DigitalWidgets

I'm getting ready to order a 2011 GS and I can't seem to find any specific information on the USB port. They mention there's something "new" about it for 2011. I know iPods are all the rage, but I was wondering, can you just load up a USB thumbdrive with MP3 files and pop it in the USB port and just play the files on the thumbdrive? Or, can I just get a little 250Gb external USB drive and load it to the gills with music/podcasts and just leave it plugged in the car with my entire collection on it? I know that some interfaces like this for other devices sometimes have limitations on the file content (i.e. the path to the files have to be less than 128 characters, or all files to be played need to be in the root folder), does this apply to the new C6 audio systems?

It's not a deal breaker for my car purchase, but I'd sure be happier if I could just update a thumbdrive with podcasts before heading out the door, or better still have my entire music collection on a little USB hard disk available anytime I'm in the car.

talon90

Yes, you will be able to play mp3 files from a thumb drive or other usb enabled storage device. It will also function with an iPod or iPhone and provide offerings such as the GM PAL device does. You will be able to see your song list on the NAV screen and make selections.

Along with the USB port, there is also an auxiliary input jack that will allow direct connect to any device with a headphone jack. Using the aux jack however will not allow for interface with the screen but will allow audio to be played over the cars speakers.

tlcj

Will it be possible to buy a nav unit from a 2011 that would fit into a 2008 with nav? I am not sold on the PAL yet. maybe the 2011 solution is a PAL unit from the factory? Any insight.

talon90

The USB/Auxiallry port is not part of the Navigation unit. It is integrated in the center console.

kev1n

damn, I wonder if it can be retrofitted into an "old" 08 like mine.

RicK T

So if a person bought that 2011 piece of plastic containing the USB and AUX ports and related wiring, is it just a plug-n-play into a prior year Nav or is there something different about the 2011 Nav unit that's required to accommodate those plugs? I think we are all just trying to understand. TIA

talon90

I'm still working on that. This one might actually be possible to retrofit.

kev1n

fingers and toes crossed

GXP25

Could someone confirm the part number is 20870101?

If so, it's on some serious backorder.

I believe a new radio (at least new programming) would be needed as the receptacle interfaces with a module which interfaces with the radio (for stereo Bluetooth in the Camaro). Other 2010 GM units without A2DP (stereo Bluetooth) have a female mini USB B at the back of the actual head unit.

Circled in yellow and green are for USB and AUX respectively. The USB cable is a standard male mini USB B. The AUX uses a 6 pin connector (P/N: 19167753) to wire in the 3.5mm jack.



2010 Camaro operation:



Granted one is GMLAN (2010 Camaro) and another is Class II (Corvette).

Tom E

When I was ordering my 2011, I was told you have to get the Nav unit to get the USB. Don't know why they don't just include USB as standard.

1FUNC5

I would love to see this one happen Paul!
Steven

MThomas

Steven......see you should have just ordered a 2011!!!!! lol

Now I'm in the shipping ON HOLD list. Just like you were.

tlcj

Thanks Paul for looking into this. The retrofit would be better than buying a new Nav!

GXP25

The auxiliary input connector is probably nonstandard due to the extra "auxiliary detection signal" pin.

diverdan

Will the PAL work in addition to this new connection? Also are the 2011's coming with PALs?

sledog

You know what is sad is that many of the 2010 GM vehicles have this feature and it isn't until 2011 that they put it in their flagship vehicle. Even then you have to order the nav unit. My 2010 2500 silverado has one in it and it does not have nav...

Hopefully it can be retrofitted but I'm guessing you would need to have your radio flashed at the very least to make it work.

crusher1

Will the PAL work in addition to this new connection? Also are the 2011's coming with PALs?

__________________
John

2009 Blade Silver Metallic Z06 - 2LZ, Halltech Killer Bee/Bee Hive CAI, Corsa X-Pipe, Muffler Mod, M2W, CAGS Defeat, Elite Engineering Insulated Tunnel Plate, CCA Catch Can, PAL, Dynamat/Madvette/Blockit Insulation kits, APSIS Front Splash Guards, HID Fog Lights, Total LED conversion, PIAA High Beams, Boston Acoustic Speaker Upgrades

2007 Arctic Silver Porsche Carrera S - Gone
2002 Quicksilver Z06 - Gone
2002 Black C-5 Coupe - Gone
2005 Black CTS-V - Gone
2004 Red GTO - Gone











Hi DiverDan, PAL`s are available as an accessory if you want to get it from the dealer....No option for it.

I just installed the PAL for my 2007 the other day...It works awesome! ...Works flawless, I took pics of the install if anyone is interested. Plug and play installation not cutting of wires

The software has been upgraded when you buy them from Ray Kawal....Hats off to Ray, he has done a fantastic job with it


http://www.kawal.net/PAL%20Rev%202.htm

mstil07

Yes the PAL will also work with the usb port on the 2011 w/nav. Ordered and installed a PAL Before I even noticed the usb port. So if anyone needs a PAL with the Kawal harness, let me know. Installed it and used it for about 5 minutes....when I ran the cable into the console.....I found the USB port. Being using it ever since!

STEVE MC

My 2010 Equinox (no nav) has the USB and my i-pod can interface with the radio. My 2010 GS cannot.

subvett

Not sure about GM. In addition to my Z06, I have a 2010 F150 with the SYNC Media system. Ford stated a USB hard drive would not work. Additional research and I found out if you reformat the hard drive to FAT32 format it works. I now have a 500GB USB hard drive that works as well as an ipod for only $60.

Now if I can get an retrofit for my 09 Z06. Anyone know if I can add the USB to an 09 and get it to work thru my Nav?Steering Wheel controls?

Anyone looking for a 64GB Ipod?