on to..

Hey I also run a Team speek server to.. if anyone else has TS.. we can use that for our Chat room.. but live voice chat ...Mic is needed..

http://matsushita.co.jp/
im having a hard time on there site
crap we migth need the help from japan8
im keep searching though
there has to be something out there
:D

im on msn @ boostinmk4
hehe sorry my supra days :)

heres the connector.. and the data stickers.. The connector square connector is the one i belive is the way to get in..

u can see where i removed the tape to expose the hidden connector ! its the Rectangel

Ok Matsuida is the name of Panasonic in Japan...I dont know if that is helpful...but that is why you thought it was a panasonic unit...it is

I'm searching for stuff too...that hidden connector is interesting

yes. were way beyond that now.. post a pic of our sister dvd unit !

man this finding stuff on our unit is not easy
but check this pix
http://www.satnavigation.com/graphics/units/cn_dv2300.jpg

its the panasonic unit cn-dv2300 it is a dvd gps unit

http://www.satnavigation.com/graphics/units/cndv2000.jpg
a older version
for sale
hey guys trying searcing under cn-dv2300 for wiring on that

so now were searching for info on both..

The square connector (not used), is used in Japan for thruway tolls. The hidden connector I believe is for flashing the micro at the factory. I could be wrong but that connector is probably a dead end.

so is that dvd/gps unit comparable to ours? the front looks near identical, but what i woner is, what the back looks like where everything plugs in... if it plugs right up with our factory harnesses, thought would be cool too. in another scenario, if this box doesnt work, has anyone thought of asking an engineer at xbox-scene.com if they could work with us on modding our nav unit. our goal is rather simple (on paper), change the o/s, and swap the dvd drive withing the unit itself. i dunno, this thread has me running to my computer at least 3 or 4 times a day to check the status, so yea im going a bit crazy!

thew I'm sure some of you have seen this information before but check it out...it is a 'diy' of the tvtuner install and might give you an idea where the connector is supposed to hook in on that unit...maybe we can derive something from it:

http://www011.upp.so-net.ne.jp/tkus/for-8/VTR.htm

holy crap this thread is almost over 10 pages...

use babelfish to translate this page...there is a diagram that when translated shows what the wiriing is for the connector...but not for the tv unit...

question for everyone...where do you get the JDM tv unit?????

ok,, so now i know.. not much more. I did get a call from Jin in Japan hes the one that sold the unit.. hes sitting on a bunch more and heard that I was getting ready to hack the dvd unit.. So he called me to say that his source in Japan is saying that the input plugs into the Radio.. head unit.. So now i have the dvd and head unit here in my lap.. I think we have all been very close with the Alpine Pie connector.. The only unused plug on the head unit is that on witch you can use for the Alpine interface...

SO unless I can get a wireing diag of our OEM dvd and the Extra connector on the HEad unit. I am stuck..

The Question has been asked about the JDM t.v. tuner. the trouble with that is we dont have the JDM wireing harness.. The system "sound & Video" hraness does run back to that spot in the U.S. spec car.. but they did not incllude any connectors... so again we are stuck in our tracks.. if you did buy the JDM t.v. tuner you would not be able to plug it in..

it seems we are back to cutting into the LCD input like the AV electronics box.. or hacking into the DVD unit.. Unless we can get the wireing info for that extra connector on the HEad unit. heres a pic

MAzda3ndp,



I am sure the componets are the same in that Dvdunit above.. but the Wireing will not be.. those units will have RCA and svideo outputs. Ours has a OEM mazda connector.. and is RGBSync not composit. But if we get the Wire info i may be able to trace to the same spots on the pc boards .

WE need someone in Japan to Scan there Shop Manuals that I am sure show this stuff on the JDM wireing Harness. Those connectors on the Head unit and on the DVD must be used. so they must have somthing saying what those Pin Do ..

Hey Japan 8 can you help ?

Overload ?? can you

Also I think MAzda is using the t.v. unit to convert the composit to RGB video.. since this seems to be the case I can only hope that we can still use it for Audio input. It is a very cool RCA connector. the top swivles to close it up.. I can still install one in my 8 and run it to the AVelectronics box.. this will give me an input in the car not the trunk . !!

But I am still commited to getting this to work.. I am just about 100 % sure that MAzda is also converting the Audio from Analog to Dig in the T.V. tuner box.

hres what i was looking for.. who took this pic.. I need more or the JDM manual

http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?p=470648&posted=1#post470648

we need to link all this in one spot.

The Pie addapter seems to be the best way to get almost there... then if you want the video you will have to hack the lcd i think...

Maybe a pin out for DVD will help?

that may be good but i can see it the resaloution is to low.. can you save that as a jpg with higher res..

It will only upload under 200k?

as a jpg you can do 900 k

and where did that come from ?

:d

Ok, this should look better. Hope it helps, you all have some wild ideas

where did it come from ?????? and thanks looking now

where did it come from ?????? and thanks looking now
u break um, I fix um. (Its hard to fix um without ALL the tools) ;)

so in that case.. tell me about the hidden connecter or port behind the silver tape.. thats not in your picture.. nor is the gren single lead connecter that i think is a dgi output ??

I have been following this thred with great interest to see what you guys come up with.

This may seem like a stupid question, but why not just but the Mazda T.V. Tuner found in the Japanese cars, then plug the A/V adapter into that.

I'd be willing to pay for the tuner, just to eliminate the need to hack up the DVD/NAV or head units, plus, I'd then have a working T.V.

Does anyone have the Mazda Part No. for their T.V Tuner? Can it be ordered from Japan?

I'd like to add T.V. plus the backup camera function to my '8.

I have been following this thred with great interest to see what you guys come up with.

This may seem like a stupid question, but why not just but the Mazda T.V. Tuner found in the Japanese cars, then plug the A/V adapter into that.

I'd be willing to pay for the tuner, just to eliminate the need to hack up the DVD/NAV or head units, plus, I'd then have a working T.V.

Does anyone have the Mazda Part No. for their T.V Tuner? Can it be ordered from Japan?

I'd like to add T.V. plus the backup camera function to my '8.

from an earlier post...

"The Question has been asked about the JDM t.v. tuner. the trouble with that is we dont have the JDM wireing harness.. The system "sound & Video" hraness does run back to that spot in the U.S. spec car.. but they did not incllude any connectors... so again we are stuck in our tracks.. if you did buy the JDM t.v. tuner you would not be able to plug it in.. "

Can we get the wiring harness I wonder?

Can we get the wiring harness I wonder?

Hell, I may just go ahead and buy the whole Japanese stereo/nav, I'm ready for a group buy.

hell why stop there lets just get a jdm rx8.lol
if matt cant get it too work then ave unit here i come :)

from an earlier post...

"The Question has been asked about the JDM t.v. tuner. the trouble with that is we dont have the JDM wireing harness.. The system "sound & Video" hraness does run back to that spot in the U.S. spec car.. but they did not incllude any connectors... so again we are stuck in our tracks.. if you did buy the JDM t.v. tuner you would not be able to plug it in.. "

O.K., but if the signal cables are in the wiring harness, than all we need to do is add the connectors, right?

Or if the signal cables are not in the wiring harness, I'm sure I could make a how-ever-many wire bundle to go from the tuner to the DVD/Nav Unit.

Does any one know if the JDM TV Tuner is NSTC or PAL or switch selectable?

Does anyone know what other markets (Europe or Austrailia) that off TV tuners ? JDMJIAN was saying that it worked with a Mazda6 in Europe. not sure where or what difference there is though

I am finding that out right now !!! but i dont think so..

Looks like the best solution is to do what i have done so far.. Buy the Avelectronics unit.. and buy the PIE interface and then hook the audio out of the Ave into the Pie.. Then you have 3 inputs to switch from with the avelectronics box via remote and you get good clean audio... I will end up using the Mazda RCA input with my Avelectornics box. I will mount the input on the passanger side of the consoule.. I will post pics of the whole thing when my PIE comes tommorw.

And when I get word from Japan about the JDM t.v. tuner with the proper wireing ill post.. but i think its like i said before. Mazda is making this very hard to do becasue they dont want to get Sued if someone kills a person with ther front video on ! so they are going to make it really hard to do.. I am guessing that My set up with the avbox is going to end up being cheaper than the JDM t.v. tuner and wiring harness... , rca input....


But i have not given up hope yet..

Thew, can you post/send a close up photo of what the connector from the Mazda RCA input looks like ?

When I get home from work this evening I'm going to check the wiring harness diagram and connetor pin-out diagrams, which I will scan and post.

Most of Europe Uses the PAL broadcast standard:

PAL is short for Phase Alternating Line, the dominant television standard in Europe. The United States uses a different standard, NTSC. Whereas NTSC delivers 525 lines of resolution at 60 half-frames per second, PAL delivers 625 lines at 50 half-frames per second. Many video adapters that enable computer monitors to be used as television screens support both NTSC and PAL signals.



The US, and I believe Canada, use the NTSC broadcast standard:

An NTSC TV image has 525 horizontal lines per frame (complete screen image). These lines are scanned from left to right, and from top to bottom. Every other line is skipped. Thus it takes two screen scans to complete a frame: one scan for the odd-numbered horizontal lines, and another scan for the even-numbered lines. Each half-frame screen scan takes approximately 1/60 of a second; a complete frame is scanned every 1/30 second. This alternate-line scanning system is known as interlacing.

we need a japanese engineer... no one here works for an actual mazda that can get the schematics for the guts of the dvd unit trace through and see if there is anysort of converter... or see what kind of connectors are used for the dvd drive, cause maybe we could modify a pc dvd drive to work in there... or if the actual o/s is stored on the dvd, why not hack that so the o/s could go on a burned dvd and store movies on the rest of it.. this might seem very dumb but you cant get anywhere without throwning ideas out in the open.

so in that case.. tell me about the hidden connecter or port behind the silver tape.. thats not in your picture.. nor is the gren single lead connecter that i think is a dgi output ??
The green connector is the GPS antenna, The hidden conn. as I have said before, I think is for flashing the Micro at the factory. I may be wrong, you tell me :confused:

maybe we could somehow "re-flash" it to have a new o/s... are we 100% that there is no physical hardware for actually reading dvd movies? im not talking about the programming but does anyone know for sure if the drive itself is or isn't physically capable of reading dvd movies.

we should find someone to rip a navi out of a junkyard car and tinker with it.. personally ill hack wires for now to get an input but im not gonna open my navi unit. if someone has an 'extra one' or knows where i could get one cheap i could peek into it, or we could let thew open the biotch up and see what he could do....

I have been following this thred with great interest to see what you guys come up with.

This may seem like a stupid question, but why not just but the Mazda T.V. Tuner found in the Japanese cars, then plug the A/V adapter into that.

I'd be willing to pay for the tuner, just to eliminate the need to hack up the DVD/NAV or head units, plus, I'd then have a working T.V.

Does anyone have the Mazda Part No. for their T.V Tuner? Can it be ordered from Japan?

I'd like to add T.V. plus the backup camera function to my '8.

I have a sneaky suspicion that the JDm tv tuner isn't gonig to get you any tv in the US. As we all know AM/FM stepping and ranges are different in the US and Japan. I suspect that TV is the same. Japan uses VHF only it seems and channels 1-12. What the frequencies, etc. are I don't know... but if it was that simple, more people would buy JDM tv's and bring them back to the US...

Thew, can you post/send a close up photo of what the connector from the Mazda RCA input looks like ?
yes i will do it today

The green connector is the GPS antenna, The hidden conn. as I have said before, I think is for flashing the Micro at the factory. I may be wrong, you tell me :confused:
from what i know now you seem to be right..

looks like the only way to get it to work now is in the Head unit.

I have a sneaky suspicion that the JDm tv tuner isn't gonig to get you any tv in the US. As we all know AM/FM stepping and ranges are different in the US and Japan. I suspect that TV is the same. Japan uses VHF only it seems and channels 1-12. What the frequencies, etc. are I don't know... but if it was that simple, more people would buy JDM tv's and bring them back to the US...
yes,,, except we would have the input path if we get our hands on that unit.. It may not work for T.V. but thats just a minor thing...

anyway like i said before.. I have talked somemore and the only way to get this inout into the system is through the extra connector on the HEad unit. The same one that you can plug the PIE interface into.. My emails have been translated and are now floting around Japan. we may still get some help on this yet..

NO let me get my camera out and snap a pic of the unit..

Now this sounds promising.

"The PhatBox Digital Media Player integrates seamlessly with existing Mazda sound systems and will provide drivers with hundreds of hours of music without having to search through compact discs or flip radio stations. The PhatBox can be trunk-mounted and stores music on a removable 20-gigabyte hard drive that can be transferred between multiple PhatBox units.

The system is controlled by the existing CD changer controls on all Mazda radios, with an interface designed to make finding music simple. Using the radio panel screen, PhatBox displays artist and disc titles, and, for factory radios on the MAZDA3, MAZDA6, Miata, and RX-8, offers voice-assisted browsing with an SSA (Simple Stereo Architecture)/Voice interface. This device allows drivers to utilize voice command music selection for close to 3,500 song titles without ever taking their hands off the wheel." more info (http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/040803/latu051_1.html)

If they are able to get all of this functionality out of the existing radios then there is still hope that Thew will be able to do the same thing.

heres the GK3A-V6-590 RCA input from MAzda.. As you will see the top oif this rotates to cover the RCA's inside.. this keeps it clean inside.. Also makes it harder to tell that your car is video ready. MAzda suggest you mount it in the rear console across from the DVD in the same rear compartment.. I will be mounting mine in the Front PAssanger side onthe center console.. I will post pics tonight of that install... You will also see the Plug that we are trying to mate up.. this would plug into the JDM t.v. just like the instructions say... But not for U.S.


IF you are going to use this like I will then you will have to cut off this end and wire it up to RCA's....

assuming we cant get it into the Head Unit... :(

Yes I have seen this to.. Tobad we all want Video and Audio :)


but like i said.. the Extra connecter on the back of the Head unit.. makes all of this possible.. I think that we are just way ahead of our time.. MAzda will i bet realease the inputs and such for us to use the H U for what we want.. KEnwood also makes a boxs like this.. Infact it may be the same unit..

Now this sounds promising.

"The PhatBox Digital Media Player integrates seamlessly with existing Mazda sound systems and will provide drivers with hundreds of hours of music without having to search through compact discs or flip radio stations. The PhatBox can be trunk-mounted and stores music on a removable 20-gigabyte hard drive that can be transferred between multiple PhatBox units.

The system is controlled by the existing CD changer controls on all Mazda radios, with an interface designed to make finding music simple. Using the radio panel screen, PhatBox displays artist and disc titles, and, for factory radios on the MAZDA3, MAZDA6, Miata, and RX-8, offers voice-assisted browsing with an SSA (Simple Stereo Architecture)/Voice interface. This device allows drivers to utilize voice command music selection for close to 3,500 song titles without ever taking their hands off the wheel." more info (http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/040803/latu051_1.html)

If they are able to get all of this functionality out of the existing radios then there is still hope that Thew will be able to do the same thing.

Now this sounds promising.

"The PhatBox Digital Media Player integrates seamlessly with existing Mazda sound systems and will provide drivers with hundreds of hours of music without having to search through compact discs or flip radio stations. The PhatBox can be trunk-mounted and stores music on a removable 20-gigabyte hard drive that can be transferred between multiple PhatBox units.

The system is controlled by the existing CD changer controls on all Mazda radios, with an interface designed to make finding music simple. Using the radio panel screen, PhatBox displays artist and disc titles, and, for factory radios on the MAZDA3, MAZDA6, Miata, and RX-8, offers voice-assisted browsing with an SSA (Simple Stereo Architecture)/Voice interface. This device allows drivers to utilize voice command music selection for close to 3,500 song titles without ever taking their hands off the wheel." more info (http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/040803/latu051_1.html)

If they are able to get all of this functionality out of the existing radios then there is still hope that Thew will be able to do the same thing.

For me this is huge I just wanted something for audio anyhow, video was just the cherry on top. Hopefully this can be installed on 2004 models.

So does this mean that after all this comotion and 13 pages of dialog that this idea is just about as good as any of the others.

seems so.. but we still may get what we need from japan

http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=35676

theres DIY here on my install..

oh well.. Guess we'll have to wait until the HU connections are figured out before we purchase this thing.

or buy it now.. and use it or hang on to it.. its a very cool RCA unit.

Does anyone know the part number for the JDM T.V unit?

Also the part number for the wiring harnes from the T.V. Unit to the DVD/Nav or head unit (where ever it goes)?

I'd consider buying just to tinker with it.

This Is not Cool.. When I find out who this person is .. I will do whatever it takes to get your IP banned from this Fourm !!! this is so uncool!!!!!!

Mods please PM me about this ASAP ! I highlihted the area of intrest with +++++++++++++++ above and below.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Matt

Im pestering the local Mazda dealer over here to help me
as I am still stock with this parts.
I have about 4 left. My only customers who got this
working succesfully are servicemember: military who have actually purchase JSPEC cars over here and brought to Europe with them.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++

Also, I have been getting hate emails (about 6)lately for selling you this parts. I am getting blamed for this stuff not working. Please tell members on what ever forum you belong that I am just entertaining orders as this is what I do sell JDM parts.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ ++++++++++++++

Did you like the RX8 brochure?

Thanks and as always please keep in touch.

JIANJDM

--- Matt Williams <thew@sbcreative.com> からのメッセージ
：
>
> http://www.rx8club.com/showthread.php?t=35676
>
> The install .. I mounted the unit anyways.. Now
> it seems that even the PIE interface wont work with
> the rx8 it needs some sort of video feed. So that
> damn connecter on the back of the Head unit does
> want to see Video. I am really curious to know what
> you see on the JDM version there..
>
>
>

Does anyone know the part number for the JDM T.V unit?

Also the part number for the wiring harnes from the T.V. Unit to the DVD/Nav or head unit (where ever it goes)?

I'd consider buying just to tinker with it.
I was going t reccomend Emailing him for the part.. He can get it. but at this point i doubt he will talk to members of this Fourm !
\

SO does any helpful soles want to throw me some cash ?
Now i seem to be out 260 bucks..

anyway.. I am keeping one.. the one i installed.. I will sell the other to someone .. ITs a cool little connecter

Thew, your rigth man those people should have waited to make sure the item worked before they purchased it, and it's not his fault. We've been saying all through-out this thread that your were going to test one and that it may not work.

and i guess now all those helpfull people that wanted to contribute some money have all gone away?

and i guess now all those helpfull people that wanted to contribute some money have all gone away?

no no...I'll send $15...your work was great...PM your paypal info

ditto

that would be great.. I am still working on a 2nd idea. But it will take a bit to test out.

you can pay pal anything you want to donate to thew@sbcreative.com

................

its on the way thew...

keep us updated on the 2nd idea...since I'm a modding junkie for our car

your the best:) ..

And I know what u mean about the MOds ...... I just cant stop :)

can you do what this guy did .http://www011.upp.so-net.ne.jp/tkus/for-8/VTR.htm

thats the t.v tuner he plugged into. If we had that in our cars then you only nned a plug and some rca's to get into the system..... However.. Japan seems not trust us in the States to Watch T.v. :(

Thew,I see your guide on installing this japanese product and I put it on my personal site ( http://www.thommino.com/mazdarx8.htm ). Can I do it?
So do you installed correctly this product. And does it work? How do you solve the connetor difference? Could I install on my European mazda rx-8. Where can I connet the connector?
Thanks

it will work in one of 2 ways.. 1 if you have a jdm mazda from Japan "A" Spec. or 2 if you have an after mearket AVelectronics box or something like it. IF your Euro 8 came with the T.V. tuner option from MAzda then yes you can just plug the RCA input into the T.V. tuner that is mounted in your trunk.. But if you dont have the JDM t.v. unit then you will have to buy a Video input device like the Avelectronics box and hook it up to that as one of the 4 inputs that it has.

YOu can find allot of info here on the avelectronics box and the Nav Vision box.

just do a search on Avelectronics or Nav Vision.

I have an European Mazda.
What about second method? Why does it work only with AVeletronics? I have another European switch (2 AV/Line-in (RCA) + 1 AV line out (RCA) + Built in Tv tuner: http://www.cartft.com/carpc/catalog/il/400 ),how can I understand if this product will work?
Do you sell the other cable that you buy and don't work? how much?

Where is installed the custom T.V. tuner? I think there isn't on EU Mazda I cannot see the Tv on my Madza.

Shall I connect line-out(RCA) of my switch (1 video + 2 audio) to Japanese connector (line in) that you installed? And then where can I connect the plastic connect of Japanese product? Is it right?

its really just a nice RCA cable.. I cut off the OEM connecter and soldered on RCA connecters to plug it into my AV box.. you can plug this unit into anything that will take a RCA connection.. ... then you can mount the other side anywhere you want..

Yes I still have the 2nd unit and can sell it to you. IT cost me $130.00 u.s.
IF you like PM me with you address and ill get a cost for shipping to you.

Only a nice cable? :-(

I need a line-in A/V,not a nice Rca cable. A long Rca cable cost 5$.
120Euro for an RCA cable it's too expensive. I think that that cable add a A/V line in to my madza. If I must also buy Avelectonics or Pie Adapter, I don't need it. :-(

read the above thread from start to finish.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

and yes a nice RCA cable. With a rotating cover and its OEM equipment. Very stock.
if you want to hack at your 8 then by all means buy a $5 doaller rca cable for your 30,000 8 ! and poke it through the back seat ! .. put a big red flag on it so we all get to see..

Sheeees.. No respect ................



good luck.

I read the thread from the beginning to the end,and I understand that for working your cable need a component installed only on Japanese car (T.V. tuner). In this way your cable work only like long nice connector. We need another component (live avelectronic or pie adapter) to add a video line in (RGB) and an audio line in (Fm modulator). Is it all right?
Thnaks

Hello All,

I'm late to this discussion as I just read this thread in it's entirety last night... I too am looking for an inexpensive composite video (or even better S-video) input solution for the RX-8. Here's my mix of conjecture and knowledge:

1. It is likely that NO video "flows" through the head unit auxiliary connector. And, since it is reported that vehicles with the Nav unit installed still are not utilizing this connector, The Nav audio must find it's way to the head unit through one of it's harnessses. However, based on the PIE adapter issues, there is a possibility that there is some control over selecting the video source in the head unit, and I suspect that the "Bus" wires have something to do with that. My guess is that there are bus commands that tell the Nav display to pull video from a different source or even more likely that a bus command tells the Nav unit to switch video sources since all the video generating accessories mount in the rear and plug into the Nav unit.

2. Here is what I know for sure about the video coming OUT of the Nav. It is RGB with a Composite sync ( total of 4 signal wires). It is NOT digital as an earlier post suggested. The signal is still Analog in nature, but may be generated digtally. It is likely that the "resolution" is NTSC as VGA costs more to produce. I have thought about pulling the NAV system and attaching it to a multisync computer monitor which would then report the V and H frequencies begin generated by the Nav unit. Assuming it is NTSC (but not composite), I know there is a five dollar chip that will convert seperate RGB+Sync signals into a composite or S-video signal. I can only assume that there is a five-dollar chip that does the reverse, since ANY tuner/receiver/monitor at some stage needs to separate the composite signal into it's componenets to feed the driver circuitry(even in an LCD tv). The quality and readability is suprising if the Nav head unit IS NTSC (320 x 480 virtual resolution) but I can tell that the display unit is Analog as sometime noise can be seen on the screen.

3. Here is the BIG question: How does the TV tuner get it's signal INTO the Nav Unit? Or the rearview Cam for that matter? There has to be one or two auxiliary Video-Inputs on the nav unit itself plus a way to command the nav unit to switch inputs(probably throught the common "bus" wires). I'm guesing that the NAV unit puts out seperate RGB to improve the picture quality and allow the text and graphics to have sharp edges(there doesn't appear to be any aliasing in the text fonts). Motion video inputs would not need to be the same quality and the Nav info, so It's possible that the Auxiliary inputs are simple composite to save wires and the switcher in the Nav unit splits the composite signal before sending it out the RGB wires.

I'm going to be messing around with the Nav unit more when I get the time. Now that I have found out about the speed sensor calibration in the GPS secret menu, I'm going to find a way to swap out the Nav main unit into my '67 firebird. I'll have a display, controls, and antenna installed in the 'bird and a harness ready to plug into the Nav unit anytime I want to swap. Then all I have to do re recalibrate the speed sensor (measured in meters/pulse down to cm precision) and the unit should work in two cars for the price of 1 (plus maybe $300 overhead installed in the second car). As I work on this project, I'll be playing with the nav unit quite a bit. One of the first things I may do is get one of those five dollar composite chips and run the GPS through it to a video input on my TV. Then I'll try one of the cheaper LCD units with S-video input and see if the display is still adequately readable. Of course, if the NAV head unit turns out to be VGA (640x480 60Hz) then some of my ideas will be better (easier to wire a computer to the display unit) and some will be more difficult (wiring a video source). Either way, Ill post anything I find out so you all can use at your own risk http://www.rx8club.com/newreply.php# :p

I read the thread from the beginning to the end,and I understand that for working your cable need a component installed only on Japanese car (T.V. tuner). In this way your cable work only like long nice connector. We need another component (live avelectronic or pie adapter) to add a video line in (RGB) and an audio line in (Fm modulator). Is it all right?
Thnaks
Yep you got it :)

and so far thats the only way to get A/V into the system...

Dugs..

you are close.. the DVD oem unit sends its digital audio signal to the HU where it is encoded and sent to the Amps. the Video is sent directly to the LCD but the HU can switch between the NAV unit and the JDM T.V. unit. That JDM t.v. unit has 2 extra inputs on it for the extra connecter and Camera. ... and that JDM unit would use the unused connecter on the back of the HU. The same one that the PIE unit uses. The JDM T.V. unit does not talk to the OEM DVD. It does talk to the HU. All of the switching is done via remote control. The LCD screen has a I/R receiver window on the right side of the screen. Its not used in non JDM cars. So the real issue here is to send a digital audio signal down the path that the oem DVD unit uses (yes it send left and right, remember it s a digital signal) ... if you could digitize your audio then we could get it into the HU .....

anyway.. I would not waste your time ripping it apart. You can see that I and about 3 others have done extensive research including talking to Japan. The only solution for Audio is the cd hack, The PIE unit if your lucky, The Tape hack or FM modulation.

The Video hack is easy. you just need an r,g,b, and sync signal to tap into the back of the OEM DVD unit. that will get you your video.

Thew thanks.
I buy a ntsc to rbg conveter (http://www.nav-vision.com) then I buy a pal to ntsc converter and I connect in this way.

my switch video out to pal-ntsc converter. The pal-ntsc to nav-vision converter and then this to mazda rx-8.
It's quiete expensive.
Switch (i have already)
http://www.nav-vision.com avout 299$ plus shipment
pal to ntsc converter (about 120$ from http://www.nav-vision.com)
Have you find more cheaper solution?
Here my future installation: http://www.thommino.com/Installazione_Mazda.htm

I'm working with a guy in Japan, whos checking out the specs on the JDM T.V. unit and backup cam. :cool:

I'm more interested in the backup camera feature, than the tV, but if I can pickup U.S. broadcasts, that's just icing on the cake. :rolleyes:

He's supposed to be getting me prices and part numbers as well as functionality info. I'll post what I find out when I find out. :rolleyes:

In the worst case, with a JDM TV unit, and the matching factory backup camera, I'd get a working backup cam. If the TV unit is not, or cannot recieve U.S. Broadcasts, or is not NTSC capable, a simple NTSC to PAL converter and Voila' Auxillliary Audio/Video at the head unit. :D

I'll wait untill I have all the necessary info, before I get everyone's hopes up.

I'm sure this is not the cheapest solution, but It uses all factory parts, and doesn't require hacking up the wiring harness. (nothing harder to troubleshoot than bad connections or intermittent wiring problems). :eek:

InuYasha...I'm looking forward to your JDM tv unit arrival as I am very curious how it works with our US HU and Nav unit, etc. keep us updated for sure

as for THomino there is a cheaper option...it is Blaunkput controller...I'll find the link for you...it provides the rgbs switch but no tv tuner...it interfaces with the Blaunkput ME3 which has a tv tuner in it and you can get it in PAL

lots cheaper than the NAv-vision plus all that other stuff

Working on that as well.. but the U.S. cars dont have the wireing harness to make the JDM t.v. unit work.. And so far my 3 contacts in Japan cannot get the JDM t.v tuner..

SO you ever feel like your repeating yourself...




I'm working with a guy in Japan, whos checking out the specs on the JDM T.V. unit and backup cam. :cool:

I'm more interested in the backup camera feature, than the tV, but if I can pickup U.S. broadcasts, that's just icing on the cake. :rolleyes:

He's supposed to be getting me prices and part numbers as well as functionality info. I'll post what I find out when I find out. :rolleyes:

In the worst case, with a JDM TV unit, and the matching factory backup camera, I'd get a working backup cam. If the TV unit is not, or cannot recieve U.S. Broadcasts, or is not NTSC capable, a simple NTSC to PAL converter and Voila' Auxillliary Audio/Video at the head unit. :D

I'll wait untill I have all the necessary info, before I get everyone's hopes up.

I'm sure this is not the cheapest solution, but It uses all factory parts, and doesn't require hacking up the wiring harness. (nothing harder to troubleshoot than bad connections or intermittent wiring problems). :eek:

OK I looked in the Wiring Diagram manual and the Service highlights and here's the scoop on the Nav Audio...

The NAV Audio is NOT digital audio as suggested below. In fact, the Nav Audio is about as simple as can be: The Left Front (ONLY!!!) Speaker signal from the Head Unit(non Bose) or Main Amp(Bose) goes INTO an audio input in the Nav Main Unit(with the DVD drive). Then an Audio Out comes out of the Nav Unit and routes to the Left Front speaker. Thats how the Nav unit "cuts off" the signal from the stereo and takes over the LF speaker, and also how it can drive the speaker when the stereo is off :p There is no fancy system for the NAV audio, it is simply in series between the stereo and the LF speaker. In addition, the Nav unit has TWO sets of audio In/Out. One for low power audio (standard) and one for High Power audio (bose). If you look at the wiring diagrams you will see that the standard and bose wire differently to the NAV unit. It is clear that the Nav unit itself is only capable of driving the LF speaker only and that the head unit has nothing to do with that.

OK, now for video... The larger connector on the Nav unit (the one with Video) has about HALF of it's pins unconnected! My guess is that these pins go to the harness on Japan cars for the Tuner and reinforces my idea that the Nav main unit has a Video-In capability. Another interesting thing is that the control buttons for the Nav unit are collected by the display unit and converted into a serial command to the Nav main unit (The head unit is not involved in this at all). The display unit connector also has a single unconnected pin named "Video Input" which may cause the Display unit to send a command to the Nav Main unit to switch which video to send to the Display Unit.


Dugs..

you are close.. the DVD oem unit sends its digital audio signal to the HU where it is encoded and sent to the Amps. the Video is sent directly to the LCD but the HU can switch between the NAV unit and the JDM T.V. unit. That JDM t.v. unit has 2 extra inputs on it for the extra connecter and Camera. ... and that JDM unit would use the unused connecter on the back of the HU. The same one that the PIE unit uses. The JDM T.V. unit does not talk to the OEM DVD. It does talk to the HU. All of the switching is done via remote control. The LCD screen has a I/R receiver window on the right side of the screen. Its not used in non JDM cars. So the real issue here is to send a digital audio signal down the path that the oem DVD unit uses (yes it send left and right, remember it s a digital signal) ... if you could digitize your audio then we could get it into the HU .....

anyway.. I would not waste your time ripping it apart. You can see that I and about 3 others have done extensive research including talking to Japan. The only solution for Audio is the cd hack, The PIE unit if your lucky, The Tape hack or FM modulation.

The Video hack is easy. you just need an r,g,b, and sync signal to tap into the back of the OEM DVD unit. that will get you your video.

You do know that I have taken the car apart about 5 times. Talked to Mazda. Installed all the Gear.. And yes gone thru the Wiring diagrams. You are very wrong about the Audio. As for the Video ..Like i said its very easy to get Video into the LCD. And yes the Left and Right channels are there. its just that the DVD unit only uses the L side.

and again.. I have talked to so many peeps in Japan and here that I want to make sure you don't give anyone the wrong idea. The HU is the Main Input controlling device for the JDM video system. there's no extra input on the Nav system.. it all goes to the HU.

anyway good luck..

I have already a switch ( 2 A/V line in RCA) with tv tuner built in. It has rca A/V output Pal (2 audio + 1 video). I need a component that create an A/V Rgb in for Mazda Rx-8 module (Rgb),and switch when my swicth is power on. Do you understand?
I find only nav-visione that make this work but it is ntcs to rgb. I need pal to rgb that make this work.

Maybe on European Mazda Rx-8 there is tv tuner in?
How can I identify it?

you will have to go from NTSC to PAL... that's the only way. unless you can find one that is Pal to RGB... But if you already have a tuner and AV switcher that is pal, then you will need a pal to NTSC converter for your car..
Let me look at me Video sources and ill get back to you. I may have a source for a NTSC to PAL/PAL to NTSC converter. Ill get back to you.

Also if you had the T.V. tuner you would know.. but it would be mounted on the Right side of the trunk behind the Lining just behind the rear wheel. If you take out your trunk lining you will see a Small Square hole in the rear fender area. that's the spot where it would be. But if you had it you would already know. :)

good luck Ill get back to ya.

ive been trying to follow this whole post.... i think what may be VERY helpful here is if. we could get a diagram/schematic of the connector of the nav unit, and the hu. Although I dont grasp this stuff as well as thew does but, My theory is that the connect that goes into the nav unit is unplugged, then plugged into the jdm tv unit to output to the screen, then an input from the jdm that plugs into the factory nav unit.

so it would look like this

nav unit ---->jdm unit ----> screen

this is my theory which is the same as splicing the wires, but it uses actual wiring harness to make it plug and play

the audio is the same

it probably has a connector that goes into the same input that one would use if they have a md player...

so its jdm unit --->inputted to hu ----> to speakers

i also suspect that in the harness that woudl connect into the factory md player, that when you hit the aux button for the jdm unit to have audio, it would trigger a relay in the jdm unit to turn the navigation off and allow the jdm unit to use the screen.

THIS IS MY OBSERVATION, I COULD BE 100% WRONG, please try not to flame me...

Almost.. :) this is how is works ....

Nav unit --- LCD screen----LCD screen ----HU .

and For JDM cars.



Nav unit --- JDM T.V ------- LCD screen ---- HU .

The JDM t.v. intercepts the OEM DVD and switches between the inputs i.e... JDM Backup camera , JDM T.V. or Map DVD.

the T.V unit does not plug into the OEM DVD"Nav unit" the Nav unit goes to the JDM t.v. box and then it goes right to the HU. Per Mazda Japan... Nothing else beside the Toll booth counter plugs into the OEM DVD Nav unit.



We all know the HU controls the LCD because of the JDM t.v. screen we get with the Pie interface. ..... the HU senses continuity somewhere in the wiring harness that comes from the Nav. so your not going to find a bunch of wires coming from the Nav to the HU with Video and Audio.. its just sensing continuity and then allowing the LCD screen to switch.



So now we have beat this horse to death. When I get my PIE back from Bob I will try one more thing before i give up....

[font=Arial][size=2]you will have to go from NTSC to PAL... that's the only way. unless you can find one that is Pal to RGB...

I cannot find it.


But if you already have a tuner and AV switcher that is pal, then you will need a pal to NTSC converter for your car..

Yes my switch has tv-tuner built in and it's pal/ntsc automatic converter:if I punt in line-in a pal signal it put out pal signal,if I send ntsc signal it put out ntsc signal (I think that it works in this way)


Let me look at me Video sources and ill get back to you. I may have a source for a NTSC to PAL/PAL to NTSC converter. Ill get back to you.

Is it simple to use? How much for them? Can I use with nav-vision controller?


Also if you had the T.V. tuner you would know.. but it would be mounted on the Right side of the trunk behind the Lining just behind the rear wheel. If you take out your trunk lining you will see a Small Square hole in the rear fender area. that's the spot where it would be. But if you had it you would already know. :)




Ok :-( But change also Nav System software?

Working on that as well.. but the U.S. cars dont have the wireing harness to make the JDM t.v. unit work.. And so far my 3 contacts in Japan cannot get the JDM t.v tuner..

SO you ever feel like your repeating yourself...


Thew, I feel your pain man, however, As the Master says "Think of your gas tank as half full, rather than half empty" :cool:

On that note, I remain optimistic.

It used to be that a car was more mechanical that electrical :o . So, in the tradition of the real auto enthusiasts of olden days, while waiting for this whole issue of in-car television to resolve itself;

I think I'll get some grease under my finger nails and bust a knucke or two installing my new Mazdaspeed flywheel. :D

I want one of those.. how much did it cost.. and please let me know how it drives after.. also I want to know about your MPG & off the line stats..

I have wanted that since day one.. I owned a car with one and it also had Metallic clutch disks.. 3 of them!\
It was a bear to slip the clutch.. but it was great form 2 gear on :) Talk about chirping 2nd gear :) ..

And yes.. I know we will get this worked out with the Video .. it will take time..

My glass is half full :)

At the risk of sounding incredibly stupid. but sometimes the small things can get overlooked (being a programmer I have been guilty of it many times).
That RCA connection looked very promising, and I don't recall seeing this mentioned at all in the past posts (I ran a search for Serial and only found it in 1 thread). But would that Secret Serial I/O menu (u,u,u,d,d,d,u,d) in the nav be of any use? I noticed an Enable all option. I thought this might enable that port that was a dead end.
Again I apologize if it has been covered or is way off base.

Photic...no no not stupid...you picked up on something that could be very important...we will all look into it (especially thew :)

At the risk of sounding incredibly stupid. but sometimes the small things can get overlooked (being a programmer I have been guilty of it many times).

That RCA connection looked very promising, and I don't recall seeing this mentioned at all in the past posts (I ran a search for Serial and only found it in 1 thread). But would that Secret Serial I/O menu (u,u,u,d,d,d,u,d) in the nav be of any use? I noticed an Enable all option. I thought this might enable that port that was a dead end.

Again I apologize if it has been covered or is way off base. Well,, you may have something here.. I just got out of my 8 and checked this out.. it does have a software switch to turn on the I/O serial connecter.. I will reinstall my pie tomorrow and see.. My serial port was turned off according to the screen.. so maybe its on in Bobs 8 ?

Hey Bob go to the Nav screen and try this.. get into the version screen .. hit the Joystick

up 3 times and the down 3 times then up once and down once. you will get a screen with 3 options choose the bottom one that says Serial I/O tell me if it says yours is enabled or disabled. If it is enabled all the entry's will say Disable k and so on.. if its Disabled like mine it will say Enable serial bla bla ....

Maybe yours is on.... WE hope.....

I am still trying mine again tomorrow..

I want one of those.. how much did it cost.. and please let me know how it drives after.. also I want to know about your MPG & off the line stats..

I have wanted that since day one.. I owned a car with one and it also had Metallic clutch disks.. 3 of them!\
It was a bear to slip the clutch.. but it was great form 2 gear on :) Talk about chirping 2nd gear :) ..

And yes.. I know we will get this worked out with the Video .. it will take time..

My glass is half full :)

Yeah, I had an RX-7 with a competition clutch in it, man it was tight, it always chirped between first and second. The transmission tore up after about 100,000 miles.

As for the new flywheel, I was thinking about installing it myself, but since my time is at a premium these days, I may just take it to the dealer.

Anyway

Qty Description Unit Amount
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 (RX08MS1011) Mazdaspeed Lightweight $522.00 $522.00
Flywheel

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subtotal: $522.00
Total: $522.00

Hey Bob go to the Nav screen and try this.. get into the version screen .. hit the Joystick ...

Maybe yours is on.... WE hope.....


Nope mine was off, but I just remembered something else last night.
Mu build date is 06/04 but the dealer (actually the stereo shop subcontractor) fried the stereo when I was having the Nav worked on and had to replace the whole thing, so my HU is newer than the rest of my car.

AHHH>>>>> said Grasshopper.. I wounder if thats the rub.

As more people report their build date, we may see a pattern emerge.

That's a hint, folks -- please report your build date (on the front pillar of the left rear door) as well as whether or not your PIE unit works. Thanks.

Hi, guys!

I'm following this video-input-stuff for quite some time now. I don't actually have an 8, but the 6, but as far as I know, both audio and navigationsystem are pretty much the same.

So I could offer the mazda6 service-manual, which shows most of the connectors that are of interest here.... If you are interested - I just need some webspace, since the chapter is approximately 12mb large (pdf).

As for the panasonic navigation systems I've read about, somewhere in this thread.

DV-2300 and DV-2000, i think...

First of all, these two systems have one big difference, since the DV-2000 is definitely capable of playing DVD-movies and VCD, and the DV-2300 is not. I far as I know, the DV-2300 is the system, our navigation module is based on. So if it's of any use, the installation manual of both units can be downloaded from the official panasonic website. I've downloaded it several months ago and as far as I remember, the connectors on the back of these units could be seen there.

In Germany we don't have a tv-option either, so we would also need any additional solution to the connector, thew has ordered.

But just for info:
This particular connector has 8 pins, which are supposed to be plugged into the oem tv-module, available in Japan, is that correct?
If so... thew were you able to figure out, which pin does what? I mean there are probably two pins for each audio channel and two pins for the video signal. What are the other two pins good for?

'though I doubt it, we could check out, if there's another connector in the european 6, which is missing in your 8....

I'm really looking forward to any kind of solution to this!

We really need something beside the avelectronics-stuff, for it's not available over here in Europe....

I'm using the Nav-Vision converter. I think they will ship to Europe, but a PAL unit is expensive, according to Thommino in Italy.

This still requires cutting and soldering some wires. The "how-to" is on my website (see sig).
If someone could locate a source for the connectors on the rear of the nav unit we could make up a plug-and-play kit.

If someone could locate a source for the connectors on the rear of the nav unit we could make up a plug-and-play kit.

That is what I have been desperately looking for...I don't want to void the warranty...yet :)

Hey guys what about this device...
http://www.kramerelectronics.com/portu/desc.asp?p=FC-12E

I believe SCART is RGBS...who would of thunk it? (who knows if it works either) you think this would allow me to hookup an XBOX component (NOT composite) video out if I figure out what wires do what on the SCART?

oh also if you notice there is a pass through button on this device...hmm you think there would be a scart to nav or nav to scart plug?

I'm just brainstorming here (oh the switch could be hooked up remotely to switch between Nav and Component in...here is the pic from their site:

http://www.kramerelectronics.com/images/FC-12E.gif

Oh this think handles an audio switch too...but that is just because it is part of the SCART plug system (popular outside the US)

OH WAIT...add these to the list to look over as well:
http://www.kramerelectronics.com/indexes/desc.asp?p=FC-4041C
http://www.kramerelectronics.com/indexes/pic.asp?p=FC-4042
One of them handles RGBs to YUV (component) and YUV to RGBs transcoding!

HMMMMMMMM...is this a much higher quality video conversion system? search their website...maybe we can find a high quality VGA to RGBs as well

I am still looking into this. I have a few sources but there not responding atm .

Hi Guys, I have been lurking and keeping an eye on this post as am interested in doing the same. I have come across this which may help.
Link (http://www.highway.net.au/parts/converters/2020.html)
its 12v and converts composite video to RGBS both PAL and NSTC.
I havent got one but am thinking about taking the gamble and going for it.

That looks very good. It does what the Nav-Vision unit does, but with NTSC/PAL capability! And it costs less too.
Now, you will also need a switching relay or some such to switch between nav and aux video, but that shouldn't add much cost to the project.
Put the converter and the relay in a plastic project box and you'd be ready to go.

Yes this product is good but you must add on a switch.
Too complicated

not too complicated to add a switch..you will want to anyway...besides check out the Blankput (spelling) ME3 it provides DVD/MP3 and TV tuner PLUS best part is it has an internal switch to take an outside video source (such as xbox) and an override outside video source (backup cam) and it only costs around $125!

I'll find the link for you

Thommino, if you know anyone who is knowledgeable about electronics at all, they can do the soldering. It's not difficult, but it's not a job for a beginner. It's a very basic switching circuit. And yes, the Blaupunkt DVD-ME3 is a good source for your TV and DVD (and back-up camera too) and it is NTSC/PAL capable.

I hope you know someone who can help you with this. I know you have been looking for this for a long time now. Hey, a lot of us here who have done the mod would be glad to do it for you if you got us a plane ticket to Italy! :D

alright...lets put together a plan to find a plug for the Nav unit...if we do...no voided warranty and LOTS of customers

Precisely!!!

Making the adapters to go with the Nav-Vision units would be a piece of cake if we can find the correct connectors to mate with the nav unit. The 24-pin connector is critical; the 16-pin connector would make it REALLY nice since that's a good place to pick up power and ground (and the parking brake switch).

We could also make them up using the Highway Entertainment converter from Australia, but we'd have to add in a switching relay -- a bit more work, but that would make a plug and play unit that would work world-wide!

So the big question is: "Does anyone know where we can get these connectors?"

hmm...I never thought about looking at the adapters very closely...see if it is part of the molded plastic or even stamped on it

anyone have their nav unit out to look at it?...I should really contact panasonic and stay on the phone till I get some answers (see you next week guys)

that will make a bunch of the PAL guys happy. Good find.



Hi Guys, I have been lurking and keeping an eye on this post as am interested in doing the same. I have come across this which may help.
Link (http://www.highway.net.au/parts/converters/2020.html)
its 12v and converts composite video to RGBS both PAL and NSTC.
I havent got one but am thinking about taking the gamble and going for it.

Hi Guys, I have been lurking and keeping an eye on this post as am interested in doing the same. I have come across this which may help.
Link (http://www.highway.net.au/parts/converters/2020.html)
its 12v and converts composite video to RGBS both PAL and NSTC.
I havent got one but am thinking about taking the gamble and going for it.

that is a nice find...I will look into it...but just to clarify...I am looking for a Component Video in (3 rcas Y Pr Pb) not Composite Video in (one yellow rca connector)

holy shit wsbtaylor that site is a goldmine

http://www.highway.net.au/parts/converters/2012.html
YUV to RGB Converter

I've got to find out more about the SCART specs

oh here it is: http://www.hut.fi/Misc/Electronics/faq/vga2rgb/scart.html

component video to RGBs is that really possible?

ok ignore my other posts...yuv I believe is different then Y,Pb,Pr but check this out:

serious HDTV to RGBs conversion...it is probabbly REALLY expensive but it means it is possible...so lets find or make a cheap one!
http://www.extron.com/product/product.asp?id=cvc200

plus here is the manual and this thing is EXACTLY what we want...NTSC/PAL HDTV 480i/p 720i/p 1080i inputing...RGBs outputing
http://www.extron.com/download/files/userman/CVC_200.pdf

here is a closeup from their website...lets figure this out people

http://www.extron.com/product/img-lg/cvc200-lg.jpg

also what about this one: http://www.digitalconnection.com/Products/Video/9a65.asp
it is MUCH cheaper and seems like it could do the job...it also comes with a 15pin to bnc cable setup

Oh and don't forget this vga to rgbs that could be used for our computer setups

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/images/largeimages/159641.jpg
from http://www.bhphotovideo.com/bnh/controller/home?O=productlist&A=details&Q=&sku=159641&is=REG

Just wondering if there's need for a switch at all, regarding the thread about the PIE-adapter... As far as I know, using the 16-pin connector, the screen only switches to TV-Mode when there's an input signal, whether it's audio or video, right? In this case, it overrides the NAV-signal anyways... An when you turn of, it switches back to NAV. I'm not sure about that, but it's what I guess...

how about the 'RBG cord' an accesory or an accesory replacemnet for the nav system:

http://www.panasonic.co.uk/ashop/product.asp?i=CNDV2300N

could this be the beginings of a plug and play solution for getting video in?

i dont seem to get it ? True what am i missing here ?

bobclevenger, what do you need to make this basic switching circuit/relay you speak of ? I would like something that is just a manual switch, so I can listen to DVDs while my Nav screen is on.

I used www.converters.tv component.
Look http://www.rx8tribe.com/modules.php?name=Forums&file=viewtopic&t=84

Just wondering.... Did anyone ever try to use the 16-pin connector on the back of the headunit as a video-input? Afak older firmware versions use to switch the screen to "tv mode" when the pie-connector is activated by pressing cd-button twice...

bobclevenger, what do you need to make this basic switching circuit/relay you speak of ? I would like something that is just a manual switch, so I can listen to DVDs while my Nav screen is on.It's just a 4-pole 12 volt relay that switches the R,G,B, and Sync lines from the screen to either the nav system (in the relaxed position) or to the video converter (in the energized position). The Nav-Vision converter has one built-in if you get the kit rather than the bare board. Just use your manual switch to apply 12 volts to the relay coil, or apply 12 volts to the coil from the ACC line and switch the ground side of the relay coil with the parking brake switch -- that's what I did.

Thanks bobclevenger. I am waiting for the bare board right now. It was only $90 off ebay. I figure I can wire it myself. 12 volt relay should be pretty simple. Thanks !