1. Introduction
The Limcet Wireless CarPlay & Android Auto Box is designed to upgrade your BMW's infotainment system, providing wireless access to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionalities. This manual will guide you through the installation, operation, and maintenance of your new device.
2. Key Features
- Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto: Enjoy smartphone integration without cables.
- Plug and Play Operation: Simple setup for daily use after initial installation.
- Voice Control: Utilize Siri or Google Assistant for hands-free operation.
- Multimedia Playback: Access music, navigation, messaging, and other apps.
- Split-screen Operation: Use multiple apps simultaneously on your car's display.
- Screen Mirroring: Display your phone's screen directly on the car's display.
- Retains Original Car Functions: Seamlessly switch between the CarPlay interface and your car's original system.
- Supports Original Controls: Compatible with OEM steering wheel controls and original car button controls.
- Backup Camera Support: Integrates with original factory backup cameras and supports retrofit cameras.
3. Compatibility
This Limcet CarPlay Box is compatible with various BMW models equipped with CCC, CIC, NBT, or EVO head units. Please verify your car's head unit type and production year for accurate compatibility.
3.1 Compatible BMW Models by Head Unit Type
BMW CCC
- 2005-2008 BMW 3 Series
- 2005-2008 BMW 5 Series
- 2005-2008 BMW X5
- 2005-2008 BMW X6
BMW CIC
- 2009-2012 BMW 3 Series
- 2010-2013 BMW 6 Series
- 2009-2015 BMW X1
- 2011-2013 BMW X4
- 2011-2014 BMW X6
- 2011-2012 BMW 5 Series
- 2009-2012 BMW 7 Series
- 2011-2013 BMW X3
- 2011-2013 BMW X5
- 2009-2014 BMW Z4
BMW NBT
- 2011-2017 BMW 1 Series
- 2013-2016 BMW 3 Series
- 2013-2016 BMW 5 Series
- 2013-2015 BMW 7 Series
- 2014-2016 BMW X3
- 2014-2016 BMW X5
- 2014-2017 BMW i3
- 2013-2016 BMW 2 Series
- 2013-2016 BMW 4 Series
- 2013-2016 BMW 6 Series
- 2016-2017 BMW X1
- 2014-2016 BMW X4
- 2014-2016 BMW X6
- 2014-2018 BMW i8
BMW EVO
- 2018-2022 BMW 1 Series
- 2018-2019 BMW 3 Series
- 2018-2019 BMW 5 Series
- 2016-2018 BMW 7 Series
- 2020-2023 BMW X2
- 2016-2019 BMW X4
- 2017-2019 BMW X6
- 2018-2019 BMW 2 Series
- 2018-2019 BMW 4 Series
- 2018-2019 BMW 6 Series
- 2019-2020 BMW X1
- 2018-2019 BMW X3
- 2017-2019 BMW X5
- 2017-2022 BMW i3
- 2018-2021 BMW i8
4. Package Contents
The standard package includes the following items. Specific cables may vary slightly based on your BMW model and head unit type.
- 1 x Limcet CarPlay Box
- 1 x User Manual
- 1 x Power Cable
- 1 x LVDS Cable
- 1 x Wi-Fi Antenna
- 1 x Microphone Cable (if applicable)
- Other necessary connection cables based on your specific car model.
5. Installation Guide
Installation involves connecting the CarPlay box to your car's head unit. Professional installation is recommended if you are not familiar with car electronics. Ensure the vehicle is turned off and the battery is disconnected before starting installation.
5.1 Wiring Diagram Overview
Refer to the diagram above for the connection points. The main components are:
- Power Cable
- USB Port
- Wi-Fi Antenna
- ACC (Accessory Power)
- Microphone input
- 360 Degree Camera input
- Microphone Output
- AUX audio Input
- LVDS Output
- LVDS Input
Microphone Connection:
- If your original vehicle has a microphone, connect the input and output of our microphone cable as shown in the diagram.
- If your original vehicle has no microphone, install an additional microphone and connect it to our microphone interface as shown in the diagram.
5.2 Step-by-Step Installation (General)
- Carefully remove your car's head unit and access the wiring harness.
- Connect the provided Power Cable (1) to the corresponding power source in your vehicle's wiring.
- Connect the LVDS Input (10) from your car's original system to the CarPlay box, and then connect the LVDS Output (9) from the CarPlay box back to your car's display.
- Connect the USB Port (2) for future updates or USB media playback.
- Attach the Wi-Fi Antenna (3) to the CarPlay box.
- Connect the ACC (4) wire to an accessory power source.
- Connect the Microphone input (5) and Microphone Output (7) as per your vehicle's microphone configuration (refer to Figure 5.1).
- Connect the AUX audio Input (8) to your car's AUX input if required for audio routing.
- If installing a 360-degree camera, connect it to the 360 Degree Camera input (6).
- Secure all connections and carefully reassemble your car's head unit.
6. Operating Instructions
6.1 Initial Setup and Connection
- After installation, turn on your vehicle. The CarPlay box will boot up.
- On your iPhone, go to Bluetooth settings and pair with the "Limcet-Box" device.
- Once paired, Apple CarPlay or Android Auto will automatically launch on your car's display.
- For subsequent uses, the system will automatically connect when you start your car.
6.2 Using CarPlay / Android Auto
- Navigation: Use Apple Maps, Google Maps, Waze, or other supported navigation apps.
Figure 6.1: Navigation App Integration - Voice Control (Siri/Google Assistant): Press the voice command button on your steering wheel or say "Hey Siri" / "Hey Google" to activate. You can use voice commands for:
- Playing music
- Getting directions (e.g., "Navigate to the airport")
- Checking weather (e.g., "How's the weather today")
- Making calls (e.g., "Call Jack")
Figure 6.2: Voice Control Functionality - Music & Media: Access various music streaming apps like Apple Music, Tidal, Spotify, YouTube Music, and Amazon Music.
Figure 6.3: Supported Music Applications - USB Media Playback: Plug a USB drive into the USB port (2) on the CarPlay box to play supported media formats (mp4/avi/mkv/rmvb/720p).
Figure 6.4: USB Media Playback - Screen Mirroring: Mirror your smartphone's screen to the car display for apps like YouTube.
Figure 6.5: Screen Mirroring Function - Split-screen Operation: Utilize the split-screen feature to view navigation and another app simultaneously.
- Original Car Controls: The system retains compatibility with your BMW's OEM steering wheel controls and original car button controls.
Figure 6.6: Original Car Control Integration - Backup Camera: The system automatically switches to the backup camera view when reverse gear is engaged, supporting both original factory and retrofit cameras.
Figure 6.7: Backup Camera Display
6.3 Switching Between Systems
You can easily switch between the CarPlay/Android Auto interface and your car's original BMW system with a simple tap or by using a designated button (refer to your car's specific controls). This ensures that all original vehicle functions remain accessible.
7. Product Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Main Chip Type | T113-S4 |
| Inner Core | Cortex™-A7 CPU |
| Main Frequency | Dual core 1.2G |
| Operating System | Linux5.4 |
| ROM | 256Mb NAND flash |
| RAM | 2Gb |
| Startup Times | Two seconds |
| Bluetooth | BT5.0 |
| Wi-Fi | 2.4G Mhz + 5.8G Mhz Dual-band |
| Sound Processing | HIFI4 DSP |
| Voltage | 9-16V 14.1V |
| Current | <500MA |
| Standby Current | <5MA |
| Temperature | -40~+75°C |
8. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Limcet CarPlay Box, please refer to the following common problems and solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| CarPlay/Android Auto does not launch automatically. | Bluetooth not paired or connection issue. | Ensure your iPhone's Bluetooth is on and paired with "Limcet-Box". Restart your car and phone. Check all cable connections. |
| No sound or poor audio quality. | Incorrect AUX audio input connection or settings. | Verify the AUX audio input cable (8) is correctly connected. Check your car's audio source settings to ensure AUX is selected. |
| Intermittent connection or lagging. | Weak Wi-Fi signal or interference. | Ensure the Wi-Fi Antenna (3) is securely attached and positioned optimally. Avoid placing other wireless devices near the unit. |
| Screen mirroring not working. | Phone settings or app compatibility. | Ensure your phone's screen mirroring feature is enabled and compatible with the CarPlay box. Some apps may restrict mirroring. |
| Original car controls (steering wheel/buttons) not responding. | Incorrect wiring or system conflict. | Double-check all wiring connections, especially those related to the car's control protocols. Ensure the system is in the correct mode. |
9. User Tips
- Verify Compatibility: Before purchasing or installing, always confirm your BMW's head unit type (CCC, CIC, NBT, EVO) and production year. This is crucial for a successful installation and optimal performance. For example, a 2010 BMW 6 Series E63 would likely be compatible if it has a CIC head unit.
- Professional Installation: If you are unsure about the wiring process, consider seeking professional assistance to avoid damage to your vehicle or the device.
- Firmware Updates: Check the manufacturer's website periodically for firmware updates to ensure the best performance and compatibility with the latest smartphone operating systems.
- Microphone Placement: For optimal voice command performance, ensure the microphone is placed in a clear, unobstructed location within the cabin.
10. Warranty and Support
10.1 Warranty Information
The Limcet CarPlay Box comes with a 1-year manufacturer's warranty covering any quality-related issues from the date of purchase. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
10.2 Customer Support
For technical assistance, troubleshooting, or warranty inquiries, please contact Limcet customer support:
- Phone / WhatsApp: +86 19098588125
