iPod Tip #17
How you play your iPod in your car depends on which iPod and what your car’s stereo has available as far as audio input options.

Here are the usual options for connecting an iPod to your car stereo:
FM Radio
FM modulators are available so you can play your iPod over your car FM radio. Basically you choose an unused station and your iPod with the help of this device will “broadcast” to your car stereo’s FM radio. If you live in a urban area with lots of FM stations and interference it is not the best solution. But for a quick and easy way to use your iPod in your car, it works. Especially if you car stereo has no other available easy inputs for audio.

Cassette Deck
If you car stereo has a cassette tape deck, getting a cassette tape adapter may be better than a FM radio modulator. GriffinTechnology now offers a “smart” cassette tape adapter with added features such as allowing you to control your iPod using the built in controls of your cassette player.

Direct Aux Input
If you are lucky to have a car stereo that has an aux audio input all you may need is a cable from Radio Shack and you can “pump” up the tunes. Usually, the aux input is a stereo mini jack, so a stereo mini to mini is all you will need. Unfortunately most car stereos do not come so equipped.

iPod Integration from Automaker
Many automakers are now offering iPod integration as an option (some might even be standard on luxury models). These solutions usually offer advanced control of your iPod’s volume, track change, etc. right from the steering wheel. For a list check here.

After-Market Solution
There are many After-Market solutions available to add iPod integration similar to what the auto-makers offer. One I paticularly like is from MP3YourCar.com as I have two of these, installed in a Honda Accord and a Toyota Sienna.

If you are looking for a way to mount your iPod, cell phone, Pocket PC, etc to your vehicles dash or console check out ProClipUSA. They offer several solutions, I use one for my iPod in my Toyota Sienna.

For a list of more solutions check here.

Types of iPods and Their Outputs
Dock Connector:
Newer 3rd to 5th generation iPods, all color iPods, iPod minis, and iPod nanos all have the multi-pin dock connectors at the bottom. The only iPod that DO NOT have a dock connector are the iPod shuffle and the older 1st and 2nd generation iPods.

Mini Stereo Connector:
All iPods have a stereo mini plug (headphone jack). This is the only audio out for the iPod shuffle and the older 1st and 2nd generation iPods.

Charging Options
12-volt lighter adapters are available for charging an iPod in the car. These lighter plugs connect to the dock connector, Firewire connector, or USB connector depending which iPod you have.

Rear Entertainment Systems
Cars and Vans with built-in video entertainment systems may easily give you the option of plugging in the new 5th generation iPod with video capabilities to watch videos and movies on the road. Many of these factory installed and “after-market” added systems have AV inputs that will allow you to connect your iPod and view content on the TV screens built into your vehicle. Some of these high-end vehicles even provide AC 115 volt power outlets which can extend your iPod charging options.

What you will need:
The iPod AV Cable ($19 from Apple) provides composite video and audio output for viewing photo slideshows with music on a TV. The iPod AV Cable is easy to throw in a bag for travel.

You may want to get either a 12 volt adapter or if your vehicle has AC 115 volt power you can use the Apple AC adapter for the iPod to keep your iPod running for long trips.

Some companies that make iPod accessories:
GriffinTechnology
Belkin
Other World Computing
Dr Bott

Visit your local Apple Store, Radio Shack, or web store to find the iPod accessories you need to integrate your iPod for cranking up the music on the road.

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