New Project Done! VSM, iLink and Back up cam Installed!

[PeteM]

Originally Posted by ncx

Pete, you will need an video input device for the camera such as the VSM. I already had the OEM TV module in my X5 which has a built-in camera input and displays it on the nav screen when in reverse. That is why there is no mention of the VSM in my DIY article... I didn't need it.

For a person with no TV module installed, you have to have the VSM or similar device to get the camera video to the nav screen.

I do have the OEM TV module on my X but was told I needed the VSM by EAS so in effect all i need is the bumblebee and a relay?

Thanks for your help.

[ncx]

Yes, you just need the camera and a relay. Tom can tell you the benefits of the VSM better than I can. The only advantage I see for the VSM vs. the OEM TV module, is the stereo audio input (it is mono on the TV module). That can be solved with the Aux-input for $35.

Bottom line:

If you have no video input device, VSM is the way to go. Much cheaper than a TV module and offers the a/v integration you need.

If you already have the TV module with camera input, just get the camera and a relay. You may need the AV harness for the TV module if you don't already have it. This has the AV RCA inputs including one for backup cam.

[PeteM]

Originally Posted by ncx

Yes, you just need the camera and a relay. Tom can tell you the benefits of the VSM better than I can. The only advantage I see for the VSM vs. the OEM TV module, is the stereo audio input (it is mono on the TV module). That can be solved with the Aux-input for $35.

Bottom line:

If you have no video input device, VSM is the way to go. Much cheaper than a TV module and offers the a/v integration you need.

If you already have the TV module with camera input, just get the camera and a relay. You may need the AV harness for the TV module if you don't already have it. This has the AV RCA inputs including one for backup cam.

I have the TV option when I bought the X5 new does that mean therefore I have all I need there ie is the camera input standard with the TV module do you know.

Thanks mate

[ncx]

Originally Posted by PeteM

I have the TV option when I bought the X5 new does that mean therefore I have all I need there ie is the camera input standard with the TV module do you know.

Thanks mate

Since you are in England you may have them, I don't know. We can't get the TV module in the US when we by a new X5. You will need to look and see if you have the input wires. If you don't you can get the kit I have been told.

See the pic. This is in the trunk area by the battery. You may need to pull out the electronics tray to look for these wires on the side of the TV module. You'll have to pull it out anyway to connect the camera.

[Tom G.]

Originally Posted by PeteM

I have the TV option when I bought the X5 new does that mean therefore I have all I need there ie is the camera input standard with the TV module do you know.

Thanks mate

Pete,

I was not aware you had a TV module already - This can be used instead of the VSM if you wish. As ncx said - we were not offered this in the states, but a few people have retrofitted the kit successfully.

Check the connections to be 100% sure and let me know if you have any questions.

[dmlgc]

wuzin ,
since you have done this perhaps you could help me out with some wiring questions.
I just picked up a VSM and a bubble bee camera and a relay from EAS (no A/V panel). I have some wiring questions after looking at the diagram that came with it.

VSM harness has 4 wires (black,blue,red,grey) coming off it.
grey is labeled "camera 12v"
red is labeled "12v acc"
blue is labeled "hand brake ground"
black is labeled "ground"

on vsm
from what I understand from the diagram:
red to some switched power source.
black grounded
blue grounded
grey to terminal 30 on relay

on relay
connect 86,87 together and connect to switched power source
connect 85 to ground trigger , assume this goes to reverse light power ?

on camera
besides RCA jack have 2 wires
striped red/white with fuse , assume this goes to switched source ?
striped black/white , assume this goes to ground.

any help would be appreciated.
any tips on where to connect to switch source and ground on x5 ?

Thanks
Dennis

[dmlgc]

correction :
on relay connect 87,85 together.

[Tom G.]

Originally Posted by dmlgc

correction :
on relay connect 87,85 together.

The red wire will go to a 12V switched source. This would be a purple wire with a white stripe on your harness in the cargo area. It would probably be a good idea to use a relay on this part since the wire is pretty small.

The blue and black wires are grounded to chassis ground.

the grey wire will go to your reverse taillight to tell the VSM to switch to reverse camera mode when you are backing up. A relay will need to be used to allow activation on the camera - a couple of diagrams are in your instructions as well as this thread.

If you should need additional help - feel free to contact me directly.

[gobb]

Anyone know where I can purchase the Valor I Link, cant find it anywhere, any more??

Thanks!

[Tom G.]

Originally Posted by gobb

Anyone know where I can purchase the Valor I Link, cant find it anywhere, any more??

Thanks!

Valor has discontinued these kits - they are no longer available.