Has anybody installed this Module?
http://mcaw.pcmx.net/?page_id=3

 

Just ordered one. I will post my results. Looks like the auto up circuit that came out a while back.

 

When you install, would you snap couple picture? I wonder if it is a paint reach from behind to hook it up.
Thanks.

 

Note that Ian has posted a comparison/review.

--dwf

 

I installed mine tonight, took about 35 minutes. The hardest part was figuring out what to do to get the latch free, There was no picture for that step so I had to feel my way around to get it unlatched in order to free the harness. After that it was a breeze and programming took about 10 seconds.

 

Thanks for the feedback. My apologies for the missing images in our installation guide. I am filling those in this week.

Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions as you get aquainted with your new circuit.

Thanks-
Randy

 

Thanks to Ian for taking the time to review the product. Although I personally would have appreciated some communication back and forth to discuss the issues he noted before his review went live, I think the review as a whole is fair and it will only help us improve the MCAW for our customers.

Sincerely-
Randy

 

I'm very interested in this product... How long should an guy with average skills and the right tools take to install this circuit? Any risk of damage to the dash taking it apart?

 

You actually don't need to take the dash apart. You remove only the small trim piece at the bottom center of the dash between the downtubes. From this opening (with the trim removed) you reach up and disconnect the wire harness on the back of the switch panel. You then pull the harness down through the opening and connect the MCAW to the wire harness and then reach back up and connect the MCAW circuit to where the harness was presviously connected to the back of the switch panel. Viola! the physical installation is complete.... a few minutes programming and you're done!

One torx T20 screwdriver, patience, and 15-30 minutes for the average installation. Visit the download page of our website for downloadable installation and programming instructions that you can review prior to purchase.

Thanks-
Randy

 

I recieved my MCAW lastnight. I installed it today, took me about 25 mins. for the installation. I couldn't figure out how to release the connector from control module.
Hint: On top of the connector theres a small little tab. If you push it in the locking tab will swing out easier.
Other then that it was a breeze to install and program. Wish i purchased this sooner.

 

Thank you for your feedback. We're glad the install went well. I've made note about your experience with the locking tab and plan to modify our documentation to be more clear in this regard.

If you have any questions or issues, please feel free to contact us.

Thanks-
Randy

 

I forgot to mention, It's easier to plug the wire harness onto the MCAW unit before installing it to the control module. You have to use a little bit of force to push the wire connecter onto the MCAW. What i used was a rag place behind the pins and i pressed the connector in, but make sure its straight before you press.

 

Well I had a question about this. I just got the circuit and was curious how come there isn't a coating on it... Ie, shouldn't there be some sort of protection against moisture and such since it will be in a car? If nothing else the evil dust bunnies. Is there a spray I should get for these or did I get a defunked module?

Curious about this.

 

No you did not receive a defunked circuit. We feel very confident that your circuit will likely outlast the life of your MINI.

Most of the electronics that can be found in most automobile interiors are not coated. When installed the circuit is attached to the back of the switch panel and not confined or confined in an enclosure. The most common issue we've seen with moisture, humidity, and corrosion issues related to interior automotive electronics is being in an enclosure that allowed moisture in and trapped it inside. Over time corrision set in and eventually built up to the point where it fouled the electronics.

The spray in this circuit application is really not necessary and therefore we chose to forego the application with the intent of keeping the product as affordable as possible.

I hope this helps-
Sincerely-
Randy Kuite

 

If someone's really worried about the pcb traces corroding they could always go buy a can of conformal coating and spray it themselves. Radio Shack probably even has it. I know they have the circuit protector pens from Caig. I've heard from some electrical engineers that a thin layer of oxidation on the traces actually acts as a protective layer against further corrosion.

 

actually no go on radio shack I checked with them yesterday O_o

 

Check out http://www.mgchemicals.com/

 

Might just have to go find some

 

Or, the cheap and simple route is to just use regular clear lacquer.

 

My review assumed that I was receiving the same product as anyone else buying it.

 

I thought it was a fair review and was impressed by Ian's ability to be unbiased. I'd buy one if I had my MINI.

 

I guess I wasn't looking at it that way. I appreciate you taking a look. We've certainly taken your feedback as a opportunity to improve the product.

Thanks-
Randy

 

Just in case anyone is interested in the "original" MINI circuit ...

 

Sweet! Now I'll not only be informed, but probably able to choose when the time in Jan for me to order comes.

 

Happy New Year!

We're happy to announce today that the new MCAW Deluxe Circuit that supports 5 simultaneous functions (Auto-up Windows, DSC Auto-off, Garage Door Opener Output and 2 Generic Auxiliary Outputs) is now available for order from our site. The cost is less than previously expected... starting at only $49.00

Existing MCAW owners can also purchase an upgrade kit to upgrade any existing MCAW Circuit to the new Deluxe version for only $7.00 plus shipping.

Both products can ordered from our site. Stayed tuned for one more additional product announcement and other exciting news in January and February.

Thanks-
Randy