Mobile Electronics News Jan 2012-b by webwax

JANUARY 2012

ROCKFORD’S EVIL EVO DEMO CAR

INSIDE

PLUS HIDEAWAY DAB TUNER TEST SECURITY PRODUCT UPDATE THE LATEST SMART STUFF

REAR SEAT ENTERTAINMENT BIG GUIDE TO WHAT’S NEW

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KENWOOD DDX4028BT VALUE DOUBLE DINNER

W W W. M O B I L E E L E C T R O N I C S N E W S . E U

BOOK NOW FOR THE MEN EXPO 13TH-14TH MARCH 2012 RICOH ARENA, COVENTRY

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CONTENTS JANUARY 2012

4 ED SPEAK: The Ed is excited about EXPO and DAB tuners

06-10 NEWS: Stories about multiple pregnancies and some useful interfaces

14-15 ROCKFORD DEMO CAR: Lots of phone calls and emails to the USA for this one!

16-18 PRE-EXPO SHOW REPORT:

26 – 28 SECURITY PRODUCT UPDATE: Interesting new stuff from Laserline, Cobra, Directed and more

30 – 34 REAR SEAT ENTERTAINMENT: Millsy casts his eye over the latest developments

36 AUDIOVOX HEADREST REVIEW: More rear seat entertainment – looking for distribution

38 KENWOOD PRODUCT: DDX4028BT Incredibly good value offered in a 2 DIN wrapper

40 INDUSTRY INTERVIEW: Scorpion’s flying MD Mark Downing

42 OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS: Arthur Deebie talks in depth to a brother or two

46 RAYNER’S RANTS: We always knew he was a closet technophobe!

48 V.C.E GUIDE: Rangey Sport gets the Steelmate treatment

50 M.E.N DIRECTORY: Compiled this month by ed’s assistant Judd Trump

Charlotte Body PUBLISHER Tel: 01268 754 897 or 07903 944666 Fax: 01268 754429 email: charlotte@creativemedialtd.co.uk Martyn Williams EDITOR Tel: 07768 083748 email: edunit@edunit.plus.com Shauna Peters PUBLICATION MANAGER Tel: 01268 754 897 Fax: 01268 754429 email: shauna.peters@creativemedialtd.co.uk Loraine Winter SENIOR DESIGNER Tel: 01268 754 897 Fax: 01268 754429 email: loraine.winter@creativemedialtd.co.uk Peter Johnson ART DIRECTOR Tel: 01268 754 897 Fax: 01268 754429 email: peter.johnson@creativemedialtd.co.uk

Jeff Marshall of the MESF gives us an update

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24 TRAINING:

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Industry luminaries and our publisher review the year

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22 – 23 THAT WAS THE YEAR THAT WAS:

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it’s 10th year - for the first time will feature electronic registration for e-tickets which will be sent out via email. Go to mobileelectronicsnews.eu to register now or contact Shauna Peters for VIP party

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invites and Charlotte Body for the last remaining stands on 01268 754897.

VESTATEC DISTRIBUTES ROSEN At the beginning of this month Vestatec started distributing the

Rosen range of products which is well known throughout the UK and Europe with a product portfolio which includes the AV7500

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JVC GOES ANDROID

headrest DVD , the AV7700 seat back DVD (Winner of the MEN Gold

JVC Mobile Entertainment has announced it will heavily

Award 2011) and the Z8/Z10 overhead DVD.

promote Android control for 2012 with the introduction of three

Rosen is launching a new high definition touch-screen headrest system,

keenly priced media receivers.

the AV7900, and a double DIN Navi from Piranha early in 2012.

Connecting an Android phone to the USB port of one of the

Rosen joins Vestatec’s existing range: Meta System, Rockford Fosgate

new units will enable customers to control the music with the

and VT Vision.

track up/down, play and pause buttons on the head units with

Vestatec Distribution 0208 867 2340 www.vestatec.co.uk

artist and title shown on the radio display. The up-spec model will enable gesture control of volume, EQ and source selection from a connected Smartphone. The three units will also control iPod and iPhone functions and are either Bluetooth equipped or Bluetooth ready, breaking new ground in the pricing of Bluetooth equipped units. JVC 0208 450 3282 www.jvcmobile.co.uk

SPRAY CLAMP FROM LASERLINE Laserline has just introduced a handy clamp for spraying its 18mm OE-style flush fit sensors and include a proper cutting punch which only needs a small hole drilled and cuts a perfect circle. The trade price for the pair is £55 plus VAT and shipping. Just in case you didn’t guess, they are made in Italy. Laserline 0845 2712891 or 01925 851164 www.laserlinespa.com

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GOT SOMETHING TO SHOUT ABOUT? Then contact the editor Martyn Williams on edunit@edunit.plus.com

RECRUITMENT

Mobridge Launch MOST Pre Amp Australian OEM integration expert Mobridge has launched the M1000-MDA2 Advanced digital and analogue pre amplifier. Able to connect directly to OEM systems fitted to Audi, BMW, Porsche, Mercedes Benz and Mini, the M1000-M-DA2 provides 8-channels of audio on a digital TOSLINK or 8 analogue RCA outputs via a Burr Brown 24-bit DAC for audiophile quality. The new device is an ideal plug and play solution for customers wishing to build a multi-amplifier system whist retaining the convenience of OEM mounted controls for volume, Balance, Fader and

Equaliser.

Distributed exclusively in the UK by Cartronics GB, The Mobridge M1000-MDA2 is available now. Cartronics also distributes the full Mobridge range of MOST adaptors for iPod, Bluetooth or both for Audi, BMW, Land Rover, Mini and Porsche.

Sales Agents Required CKO International is the UK’s leading independent importer and distributor of In Car Multimedia, DAB radio and 12/24v Reversing Systems. We have an aggressive programme of new product development for 2012 and we are looking for a number of Sales Agents in various parts of the UK to maximise our sales opportunities. If you already have industry knowledge and a network of established relationships within the vehicle aftermarket as well as car and commercial dealership networks we have an exciting range of products to add to your existing portfolio and your earning potential. If you are interested to know more please contact Mark Scarff initially on email at: mark@c-ko.co.uk

Featuring fast performance, easy to use menus and a 24-bit DAC the Bluetooth adaptors include a Parrot Chipset as do a range of CAN-Bus Bluetooth units for Audi, Skoda, VW, Citroen and Peugeot. Cartronics GB 01932 346 373 www.cartronics.co.uk

There’s something in the water at Parrot!

New Kamasa Hex and Star Key Set Kamasa has recently introduced a Hex and Star key set (part no: 56038) with innovative magnetic handle, which holds the key securely and enables extra torque to be applied. The nine Hex keys are sized from 1.5mm up to 10mm and the nine Star sizes (also known as Torx) from T10 up to T50. The set is manufactured from chrome vanadium for strength with a black

The team at Parrot have recently received some exciting news, their

oxide finish for long life and corrosion resistance.

Trade Marketing Executive(TME), Hannah O’Donnell and their Trade

The double-ended keys can be used as they are, or locked in to

Marketing Manager (TMM), Bradina Freedman are both expecting!

the ABS handle, which is clearly marked with the key positions

Following their marriage in August 2010, Paul Freedman, Kenwood, and

and are supplied in a sturdy open case that holds the keys and

Bradina Freedman, Parrot, are extremely excited about the new adventure

handle securely.

they’re about to embark upon as are Hannah O’Donnell and her husband

Kamasa 01926 818196 www.kamasa.co.uk/

Mark! Baby O’Donnell is due in March and Baby Freedman in April 2012 and as such Parrot are making preparations and have begun the search for a suitable maternity cover. If you are interested or know somebody in the industry that might be looking for a role, then please forward an up-todate CV to bradina.freedman@parrot.com. Please clearly indicate in the covering note whether it is the TME or TMM role that is being applied for. The aim is to start the placement for the TMM in February 2012 to provide ample handover with Bradina, and the TME in March/April. Both positions will be based at their Birmingham office.

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NEWS

iPod/iPhone interfaces

NEWS

XCarLink Launches New Interfaces OEM integration specialist Xcarlink has recently introduced an Infra Red remote controller interface that allows any IR control unit to be programmed onto OE steering wheel controls. The universal steering wheel interface can be used with a wide range of aftermarket devices supplied with an infrared remote control. Features such as volume control and other preset functions can be programmed for controlled from the steering wheel rather than using the remote. Compatible with various models with the CAN BUS system including: Mercedes, Audi, VW, Citroen, Ford, Porsche, BMW and Chrysler. The company has introduced an Audi 3G audio and multimedia interface which provides Audio and Video integration to any 3G MMI. This revolutionary product allows integration of an external video source to the Audi 3G MMI system. Once connected it offers connection of up to two

noW aVailaBle WitH iPad cHarGinG oPtion

external audio and video sources for passenger entertainment. The interface offers perfect integration maintaining original factory appearance. The interface simulates the factory TV tuner so you can select an input using existing MMI controls. Easy to install, the unit adds the option for AV inputs to appear in the Media menu. A similar product, Mercedes NTG 4.5 provides similar facilities for the new Mercedes C Class, E Class, CLS, GLK, etc. with the addition of enabling connection of a games console such as PS3, XBOX 360, rear view camera and even a GPS navigation to keep passengers entertained. XCarLink also have a rreplacement HD screen with built-in Multimedia interface for Mercedes Audio 20/50 as fitted to the C- Class W204. This plug and play CAN BUS 6 inch replacement monitor is designed exclusively

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for in-dash installation into the Mercedes-Benz W204 (C-Class) with the 5 inch monitor (Audio 20 or Audio 50) and allows drivers or passengers to view any video source on the screen including a TV tuner, DVD player, games console, navigation GPS or reverse camera. Their Volvo Multimedia Interface

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is compatible with the 5-inch monitor in the Volvo S60 and XC60 models from 2010 onwards and allows connection of any external video source. The multimedia interface has a total of 2 AV inputs, rear camera input, AV out and RGBS connection to add satellite navigation if you do not already have the factory fitted option. The interface does not replace the original

l usB/sd interfaces – SD card / USB drive audio integration with OEM system.

l Video in Motion interfaces – Unlocks the original DVD or TV tuner while vehicle is in motion.

system instead offering perfect integration to maintain OEM appearance. The CAN-BUS enables you to switch video input using the head unit controls. XCarLink 020 3393 4308 or www.xcarlink.co.uk

l MultiMedia/rear caMera interfaces – Add video sources (Such as TV tuner, DVD player etc) to the existing OEM screen. Reverse camera input with automatic switching on reverse.

For further information/trade prices please call 020 3393 4308 or trade@xcarlink.co.uk www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu 8 www.xcarlink.co.uk

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NEWS

Laser Tools Visual Aid Laser Tools has recently introduced a handy magnifying glass with flexible shaft and strong magnet mount (part no: 5256). The flexible shaft allows the powerful 95mm magnifying glass to be positioned easily in the most awkward places. The strong magnetic base holds securely and is ideal for engine bays, etc, for reading off serial numbers on cylinder heads and engine blocks. Bench mounted, this tool is excellent for inspecting damage to pistons, bearing surfaces, etc, and is an invaluable addition to the technician’s toolbox. Laser Tools 01926 818196 www.lasertools.co.uk

Chris Woods leaves FOUR FOUR says goodbye to company director Chris Woods.

Technical director Chris has been an integral part of the company since amalgamation of FOUR and his former company Axis Distribution in 2008. Instrumental in the creation of a number of demo cars including the two incarnations of the famous FOUR Panda, Chris’ impact and need for noise will be greatly missed! Colleagues thank Chris for all of his hard work and wish him the very best for the future. FOUR 0800 652 5125 www.four-online.co.uk

Car Vision’s ROCKFORD new Astra SLIM BASS Upgrade

When you have no space for bass, our PRIME R2S 10” or 12” shallow loaded enclosure is sure to be a perfect fit for your ride and your budget. These shallow loaded enclosures can fit in tight

The refined dash layout and sleek interior of the new Astra seems almost

spaces due to the slim-line depth of 3.25” on the top and 5.25” on

designed to thwart attempts to add an aftermarket entertainment system.

the bottom. The wedge design is optimized for any vehicle where

In response, Car Vision UK has launched an integrated system that fits

the boot can still be used.

perfectly into the dashboard, replacing the original head unit without the

With sales on shallow mount boxes and subs increasing monthly these

loss of any original functions. The new unit adds GPS, Bluetooth, A2DP for

new prime boxes will certainly make a welcome addition to all dealers

wireless music streaming, IPod connectivity, DVD and a HD crystal clear

bass offering.

touch-screen.

Pricing is: R2S-1X10 £179.99 and RSS-1X12 £189.99.

Car Vision UK 0333 700 7110 www.car-vision.co.uk

GOT SOMETHING TO SHOUT LUCY POET SALES MANAGER ABOUT? Then contact the editor Martyn Williams T: 01268on 754 897 M: 07951 698 873 F: 01268 754 429 edunit@edunit.plus.com E: lucy@creativemedialtd.co.uk

W: www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

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ANDY MILLS EDITOR

The perfect fit 180°

UNI System 8 Take&Talk universal NEW!

A universal and adjustable cradle with charging function* for smartphones

Compatible with UNI CarTalk – Base unit of the UNI System 8 hands-free car kit

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Antenna coupler – for an external GSM antenna, in order to improve reception

STAND 50

Bluetooth® connection of the smartphone and cradle Multipoint function – connect two mobile phones with the system simultaneously

Portrait/landscape mode – for the optimum display of the apps on the corresponding smartphone

*Multi tip Charging – A Micro USB Charging lead is supplied as standard. Different charging cables are separately available.

www.bury.com/uk www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

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STAND 35

COVER CAR

ROCKFORD

RALLY STYLE

Built by Sound Xpression based in Mesa, Arizona, it reflects the change in America’s car culture that now embraces a vast array of models from traditional V8 muscle cars to rally-style rice burners like this fabulous Mitsubishi EVO

wner of Sound Xpression install

Typically at the moment he has an Ford F250

shop Dave Clark started installing

in for some work being loaded with Rocky kit

working for a shop back in

such as six T115 subs, eight P2 speaker sets,

1993 and opened up his own business,

three T2500-1 bass amps and a T1000-1AD

Xpressions, in 2003 in Mesa which is way

amplifier for the full range. Dave reckons that

down south where 45C at the height of the

the most popular Rockford item that he sells

summer is pretty normal.

at the moment is the P3 Power Series compo speaker set.

I asked him about the changes in nearly 20 years and in his experience the installs he

He has done other Rockford installs apart from the EVO and because the company likes his work, the

The Rockford processor is a great way to hook up to external amps

Mitsubishi was passed to him from Rockford to weave his magic on

Dave used a rally theme for the car based

the car.

purely on the car’s reputation as a rally monster.

Dave said: “We installed the Rockford processor because it’s a

When Dave’s away from the workshop you can

great way to hook up to external

often find him in his own workshop at home

amps using the factory head unit.

doing a bit of wrenching on his G35 Infiniti

We then split up the line-outs as

– a model similar to the Nissan 350Z - fitted,

appropriate from the processor to

unsurprisingly with Rockford Fosgate gear.

was doing in earlier times were generally

the full range and subwoofer amps and time-

smaller and less powerful than the ones he

aligned the whole lot for best performance.”

What is your favourite Rocky product at the moment I asked Dave?

regularly does today. One of the biggest boosts over the years is the amount of

All the amps in the centre rear drive the

“At the moment I am liking the new T1

specialist kit and wiring harnesses that

subwoofer array and the full range amps are in

subwoofers available in 10/12 and 15 inch

cut down the amount of tedious diy

the boot – as you can imagine, the whole lot is

versions. They sound good, are powerful, and

adaptation jobs.

very loud.

will take a lot of power without strain.”

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|Rockford

EQUIPMENT LIST l Four M262B Speaker sets l Eight P1652-S Speaker sets l Four P1000-1bd Amplifiers l Three P500-2 Amplifiers l Six P2D28 Subwoofers l Rockford 3SIXTY.2 Processor

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M.E.N EXPO GUIDE BASSZONE Wolverhampton based company basszone had a really heavy demonstration Merc vito van loaded to the gills with 16 subs of 15 inch diameter with 78k watts of amplification. Company owner Al Moses had an excellent show he added I am one hundred percent sure about being here next year. Al was showing some new double 12 and four port boxes and was talking about one of his latest big boxes, an eight by 12 inch monster.

GUIDE Who’s coming to the premier trade-only show and what you can expect to see from them

There’s not long to go now until the 2012 M.E.N Expo, sponsored by Kenwood and Midbass, taking place over two days on the 13th and 14th March at Coventry’s Ricoh Arena. The line-up for this year looks set to be the biggest yet and with the addition of an educational workshop and conference programme, plus the VIP Aftershow Party, should make it an event not to miss. It’s the UK industry’s favourite place to launch new products and get feedback, plus a chance to attract new dealers. Attending could be one of the best moves you make for your business this year, and to whet your appetites, here’s a taster of what some the confirmed exhibitors will have on show... ANTENNE TECHNIK Antennentechnik AG is a German manufacturer of antennas and antenna systems for the automotive industry. At the MEN Expo our company will show a wide range of DAB antennas. We offer roof mount antennas for DAB+AM/FM or combined with GPS. Furthermore we will display internal and external glass mount antennas. These could be an option for changing over car radios to DAB, where roof mount antennas are not an option or you do not want to replace the original roof mount antenna. Also if you need a magnetic mount or fixed station antenna for DAB, please visit us at MEN EXPO. Contact: www.antenne-ag.de AUTOSOUND Autosound Mobile Solutions – Stand number 42 Autosound will be displaying the 2012 product range from German car audio manufacturer Blaupunkt along with a new updated range of retro classic car audio head units and accessories. Highlights include: Blaupunkt DAB in car products, Blaupunkt 2012 car audio head unit range including specific 24volt range, Blaupunkt high end Blue Magic speaker range, Blaupunkt new underseat subwoofers. A wide range of consumer electronics products will be on display from Blaupunkt including headphones, Bluetooth and world band radios. Autosound will also show fleet management and tracking solutions from Blaupunkt. Make 2012 a Blue year!! Contact: 01274 688990 www.blaupunktdirect.co.uk

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BURY BURY Technologies will be showcasing their new CP 1000 CarPhone. The CP 1000 was specifically developed to support the haulage / fleet operater where a fixed in-vehicle phone is required. BURY will also be demonstrating their award winning CC9060 and CC9060 Music kits featuring its advanced DialoguePlus system. To compliment BURY’s system 8 range, they will be displaying its newly designed Universal Bluetooth cradle and interchangeable charging leads. The cradle, designed with Smartphones in mind, supports a wide range of devices and can be rotated 180 degress allowing smartphones to be displayed in either portrait or landscape modes. Contact: 01489 881118 or www.bury.uk.com Car Audio & Security, Car Audio Security will be showcasing the latest range of products from JBL and Infinity, including the NEW 2012 Range of JBL GTO Amps. All our Harman Demo cars will be on show and we will also be unveiling our new cars for the 2012 season! Plenty of show offers on all the other brands we distribute, including Kenwood, Alpine, Pioneer, Boss Audio, Vibe, Sony etc. Contact: 020 85969 1543 www.caraudiosecurity.com CAR COMMUNICATIONS We are proud to announce for the first time Car Communications will be showcasing their products at the MEN Expo. Car Communications are an OEM retrofit specialist. They are official distributors for FISCON, ViseeO and recently Volkswagen Audi group original accessories have joined the portfolio of products. For more information call our trade sales hotline on 01254 694537 sales@carcommunications.co.uk CSS AFTERMARKET Welcome to the world of Parksafe a company that has only one passion, to satisfy the Customer requirements, Expo 2012, will allow us to demonstrate our flourishing range of products to all industries. We welcome New, Old and existing customers who want to increase their Margin, visit us on Stand number 100 - PARKSAFE UK. We will be presenting our extended range existing 12 / 24 Volt Parking solution products, 2/4 all in one Universal Parking sensor kit (Front & Rear), Monitors and Cameras alongside our New Introduction of Technology. Being part CSS Aftermarket has allowed us to offer you the customer a One Stop shop when purchasing Parking Solutions, We will be showing our exclusive range of Workshop consumables and Textiles. Pick up our new Product guide. To take advantage of our Show offers - Visit Stand 100. Contact: www.Park-safe.co.uk – www.CSSAftermarket.co.uk Head Office: 01773 746591 Fax: 01773 743251 Email: sales@cssaftermarket.co.uk CELSUS UK At this years Expo Celsus will be promoting headline products from their extensive accessory and audio hardware ranges, introducing some exciting new concepts for 2012 and working with retailers to grow and develop business. Celsus will be keenly promoting their offering for digital radio solutions including the fully integrated solution MediaDAB, the Caliber aftermarket head unit and wide range of antennas. Alongside this; Celsus will have key products from the prestigious JL Audio and Phoenix Gold audio line-ups complimented by the latest interfaces from Paser and market leading Dynamat sound damping brand. Think Celsus First and visit the Celsus stand. Contact: Celsus sales team, 01202 664390 or celsusice.co.uk CKO CKO will be focusing heavily on the digital age with their hideaway DAB & DVBT tuners, with the escalating demand for digital radio and with the imminent final switch over to digital TV, CKO are well placed to help you take advantage of the opportunities. They will also be focusing on their massive new and improved range of Family Rear Seat Entertainment Systems as well as introducing a brand new “all singing & dancing” parking sensor product. To complete their line up of products there will be a chance to see their popular range of things to warm and light up your winter days with heated seat panels, rear view systems and HID lights. Contact: C-KO International, 0208 8638333 or c-ko.co.uk

|2012 CONRAD ANDERSON We are a Midlands based importer and main dealer for a wide range of products for the vehicle retro-fit and OEM market. Our main product areas are Cruise Controls and speed limiters, Reversing Camera’s and Radar, Multimedia and internet systems, Roof mounted air-conditioning units, In vehicle fridges, drink cabinets and freezers, Autolocating satellite television systems, Autolocating satellite broadband internet systems Auxiliary power generators both 12v and 240v, Battery chargers, inverters, and power products, Established since 1997, we have developed a reputation for technical expertise, quality and great customer support. Our fitting service is used by our retail and trade customers. CONNECTS 2 Connects2 Ltd will be showcasing their normal range of innovative products that enable seamless integration of Aftermarket products into vehicles. Their CAN-Bus knowledge and technology ensure that they stay at the forefront of new developments and new products are constantly being released. All the latest products will be on show so that dealers can test them out first-hand. AutoDAB will be featured heavily on the stand so come along and see our latest new invention! The full team will be there as usual to answer your questions about products and do the deals! We look forward to welcoming customers old and new! Contact: 0845 2575588 www.connects2.com ELECTRONICS WORLDWIDE Visit the Electronics Worldwide stand to see our brand new range of Sniper Parking Sensors including models that are compatible with metal bumpers, tow bars and rear spare wheels as well as systems with wireless displays and a complete front and rear system. We will also have our comprehensive range of reversing cameras and accessories, in car multimedia, sat navs and of course the whole range of Sniper and Falcon alarms and accessories. We’ll have several special offers on for the show so come along and see what we do, have a chat and grab a bargain. Contact: 01928 759239 www.electronics-worldwide.com iO Innovation on board driving profitability...... Armour will be exhibiting its advanced music streaming hands free car kit promoted via its iO brand. The next generation of iO G2 product offers significant enhancements in functionality improving sound quality, driver safety and ease of use to name a few. Visit the stand to learn how dealers can benefit in developing a profitable relationship with iO. Contact: 01420 487110 www.armourauto.com IFITSTUFF Ifitstuff.com has an action packed schedule for the 2012 Expo! Following on from the success of 2010 we will be filming another edition of Ifitstuff TV and running the brilliant prepared mobile installer challenge. Ifitstuff will also be launching its’ SSSI (Safe, Secure and Sustainable Installations) standard and explaining how the Ifitstuff Network could help you i.e. to gain work for installers or provide your customers with a flexible quality installation service for national installation companies. We will also be showing our low cost advertising and website development services for independent retailers (Event sponsors required please email jeff@ifitstuff.com ). Contact: www.ifitstuff.com JVC JVC will be showing its entire range of CD Receivers / Digital Media Receivers / Multimedia / Navigation and Speakers for 2012. The brand new products include some unique, ground-breaking features including Bluetooth adapter and exciting i-Phone/i-Pod and Android applications as well as DAB/DAB+. Contact: 0208 450 3282 www.jvc.co.uk KENWOOD This year Kenwood will be the main sponsor of MEN Expo 2012 underlining our commitment to our Industry and in particular our dealer network. Our Sales and Technical teams will be on hand to present and answer questions on our exciting new 2012 range. Watch out for a breakthrough in DAB integration, and our new Android phone application. So come along and meet us at the show, and see for yourself the future of Car Electronics. Contact: 01923 816444 www.kenwood-electronics.co.uk LASERLINE S.p.A Laserline Safety & Security Systems Italy, manufacturers of Laserline parking systems, vehicle security and tyre pressure monitoring systems Laserline S.p.A. Limited, Exclusive UK distributor of Laserline Italy products,

supplying and supporting drive by wire cruise controls, speed limiters, Laserline vehicle security products, Trackstar stolen vehicle tracking systems, Heatshot heated washer fluid systems, heated seat kits, Laserline OE type parking systems, budget and midrange parking systems, installation accessories, full technical and sales support. Automotive Innovations Limited, Exclusive Distributor of Heatshot heated washer fluid systems, 12 and 24 volt systems available. Laserline 0845 2712891 www.laserlinespa.com LOCKS 4 VANS Locks 4vans will be showing their “ultimate” lock which is the only automotive locking product to be awarded “Gold” by Sold Secure which means it survived a 10 minute attack test. Thatcham Accredited Slamlocks and Deadlocks will also be exhibited. Contact: 01474 560077 www.locks4vans.co.uk MEDIA IN MOTION Media in Motion will be showcasing their 2012 range of interfaces at the MEN Expo.This will include our new range of AV interfaces for Japanese models, including Honda, Mitsubishi and Toyota models. It will also include the exciting new v.Logic range which enables you to connect up to 3 x AV inputs into your factory navigation system. The interface also has a dedicated iPod connection and inputs for a front and rear camera. Alongside these new products we will be exhibiting our existing range of high quality interfaces including the ever popular DVB-Logic range. Contact: 0121 311 9011 www.media-in-motion.co.uk METASYSTEM/VESTATEC Vestatec is showing the new Rosen 7900 headrest system and the 2012 Rockford Fosgate range. They will also be showing the complete Metasystem range of products and launching the new Meta Track product. It will also be displaying its car and motorcycle alarms, locking systems and immobilisers. Metasystem products are specified or approved by many of the world’s leading car manufacturers, and many of them have been approved by the motor insurance industry. Contact: Vestatec 0208 867 2340 www.vestatec.co.uk MIDBASS As the UK’s largest manufacturer and distributor of car audio equipment, Midbass will be exhibiting their entire 2012 VIBE, FLI, EDGE and FU product portfolio’s at the MEN Expo, with exclusive offers for both new and existing accounts at the show. Midbass will display their fleet of UK demo vehicles, all available for loan at store events and open days throughout 2012, and their dedicated UK support team will be on hand to offer advice and product training seminars for the duration of the show Midbass.com Tel: 0121 311 9090 PARROT Parrot will be showcasing their highly successful range of hands-free kits and ASTEROID headunit. New products displayed will include the MINIKIT+, New Apps on the ASTEROID and some NEW highlights following announcements made at CES. Contact: Parrot, 0844 472 2360 or parrot.com/uk STEELMATE More new products from Steelmate this year which includes our new Daytime running light range, and a high level brake light warning device, and a first for Steelmate a in car DVR video recording device. We will also be exhibiting a comprehensive range of TPMS products which will include our new commercial range which will be available for a six wheel installation right up to 22 wheels depending on your requirements. Steelmate will also be showing its Award winning parking sensor products which will include our wireless and camera kits. Also a first for Steelmate we are showing a 2 way LCD motorcycle alarm. We also have plenty of new things in the pipe line for the future of Steelmate Automotive and our customers. Contact: 01582 475677 or www.steel-mate.co.uk SmarTrack SmarTrack’s Stolen Vehicle Recovery Product is a Thatcham-accredited stolen vehicle tracker and asset location solution. The company’s reputation for delivering high quality vehicle tracking systems on time and on budget has led to a meteoric rise; unrivalled anywhere in the GPS Vehicle tracking industry. Come and see the members of the SmarTrack Team. They will be able to give advice and updates on all the latest products SmarTrack have to offer including the latest Thatcham Category 5 device. Contact: SmarTrack 0800 048 3552 or www.smartrack.eu

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INDUSTRY SHOW NEWS

|EXPO 2012

MEN EXPO 2012 SPONSORED BY

THE PERFECT MEETING AND INFORMATION POINT FOR THE INDUSTRY - CAN YOU AFFORD TO MISS IT?

Our tenth successful show coming to you at the Ricoh Arena on Tuesday 13 and Wednesday 14 March MEN EXPO 2012 in the Olympic Year will be an extra special celebration of the Show’s 10th successful year. Over 75 exhibitors are projected to be at the Show and those currently confirmed at the time of writing include Alpine, Armour Automotive, Autosound, Blaupunkt, Bury, CEL TRADE, Celsus, Chameleon, Connects2, Dension, Fusion, Kenwood, Metasystem, Midbass, Park Safe, Parrot, Rockford Fosgate, Scorpion, SmarTrack, plus many more currently signing.

HEADLINE SPONSOR

FREE CONFERENCE PROGRAMME

FREE AFTERSHOW PARTY

Digital Radio EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP There are questions about Digital Radio development that need to be answered which is why this workshop is a ‘must attend’ for all those wishing to profit from the DAB opportunity. Business planning will be helped as we get closer to knowing when the digital radio switchover will happen. Other questions such as the traffic info dilemma

THE EXHIBITION One of the Show’s catch-phrases has always been – “can you afford to miss it,” and for the 2012 event this will be more relevant than ever with the presence of ALL the important manufacturers, distributors and service providers in the industry. Apart from the special discounted deals that always come with the Show, many exhibitors will be demonstrating new products – Kenwood and Rockford have already stated that it will be the first chance to see some additions to their 2012 range. The 2012 conference programme will have extra seminars, extra speakers and even more practical information than before. More manufacturers will be offering information on key features and selling points. The popular digital radio seminars will be extended and more information about developments in this area will be revealed. Also planned are some talks by specialists who will introduce ‘thinking outside the box’ business opportunities for dealers wanting to enhance their established specialist platform.

REGISTER NOW TO BE INVOLVED IN… l THE EXHIBITION to see a full spectrum of products and services from over 70 exhibitors specialising in all aspects of mobile electronics including car audio, multimedia, security and navigation plus specialist diversification. l SHOW OFFERS to make it worth the visit with free products on a first come, first serve basis and some cracking discounted deals. l CONFERENCE PROGRAMME in 2012 to beat all previous programmes in its strength and depth including a comprehensive update on Digital Radio, practical OEM Integration and informative talks on closing a sale, marketing techniques and diversification of business. l NETWORKING – is essential not only to keep up with industry gossip but to discover new opportunities within the industry as you talk with manufacturer and distributor personnel. l VIP AFTERSHOW PARTY at the Lady G Casino for dealers and exhibitors, a FREE night of fun with your industry peers! There will also be an Olympic slant at the 2012 celebrations with champion gongs and games, plus a spot of karaoke!

FREE ENTRY TO THE TRADE! REGISTER ON-LINE TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ELECTRONIC EXHIBITION E-TICKET VISIT: WWW.MOBILEELECTRONICSNEWS.EU Ricoh Arena directions: Come off M6 at Junction 3 to the A444 signed for the Arena. Full address: 71 Phoenix Way, Foleshill, Coventry CV6 6GE. Website: www.ricoharena.com

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

will be discussed and, most important of all, the ‘Digital Tick’ plan for approved installers. Currently it is hoped that an approved installer digital radio ‘tick’ mark similar to the digital television campaign should be in full swing by the end of 2012 but it will be essential to be familiar with the infrastructure behind it. Subjects covered will also include a comprehensive guide to integrated digital tuners being talked through by specialist suppliers. There will also be representation from Government-backed Digital Radio UK discussing all aspects of the medium including digital tuner performance conformity.

CONFERENCE PROGRAMME A Meeting of Minds More education and training is promised for the 2012 Show. It will include talks from OEM integration specialists, top installers and expert guidance both practical and , as such a conference programme has been created to allow delegates to gather, enhance and develop their knowledge regarding primary subjects within the Mobile Electronics Industry. After the success of last year’s Digital Radio seminar, we will offer you the chance to learn about the advancements within this domain. To keep your business at the forefront and learn the best ways to promote, publicise and gain maximum exposure, we will be holding sales and marketing workshops, permitting visitors the chance to improve their skills and ability in this field, learning from the best in the market.

EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP RUNNING TUESDAY 13th & WEDNESDAY 14th MARCH l I nside track on DAB - Everything you should know about Digital Radio including the Approved Installer programme. EM Integration – Specialist presentation of new product discussing lO both marketing and installation. l S elling school – Making the most of every customer - sales and marketing techniques from the industry Gurus. iversification – Workshop and showroom space devoted to mobile lD electronics is so easily adaptable to other purposes. Experts on hand to help you maximise profit opportunities. l F uture Tech – New product intelligence covering car manufacturers and the aftermarket – futuristic products that you can sell including iPad dashboard technology Be sure to read future editions of Mobile Electronics News magazine, for further programme announcements! Plus product launches to be revealed!

THE GREAT BRITISH AFTERMARKET TRADE EVENT

10T ANNH MEN IVERSA EXPO RY

A N O LY M P I C E V E N T NOT TO BE MISSED! SPONSORED BY HEADLINE SPONSOR

FREE CONFERENCE PROGRAMME

FREE AFTERSHOW PARTY

VIP PARTY NOT TO BE MISSED! JOIN US FOR THE 2012 I.C.E CHAMPIONS AWARDS AN OLYMPIC SESSION! Getting into the spirit of London 2012, the Expo VIP Party will take on an Olympic theme. So join us for a night of free beer, food, DJ games and karaoke! As this will be taking place at one of the UK’s largest casinos, we will providing free gaming or, if you’re wanting to gamble, take advantage of the many casino tables on offer! To reserve a space please contact admin@creativemedialtd.co.uk or call 01268 754897

SEE US AT THE EXHIBITION

AND MANY MORE!

REGISTER ONLINE FOR YOUR FREE EXHIBITION TICKET V I S I T W W W. M O B I L E E L E C T R O N I C S N E W S. E U www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

PRODUCT REVIEW

ASSETS

The four latest hideaway tuners to provide a digital shot in the arm mainly to existing head units. Martyn Williams tries them all

ideaway digital tuners come in different flavours such as the Celsus MediaDAB and Connects2 AutoDAB designed to fully integrate with an OE head unit, in our case a Mondeo with a seven inch screen Blaupunkt unit. The PURE tuner tested will transmit sound through an OE head unit but has a tiny separate controller. Most basic of all, but definitely serving a market purpose, is the C-KO tuner which simply has audio and video out (the latter for the tuner display) plus a remote control. All are DAB+ capable.

Fitting any of these tuners will be no problem for professionals and it’s up to the installer to consider either a direct patch or use a harness. Lots of variables here as we all know, ranging from the age of the vehicle to its manufacturer – some being more friendly about aftermarket boxes than others.

Mondeo screen unit is a big lump!

Connects2 AutoDAB The Connects2 tuner is also a small plastic box designed

to integrate into OE systems using individual patch harnesses relevant to the vehicle - basically, a plug ‘n’

C-KO Hideaway Tuner A tuner with remote

play unit. It patches in to the OE

C2 tuner box has handy tie wrap lugs

aerial line using a universal cable plus plug adaptors

control and line-out only - ideal for

where necessary with

any head unit which either has a

a default frequency of

line-in or can be adapted for line-in

107.9MHz which is infinitely

operation. It can also be operated

adjustable to suit prevailing

using a speaker override circuit with

FM conditions. Interference

separate power.

is eliminated using an OE

We tested the C-KO unit in my car

aerial switch-off circuit

fitted with an aftermarket multimedia

while DAB is playing. Sound

head unit which meant we could wire

is transmitted through the

it for both sound and station list vision

FM tuner in the traditional manner and as well as a digital station

– one of the most obvious hook-ups for

display transmission using RDS data, there is additional information

this unit. For conventional head unit

available through Radio Text for vehicles offering this mode. The

installation C-KO has a comprehensive

unit’s software can be upgraded but uses C2’s own porting system

range of screens from small to large, including an interior mirror screen

and upgrading tools.

Connects2 tuner can deliver lots of info if the vehicle has a Radio Text head unit

for customers preferring not to have a dash-mounted display. The remote control is neat and easy to use and generate the storage of

Soon to be launched, C2 recommend a SRP of £187 and will include

up to 60 stations, displaying station name and station information on the

an easy-fit glass-mount aerial in the package. Future related products

screen in alphabetical order, six per channel on 10 bands. Stations can

will include a separate remote control for cars without steering wheel

be selected and stored and also manually selected stations with the up/

controls. We tested the AutoDAB with a conventional mag-mount DAB

down buttons. C-KO quite rightly recommend one of its conventional

aerial and found no sensitivity problems tuning into a known marginal

bolted roof-mounted DAB aerials for best reception. Our test antenna

station in the area and control and the display worked perfectly.

was a mag-mount which offered adequate reception. The remote

Connects2 0845 2575588 www.connects2.com

control functions worked perfectly. The TSP for this unit is £75. C-KO 020 8863 8333 www.c-ko.co.uk

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

|Hideaway Digital Tuners CELSUS MediaDAB MediaDAB has a lightweight plastic-housed hideaway enclosure that is designed to fully integrate with OE and

aftermarket head units and does not require a dashboardmounted display. It uses the latest technology to provide data and information on the head unit via RDS text transmission. One unit is designed to cater for

No display integration but controller is only 7x5cm and also shows USB stick and Apple device info with full control

all of the vehicles either based on CAN-Bus or Resistive technology and is supplied with a universal harness designed to adapt to an array of colour-coded CAN or Resistive wire colour codes. The connection colours are indicated in the installation manual and Celsus state that if the vehicle is not listed, then check with them as the vehicle application list is One tuner fits all with clever pressbutton programming of Resistive steering wheel controls

Although the Mondeo has Radio Text the Celsus only sends RDS information

growing daily. If the vehicle lacks

PURE Highway 300Di

steering controls then an optional

The 300Di is the latest hideaway

remote control is available.

tuner to hit the market and

Once installed, the MediaDAB

instead of using the OE display,

300Di tuner has a sleeved aerial socket – sleeve cut off to obtain a direct comparison with the test aerial used with all tuners

is self learning for CAN-Bus vehicles or

features a removable controller

can be programmed for Resistive steering

with a high-contrast OLED screen

controls. We found the instructions to be

measuring roughly 7x5cm. It has a

relatively easy to follow and MediaDAB

3.5mm audio jack input but more

was quickly installed and working in

interestingly it has full iPod/iPhone/iPad/USB control and charging. It’s

our Mondeo. The MediaDAB tuner then

also has three modes of DAB sound transmission – FM modulator, FM

becomes fully functional from the steering

broadcast and line-out.

wheel by responding to preset button-

It’s currently lined up to be sold in Halfords exclusively priced at £179.99

press sequences. These are clearly printed

until the end of March with free installation. Installation? No comment..

on an instruction sheet as a reminder for

Its integration mode is an aerial patch into the OE system to provide a

the user as he or she becomes familiar to

named FM preset ‘Highway’ to transmit sound on a default 87.6 MHz

the sequences. The process is helped by synthesised voice responses

frequency (adjustable). Here, FM interference is eliminated with an

which can all be switched off by user menu selection if they are not

aerial input switch-off. Its FM broadcast mode is also has an adjustable

required by the user. Most customers will be able to do this themselves

transmission frequency.

by following the instructions. The Pure package includes a seriously Adding to its flexibility, the MediaDAB has a USB port for upgrading.

technical-looking active through-

Current upgrades available include an app to enhance the working

the-glass stick-on antenna. It has

of interface basic functions including menu management and radio

a moulded flexible ground plane

tuning, plus a speech synthesis upgrade. These are available from

link with a magnetic contact to the

the Paser website as downloads for transfer to a FAT32-formatted USB

vehicle’s roof panel. A ground plane

stick. The program is loaded by simply toggling the menu into setup for

is what this type of aerial normally

either ‘system’ or ‘voice’ respectively. MediaDAB can hold up to four

lacks and, added to its technical

different language options within the standard interface.

tour de force is a unlocking key

The MediaDAB has conventional interfacing with the OE or

system for the complete removal

aftermarket head unit using an aerial patch adaptable to Fakra, DIN

of the external unit leaving only the

or ISO style. This allows the user menu and stations to be displayed

mounting plate.

via RDS with sound transmission via FM stereo modulation with eight

Package includes probably the best through-the-glass aerial in the world? Note the magnetic ground plane link and release tool to remove the whole unit leaving just the stick-on frame

selectable frequencies. FM station interference is eliminated by

Other clever bits include dual tuners

switching off the FM aerial input while digital radio is selected.

with one monitoring the station list,

We had no problems with sensitivity using the Celsus-recommended

and ‘Forecourt pause’ and ‘Picnic’

glass-mount aerial with its usefully compact dimensions and it

modes. The Forecourt mode will

performed exactly as it should according to the operating manual.

loop record for up to 12 minutes while the user is away from the car

TSP for the MediaDAB offered with a stick-on windscreen aerial is

and Picnic mode will play for an hour with the keys removed. Both are

between £349.99 to £399.99

subject to vehicle function.

Celsus 01202 664 390 www.celsusice.co.uk

The system functioned perfectly installed with the FM modulator patch and CAN-Bus power generator T-harness. Tuner sensitivity showed no signs of weakness. PURE 01923 260511 www.pure.com

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

2011/12 INDUSTRY REVIEW

That was the year that was What was your year like and what do you expect for 2012? MEN presents some points of view from luminaries throughout our industry…

Ifitstuff – Jeff Scott, Director “Many Ifitstuff members have been very quiet at times this year (the North suffering the most) while others have reported huge influxes of work although mostly sporadic and inconsistent. In 2012 there will be

This year, next year, it’s all about gaining business. In our market valued at over £200 million a year, getting a slice of the action is becoming crucially more important as it shrinks. Market share is something to be gained from competitors by out-performing them. Creating new business is capturing a customer who could have been attracted by another, but wasn’t.

Armour Automotive – Vijay Punj, Sales & Marketing Director

For some, annual success may not include overt selling of product

“Over the past year, Armour Automotive has been

as DRUK – Digital Radio UK, as Sam Bonham, Technical and Market

focussed on the implementation of an investment

Development Executive, reveals “2011 has been a great year for digital

programme to develop its business in growth market

radio in cars. The BBC confirmed its intention to build out national DAB

sectors has enabled Armour to deliver a solid set of

digital radio coverage to 97% by a target date of 2015. Looking forward

results in the last financial year. Armour’s great success at the recent MEN

to 2012 we see plenty of reasons to be optimistic for the industry which

awards, winning 13 awards including seven gold, has been a true reflection

includes the BBC launching its digital-only Olympics radio station.”

that their focused efforts and brand dedication was well recognised in

growth areas such as Insurance tracking and DAB radio installations so lets say the glass is half full!”

2011. The continued investment made in developing the OEM business

View from the Publisher’s desk Charlotte Body, Creative Media

DAB mania started in March at the EXPO and it’s been a year for fantastic new products and technology. Our market keeps moving and adapting which makes me believe that we are over the worst and brighter days are around the corner. We have seen massive support from distributors and manufacturers and they continue to see the importance of having a trade media platform in this industry.

has enabled this channel to deliver a record year. In addition to this the CTi business unit (specialising in the supply of innovative antenna solutions) also had an exceptional year. Last financial year the decision to reorganise our Retail division, together with the acquisition of the Dension and Sony distribution agreement, has also now given our Retail channel a strong platform to deliver growth. Finally I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers for their continued support and that we very much look forward to supporting the growth of their business next year.”

Mobile Electronic News has enjoyed a year of growth and with this year’s awards being acknowledged as our best yet. Likewise, this year’s MEN EXPO was one of our proudest moments in having fantastically positive feedback from visitors and exhibitors - it made the blood sweat and tears worth it! May I take this opportunity to wish all our readers and clients a prosperous 2012!

Midbass - Kate Venables, UK Sales Director “2011 has been a great year for Midbass with continued growth, a year-on-year sales increase and an expanding product range. Midbass see retailer support as one of the most important factors in

Mick Barber Managing Director of CSS Aftermarket – Parksafe UK

today’s market, and we’re proud to be able to offer UK retailers a

2011 has been a fantastic year for us. With the support of Charlotte

“2012 promises exciting times for Midbass, building on the momentum

and her team at MEN we have been able to inform our customers and

of this year we will continue our heavy investment in marketing support

demonstrate our product range offering readers maximum profit.

for our retailers, expanding our program of product diversification and

In 2011 we were also pleased to pick up a MEN Award for our Parksafe PS540

taking the VIBE brand to wider audience than ever before!”

parking sensor product. 2012 promises to be a good year and we will be showcasing our extended range of products at the Ricoh Arena in March

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

personal service through our dedicated UK based team.

|2012 Cobra UK - Andrew Smith, Managing Director “2011 started very positively but as the retail market has slowed down so the fleet and trade opportunities have grown for Cobra. Cobra has launched a range of new products and services in 2011 and the reaction to them all has been very positive. The flush mounted reversing sensors and web monitoring upgrade to CobraTrak have been well received and the launch of Global Live has proven to transporters of high value goods that a real time CCTV security system can help protect their vehicles and their loads without disruption to their normal business activities. “A move into the insurance-based telematics market has already created opportunities with some major companies at a time when the industry is talking about a long awaited reform of insurance risk and premiums. Insurers are looking to find a point of differentiation and to manage their risk and profitability more carefully and our telematics solution enables them to deliver both these requirements. “Our launch into the fleet and commercial vehicle sectors will stand us in good stead for 2012 where we believe the retail market will remain static in the first few months balanced out by the steady growth in the corporate, OEM and commercial vehicles sectors

Kenwood Car Electronics Division Adam Handley, General Manager “2011 has been a hard but successful year for Kenwood Electronics. We have continued to ensure the best possible support to our national dealer network, being recognised in part in winning the ‘Best

Clarion GB – Graham Case, General Manager

Technical Support Team’. However without the passion and support of

“This year has been nothing less than momentous for Clarion – aside

“On the product front, the Kenwood DNX9280BT won EISA’s coveted

from relocating to a newer and more purposeful premises, we have,

In-Car Navi-Media System 2011-2012 award. Whilst the Kenwood KDC-

notwithstanding the plight of the UK economy, managed to notably

DAB4551U picked-up a much-celebrated Gold for Best Digital Radio

grow our business. The market in which we operate today is of course

Product at the Mobile Electronics News Awards.

under huge pressure, consumer footfall isn’t fantastically high, so it

“Our show activity has seen us continue to put Kenwood products in front

is vital for our dealers to consider the consequences of underselling.

of over 100,000 people at The Gadget Show LIVE and engage with a wide

Easier said then done, true, but a few extra minutes setting their stall

range of demographics at both the TRAX Show and Top Gear Live shows.

out correctly and very seriously considering which brands will assist to

I believe that 2012 will see Digital Radio integrated into other product

deliver profit - not co-incidentally our motivation - can help secure

categories along with some very exciting new product developments.

a dealers’ future. Failing to adopt such an ethos presents a solemn

We will endeavour to build strongly on this success in 2012.”

our dealers we would not have been able to achieve this.

risk. As a manufacturer we’re creative...we design, procure raw components, produce (build), pack, ship from many plants around the globe - and ultimately sell product with aspirational and alluring

Vestatec - Steve Tookey, Sales and Brand manager

benefits, but if our stockists care to sell gold at copper prices, that in-

“2011 has been a tough year. The economic climate

built value will evaporate along with our joint consumers. The future

has remained very unsteady for all of us offering luxury

is largely in the hands of our independent stockists, and we’re as

goods that are not a necessary purchase. Consumers are

ready as ever to help them make it work.”

watching what they are spending and unfortunately our industry is quite a long way down the pecking order. “Sales

LASERLINE S.p.A, TIM KENT, Managing Director “2011 has been without a doubt a very challenging year for everyone but so have previous years, what makes good suppliers and customers stand out is innovation, attention to detail, quality of product, customer service and making sure everyone can make a profit long term. I think many people have a lot to look forward to in the future, let’s concentrate on everything that ‘s good about our industry for 2012 and beyond by being positive and looking forward not backwards.

are being made by dealers who are looking for something that makes good margin and does not draw them into a price battle. For that reason 2011 has proven to be very productive for Vestatec with its premium brands, Meta System vehicle security and reversing aids, plus the recent addition of Rockford Fosgate and Lightning Audio. With a high number of retailers around the UK giving us the chance we are proving that not only do we have a strong portfolio but our service is also extremely professional. 2012 will see Vestatec Distribution go from strength to strength by becoming a major supplier to the automotive aftermarket.”

Parrot - Asif Gillani, Sales Director “Parrot has seen some great developments and achievements in 2011. We recruited Clare Johnson as Business Development Manager for the Independent Channel and we’ve opened our channels of distribution between the UK and Ireland, both providing the independent channel with greater opportunities. We also created a dedicated web link for our Certified Installers and used this in our largest ever advertising campaign in the UK, on the rear of Lorries. We also saw another great year at the MEN Awards receiving a Bronze and Gold in the same category and we look forward to a clean sweep in 2012. On the flip side, the market has been tough with consumers having less disposable income and therefore prioritising necessity purchases, leading to a decrease in consumer electronic sales. But we look forward to 2012 with a focused team from Parrot, with great products and continued enthusiasm from our dealers. Our dedicated web link for Certified Installers will continue to be used in 2012 as part of our aim to promote our CIP as a network of specialists in order to help them compete against the national retailers. We wish you a Prosperous New Year from all at Parrot.”

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

TRAINING

|2012

COGNITION RECOGNITION Over 70 installers last year have gained the recognition they deserve along with the benefits of a professional accreditation Jeff Marshall, the man behind the MESF - Mobile Electronics and Security Federation, explains…

by quick buck employers – and just as quickly discarded when the boom was over. Consumer confidence in the industry is put at risk by the use of this kind of ‘trained’ fitter; the coming digital radio switchover will be bigger than anything we have had before and will attract more quick buck employers and their ‘trained’ fitters than ever before.

Accreditation

hen I speak to industry colleagues about the Mobile Electronics and Security Federation, it’s not long before training gets into the conversation. I am pleased that the MESF is well known as the industry’s training provider even if just what and why is less appreciated. We look on training as part of the process that makes an expert installer, the process includes not only training but development, experience, and following on from that, the all-important accreditation

Training

The all important formal recognition the industry gives for combining training, development and experience. The MESF supplies the industry with the accreditation structure that allows and encourages an installer to progress through the expert ranks to its Master grade. Consumers, motor dealers, insurers and fleet operators have the comfort of knowing that an accredited installer has met the standards for training, development and experience set down by the industry’s trade body. Companies and their directors in particular will need proof that anyone working on vehicles used by their employees, drivers or passengers, is suitably qualified. The Duty of Care and Corporate Manslaughter laws are backed by severe financial penalties and custodial sentences for those found guilty if employees or others are injured or killed in work related incidents. Because of these laws, the police give road accidents in which

This provides the basic knowledge that is essential to every installer.

someone has died the same degree of investigation as murder enquiries.

Nobody is born an expert, everybody has to learn – even a new-born

Defence lawyers will use their skills to move blame away from their clients.

needs a slap on the backside to start breathing (life’s first training course).

An unqualified fitter of a device that is implicated in a road accident

A mobile electronics installer needs to have some knowledge of electricity and electronics; just as a plumber needs to know about water and a carpenter needs to know about wood – the fundamentals of

prosecution will have a very hard time in court under the questioning of a barrister. Installer accreditation will be vital for businesses looking to capitalise

their trades. Knowledge of electricity and electronics can be gained

on the unprecedented amount of trade work the digital radio

at school, at work from an employer, at college as part of an NVQ or

switchover will deliver.

apprenticeship or from the MESF’s Basic Installation qualification course.

For the professional installer, the MESF provides training in electrical

To earn accreditation, documented evidence is needed of training

and electronic knowledge for installers who do not have a prior relevant

achievement.

qualification. Development advice with further training. Accreditation at

Development The on-going process of learning about the job; learning more about advanced and new electronics, products, tools and techniques. This helps an installer become an expert. This development can be done by reading articles in magazines and on the web, taking part in training courses,

a series of levels based on training, development and experience. The professional installer provides: •C ommitment to being a professional installer in the industry through training and development • Experience in time and application that matches the training and development needed to gain accreditation.

attending seminars, exhibitions and trade shows. Product manufacturers and suppliers have a role to play in making development opportunities

The MESF is a not-for-profit organisation and

available. The MESF has Intermediate Installation courses in the major

keeps its training fees as low as possible, For

product groups. To earn accreditation, documented evidence is needed

2012 there will not be any price increases for

of development activity. Development is the mark of a professional installer.

Experience Something that is gained by doing the job over an extended period of

a no-cost service to the industry. MESF Business Members have most of the course fees needed

time. For an expert it also requires variety in the work, variety in the type

for their employees to gain and maintain

of work (simple to complex) and the product (security, comms and audio

accreditation included with their membership.

for example). By including experience in the process, accreditation only

For more information contact the MESF –

goes to those with a long term commitment to the industry. In the past

Mobile Electronics and Security Federation,

when distinct product groups, such as car phones, security and fleet

PO Box 3750, Braintree, CM77 8ZE.

management, went through periods of high demand unskilled fitters with no long term interest in the industry were quickly recruited and ‘trained’

courses and accreditation will continue to be

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

01376 561040 or email admin@mesf.org.uk

VISIT US AT

STAND 35

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

SECURITY PRODUCT UPDATE

|2012

NICKER KNOCKERS Nicking things is still a popular game and the targets are constantly changing which means products to knock the nickers are continuously being developed. Arthur Deebie takes a stroll through the security product jungle

hile car alarms are not selling at fever pitch, there

l COBRA’S NEW WIRELESS ALARMS

are some areas in the market that are showing

Cobra UK has launched a range of new high tech wireless alarms which

promise and one of them is the light commercial

will reduce fitting times and drive down security costs for new and used

and HGV market where serious sums can be involved and

cars and light commercials.

serious security can be required.

The 4600 series of alarms - which is currently going through the final

An illustration of some of the problems which can arise in the

approval process for Thatcham CAT 2-1 accreditation - employs

commercial vehicle area was given to me by a colleague in the

technology which links the alarm’s central unit and the siren via a wireless

trucking business who bought three new Isuzu vans equipped with

connection. A major benefit of wireless technology is that fitting times are

DPD (Diesel Particulate Diffuser) catalytic converters. They were

reduced by around half an hour. A secondary benefit is that the alarm

delivered to his yard on a Friday and when drivers turned up on

installation doesn’t interfere with the integrity of the vehicle as no holes

Monday, two of the three cats had already been nicked – value

are drilled in the vehicle’s bulkhead. The 4600 series is available with or

new? £5000 each. Although they sell well as scrap, good condition

without remote control arming/disarming and standard features include

used items make their way onto the market – I wonder where they

a built-in immobiliser, passive arming, perimetric protection of the boot,

come from?

doors and bonnet, built-in ultrasonics and an anti-hijack facility.

Another market area ripe for exploitation are the tracking

The 4600 range can be sourced through Cobra’s nationwide dealer

products with extended battery life able to function on

network and comes with a three year warranty as standard.

isolated items of value from horse trailers to large portable

Talking about Cobra’s approach to the market, Managing Director Andrew

generators, in fact anything that costs quite a lot to replace

Smith said: “Cobra is constantly working on security initiatives that provide

and tends to be isolated. A well-known manufacturer of

added value to our dealer network and their customers. The 4600 series

this type of product is Tracker and a well-known distributor

provides all the benefits of a modern alarm and immobiliser system with

specialising in supply is CEL TRADE.

reduced fitting times. In this current economic climate reducing fitting times

Tim Kent, Managing Director of Laserline in the UK, said: “The emergence of 24 volt security is really gathering pace and one of

and therefore costs have got to be a win win situation for all concerned.” Cobra UK 01932 772400 www.cobravehiclesecurity.co.uk

our projects going into 2012 is building on our cab alarm offer for trucks. We’ve got cab alarm system available along with extra 24

volt sirens if required, the main control unit can be mounted in the

l Directed SmartStart

cab area as an internal battery back up siren, the vehicle horn can

The future of remote starting is nearly here

be pulsed or extra sirens can be added to provide external noise.

with the impending launch of the Directed

Additional wired heavy duty door contacts or Laserline wireless

Electronics SmartStart. As well as remote

door contacts or wireless PIR sensors can added to any of our 12 or

starting, the app functions include lock/

24 volt alarm systems. “Another growth market is the protection of

arm, unlock/disarm, boot release, panic

catalytic converters with a theft alarm. Converter theft is massive

or car finder. The system is compatible with

at the moment. There is platinum and gold inside these converters,

most models of iPhone, Blackberry and

high scrap value and lots of them are really easy to get at, the Iveco

Android-based phones. Apart from being

Daily is a good example where thieves simply get under the cab

very cool, the system is ideal for doing away

and cut it off. In answer to this we developed a special closed-loop

with another clunky remote control on the

system that fixes around the cat, as soon as the loop is broken a

customer’s key ring, and generally has a

siren or pager can be triggered. Another good thing about the

better range for remote starting than many

commercial market is that if the vehicles are off the road they are

remote controls. The simple graphical interface

not earning money therefore owners will invest in good quality

gives the user control over more than one vehicle from the same app – an

vehicle products providing a practical solution to a real problem,

even greater saving on the complication of too many remote controls.

they are also willing to pay a good price for a proper solution.”

Armour Auto 01420 487110 www.armourauto.com

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Clifford’s SmartStart app on an iPhone

en T s o d R RY 1S e t n poi ANUA p a ec rom J t a t Vesbutor f ri dist

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Now distributed in the UK & Ireland by:

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SECURITY PRODUCT UPDATE

|2012

l Gismo GSX560 GSM Control Unit Billed as the ultimate security upgrade, the Directed Electronics Gismo has just been added to Armour Automotive’s massive list of security products. It’s a GSM control unit powered by a Sony Ericsson phone module with SIM card slot combining GSM technology with security to allow the user to control and monitor their vehicle from anywhere in the world. The GSX560 can be added to any security system to enhance features and trade prices start from a very reasonable £115 to buy into this sort of technology. Armour Auto 01420 487110 www.armourauto.com

l NEW LASERLINE ADR

l Navman Fleet Tracking Expansion

Laserline has and is releasing several new products including the launch of an ADR - Automatic Driver Recognition system model number LA180 with a small cigarette packet-sized module and a pair of neat little black or green plastic transponders designed to drop into a pocket or kept in a purse or wallet but kept separately from the ignition key. The transponders have ultra-long life batteries and work on the simple principle that if the module doesn’t see the longrange transponder when the vehicle is started it sends out a signal. It can be wired to a tracking or anti-hijack device. and other uses include sending a signal to a speed limiter so that the speed limiter remains on if it’s not deactivated with a signal from the ADR system. The Laserline transponders have a very useful manual ‘off’ button which would be especially useful if you are close to the vehicle but want the system to detect unauthorised movement of the vehicle – probably a good reason

Already boasting over 13,000 customers worldwide, Navman Wireless is looking to extend its customer base in the UK with it’s in-house designed and built fleet tracking system. Powered by OnlineAVL Technology its product range and enhancements are designed to maximise return on investment and can be customised to their customers specific business needs offering international coverage. Operating over dedicated communications lines supplied by telecoms giant Vodafone, Navman also claims the most secure hosting facility available. Navman Wireless 0845 521 1155 www.navmanwireless.co.uk

for keeping it close by in a pocket rather than a wallet or purse. It’s not limited to vehicle use either, the transponders could be handed only to authorised users of plant and machinery. The ADR system has a single unit trade price of £65.00 plus shipping and VAT. Laserline 0845 2712891 or 01925 851164 www.laserlinespa.com

l Xpresskit DB-ALL Claimed to be the most advanced CAN-Bus security interface module on the market, the DB-ALL installation module from Xpresskit allows installers to say ‘yes’ to many previously impossible/timely installs. The DB-ALL is an all-in-one door lock and override module that covers over 95% of cars on the road today. It will support legacy systems like VATS and PASSLOCK as well as support door locks and override on the most modern of cars like Toyota with push-start ignition system and Chrysler with electronic ignition. The DB-ALL offers the most advanced hardware architecture on the market according to Xpresskit. Firmware updates for the unit are regularly posted to the web to make it virtually future-proof. Trade prices range from £45. Armour Auto 01420 487110 www.armourauto.com

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CONTACT SCOrpiON: 01257 249 928 Or emAil iNfO@SCOrpiONAuTO.COm ViSiT Our NeW WeBSiTe WWW.SCOrpiONTrACk.COm

SCOrpiON TrACk mAriNe launched VISIT US AT

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contact uK authorised distriButor tMl on Tel: 01752 665 524

SCOrpiON TrACk mAriNe • Marine specific technology • 24 hour MoveMent alert • land and water protection Modes • location-on-deMand via sMartphone • last journey data logging

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REAR SEAT ENTERTAINMENT

|2012

BACK SEAT

FUN!

MEN takes a look at the latest rear seat entertainment options, an area that opens up an entirely new market to dealers

reating an entertaining environment for rear passengers may not be the priority for hardened audio enthusiasts, but for many families, the search to find something to keep kids amused in the back may be the only

reason they seek your shop out. Unlike front seat entertainment, that is often well taken care of by auto manufacturers, rear seat entertainment is rarely included in standard equipment… and is often an expensive option that buyers don’t see the merit in. The problem is, those car buyers may not know what, where or who to turn to in the aftermarket at a later date. A perfect example transpired just recently. A close friend was lucky enough to buy a four year old BMW M5, fully loaded with all that techno wizardry like the heads-up display, seats with side bolsters that punch you in the kidneys through corners and that stunning V10 engine. It is a dream car for him that ticked all the boxes he wanted aside from one… entertainment in the back for his two sons. Now, fifteen years ago he may have known who to turn and what to use to boost the sound system in his Nova, but for this problem it was a total mystery. When I explained the kinds of options he could go for and the sorts of costs involved he seemed impressed, and I don’t doubt that he’ll be spending a decent sum of money with a London dealer soon. Which brings to light some key points; both new and used cars are often devoid of rear seat entertainment yet it’s the only area of audio/visual upgrade that many potential customers would consider. However, they don’t know what’s available and they don’t always know where to go to get the job done, perhaps discounting large well-known chains if they are after a stylish, integrated set-up. So dealers could attract totally new customers like my friend through the right promotion and by offering the best solutions available, which the products in this guide will hopefully provide.

CLARION Clarion’s top offering is the VT1010E 10.2in roof-mounted, flip down LCD monitor. The generous LCD screen is the perfect size for rear passengers to sit back and be entertained, and the unit’s functionality makes that all the more possible. The slot-in CD/DVD player allows for use with all main DVD and CD formats, plays MP3, WMA, MPEG 1,2 and 3 as well as DivX files. The USB 2.0 port also allows for all of those last formats to be played via the digital method, plus there’s a memory card reader for SD/MMC playback. On top of that the unit comes with two direct AV inputs for further system building. For ease of use it offers IR remote control as well as IR wireless connection to the two included headphones, and for easiness on the eye there’s attractive blue button illumination and a built-in white LED dome light for added courtesy. VT1010E comes with a full installation kit which all in should make it a very attractive proposition to dealers. Contact: Clarion, 01793 859563 or clarion.co.uk

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BEAT BEAT comes to the rear seat party with their 7in TFT display portable DVD player, the PBT7DVD. This DVD player offers customers a USB port and SD/MMC/MS card reader and boasts a 270 degree swivel motion for the screen. All major file formats and disc types can be accommodated by the unit and thanks to touches like the built-in electronic anti-shock function the viewing pleasure should be undisturbed. The PBT7DVD comes complete with headrest mounting bracket for use in the car, a carry case and headphones, making for a good value solution to bored back seat passengers. Contact: Connects2, 0845 2575588, or connects2.com

Out Now! 14 The Hawthorn Centre, Elmgrove Road Harrow, HA1 2RF

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60+ Digital Radio Stations

DAB-ANT-PV004

DAB-ANT-4535.01

DAB-ANT-4424.01

Mag Mount Antenna DAB

Bee Sting Antenna AM/FM, DAB, GPS

Bee Sting Antenna AM/FM, DAB

£20

£57

£49

• Retain the look of the vehicle whilst adding DAB / DAB+ function • Universal fit into factory navigation unit with AV input • Can alternatively be used with existing head unit & separate AV screen • Full AV output via phono - gives the full high quality stereo digital sound that digital radio offers • Displays station list & station/track/programme information on screen together • Full function remote control with separate remote eye for easy channel selection • 2 Video outputs for front & rear screens • Aux AV input to add other devices (DVD changer/DVBT) or retain the existing AV input

C-KO-DAB2011

Trade only

£85

Prices are Nett and Exclude VAT www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu CKO International Limited - t. 0208 863 8333 f. 0208 863 0633 w. www.c-ko.co.uk

REAR SEAT ENTERTAINMENT

|2012

C-KO INTERNATIONAL C-KO International has plenty to offer in this market, claiming they have the largest range and choice of rear seat entertainment options available, all from stock. As well as their own CKO brand, they are also official UK distributers of Rosen and Eurologics Rear Seat Entertainment Systems. They can supply roof mounted monitors with built-in DVD players, replacement headrests with DVD players in each one, headrest monitors with separate hideaway DVD players or multi changers, and all of these can be supplemented with the addition of DAB and DVB-T tuners. Their most recent launch is the Rear Seat Entertainment Plug & Play Kit that comes with everything your customer will need. The kit includes control/switch box, DVD player with USB support, two monitors, two dual-channel IR headphones and all leads and connectors. It’s specifically designed to offer dealers a solution that is simple to install and time efficient, which can only be a good thing. The power is provided by the Plug & Play switch box, into which both the monitors and DVD player plug straight into. There are also two further AV inputs, which means additional items such as DAB, DVB-T or a games console can be hooked up. The other AV output even enables installers to send the DVD to another device such as a roof-mounted monitor or a head unit with LCD screen. Additionally, the monitors have a built-in remote eye for full function remote control and transmit the dual channel IR signal to the headphones. A less-comprehensive but equally cool solution for rear seats is their HUDVD-7005 universal headrests with 7in screens and built-in DVD. The pair can both play DVDs and games, come with one AV input and two AV outputs (including one on the front) and offer USB and SD support as well as an FM modulator. For ease of use they also use dual cannel IR transmitters for wireless headphones and come with zipped covers to keep them out of sight from prying eyes. These could be just the thing to link up to C-KO’s DVBT500 digital TV tuner, a box of tricks that can record TV and radio via USB, offers music, video and picture playback and is compatible with MP3, WAV, DivX, Xvid, MPEG4, AVI, JPG, BMF and GIF files. With high speed performance and intelligent Automatic Frequency Switch Technology (AFS), this system could be universally applied to virtually any vehicle. Contact: C-KO International, 020 8863 8333 or c-ko.co.uk

FUNTORO This is a bit more niche than the other products, but if you have a number of rear seats to take care of i.e multi-seat people carriers, minibuses, coaches etc, then it could be a useful option. Through 7in or 10in touch screen monitors, up to 54 passengers can enjoy the journey by watching TV or movies selected from a wide range, following the planned route of the journey, looking at pictures or listening to one of the thousands of songs independently on their own monitor. For 54 passengers, installers would need just one server, nine extension hubs and then six of the monitors connected to each of those hubs. The clever piece of kit also allows for advertisements to be shown or surveys to be conducted, which could be a useful bonus when pitching to commercial customers for dealers. Contact: Autosound, 01274 685411 or autosound.co.uk

INCARBITE Distributed exclusively by Connects2, inCarBite’s Virtual Entertainment Hub is the ideal solution for iPad and iPad2 users. It’s an area that will become of increasing importance as the youngsters of today grow up with the touchscreen operation of Apple products, so it’s worth getting on board now. This kit allows both generations of iPod to be fitted to headrests with a safety lock and mount tilt design for ultimate kid-friendly usage. The kit not only charges the iPad, but there’s also an IR transmitter for

IR headsets and an

FM transmitter to output sound to the car’s system. The additional bonus of this set-up is that the VEH can be removed easily and used as a table stand in the house, or even triple up as an iPad protective case. All in all, it’s a very smart solution and one that may set out the future of rear seat entertainment. Contact: Connects2, 0845 2575588 or connects2.com

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It’s a funny thing

Clarion NX501E touch-screen multimedia innovation, with built-in navigation, Bluetooth... and fun

:-)

There are leaders, and there are followers. And its not unit in the industry and the first active matrix display. Most recently, surprising those with imagination and drive are usually Clarion was the first to develop a nav system dedicated to electric vehicles. the ones who come up with the bright ideas. If you’re still wondering why you should be talking with Clarion, isn’t The funny thing is that having done it once, they keep on doing it again, and again, and again. Like Clarion, originators it time you didn’t just follow the leader, but joined us too? Talk to Clarion, of Japan’s first ever line-fit car radio in 1951, ditto the first car cassette and be a part of a team of 9,000 employees worldwide, developing, player, the first voice guidance navigation, the first double DIN head manufacturing and selling the best. It’s good to share.

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Clarion (GB) Ltd, Unit 5C, Interface Business Park, Bincknoll Lane, Wootton Bassett, Swindon, Wilts SN4 8QQ Tel: 01793 859560 E: amsales@clarion.co.uk www.clarion.co.uk33

REAR SEAT ENTERTAINMENT

|2012

iO With the rise in popularity of iPads, it makes sense that the big screen mobile entertainment devices should be accommodated in cars. That’s where iO’s new iPad Holder comes in, offering a safe, secure and slimline fixing plate for back seat passengers’ iPad use. The solution comes with a 180 degree multi-directional bracket and adjustable headrest fixing to allow it to fit to just about any car out there, and its lightweight design should enable it to be fixed with minimal fuss. To tie-in with the functionality of the iPad, the system uses a swivel mount, which means that both portrait and landscape viewing can be accommodated. The added advantage is the easily transferable nature of the kit so that it can simply be taken from car to home so that expensive items aren’t left in the car. For more information contact Armour Auto on the details below. Contact: Armour Auto 01420 487110 or armourauto.com

ROSEN The MEN Gold-winning Rosen AV7700 dual DVD in-car entertainment system gives rear passengers 100 per cent wireless integration. The kit comes complete with twin 7in LCD displays, two wireless headphones, wireless remote control, wireless game controller and 25 games. What’s unique is the system’s new universal seat back mounting which works in conjunction with manufacturers’ active headrests, ensuring safety is not compromised in the event of an accident. There’s the added bonus too that the system fits in with the style of the original manufacturer’s interior (the rear upholstered covers can be ordered in a number of different colours), with the seat back mounting system ripe for colour-coding to help sell to customers who may be worried about an ‘aftermarket’ appearance. Function-wise, the Rosen AV7700 allows users to play DVDs, listen to music in CD or MP3 format, play video games, view JPEG photo slide shows through the high quality, tilting 7in LCD screen or connect their iPod or other MP3 device. Each passenger benefits from their own separate entertainment system, or they can watch the same film on both screens, which is sure to keep kids quiet or adults entertained. The AV7700 is the fourth Rosen product offered by Cobra. It joins the Rosen AV7500 7in Seatback Dual-DVD System, including factory style replacement headrests with integral built-in screens, and the Rosen Z8 8.5in and Z10 10.2in Roof Mount DVD systems, which can be fitted to most cars. All of which offers dealers plenty of options to appeal to potential customers. Latest in the line up is the smart new Rosen AV7900TM which is due for release in March – more news soon on this product. Contact: Vestatec Distribution 0208 867 2347 www.vestatec.co.uk

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VEBA The comprehensive range of Veba in-car entertainment solutions covers multiple sizes in both headrest and roof mounted monitors, along with a range of DVD players in both ¾ DIN and ½ DIN sizes. The following are examples of the scope of their range, so dealers can get an idea of what’s on offer. The AV60M is a premium 6in headrest screen, which also allows for pedestal mounting. It comes with an IR transmitter and remote plus dual input, and has a suggested retail price tag of one penny under £100. For customers after a roof-mounted option then Veba’s AV102CM system is a good bet, using a healthy 10.2in screen. It allows those in the back to watch DVDs or play files from USB sticks or SD cards. There is both an AV input and output as well as an FM transmitter too, which covers virtually everything back seat passengers will need for a sub £350 SRP. The final two examples are the AV2705 ¾ DIN DVD player and the diminutive ½ DIN DVD player. The former caters for DVD, MPEG, DivX and USB or SD formats and comes with a stealth cover for discreet fitment, while the latter, more expensive option, offers the same functionality in an even smaller package. This is obviously just a small selection of Veba’s offerings and a sample of the variety of solutions they can offer to your customers. Contact: Armour Auto 01420 487110 or armourauto.com

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PRODUCT FOCUS

|2012

AUDIOVOX HEADREST MONITORS Audiovox has three star products in its headrest monitor range offering a complete stocking solution from entrylevel through to high quality premium units suitable for active headrests

udiovox’s entry level unit in the range is the OEM-style unit with an adjustable headrest pole diameter for a universal adjustability to fit most popular vehicles and features enclosed post wiring. The catchy model reference for this unit is AVXMTGHR1D, it’s a seven inch headrest monitor system with integral DVD and is switchable between 16:9 and 4:3 aspect ratios with an adjustable viewing angle. It has a host of useful features including AV inputs for additional source units, and as expected for a unit with a built-in player, it has AV line-out. It also has USB and SD slots for digital media and has independent switching. There is also a choice of popular colours - shale, pewter and black. Installation is further simplified with a built-in FM modulator, each head rest has its own remote control and the AV input is a 3.5mm to RCA adapter cable.

Invision is a highly respected name in the rear seat entertainment category to the OEMs and the aftermarket

INVISION SERIES

Invision is a highly respected name in the rear seat entertainment category to the OEMs and the aftermarket. The marque has combined innovative and award-winning rear seat enter-

SL7 Slim Line head rest

tainment products with a full service support network and offer one of the largest vehiclespecific lines. It also holds one of the industry’s largest trademark and patent portfolios. The SL series incorporates additional features over previous models such as an LED backlit screen. Covered USB and RCA inputs have been designed for a more modern appearance. They also feature an updated button layout to allow more intuitive operation. The SL7 Slim Line is a ‘FactoryMatch’ replacement headrest with a 7 inch (an 8 inch model is also available) adjustable LED backlit TFTLCD widescreen monitor. It has concealed media ports featuring USB and audio/ video connections and dual channel infrared wireless headphones.

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Invision’s SL Slim Line Active unit

AVXMTGHR1D 7 inch headrest monitor system Other useful features include a standard headphone jack, on-screen display menu functions, full function remote control, integrated wireless FM transmitter, backlit control buttons for basic functions and patented cables for quick installation. All headrests are built to OE manufacturing standards. The SL Active Restraint Series is, as its name implies, suitable for vehicles with active headrests and have 7 inch screens with DVD decks complete with RCA inputs and USB ports. The units have smaller overall dimensions than previous models and share with other SL Series models an LED backlit screen and covered USB and RCA inputs. The Active package consists of two ‘FactoryMatch’ companion SL units with an adjustable viewing lever to enhance viewing angle of monitor. They come with a pair of dual-channel infrared wireless headphones, standard headphone jack, on-screen display menu functions, full function remote control, integrated wireless FM transmitter, backlit control buttons for basic functions and common to the SL Series, patented cables for quick installation. To find out more about these products which are currently available for distribution, contact Ciaran Mitchell on 07775601360 or by email at ciaran.m@audiovoxincaarsystems. com The sales office can be contacted on 01483 722531

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AVIC-F930BT

IPX-FD1

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7” Touch Screen, CD/DVD/MP3/WMA, Bluetooth Ready, Sat Nav, iPod / iPhone Ready, SD Card Reader, 4 x 50W, USB Receiver

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£399

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PRODUCT REVIEW

|2012

KENWOOD DDX4028BT

An attractive and well-priced replacement for lots of double-DIN OE head units, Kenwood’s multimedia USB/DVD-receiver with Bluetooth features a six inch touch screen, Apple device interfacing and optional navigation. Martyn Williams gives it a whirl

inputting. Switching between NTSC and PAL sources is automatic.

Other screen features include the terribly modern slide touch response

inputting being top of the list. Apple devices plug straight into the

Connectivity

unit and work via the usual white lead but for video, direct control

There is no lack of hook-up and control features with the inclusion

is added with optional cable KCA-iP22F (for rear connection)

of front audio/video input/output and provision for a rear view

allowing iPod control by hand, iPod EQ mode, video browsing,

camera input. The audio functions are well catered for with

text display, jacket picture with Tag, random/repeat play and list

four Volt front/rear pre-outs with the rear pre-out switchable

access.

to subwoofer output. Added to this, the subwoofer output has

ith a typical selling price of around £300, the 4028 offers

plus a scroll display with a DVD disc menu direct touch operation and a

an awful lot head unit to the potential customer with

demonstration mode.

all the right incentives for upgrading with iPod/Phone

frequency, level and phase control along with the usual stuff Being able to use the phone with a Bluetooth link including streaming

but with the addition of a mid frequency tone control. It also

is another feature that will probably not be available on older OEMs. Other useful items include upgrade-ability to touch screen sat nav using its RGB terminal for the optional Kenwood navigation module KNAG620T. Other specification highlights include a maximum power figure of 50 Watts into four channels (MOSFET Power IC).

Clever screen For its price, the LED touch screen with VGA graphics, is excellent and

Kenwood’s System Q and System E’s offers enormous flexibility

responsive and the panel and button lighting is usefully separate. One of my favourite features on the unit is its ability to play WAV files which are CD-formatted files which can be literally dragged and dropped

has Kenwood’s excellent System Q and System E’s which offers

onto your typical data CDR to be played as a normal audio CD. With

enormous flexibility of sound tailoring.

memory being so cheap and unleashed now, I keep my entire CD collection on computer which can be played on any WAV-compatible

The disc player deck could hardly be more flexible in its acceptance

player with an appropriately configured USB port designed to handle

of formats from DVD video, DVD±R/RW, VCD and CD-R/CD-RW/CD

the current requirements of a portable HDD. For serious listeners, it blows

Text playback. It will handle MPEG1 & 2 video files and DivX replay.

iTunes sonically into the weeds.

JPEG images can be displayed and zoomed when recorded onto DVDs. Playable file formats include WAV, AAC, WMA, MP3 decoder

The 4028 has a specification which, just a few year’s ago, would have

with ID-3 tag display.

added up to a unit costing easily twice as much. The interactive touch

panel control with full graphic user interface has all the adaptability

It has a useful specification for phone usage with a Short Message

required with the usual brightness, tint, colour and contrast controls plus

Service profile (SMS) plus A2DP and Audio/Video Remote Control

black and sharpness adjustments. The screen has a dimmer sensor, either

Profile (AVRCP). It’s supplied with a microphone and has voice control

manual or automatic and synchronisation for the Kenwood navigation

software built-in. Overall, a very comprehensive specification and

module. The dimmer has two levels and can also be switched off. Sources

renown Kenwood performance.

as a monitor include DVD, video, USB, Apple devices and composite AV

Contact: Kenwood 01923 816444 www.kenwood-electronics.co.uk

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STAND 39

“...have you seen our comprehensive range of in-car integration products?...” Universal Products FM Modulator and AUX Input Cradle Solutions for all vehicles

Gateway 100 Text Compatible CAN-Bus product for iPod & USB accessories

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INDUSTRY INTERVIEW

|2012

Mark DOWNING Managing Director, Scorpion Automotive Lancashire-born and proud of it, with a pilot’s licence and a love of fast motorbikes, Mark is first and foremost an engineer and not your usual MD stereotype. Martyn Williams stopped by for a chat..

ark’s career kicked off with BICC where he trained as an engineer designing tools for electronic connectors. After leaving BICC he took a position with a PLC as managing director of two companies - one making equipment for the bedding industry and another which manufactured diamond polishing machines. Looking back on these times Mark said: “It involved a lot of travelling to America and Russia – the latter spending time there in the upheaval of the 90s.” Along with all this experience Mark has a degree in Business Studies which included law, accountancy and human resource management, a career path which has been an excellent grounding for developing a group of brands starting in 1997 ranging from the acquisition of Scorpion in 2005 and further investments which included Toad, Sigma and Datatool, the motorcycle brand. Mark’s plans included stepping up of UK manufacture of products previously outsourced to China. Commenting on this change, he said: “We still source components all over the world but in terms of the manufacture, final assembly and testing, I like to do that here in the UK where we compete well on cost.”

“We are very keen to get the product into Audi, BMW, Mercedes, Jaguar and Land Rover, but we’re also strongly behind our specialist installers. We are always keen to take on board the comments from the marketplace, including the frustrations and what might improve the product – it’s essential that it ticks all the boxes.”

Away from work Mark is Lancashire born and bred just south of Preston and celebrates over 30 years of marriage to his wife Gill. They have two grown-up children, boy and girl.

“We bring the discipline of OE quality control to all our products, this is an area where no more than 50 parts per million defect is allowable.

Mark used to play squash for Lancashire and has played at Wembley when Lancashire met Yorkshire in the final of the inter county championships. His hobbies include flying, having gained his pilot’s licence about 15 years ago. He doesn’t own an aircraft, preferring to be in a syndicate, and flies mostly on business. “It’s a great timesaver,” Said Mark, “I have flown regularly to Eindhoven, Lyon and Dinar on North coast of France. Typically I can be in Dundee in 80 minutes from my local airfield, Newcastle in 39 minutes and Norwich in 65 minutes.”

“Product quality is only one part of the picture, the market has changed rapidly over the years, particularly in the development of GPS tracking, the latest being eCALL emergency and bCALL breakdown products. At the moment we are in talks with the AA about providing

Other petrolhead pursuits include riding his 1200 Suzuki bandit and a passion for Formula One. Mark’s F1 hero is Jenson Button, he said: “JB has a great personality and takes everything in good spirit with a mature approach. He’s safe but quick, and I’m really pleased to see him

One of the most notable developments is the company’s OEM business. Customers include Aston Martin, DAF and Leyland Trucks, Triumph Motorcycles and Subaru cars both coming to the UK and Australia. Mark commented:

a continuously-monitored emergency call system which is triggered by an occupant or automatically with sensors including airbag deployment. “Motorcycle tracking is another important area for us, and with the acquisition of Datatool in 2009, it helps us to cover all markets including HGV and our latest venture, marine.

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We bring OE quality control to all our products doing well. I like the science behind the sport, I think that if you can’t get into the technology, most people would find it boring.” Other interests include classical music and a love of Italian food, but Mark admits he is lucky enough, as a workaholic, to count business almost as a hobby. He said: “It’s great when you can enjoy what you do. I love travelling and work has enabled me to do that. I’m off to India this month, Expo in Deli – we have had some massive enquiries from India for product.” Finally, I asked Mark one of our regular questions - what are people most likely to hear you say at work? “Most mornings when I arrive at the office, the first thing I say is… Let’s make some money!”

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OPPORTUNITY KNOCKS

|2012

DEMO CAR NOT DEAD The Bishton brothers’ road to market will have more wheels on it for 2012 after discovering the art of customer motivation. Arthur Deebie explains…

We have always tried to develop new ways to convey our main marketing message, as we believe that repeat messaging is a good way to build word-of-mouth reputations. As a growing business, we have begun to be able to think a little bigger and this year, became a FOUR MASTER and got involved in what the guys at FOUR do at shows. John and Gareth Bishton

This activity turned out to be quite a revelation as without the usual distractions that exist when speaking with customers in the shop, we

ave you resolved to change your business in anyway or kick off the new trading year with an offer or fresh marketing initiative or, will you simply plod on as you did last year? Maybe you are part way through your own revolution and Christmas simply got in the way. Whatever your plan, it is generally felt that a new year should mark a renewal of your resolve to grow your business regardless of economic conditions.

were able to have in-depth dialogue with loads of people we wouldn’t normally see. We took a fairly modest looking demo car containing an Audison system to GTi International but even that was extremely popular amongst a surprisingly knowledgeable and enthusiastic audience. As a result of this experience, a major part of our 2012 strategy will be built around a reworking of the existing demo car and the creation of a new one. The two cars will demonstrate everything that we do with one built as an SQ car but encompassing all other electronics products we are involved in. The other will be built to attract attention and will be used to demonstrate the techniques used for wrapping and tinting as well as showing off the quality of our work.

This month, I take a look at a dealer that has experienced a new outlook that has shaped its 2012 marketing emphasis. Engaged, as

Back at the shop, a demo car is a fantastic selling tool and every

we are, in an extremely mature yet still fairly niche business we should

customer, regardless of what they come in for, will get to sit in one of

continuously look for new and innovative ways to appeal to more car

our cars and be exposed to and demonstrated as many products and

drivers. Quite often, when analysing our activity, we discover that it is

services as we can offer in order to message what we can do”

important not to overlook tried and tested methods and add an extra twist where possible.

I am writing this in November 2011, and I am struck immediately by the energy and enthusiasm already shown by a dynamic, forward thinking

With this in mind, I came across 360 Auto Design in The Wirral. Owned by

specialist for 2012 and wish 360 Auto Design every success with this initiative.

brothers John and Gareth Bishton, the company has been in existence for over five years but only really found its feet three years ago when John

Contact: 360 Auto Design on: 0151 334 7401 or john@360audio.co.uk

and Gareth decided to add more product categories to widen overall appeal. John explained; “Although always passionate about audio, the business began as “Total Tinting” however, over the formative years it became clear (excuse the pun) that we needed to develop a more rounded business in order to draw more customers in. We rebranded as 360 Auto Design and encompassed vinyl wrapping as well as in car electronics including Bluetooth, reversing sensors and audio.

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So what are you doing? As always, I invite you to contact me by email: Arthur.deebie@gmail.com so I can share your hopes and aspirations with the rest of the industry – go on, give it a go!

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ADAM RAYNER

|2012

RAYNER RANTS Adam Rayner very briefly feels cool, until his son makes him feel dense again… You know, I adore doing what I do and I even like to think I am quite good at it. But every now and again, it is good to have your ego pricked and the hot air build up deflated. I think I’m so dead ‘tech’ and yet the toys and machines we love so much are only as much use as our awareness of them. And I have been guilty of deep techno-stupidity.

For I have a lovely 42 inch plasma Viera

their magnetic field, though strong, is also tiny)

Some of the more advanced out there are

TV courtesy of Panasonic and it has every

saved from packaging and a brilliant magnetic

all over Facebook and YouTube but it’s the

orifice stuffed up. HDMI and Scart, with an

ID badge used at the recent PURE DAB event in

breadth of the tech that you need to know

AVR, LaserDisc player, (yes, still!) CD, DVD,

Covent Garden. I cut out the stuck-on steel bar

about. Right now, although I’m deep in there

set-top box and even a VHS tape deck.

from its backing and stuck that to the telly. Then

on the iPlop front, I am yet to get up front and

Although the video has died and we don’t

I applied two tiny discs of Neodymium to the

personal with the Parrot Asteroid, so I will have

seem to care, despite all the tapes in the

two that were in the active bit of the ID badge

to get savvy to Android apps and getting them

house. And my lad has a Nintendo Wii. He is

– the part that goes inside your shirt to hold your

onto the deck.

an expert on the products and the games

badge. This assembly was stuck to the CRT TV

and wants to design game characters for

and the back of the shirt-gripper had yet more

And for sheer lurve, here’s a damn fine

a living. He has just got the latest Mario

superglue and the sensor bar went on the top

suggestion. Make a Wicked Stick. Get a

release and found that the old cathode ray

of the lot. Once the glue had set, son had a ‘Y’

Verbatim 8GB baked-bean size USB pellet

tube TV his Wii is hooked up to (a big sexy

lead AV feed and a magnetic quick-release

(very tiny and a good little clever accessory

Sony Trinitron we picked up for very little on

system to move the sensor bar from one TV to

to sell, as they are rare as hell in the ‘normal’

Gumtree from a family in Basingstoke) was

the next.

places you would buy memory – and MADE

artifacting something chronic on the screen

to fit into car USB ports) and load it RIGHT

– lots of dots of white and black like little

When he saw the image on the 42 inch plassy,

up with all sorts of stuff. Make it so you can

firework explosions. He asked really nicely

my lad was made up and for a brief moment,

delight the buyer in front of you with a slew

if he could possibly have the system on the

this teenager thought I was cool and I enjoyed

of tunes and clips. As long as you don’t

big TV, as the artifacting was so bad he’d

it. Then, he said, “Oooh look, iPlayer on the TV!”

charge to play the stuff, nor boot-rip and sell

rather wait until we were not watching to

As of course the Wii has this through its clever

the sticks with stuff on, you can just do the

play this one game.

WiFi. At that point the cool feeling went all

obvious and show off the USB functionality of

away and I realised we could have had iPlayer

things you have on sale. In Germany, I gather

on our main set for the last two years! Fail!

USB is a popular way to take feature films on

So, I figured hey, if I cannot fix up some cables and stuff for my lad, it’d be a sorry state of

long journeys for passengers. But if you can

affairs. So, I pulled out red/yellow/white RCA

So I felt a total tit. We had the parts and the

dazzle ‘em with what all that slew of formats

cables and ‘Y’ leads and various adaptors

know-how, we just didn’t use it. Like half the

on the box actually means in reality, you will

like double-ended female RCA joiners that I

features on a smartphone. But this cannot be

delight them.

call ‘Lesbians’ for childish reasons and figured

you, oh dealers in mobile electronics.

out how to triple-‘Y’ lead his AV feed to the

Because mostly, even they won’t have the

Viera’s one remaining hole – the AV3 input

I know I run scared in the face of trying to keep

on the front of the set, meant for camcorder

up with the change and even the ruddy rate

replay and camera use. At the same time, the

of change in all these lovely toys, but these

Anyone spare me some replacement ‘Y’ leads

Wii microphone and the doodah sensor bar,

days, you should know about how the screen

and Lesbian Adapters?

which normally sit on neat BluTack pads on the

on an iPhone feels, how to make a mobile WiFi

telly top are now fitted with tiny Neodymium

hotspot in a customer’s car and then to Tweet

magnets (that don’t interfere with the TV as

about how you did it.

www.mobileelectronicsnews.eu

gumption to try it all out….

Take care, now and avoid the old BOOMPH tinkle …

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VCE GUIDE

|INSTANT EXPERT

RANGE ROVER SPORT

Fitting Steelmate front parking sensors with can bus module Steelmate’s CAN-Bus speed dependent interface goes with their four sensor front unit which can also be used as two sensor system. It uses intelligent detection, compatible with front protrusions such as nudge bars and an automatic radio mute function. It has anti-false alert technology and a self-test function. Mount inner sensors 3cm from number plate plinth and 25mm high. Mount outer sensors 44cm from inners and 30mm high. Take a measure from the centre line for the outer sensors too as the no plate plinth wasn’t quite central on this one. Panel is double skinned but easy to get through. Open up the rear hole a bit so

that the sensors don’t get trapped. There is a cable running behind

the inner sensor location so be careful not to cut through. (1) Remove the fog light bezels to assist in getting the sensor cables

across the front of the car. Take cables to the offside and thread up through the fog light aperture and out and up behind the headlight. Cable tie sensor cables to fog light mount. (2) Run cables to offside bulkhead and use existing blank grommet for

entry into vehicle near brake master cylinder. (3&4) Can bus can be picked up at the OBD socket in the drivers foot

well. Can Hi Yell/white, Can Lo Yell/blue. Brake light switch is just here if you need a ignition and brake light feed. (5) Permanent live is on the red wire behind the nearside panel. (6) Junction box can be mounted behind the plastic panel by the

drivers right knee with a slight modification. Buzzer placed up here too. (7)

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DIRECTORY www.mobileelectronicsnews.co.uk For as little as £17 per month, you can list your company details here. For more information, contact 01268 754 897 or e-mail admin@creativemedialtd.co.uk

Aftermarket Vehicle Solutions Ltd Contact: Peter Hughes T: +44 (0)1255 434353 E: sales@avs-ltd.co.uk W: www.avs-ltd.co.uk Brands: Distributor of Speed Limiters, Cruise Control, Parking Sensors, Security Products, CAN interfaces and Carbon Fibre Heated Seat Kits to the Aftermarket and the OEM Industries.

Brands: Cobra offers a complete range of vehicle security, safety and electronic systems: CobraTrak stolen vehicle tracking systems, Cobra alarms and immobilisers, Cobra ParkMaster parking sensors, Rosen retro fit in-car DVD systems, NSV Bluetooth handsfree systems, E-Cruise aftermarket cruise control and speed limiters, and Coyote live speed camera alert systems.

Alpine Electronics of UK Ltd Contact: Keith Holness T: +44 (0) 2476 719623 E: keith.holness@alpine-electronics.co.uk W: www.alpine-electronics.co.uk Brands: Alpine

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Kenwood Electronics UK Limited T: +44 (0) 1923 816444 E: enquiries@kenwood-electronics.co.uk W: www.kenwood-electronics.co.uk Brands: Kenwood

Locks4Vans Ltd Contact: Sales T: +44 (0) 1474 560077 F: +44 (0) 1474 561112 E: sales@locks4vans.co.uk W: www.locks4vans.co.uk Brands: L4V, Diablock, Bodyguard, Containerlock, Deadlocks, Slamlocks, Defender

Navigon AG Contact - Anthony Mills T: 07971 526616 F: +49 40 370 88 480 E: Anthony.mills@navigon.com W: www.navigon.com Navman Contact: Andrew Marsden T: 01162 449846 E: sales@celtrade.com W: www.celtrade.com Brands: Navman

Dashmount Contact: Steve Taylor T: 01883741460 E: sales@dashmount.co.uk W: www.dashmount Brands: Dashmount, Bury, Nokia, Parrot, Adapt, Brodit, Autoleads, Elan, Kram, Park Control, Steelmate. DMC Business Machines PLC Contact – Steve McLean T: 0844 736 1144 E: steve.mclean@dmcplc.co.uk W: www.dmcplc.co.uk/auto Brands: Handsfree Car Kits – Nokia, THB Bury, Parrot, Motorola Parking Sensors – Steelmate, Veba Reverse Camera Kits – Veba GPS Camera Detection – Novus, Event Recording Systems – Novus Vehicle Lighting – Haztec, Ring Installation Accessories – Autoleads, Hirschmann, Bloomice, Wallen & More!

Canm8 Ltd Contact: Colin Palmer T: 08452266283 E: SALES@CANM8.COM Brands: Canm8 range of can bus interfaces can bus custom design

In Car Technologies Contact: Steve Patient T: 01392 829435 E: sales@incartec.co.uk W: www.incartec.co.uk

Panorama Antennas Ltd Contact: John Thomson T: +44 (0) 20 8877 4444 E: sales@panorama-antennas.com W: www.panorama-antennas.com Brands: Manufacturer of antennas for DAB, Mobile Radio, Tetra, 3G Broadband and other wireless technologies. Parksafe UK Contact: Mick Barber T: 01773 746 591 F: 01773 743 251 E: Sales@Park-safe.co.uk w: www.Park-safe.co.uk Brands: Parking and Rear View camera systems Parrot UK Limited T: 0844 472 2360 E: sales.uk@parrot.com W: www.parrot.com Brands: Parrot

Radio World Contact: Dale Johnson T: 01924 401756 E: sales@radioworld-online.co.uk W: www.rw-online.co.uk Brands: Accessories importers

Sailes Marketing Ltd Contact: Matthew Sailes T: +44 (0) 1386 554210 E: info@sailesmarketing.com W: www.sailesmarketing.com Brands: Manufacturer and Distributor of CAN Bus interfaces, Electronic Interfaces, Parking Sensors, Speed Pulse Generators & Installation tools. Scorpion Automotive Ltd Contact: Dianne or Philly T: 01257 249928 E: info@scorpionauto.com W: www.scorpionauto.com Brands: Scorpion Security, Toad Security, Sigma Security, Stirling Security, Scorpion Parking sensors, Scorpion Track Stolen vehicle and fleet management tracking Select Products Contact: Matt Hurst T: 01233 62 32 36 E: matt@selectproducts.co.uk W: www.selectproducts.co.uk Brands: Select Products, Inigma Steelmate Automotive (UK) Ltd Contact: Kevin Kay T: 01582 475677 E: sales@steel-mate.co.uk W: www.steel-mate.co.uk Brands: Steelmate Parking sensors, TPMS, HID

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