1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your NINETOM 12.3 inch Touchscreen Wireless CarPlay Android Auto Multimedia Car Radio Receiver. This device is specifically designed for Mercedes Benz E Class W212 models from 2013-2015, equipped with the NTG4.5/4.7 system. It is not compatible with other NTG systems (e.g., NTG4.0/5.0/5.1/5.2).
The touchscreen operates on a Linux system, ensuring stable performance. It integrates wired and wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing for seamless access to navigation, calls, messages, and music through Siri or touch display interaction. The unit retains all original car functions, including the radio, amplifier, factory joystick control, and original reversing camera compatibility. It features a 1920x720 HD resolution display with automatic light sensitivity for optimal viewing comfort.
2. Setup and Installation
2.1. Compatibility Check
Before installation, verify that your vehicle's original radio system is NTG4.5 or NTG4.7. Refer to the images below to identify your system type. Incorrect system identification may lead to incompatibility.
Image: Compatibility Chart for Mercedes Benz NTG Systems. This image shows visual examples of NTG4.5 and NTG4.7 systems that are compatible, and NTG4.0 and NTG5.0 systems that are not compatible.
Image: Identifying Your Car's Original Radio System. This image provides visual cues to help determine if your car has an original radio NTG 4.5, NTG 4.7, NTG 4.0, or NTG 5.0 system based on the radio unit's appearance and card slot type.
2.2. Package Contents
The package includes the 12.3-inch touchscreen unit and all necessary cables for installation. The installation process is designed to be plug-and-play, utilizing the original car cable without requiring cutting or breaking existing wires.
Image: Product Dimensions and Included Accessories. This image displays the 12.3-inch touchscreen unit from front and back, along with the power cable and LVDS/USB cable included in the package.
2.3. Installation Overview
The installation is non-destructive and integrates seamlessly with your vehicle's existing system. The new touchscreen replaces the original display, enhancing functionality while preserving the original car's aesthetics and controls.
Image: Before and After Installation View. This image shows a side-by-side comparison of the car's dashboard before and after the NINETOM 12.3-inch touchscreen installation, highlighting the visual upgrade.
2.4. Optical Fiber Cable Installation
If your vehicle uses an optical fiber cable for audio, it must be correctly relocated to the new harness to ensure proper audio functionality. Follow the steps in the video below for guidance.
Video: How to Relocate Optic Cables to Linux Harness for Mercedes. This video demonstrates the process of unplugging the original power cable, removing the original optical fiber cable, connecting the new power cable, and finally plugging the optical fiber cable into the new harness.
3. Operating Instructions
3.1. Initial Setup: Screen Resolution
Before using the OEM system, it is crucial to set the correct screen resolution. An incorrect resolution can cause the original car system to display improperly. Please follow the instructions in the video to select a resolution compatible with your original vehicle screen, or manually test resolutions until the correct one is found.
Video: Original Resolution Settings for Mercedes. This video guides you through navigating the setup menu to adjust the screen resolution to match your original car's display, preventing display issues.
Image: Screen Resolution Comparison: 1920x720 vs 1280x480. This image visually compares the clarity and brightness of the upgraded 1920x720 resolution screen against a standard 1280x480 screen.
3.2. Core Features: CarPlay and Android Auto
The unit features built-in wired and wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. These functions allow you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone for navigation, communication, and entertainment. You can interact using Siri voice commands or the touchscreen display.
Image: Wireless and Wired CarPlay & Android Auto Support. This image illustrates how wireless CarPlay and Android Auto connect to the screen, showing navigation, music, and call functions.
Image: CarPlay, Android Auto, and Mirror Link Functionality. This image shows the display of Apple apps via CarPlay, Android apps via Android Auto, and screen mirroring via AirPlay/AutoLink.
3.2.1. Connecting to Wireless CarPlay
To connect your iPhone to Wireless CarPlay, ensure the CarPlay option is enabled in the Smart Phone settings. Then, follow the steps in the video below to pair your device.
Video: How to Set Up Wireless CarPlay on Mercedes. This video demonstrates how to enable CarPlay in settings, turn on Bluetooth on your phone, search for the device's Bluetooth, pair it, allow sync, and activate CarPlay.
3.2.2. Connecting to Wireless AirPlay (Mirror Link)
For iPhone users, the unit supports Wireless AirPlay for screen mirroring. Ensure the AirPlay option is enabled in the Smart Phone settings. Then, follow the steps in the video below to connect.
Video: How to Set Up AirPlay on Mercedes. This video shows how to enable AirPlay in settings, connect your iPhone to the screen's WiFi, and then select AirPlay from your iPhone's screen mirroring options.
3.3. Retaining Original Car Functions
The NINETOM touchscreen is designed to retain all original functions of your Mercedes Benz, including the original car radio, amplifier function, factory joystick control, and compatibility with the original reversing camera. No software changes are made to the vehicle's control units.
Image: Retaining Original Car Settings and Controls. This image highlights how the new screen preserves the original car system, stereo sound, reverse system (with aftermarket camera support), CD player, steering wheel control, and iDrive knob control.
Image: Compatibility with Original Vehicle System. This image shows the original car system alongside the new screen displaying wireless CarPlay and Android Auto, demonstrating seamless integration.
3.4. System Switching
You can easily switch between the NINETOM system and your car's original OEM system by long-pressing the 'OEM Car Info' button.
Image: System Switching. This image visually represents the ability to switch between the NINETOM system (displaying CarPlay) and the original car radio interface by long-pressing a button.
3.5. Automatic Light Sensitivity
The touchscreen features automatic light sensitivity, which adjusts the display between day and night modes based on your car's original headlights. This ensures a more comfortable and safer driving experience by optimizing screen brightness for ambient light conditions.
Image: Automatic Day and Night Mode Adjustment. This image illustrates the screen's automatic adjustment between bright day mode and darker night mode, based on the car's headlights.
4. Maintenance
To ensure the longevity and optimal performance of your NINETOM touchscreen, follow these maintenance guidelines:
- Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth slightly dampened with water or a screen-specific cleaner to wipe the display. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, or excessive moisture.
- Temperature: Avoid exposing the unit to extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, for extended periods.
- Physical Damage: Protect the screen from direct impact, sharp objects, and excessive pressure.
- Software Updates: Periodically check the manufacturer's website or contact support for any available software updates to improve performance and add new features.
5. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your NINETOM touchscreen, consider the following common troubleshooting steps:
- Display Issues (Incorrect or Distorted): Verify that the screen resolution is correctly set for your original vehicle system. Refer to Section 3.1 and the "Original Resolution Settings for Mercedes" video.
- No Audio: Ensure all audio connections are secure. If your car uses an optical fiber cable, confirm it has been correctly relocated to the new harness as shown in Section 2.4 and the "How to Relocate Optic Cables to Linux Harness for Mercedes" video.
- CarPlay/Android Auto Connection Problems: Check that the respective features are enabled in the Smart Phone settings. For wireless connections, ensure your phone's Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are active and correctly paired/connected as per Sections 3.2.1 and 3.2.2.
- Unit Not Powering On: Check all power cable connections. Ensure the original car power cable is securely connected to the new power cable harness.
- Intermittent Functionality: Ensure all cables are securely connected and not pinched or damaged.
For persistent issues or problems not covered here, please contact NINETOM customer support for assistance.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Item Weight | 5.21 pounds |
| Product Dimensions | 12.3 x 12.3 x 12.3 inches |
| Display Size | 12.3 Inches |
| Voice Command | Touchscreen |
| Brand | ninetom |
| Model Name | 12.3 inch Touchscreen Wireless CarPlay Android Auto Multimedia Car Radio Receiver |
| Vehicle Service Type | Car |
| Screen Size | 12.3 Inches |
| Special Feature | Built-in CarPlay & Android Auto |
| Connectivity Technology | USB |
| Map Type | Road |
| Included Components | 10.25' touchscreen, necessary cables, original car cable |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo, Surround Sound |
| Mounting Type | Dashboard Mount |
7. Warranty and Support
NINETOM is committed to providing reliable, high-performing, and easy-to-install automotive screens and decoders. Our team is available to assist before and after each purchase.
If you encounter any installation issues, operational problems, or have questions regarding your product, please reach out to us for assistance. You can typically find contact information on the seller's page where you purchased the product.
Image: How to Contact NINETOM Support. This image illustrates how to find the 'Ask a question' button on the seller's profile page to contact NINETOM for support.