FM modulators
If your factory or aftermarket receiver doesn’t have changer controls, an
auxiliary input, or an available adapter, you can listen to your iPod via an
FM modulator (sometimes called an RF, or radio frequency, modulator). A
wireless FM modulator transmits the iPod's playback to your receiver over
a standard FM frequency which you can tune on your receiver. A wired FM
modulator offers slightly better performance, since it plugs into the antenna
input of the receiver.
Wired FM modulators
To install a wired FM modulator, first find a good mounting location. Keep in
mind that you will need to access your factory radio through its antenna
input; and you'll need to connect the iPod to the modulator. Common loca-
tions include under a seat, behind an interior panel, and in the cavity behind
the receiver.
FM modulators require a 12-volt connection to a switched (on/off) source.
Since you have to remove your radio to get to the antenna input, you’ll have
easy access to the power and ground wires in your factory radio harness.
If you don’t want to splice into your factory wires, you can make the power
connections at your fuse panel. Look for empty fuse holders and insert fuse
taps. You’ll also have a black ground wire that must be secured beneath a
nearby screw that makes contact with bare metal on the body of the vehicle.
Following the instructions on your Crutchfield MasterSheet™ (available
for most vehicles) or our In-Dash Receiver Installation Guide, remove your
receiver from the dash and unplug the antenna from the rear of the unit.
Plug the vehicle’s antenna cable into the antenna input on the FM modulator.
Next, run the output of the modulator to your receiver’s antenna input
(certain vehicles require antenna adapters — use the online Vehicle
Selector at crutchfield.com or call a Sales Advisor to inquire about your
specific vehicle). Tie up any slack in the cable so it won’t interfere with safe
vehicle operation.
Most wired FM modulators accept RCA inputs, so you’ll need a mini-jack-to-
RCA cable to connect your iPod. Once you have connected the iPod,
determine which of the available modulation frequencies is least likely to be
shared by a strong local radio signal and set it on the hideaway box before
you mount the unit (on some models you can change this setting on the fly).
000IPODIG
®
Copyright 2005 Crutchfield Corporation
5
You can tap power and ground for a wired FM
modulator from the car radio wiring harness.
A wired FM modulator connects between the
vehicle antenna and your radio.
Use a mini-jack-to-RCA cable to connect
your iPod to the FM modulator.
FM Modulators: Wired
Always be careful when
drilling or cutting in a
vehicle. Be aware of
things such as wiring,
windows, fuel lines and
safety devices. Check
drilling/cutting depth
and location to avoid
damage to vehicle
appearance.
CAUTION:
!
