Part 2
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 antenna is connected at the base to a coax cable that plugs directly into the telematics communication interface module. The cable also provides a path for DC current for powering the antenna.
The OnStar(R) Call Center also has the capability of communicating with the vehicle during an OnStar(R) call to retrieve the latest GPS location and transmit it to the OnStar(R) Call Center. A history location of the last recorded position of the vehicle is stored in the module and marked as aged, for as long as the module power is not removed. Actual GPS location may take up to 10 minutes to register in the event of a loss of power.
Cellular and Navigation Signal Antenna Splitter
The navigation signal Splitter is a component for dividing the navigation signal antenna signal into two paths without any transmission loss. It has two RF-connectors, one signal fakra-connector and one double fakra connector. Port 1 is the input for connecting tot he navigation signal antenna, port 2 is the output for the car OnStar navigation system, port 3 is the output for the navigation radio. Port 1 and 2 are galvanically coupled internally using a matching network. The OnStar system supplies the navigation signal antenna with power via port 2. Connectivity is made between port 1 and 3 though and internal coupling element and low noise amplifier. The navigation radio provides the amplifier with power via port 3.
Bluetooth (R) (If Equipped)
Bluetooth (R) 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. Only vehicles with steering wheel controls will have Bluetooth (R) functionality. In order to utilize the vehicle's Bluetooth (R) system, a Bluetooth (R) equipped cellular phone is required.
The Bluetooth (R) antenna is a small fixed antenna connected directly to the telematics communication interface module and is used to send and receive signals from a Bluetooth (R) enabled cellular phone. The antenna utilizes no cabling and is not external to the vehicle. The available features and functions are determined by the software within the device being used and the telematics communication interface module. The operating range of the signal from the vehicle is approximately 30 feet. Note that the operating range is dependent upon the cellular phone being used and battery level of the phone.
With Bluetooth (R) technology customers can experience hands-free calling as their Bluetooth (R) capable cellular phones are wirelessly connected to the vehicle. It will allow customers to place and receive calls using the steering wheel controls and voice recognition. The vehicle audio system will allow you to listen to your call through the vehicle speakers and adjust volume through steering wheel or radio controls.
Not all Bluetooth (R) cellular phones are guaranteed to work with the vehicle's Bluetooth (R) system. Based on the cellular phone's service provider and the manufacturer's implementation of Bluetooth (R), not all phones support all available Bluetooth (R) functionality. Bluetooth (R) enabled cellular phones will be tested for vehicle compatibility and a feature compatibility list will be provided via the GM Bluetooth (R) website.
Bluetooth (R) Features Supported
The following is a list of features supported by the Bluetooth (R) system. Note that not all devices will support all of the listed functions.
* Automatic reconnection - highest priority phone will automatically be connected to vehicle when vehicle ignition is on
* Hands-free dialing- via digits, redial, name tags (phone number saved to a nametag via voice recognition)
* Answering a call
* Ending a call
* Mute a Call
* Rejecting a call - ignore an incoming call
* Call Waiting
* Three-way Calling - initiated from hands-free system
* Send Number During a Call - this is used when calling a menu-driven phone system
* Transfer a Call - transfer call from vehicle to cellular phone and visa versa
* Voice Pass-Thru - allow access to the voice recognition commands on the cellular phone
Pairing a Bluetooth (R) Cellular Phone to the Vehicle
In order to use hands-free calling, the cellular phone must be paired to the vehicle. Up to five devices can be paired to the vehicle at one time, but only one can be connected at any given time. To pair a phone, the customer must know how to operate the Bluetooth (R) functionality of their phone. The pairing process must only be done one time for each phone, unless that phone's information is deleted. For safety reasons, the pairing process is disabled while the vehicle is moving.
Once the Bluetooth (R) cellular phone has been paired with vehicle, it will automatically connect to the vehicle when the ignition is on and the device is on. When more than one paired phone is in the vehicle, the phone with the highest priority will be connected. If the cellular phone is in use while getting into the vehicle, the phone can be switched to hands-free mode with the press of a button. In addition, a call in progress can be transferred from the vehicle hands-free mode to the phone to continue the call as the customer exits the vehicle.
Back-up Battery (If Equipped)
Note: Do not disconnect the main vehicle battery or remove the telematics communication interface control module fuse with the ignition key in any position other than OFF. Disconnecting power to the telematics communication interface control module in any way while the ignition is ON or with retained accessory power activated may cause activation of the OnStar(R) Back-Up Battery. This action is per design as the back-up battery is designed to provide power to the telematics communication interface module so an emergency notification call can be made after a vehicle collision where the main battery is disabled. Once the Back-Up Battery is activated it will stay on until it has completely discharged. The back-up battery is not rechargeable and once activated the back-up battery must be replaced.
Certain OnStar(R) equipped vehicles may also be equipped with a back-up battery. The back-up battery is a non-rechargeable, lithium battery intended to provide an auxiliary power source for the telematics communication interface module in the event of a vehicle collision where power from the main vehicle battery is lost.
The back-up battery is intended to have a limited life span of approximately 4 years and is designed to maintain an open circuit voltage between 16V and 9V throughout this period. This allows the battery to power the basic functions of the telematics communication interface module for least one 200 second (5 minute) call at the end of the 4 year span, should a main vehicle battery loss collision occur.
The back-up battery is connected to the telematics communication interface module through the back-up battery positive voltage circuit and back-up battery ground circuit and is protected from a short circuit by means of an internal fuse. In the event the back-up battery positive voltage circuit is shorted to the back-up battery ground circuit or chassis ground, the fuse will open and render the back-up battery permanently inoperable. The status of the back-up battery and its associated wiring is monitored by the telematics communication interface module.
Audio System Interface
When the OnStar(R) requires audio output, a serial data message is sent to the audio system to mute all radio functions and transmit OnStar(R) originated audio. The OnStar(R) audio is transmitted to the vehicle audio system by a dedicated signal circuit and a low reference circuit.
The audio system will mute and an audible ring will be heard though the speakers if the vehicle receives a call with the radio ON.
On some vehicles, the HVAC blower speed may be reduced when the OnStar(R) system is active to aid in reducing interior noise. When the system is no longer active, the blower speed will return to its previous setting.