1. Product Overview
This Road Top CarPlay interface decoder box is designed to integrate Apple CarPlay and Android Auto functionalities into your Porsche vehicle equipped with the PCM 3.0 system. It allows you to retain your original car system while adding modern smartphone integration features.
Key Features:
- Wireless/Wired Apple CarPlay
- Wireless/Wired Android Auto
- Mirrorlink functionality (AirPlay for iOS, Autolink for Android)
- Support for original and aftermarket reverse cameras, parking radar, and 360-degree cameras
- Voice control via Siri and Google Assistant
- Integration with original car knob and steering wheel controls (voice control, Tel button, volume buttons)
2. Compatible Models and Years
This CarPlay Retrofit Kit Decoder is compatible with Porsche vehicles featuring the PCM 3.0 System. It is not compatible with PCM 3.1 or 4.0 systems.
Please verify your car's system before installation.
| Model | Year Range |
|---|---|
| Cayenne | 2009-2010 |
| 911 | 2008-2011 |
| Cayman | 2009-2012 |
| Boxster | 2009-2012 |
Figure 2.1: Visual guide for compatible Porsche PCM 3.0 systems and model years.
3. Product Components
The Road Top Wireless Carplay Android Auto Retrofit Kit Decoder includes the following components:
- CarPlay decoder box
- Power cable harness
- LVDS cable
- W-FI antenna
- FPC adapter board
- Aftermarket Mic
- USB-AV cable
- Original Mic extend cable
Figure 3.1: All components included in the Road Top Retrofit Kit.
4. Installation Guidelines
Installation of this retrofit kit requires accessing the original CD host device behind the car dashboard. It is recommended that installation be performed by a qualified professional.
- Carefully remove the car dashboard to access the original CD host device.
- Connect the provided wires from the retrofit kit to the original CD host device. Ensure all connections are secure and correct.
- Before reassembling the dashboard, test all features to confirm proper functionality.
- Reassemble the dashboard.
Important Note:
Most issues arise from incorrect cable connections or settings. If you encounter problems, double-check all connections and settings before proceeding with reassembly.
5. Operating Instructions
5.1 Switching Between Systems
To switch between the original radio system and the CarPlay/Android Auto system, long-press the dedicated 'INFO' button on your car's knob for 3 seconds. When you switch back to the original radio system, all functions will operate as before.
Figure 5.1: Switching between OEM, CarPlay, and Android Auto interfaces.
5.2 Mirrorlink Functionality
The device supports Mirrorlink, allowing you to mirror your smartphone screen onto the car's display. Use AirPlay for iPhone devices and Autolink for Android devices.
Figure 5.2: Mirrorlink function in action, displaying a smartphone screen on the car's head unit.
5.3 Camera Functions and Controls
The retrofit kit supports various camera functionalities:
- Reverse Camera: Compatible with factory original reverse cameras and parking radar. Also supports aftermarket reverse cameras and 360-degree cameras.
- Front View Camera: Supports front view camera DVR (CVBS input).
The system integrates with original car controls. The steering wheel's voice control button, telephone button, and volume buttons are supported. Other steering wheel buttons may not be supported.
Figure 5.3: Camera display and integrated car controls.
5.4 Voice Control and Navigation
Utilize voice commands with Siri (for CarPlay) or Google Assistant (for Android Auto) to control navigation, music playback, and other functions, enhancing safety by keeping your hands on the steering wheel.
Figure 5.4: Voice control for navigation and mobile music.
5.5 System Settings and Updates
The system allows for various adjustments and updates. This video demonstrates how to access and modify settings such as language, display brightness, audio volumes, reverse camera options, and CarPlay/Android Auto display parameters. It also shows how to perform software updates.
Video 5.5: Demonstration of the menu display interface and settings for the Carplay module, including system, audio, reverse camera, and Carplay/Android Auto settings.
6. Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | Road Top |
| Connectivity Technology | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi |
| Controller Type | Car Knob |
| Special Feature | Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Mirrorlink |
| Compatible Devices | Smartphone |
| Connector Type | Optical |
| Audio Output Mode | Stereo |
| Surround Sound Channel Configuration | 5.1 |
| Video Encoding | H.264, H.265/HEVC |
| Color | Black |
| Number of Channels | 2 |
| Control Method | App, Touch, Voice |
| Audio Output Type | Speakers |
| Format | 4K |
| Manufacturer | Road Top |
7. Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues after installation, consider the following:
- Functionality Check: Ensure all features are working correctly before fully reassembling the car's dashboard.
- Cable Connections: The majority of problems stem from incorrect cable connections. Double-check all wiring according to the installation guide.
- System Settings: Verify that all system settings, including audio, display, and camera options, are configured correctly. Refer to Section 5.5 for guidance on system settings.
- Software Updates: Ensure your device has the latest software. Check for updates as shown in the system settings video.
For persistent issues, please contact Road Top customer support for assistance.
8. Warranty and Support
This product comes with a 1-year warranty from the manufacturer, Road Top.
For technical support, warranty claims, or any product-related inquiries, please contact Road Top Direct through their official channels. You can typically find contact information on the product packaging or the seller's page on the platform where you purchased the item.
Figure 8.1: Road Top Brand Logo.