▀▄ eas | DIY: DICE MediaBridge USB Data Port into Cigarette Lighter (overview)
 

We installed the DICE MediaBridge unit into an e39 5-series the other day in which the customer had multiple devices he wished to use with the DICE unit.

http://www.europeanautosource.com/im.../mb_main01.jpg

The MediaBridge uses the OEM docking cable which plugs into the USB slot on the module, this allows an iPod or USB thumbdrive to be integrated within the system.

There is a 5 foot USB extension cable included with the MediaBridge, but we wanted a more OEM-like appearance when completed. It was then decided to place the USB data port into the cigarette lighter.

Items needed:

DICE - MediaBridge iPod/iPhone Multimedia Hub (choose model)
european auto source - 714.369.8524 | how fast can we make your dream go, stop and corner?

eas - USB Data Port for Cigarette Lighter
eas - 714.369.8524 | eas - USB Data Port for Cigarette Lighter

The same steps can be applied to the e46, let's begin:

Stock storage track on e39 5-series[, showing pop-up cigarette lighter
http://img64.imageshack.us/img64/8928/usbinstall1.jpg

Press out lighter socket from backside
http://img818.imageshack.us/img818/4039/usbinstall2.jpg

Remove Cigarette lighter from plastic sleeve
http://img820.imageshack.us/img820/8466/usbinstall5.jpg

With a hacksaw or cutting wheel, cut approximately 1" from top
http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/448/usbinstall6.jpg

Separate halves
http://img841.imageshack.us/img841/8789/usbinstall7.jpg

Cut power to lower half of socket, retaining LED sleeve LED power leads
http://img138.imageshack.us/img138/9933/usbinstall8.jpg

Press Plastic sleeve back into place
http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/6534/usbinstall9.jpg

Press cigarette lighter socket back into place
http://img42.imageshack.us/img42/5767/usbinstall10.jpg

Thread USB data port through socket, plugging end into MediaBridge unit
http://img828.imageshack.us/img828/4...binstall11.jpg

Completed install - with night illumination still present
http://img137.imageshack.us/img137/1...binstall12.jpg

Hope this helps. Feel free to respond with any questions or comments.

Sweet. To bad my wife needs the outlet to charge her blackberry.

Its a powered USB slot correct? It will still charge the BB.

This is a data port for the MediaBridge, which has a male USB on the other end. When plugged into the MediaBridge, it will charge the device as well.

For those looking for a simple charging port and nothing else, the Belkin piece would be better suited:

http://www.argos.co.uk/wcsstore/argo...EUC628515M.jpg

Will the media bridge work with the blackberry? Such as pandora radio or the music stored on the phone?

The MB1500 will stream music from the BlackBerry via A2DP Bluetooth, yes.