R56 Please explain the iPod connections

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Jun 27, 2008 | 10:50 PM

MiniMedic

Thread Starter

2nd Gear

Joined: Aug 2007

Posts: 121

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From: Albuquerque, NM

Please explain the iPod connections

i'm so confused on the difference between the ways to hook up an ipod. i decided to pass on the bluetooth/ipod package. while on a test drive i found the made by mini ipod usb/aux cable that plugs into the inputs hiding below the center stack. why does the cable use both inputs? why can't i just use my regular ipod usb cable? i was going to pocket the cable but didn't and now that i know it's a $300 item i wish i had!

Jun 27, 2008 | 11:55 PM

reyd1

4th Gear

Joined: May 2008

Posts: 424

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From: Winter Garden, FL

I'm not sure why it uses both inputs in the center stack. The only thing that I can think this is why is mayb it uses the aux connector for audio? I do know that the $300 Ipod kit will hide it in your hidden compartment.

Jun 30, 2008 | 11:24 PM

nicknbecka

6th Gear

Joined: May 2007

Posts: 1,304

Likes: 0

From: Stanwood, WA

I posted this in another thread a few days ago:

Quote:

1. Standard with all Minis: 3.5mm stereo AUX input at the bottom of the center stack

2. USB / Bluetooth Preparation: USB next to the AUX INPUT at the bottom of the center stack. Bluetooth preparation includes the capability to connect a compatible cell phone through an armrest snap-in that is sold separately. Factory installed option only.

Earlier in the year, this option did not include the USB/AUX Y cable as part of the package, but some dealers were including it at their cost. Lately, I've been seeing a lot less complaints on it. It's possible this is a situation similar to the tire jack/tool kit that now comes with the car, but didn't when initially released.

The configurator says "with USB/iPod adapter" in the convenience package description, but specifically lists that the cable is included in the individual option description. (Interesting side note: the picture here does show the iPod in the secret compartment, which is incorrect

. Sorry Jeru99... looks like someones got things mixed up)

3. iPod Integration: A dealer (or perhaps on new orders, VDC?) installed iPod connector in the secrect compartment.

The iPod cable that comes with the MINI uses the USB for data transmission and control (track info, pause, etc...) and the AUX input for audio. DRM keeps the MINI from being able to read the audio files directly from the iPod, at least in the way most people use them. You can store music on the iPod as standard MP3 as a generic storage device and the MINI can read them fine. However, you're essentially using it as a USB drive at that point.

EDIT: Also, the MINI is able to communicate with an iPod using it's serial connection- the USB/AUX combo plug included with the MINI is actually a USB->Serial converter.