Buick Regal: Radio/Audio System Description and Operation (IOS/IOT/IOU)

The entertainment system on this vehicle may have several different configurations available to it. To determine the specific configuration of the vehicle, please see the Service Parts ID Label, and refer to RPO Code List.

Each item in the list below represents topics covered in detail below.

• Data Communications
• Remote Radio Receiver
• Speaker Operation
• Antenna System
• Radio Reception
• Auto Volume Control (If equipped)
• Microphones
• Bluetooth  (if equipped)
• WiFi
• Back Office Registration
• Applications (if equipped)
• Speech Recognition
• Navigation System Components and Features (if equipped)
• Valet Mode
• Teen Driver
• Theft Deterrent
• Audio Amplifier (If equipped)
• Infotainment Controls and Display
• Steering Wheel Controls (If equipped)
• SD Card Reader, USB and Auxiliary port
• OnStar Â
• Compass Data
• Media Disc Player

Data Communications

The infotainment system communicates with other devices on multiple serial data networks during operation.

Ethernet AVB

At the core of the infotainment system is the Radio Ethernet AVB (Audio Video Bridging) switch, which communicates directly to each contributing Infotainment module terminator. The Ethernet harness consists of twisted pair wires from point to point. Each module on the Ethernet infotainment system sends/receives data at 100 megabit per second (Mbps) to/from a specified port at the Radio. The Radio/Ethernet will also be used to program USB S/W update files to the modules connected to the Ethernet ports.

Local Interconnect Network (LIN)

The Local Interconnect Network (LIN) Bus is a single wire communication system. This bus is used to exchange information between a master control module and other smart devices which provide supporting functionality.

The Remote Radio Receiver, Information Display, Infotainment Controls and the Multifunction (tunnel) Controls all communicate on the LIN bus.

GMLAN

The Remote Radio Receiver will communicate with other modules and systems in the vehicle via GMLAN. Diagnostic Trouble Codes will be read on GMLAN to diagnose Ethernet, LIN and system faults. GMLAN will also be used for programming calibrations.

For additional information refer to Data Link Communications Description and Operation.

Remote Radio Receiver

Overview

The Radio is the Ethernet master. The radio also communicates with other components and systems within the vehicle via GMLAN and LIN. The remote radio receiver communicates with the info display module via the LIN bus for control information, touch communications and dimming level. Digital video data is sent to the display through a dedicated video cable.

The Radio receiver contains internal antennas for Bluetooth  and WiFi. The Radio must be mounted properly to obtain proper wireless signals and GPS position. The remote radio receiver is responsible for receiving all broadcast audio bands. Broadcast signals from AM, FM, XM and DAB bands are transmitted to the radio via the vehicle antenna systems. The remote radio receiver is also responsible for the following: Video for the infotainment display, Bluetooth Â, USB, memory card reader, and speech recognition functions.

The Radio has phone projection capabilities that can transmits information directly to the vehicle infotainment system through Bluetooth or a USB connection. Downloadable applications will be available based on distracted driver safety requirements.

Radio Power

The radio receives battery power and ground from the vehicle harness.

The radio does not use a discrete ignition feed circuit for power moding. The power mode master provides the system power mode to the radio via serial data messages. The power mode master determines the system power mode by processing power mode information from ignition switch inputs.

Serial data power modes supported by the radio are OFF, ACCESSORY, RUN, and CRANK REQUEST.

Radio Audio Outputs

When not equipped with an amplifier, the radio outputs all audio signals to the speakers via the vehicle wiring harness.

When equipped with an amplifier, the radio outputs all audio signals digitally over Ethernet.

Speaker Operation

Speakers turn electrical energy into mechanical energy to move air, using a permanent magnet and an electromagnet. The electromagnet is energized when the radio or amplifier (if equipped) delivers current to the voice coil on the speaker. The voice coil will form a north and south pole that will cause the voice coil and the speaker cone to move in relation to the permanent magnet. The current delivered to the speaker is rapidly changing alternating current (A/C). This causes the speaker cone to move in two directions producing sound.

Antenna System

Multi-Band Antenna

The multi-band antenna is located on the roof of the vehicle. This type of antenna may be used with the AM/FM radio, but is primarily for cellular, GPS signals, and XM, if the vehicle has these features. Keep this antenna clear of snow and ice for clear reception. If the vehicle has a sunroof, the performance of the system may be affected if the sunroof is open. Loading items onto the roof of the vehicle can interfere with the performance of the system, ensure the multi-band antenna is not obstructed.

Diversity Antenna

The diversity antenna system uses antennas applied as appliqu e s to the rear glass and two antenna amplifiers. The right antenna 1 receives both AM and FM signals, while the left antenna 2 may receive FM and DAB signals only. The antenna amplifier receives the signals from the glass antenna. Each antenna amplifier is connected to the radio by a coaxial cable.

The radio antenna amplifier is enabled when the radio is turned on. The radio provides battery voltage to the antenna amplifier using the center conductor of the antenna coaxial cable. When a 12 V signal is seen by the amplifier on the center conductor of the antenna coax, the received signals are amplified.

When the AM band is selected on the radio, the antenna 1 amplifier connects the AM antenna to the radio. When the FM band is selected, both antenna amplifiers provide FM signals to the radio. The radio switches between the two FM antennas, monitoring the signal strength and combines the signals to create one stronger signal.

Global Positioning System (GPS) Antenna

The global positioning system (GPS) antenna is part of the multi-band antenna located on the roof of the vehicle. The GPS antenna is used to collect the signals of the orbiting GPS satellites. Within the antenna is housed a low noise amplifier that allows for a more broad and precise reception of this data. The GPS antenna amplifier is powered through the coaxial cable.

The antenna is connected to the remote radio receiver through a signal splitter. The signal splitter is a component for dividing the navigation signal into two paths without any transmission loss. This allows the use of a single GPS antenna to provide a signal to both the remote radio receiver and the telematics communication interface module.

Radio Reception

AM/FM Radio Signal

The radio signal is sent from a broadcast station and is then received by an antenna. The strength of the signal received depends on the following:

• The power output (wattage) of the broadcasting station
• The location of the vehicle (or receiver) relative to the broadcast tower.
• Height of the broadcast antenna
• Height of the receiving antenna
• Obstacles between the tower and the receiver
• Atmospheric conditions
• What band (AM or FM) the station is broadcasting
• Type of antenna and the ground plane

Sirius XM (SXM) Digital Radio Receiver (If equipped)

A service fee is required in order to receive the XM service.

The XM satellite receiver is integrated into the radio. XM satellite radio provides digital radio reception.

The XM signal is broadcast from two satellites and, where necessary, terrestrial repeaters. The high power satellites allow the antenna to receive the XM signal even when foliage and other partial obstructions block the antennas view of the satellite. Terrestrial repeaters are used in dense urban areas.

These repeaters will receive the satellite signal and re-broadcast them at much higher power levels in order to ensure reception in areas with densely packed tall buildings. Even with repeaters the signal can be compromised resulting in loss of XM.

High Definition (HD) Radio (If equipped)

HD Radio delivers subscription free local broadcasting in a digital format which may include song title, artist name, album art, weather, traffic data, etc., on AM/FM bands. Up to four stations could be available on a single frequency for e.g. if radio station is 96.9 FM, the HD enabled radio would have additional broadcasts on 96.9 HD1, HD2, HD3 and HD4. The digital technology allows for clear reception quality and additional information.

Auto Volume Control (If equipped)

With auto volume control, the audio system will adjust automatically to make up for road and wind noise as you drive, by increasing the volume as vehicle speed increases. To use auto volume control, set the volume at the desired level, and then select either Off, Low, Medium-low, Medium, Medium-high or High.

Microphones

This system utilizes two hands free audio microphones, the primary microphone on the driver side and a secondary/reference microphone for the front passenger side. The primary microphone is connected directly to the Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. It is also connected by an analog pass-through circuit to the radio from the Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. The secondary microphone is connected directly to the radio.

The primary microphone is used for emergency and OnStar calls. During normal operating conditions it also provides Bluetooth calls and speech recognition to the radio. The secondary microphone is used as a reference for the primary microphone for passenger interference cancellation during speech recognition and also to enhance the driver side hands free calls. For MY18 and beyond the secondary microphone can also be used for front passenger hands free phone calls.

The front passenger secondary microphone can never be used for an OnStar call. An OnStar call requires the microphone to be directly connected to the Telematics Communication Interface Control Module. During an OnStar call the Telematics Communication Interface Control Module receives an audio signal from the primary microphone and sends the signal to the radio via the Ethernet connection.

The radio processes the OnStar call audio and sends it back to the Telematics Communication Interface Control Module via the Ethernet connection.

Bluetooth  (If equipped)

Bluetooth  wireless technology is a short-range communications technology intended to replace the cables connecting portable and/or fixed devices while maintaining high levels of security. The operating range of the signal is approximately 30 feet.

The available features and functions are determined by the type of device and the software within the devices being used. For a feature or function to operate, it must be supported in both devices.

The first connection between devices is established through a process called pairing. In order to pair two devices, a password (passkey) has to be exchanged between the two devices. One device will generate the password, the other device accepts the password to complete the process. Once the devices are paired, future connections between the devices will occur automatically when the devices are on and within range of each other.

The Bluetooth  hardware is internal to the Remote Radio Receiver and is combined with WiFi antenna. The Remote Radio Receiver supports streaming of data (music, voice, information) from cellular phones and other mobile devices that support those features. The Remote Radio Receiver is also capable of interfacing with cellular phones for hands-free features.

• The device must be paired to the system to use the available Bluetooth  feature(s). The pairing process must only be performed once for each device, unless that device's information is deleted.
• Up to five devices can be paired, but only one can be connected at any given time.
• Streaming Audio allows playing music from the mobile device wirelessly. Music stored on the mobile device can be viewed and controlled from the display.
• To stream audio from a mobile device, the device must be unlocked, and any additional applications should be closed.

Refer to the owners manual, supplements, and the device manufacturers information for pairing instructions.

WiFi

The WiFI hardware is internal to the Remote Radio Receiver and is combined with Bluetooth antenna.

WiFi expands the abilities of the vehicle as described below:

• Connect to home WiFi to update software
• When used with OnStar 4G LTE HotSpot service, it provides internet access to devices in the vehicle when connected to the HotSpot
• Enables in-vehicle networking between passengers' devices, like home WiFi network
• Allows remote access to external connected device application data for vehicle internet application use
• MY19>Enables Apple CarPlay and Android Auto without the use of a USB cable

Back Office Registration

The Radio must be registered with the GM Back Office in order to receive downloaded information such as approved applications, module software updates, weather and traffic information for current location.

The vehicle must have a Cellular or WiFi connection to complete the initial registration process. This process will verify the assembly plant factory feed data from the BCM, CGM and Radio serial numbers to the VIN and if the security checks are met, then the user must complete the registration process by entering email and required personal information. The registration status can be verified through the Radio "Setting - About selection.

When any of these secured ECU's are replaced, a new serial number will be recorded during the service calibration process and appended to the vehicles history data for uninterrupted back office connection.

If the Radio is replaced, the user can recover settings/applications by reregistering the email account.

During the initial registration process the user will enter an email/password. The user will then be sent a follow up verification email link to setup the account completely. If the complete account setup is not performed the password reset security questions will not be entered, which will prevent reregistering this email account in the future if the password is forgotten.

Applications (If equipped)

When the system is equipped with Bluetooth  or WiFI, the system is capable of using applications, commonly referred to as apps.

The term application refers to any piece of software that works on a system (hardware) that is being operated by it's own software. Applications are typically small software programs which uses the hardware to perform a specific task, as opposed to operating the entire system.

• For an application to be used, it must be installed on both the vehicle infotainment system and a compatible mobile device.
• The device must be connected to the system. this may be done wirelessly via Bluetooth Â, WiFi, or via the vehicle USB port. Refer to the device manufacturers information for the proper connection method.
• When the device is connected, the vehicle infotainment system is used to remotely access and control the application on the mobile device.
• The application must work correctly on the device to work with the vehicle infotainment system.
• The user may be required to log-in to the application on the mobile device before using the application from the vehicle controls.
• Using applications will use the device's data plan.
• The device must be unlocked, and any additional applications should be closed.

Refer to the owners manual and supplements for information on mobile devices, control, and operation.

Speech Recognition

The Speech Recognition feature is implemented only in a Mid/High System Radio- CSM module. There is no Speech Recognition in a Low System. Speech Recognition allows the user to command various features of the radio via voice commands. For addition information refer to the owners manual.

Navigation System Components and Features (if equipped)

The radio receiver provides full navigation functionality, if equipped. The Radio provides the following:

• Connection to the global positioning system (GPS) antenna, which provides the vehicle position information.
• Map data for navigation and map route guidance, stored on the SD card memory.
• Route guidance with verbal prompts to the operator.
• Traffic and weather information for display on the navigation system map (with active subscription, where available).
• Periodic Map updates can be performed by inserting an updated SD card, or over the air network in future model years MY18>

The On-board navigation feature uses an on-board navigation engine with an optimized map display that is calculated and rendered locally.

Route Guidance

The map will display the route to the selected destination. Voice prompts alert the operator of upcoming events (turns) and arrivals at the destination. The navigation system will automatically recalculate if the route is not followed. The remote radio receiver uses data received from the global positioning system (GPS) satellites, the vehicle speed signal, and serial data information to accurately display the current position of the vehicle.

Points of Interest

The map database provides point of interest information. Points of interests are locations that are frequently visited. Points of interest can be can be displayed on the map or set as a destination. The following are some of the available Points of interests:

• Gas Station
• Restaurant
• College
• Police Station

Valet Mode

Valet Mode is a customer enabled feature of the infotainment system, found in the settings menu, if equipped. The customer creates and inputs a four digit code using the infotainment controls. Confirming the code and selecting LOCK will lock the infotainment system, steering wheel controls and other vehicle features, dependent on vehicle equipment. The vehicle will remain in valet mode until the same four digit code is reentered.

In the event that the four digit code is forgotten, it can be sent via Bluetooth to the currently paired phone or the scan tool can be used to clear the Valet Mode Code.

Teen Driver

The teen driver feature puts the vehicle into a mode that can only be unlocked with a valid PIN. It allows various restrictive features for safer driving. Some of the features include Speed Limiter, Speed Warning, Register Key, Report Card, etc. For additional information refer to owners manual.

Theft Deterrent

The radio theft deterrent system is intended to disable or limit radio functionality if incorrect vehicle information is received by the radio. The radio disables functionality if the VIN information received by the radio does not match the VIN information that has been learned by the radio. The radio receives this information via serial data. A possible cause of incorrect VIN info could be the radio was originally installed in another vehicle.

The radio has the following theft operating modes as part of the theft deterrent system:

• Normal Mode: The radio has learned a correct VIN sequence and the VIN information received via serial data matches the learned VIN sequence. In this mode the radio has full functionality.
• No VIN Mode: The radio has not received or learned a correct VIN sequence. In this mode the radio has limited functionality.
• Theft Detected Mode: The radio has learned a correct VIN sequence and the VIN information received via serial data does NOT match the learned VIN sequence. In this mode the radio may be disabled or have limited functionality. The radio display will indicate that theft protection is active.

Audio Amplifier (If equipped)

Amplifier Interface

A fused battery voltage circuit provides the main amplifier power. The audio amplifier (when equipped) is a participant on the Ethernet bus. The audio amplifier receives audio signals and control information from the Radio. The Amplifier receives battery power and ground from the vehicle harness, and also communicates on GMLAN.

Amplifier Operation

The purpose of the amplifier is to increase the power of a voltage or current signal. The output signal of an amplifier may consist of the same frequencies as the input signal or it may consist of only a portion of the frequencies as in the case of a subwoofer or midrange speaker. The audio amplifier amplifies the signal and sends it to the appropriate speakers.

Each of the audio output channel circuits (+) and (-), at the audio amplifier have a DC bias voltage that is approximately one half of the battery voltage. When using a DMM, each of the audio output channel circuits will measure approximately 6.5V DC. The audio being played on the system is produced by a varying AC voltage that is centered around the DC bias voltage on the same circuit. The AC voltage is what causes the speaker cone to move and produce sound. Both the DC bias voltage and the AC voltage signals are needed for the audio system to properly produce sound.

The audio amplifier is also responsible for operation of active noise cancellation if equipped. Refer to Active Noise Cancellation Description and Operation for more information.

Infotainment Controls and Display

The infotainment display and controls are a separate component from the radio, combined into an assembly. The assembly contains the control knobs and buttons for all audio and HVAC functions and the information display. The assembly is supplied battery voltage and ground from the vehicle harness.

Control information, touch communications and dimming level for the display are communicated via a LIN serial data circuit to the Radio.

The remote radio receiver sends the display digital video data for on-screen display through a dedicated video cable.

The information display provides a feedback on the touch screen and certain controls.

The controls communicate via a LIN serial data circuit with the remote radio receiver. Messages communicated include the following:

• Wake-up/power state messages
• Diagnostic information
• Button presses/knob rotations
• Commands for the state of indicators
• Back-lighting dimming level

HVAC data for controls and status indicators is communicated between the HVAC controls and the HVAC control module with a separate LIN serial data circuit. HVAC status screen information from the HVAC control module is transmitted to the radio on the GMLAN serial data circuit.

Steering Wheel Controls (If equipped)

Some audio functions are available using the steering wheel controls. The steering wheel controls duplicate the function of the primary controls available on the radio.

For additional information on steering wheel controls, refer to Steering Wheel Controls Description and Operation.

USB Port, SD Card Reader and Auxiliary port (If equipped)

The infotainment system may contain an assembly that has either a USB port, Auxiliary port, and may even have an SD card reader located within the drivers reach. The assembly interfaces with a hub device, internal to the auxiliary jack, USB, and memory card receptacle assembly. The auxiliary jack, USB, and memory card receptacle assembly receives fused battery voltage and ground from the harness to power the internal hub device as well as providing additional amperage to power USB devices.

The internal hub device interfaces directly with the remote radio receiver via a standard USB cable. A Mini type USB connector is used to connect the cable at the USB port and at the remote radio receiver and at the auxiliary jack, USB, and memory card receptacle. Standard USB male to female connections are typically used for connecting USB cables together where an in-line connection is required. An inline cable connection is typically found between the console and I/P harness.

USB Port

The USB port allows connectivity to the infotainment system from portable media players or a USB storage device (memory stick/ flash drive). When a device is connected to the USB port, the device can be controlled from the radio controls.

Not all portable media player devices or file types are compatible. Connection to USB HUB devices is not supported.

Refer to the owner's manual for information on USB devices, control, and operation.

SD Card Reader

On Navigation vehicles the SD card will contain the Map information for the vehicle region. The Map data will be updated quarterly either by replacing the SD card or wireless updates via WiFi on MY18> vehicles Refer to the owners manual for information on the Navigation system.

Auxiliary Audio Input Jack

The infotainment system may have a 3.5mm (1/8 in.) auxiliary audio input jack located in the center console. The auxiliary audio input jack interfaces directly with the radio. When a portable audio playback device is connected to the auxiliary jack, an internal switch detects the connection and the radio will switch to AUX as the audio source. Audio signals from the device are sent to the radio from the auxiliary jack via USB.

• When a device is first connected to the 3.5mm (1/8 in.) input jack the infotainment system automatically switches to that device. If an auxiliary device has already been connected, press the AUX or CD/AUX button to select the device.
• Playback of an audio device that is connected to the 3.5mm jack can only be controlled using the controls on the device.
• The volume control on the device may need to be adjusted eo ensure sufficient playback volume through the infotainment system.

OnStar  (If equipped)

When OnStar is activated, a serial data message is sent to the radio that activates default audio settings.

The fade will be set to the front, Bass and Treble are set to the mid range, the outputs are mono, when the audio source is OnStar. OnStar takes priority over any other audio source.

For additional OnStar information, refer to OnStar Description and Operation.

Compass Data

With the Base Radio the Telematics Control module provides compass and GPS position information on the LS-GMLAN / Info-CAN bus when it is present.

In a Mid / High Radio System configuration without a Telematics Control Module and equipped with GPS, the radio shall provide the GPS and heading information on LS-GMLAN / Info-CAN as shown below.

An external Remote Compass Module (RCM) is required to transmit the heading and position information on LS-GMLAN / Info-CAN if either:

• The Base Radio is present in a system configuration with no Telematics control module.
• The radio variant without GPS is present in a system configuration with no Telematics control module.

Media Disc Player

The Remote Media Player feature sends information through a USB connection to the Rear Seat Infotainment and outputs digital audio/video to vehicle displays and to the Radio over the Ethernet bus.

The Rear Seat Infotainment system also has a USB hub with an auxiliary port for digital media file access.

The media disc player receives battery power and ground from the vehicle harness, and also communicates on GMLAN.

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