Traffic Message Channel (TMC)

NOTE: TMC is not available in all markets.

The TMC is a specific application of the FM (frequency modulation) Radio Data System (RDS) used for broadcasting real-time traffic and weather information. Data messages are received and decoded by the IAM. The IAM processes the received information and alerts the driver and offers alternative route guidance to avoid the incident.

Each traffic incident is sent as a TMC message. One message consists of an event code and a location code in addition to time details. The message is coded and can be translated by the IAM into the market language. Location code tables assign numbers to locations on the road network. Those location tables are integrated in the maps stored on the IAM hard disk drive. The source of traffic information is typically police, traffic cameras and local network stations.

The TMC system uses the existing FM antenna located in the rear spoiler and the audio system antenna amplifiers to pass the signals to the IAM.