SD card reader install in stock double din head unit The goal is to play mp3 stored in a SD memory card with the stock double din head unit, keeping the stock appearance. IL motorsports sells an « audiolink » module that, when plugged into the haed unit, simulates a 6 discs cd changer. IL motorsports provides almost everything needed for this operation. You can find it here: http://www.ilmotorsport.de/shop/article_detail.php5?aid=532&oid=570&depth=2&page=0&cou nt=3&PHPSESSID=d69fc51b16c7c276d1ef32f866d8bee8 this module also provides an analog audio input with a 3.5 mm female jack, but I don't use it in my setup. What you need ? -the audiolink module -head unit removal tool or a coat hanger -a pair of cutting pliers -a dremel -some adhesive velcro or double sided adhesive tape -a few beers and a friend to drink with you

1st step : extracting the head unit the head unit is maintained on the sides by metal plates you have to push towards the head unit to take it out.

You can see on the picture how the system works. It's best to use the special tool but you can

make your own cutting a coat hanger.

You have to take of the 2 plastic covers on both sides to access the holes.

Then insert the removal tool in the holes, draw them aside to make the metal plates go closer to the head unit and pull the head unit out.To ease the operation, I have removed the central plastic cover with a suction cup. You just have to pull it out.

2nd step: card reader integration

The SD card reader supplied with the module is perfect for what I want to do. It is a small integrated circuit in a plastic case.I will mount the circuit on the central plastic cover of the head unit. (you can see it on the picture below, along with the removal tool and other stuff)

The card reader is almost perfect fit. You just have to cut a little to make room for the chip.

Then we have to make the opening for the SD cards. just drill 2 small holes to mark the limits

and make the opening with a dremel

the knife is here to deburr the end result from the front:

and from the back:

the circuit is secured on the side with a piece of plastic cutted before. No need for glue, it doesn't move.

3rd step : attaching the module I choose to put the module where the cd player goes, since I take it of. It's the easiest way for me.Ther is just enough room to put the module behind the card reader if you want to keep the cd player. I have done it with adhesive velcro but you can also use double sided adhesive tape

evrything in place:

in the car:

now you can drink a beer ;)

How it works the module simulates a 6 discs changer. (it works even if you have the 6 discs changer or a single disc player) just press twice the « cd » button to activate the module (only once if you don't have a cd player). In order to navigate on the memory card, you have to create up to 6 directories named CD01, CD02 etc..where you put your mp3's use the « disc » button to change directory and the « track » button to change track. That's all :) don't hesitate to contact me for any question: **stef** on miata.net forum [email protected] disclaimer

(for people who sue others because they are too weak to take their responsabilities when they make something stupid)

:

I'm not a professionnal. If you try to make this mod to your car, you make it at your own risks. It works with european spec head unit, I am not sure it will works with US spec head unit. I have no affiliation with IL motorsports. The beer is optional