Thread: M-Bus CD changer adapter for car pc integration

What is it ?
MBus USB adapter allows PC to "understand" commands sent by device which supports MBus protocol such as Alpine headunit, PIE adapters, iCruze Linx and many others.
Why ?
In many cases PC can replace CD Changer with many more functions. Like playing MP3, OGG, video or even voice guided GPS on a long road. Why bother with very limited CD Changer if you can afford PC for almost the same price ? Get more for less !
It will not require changing your car's dashboard, expensive molding or even touchscreen. You can place PC anywhere you want and "talk" to it from the very ergonomic headunit keybord.
Can I see the demo ?
Here is the short movie clip with MBus adapter in action: MBus in action ( 3Mb / 85 secs )
Can WinAmp or any other frontend use it ?
Here is the source for the WinAmp plugin used in the demo movie above.
Make sure you have placed text file with all your playlists into "c:\program files\winamp\plugins\hump3.cfg". The example config file is here.
Each playlist in the list become a virtual disk when you change disks on HU.
Which car makes it supports ?
So far preliminary we know it supports:
- Mercedes Benz 1994...98
- Jaguar ( ?? years )
- Chryslers/Jeeps 96-02
- Volvo HU models SCxxxx
- all others via PIE or iCruze Linx adapters...
Which HU it supports ?
All MBus Alpine headunits such as: TDM-xxx, CDM-xxx
How ?
3 steps only:
1. Place laptop PC or car PC enywhere in a car. Secure and power it.
2. Attach the MBus adapter to your headunit directly or via adapters (PIE, iCruze Link ) and PC.
3. Run the PC and get the sound from it on your speakers instantly !
What else ?
There are unlimited capabilities with your pc and MBus USB adapter. Just name a few:
1. Set your disk buttons on HU to represent playlists. Get unlimited number of playlists and songs !
2. Set button for disk 6 to switch to a video mode. Get your car video !
3. Set button for disk 5 to switch over to a voice guidance if your PC has a microphone and appropriate navigation software. Get guided right now !
4. Set button for disk 4 to switch to XM radio and navigate through it by selecting tracks. Get radio digitalized !
How it is look like ?
Here is the pic of adapter:

Here is the pic of adapter in action:


How to get it ?
MBus adapter is available to anyone as sample with all schematics and source code.
Also I have mostly working PBus adapter which has the same size and I have all source code available for it.
Send me PM if you need it.
The new version of it is available for sale at http://indashpc.org/new/adapters/usbmbus.html

My best regards.