Audio amplifier: Headunit

In principle, the structure of the headunit corresponds to that of a personal computer. Like a personal computer, the headunit contains the following components:

• Processor
• Working memory
• Hard disk
• Fan

The hard disk in the headunit is used to store the application software and other data.

The following applications are installed on the hard disk:

• Music library

  The music collection is based on the audio data stored on the integrated hard disk.

• Music track database

  Software for track search with the help of a database for music tracks (Gracenote®).

• Navigation system (map data) and software (application software)

  Full screen display possible: Zoomable assistance window with map view, journey planner, map data storage on the hard disk.

• Voice processing system
• Contacts (database of addresses)

  The data is used for telephone and navigation, for example.

The headunit is the central control unit for the listed applications. For the purposes of picture signal transmission, the headunit is linked to the Central Information Display (CID). The headunit is also connected to the controller (CON). The controller (CON) is the control panel of the central information display (CID).

The following graphic shows the headunit with central information display (CID) on F01.

Fig 1: Identifying Headunit Central Information Display Components

Courtesy of BMW OF NORTH AMERICA, INC.