Car stereos

Car stereos are used for listening to the radio and playing music from various digital media. They perform informational and entertainment functions. In many modern vehicles, they provide a single interface for various components of the multimedia system.

Design and operating principle

The main components of a car stereo are the following:

• Radio. Using an antenna, it receives electromagnetic waves broadcasted by a radio station and converts them to electrical signals. In turn, they are processed by the amplifier and sent to the speakers.
• Digital audio and/or video player. It consists of a processor and a microchip that reads information from compressed files and converts it into analogue pulses that are sent to audio speakers or an LCD. CDs or memory sticks can be used as storage devices. In the first case, the system needs to have a disc drive and laser heads for reading the data. In the second case, connectors and slots for connecting storage media are required.

Types of car stereos

By type of the amplifier:

• With an integrated one. These are inexpensive but less powerful.
• With a standalone one. These are expensive and require additional space for installation. However, they provide better sound quality. They allow connecting a subwoofer.

By size:

• 1-DIN. 180 mm wide, 50 mm high.
• 2-DIN. 180 mm wide, 100 mm high.

By additional functions:

• GPS navigation system. It contains iGO, Garmin, Sygic, or other maps for plotting routes. It informs the driver about traffic jams and provides other road alerts.
• Internet. Built-in Wi-Fi and 4G support keep you connected on the go.
• HD video provides the possibility to watch high-definition video.
• Rear-view camera connection improves the visibility and blind spot control.
• DAB/DAB+. A technology for transmitting a digital signal using electromagnetic waves in the radio frequency range. Ensures optimum sound quality and noise immunity. Allows displaying visual information.
• Bluetooth synchronizes the device with mobile gadgets and makes it possible to communicate in hands free mode.
• Possibility to control the car audio using buttons on the steering wheel.

By type of removable storage media:

• With a CD / DVD drive. These play audio and video files from CDs. Now they are less and less popular.
• With a USB port. These allow connecting memory sticks, hard drives, phones, and other storage media.
• With MicroSD / MicroSDHC, SD / SDHC, and other slots. For reading data from these types of cards.

Tips on using a car stereo

• When installing the device, make sure that the ventilation holes are not blocked.
• Entrust repair of the device to specialists at a service station. This work is considered dangerous as many of the product's components carry high voltages.
• To avoid short-circuiting and damage to your car stereo, prevent moisture from getting inside its casing.

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