Multi-Information Display: Notes

The Multi-Information display (MID) is a part of the overall driver information system. It is also a part of the overall design objective to create a more simplified and tranquil interior. The MID is used on the E38, E39 and E53 models as standard equipment (instead of the optional On-Board Monitor Navigation).

The MID on the E38 is only used available until the 98 model year. Beginning with the 99 model year, the On Board Monitor Navigation system is standard equipment.

The MID allows the following design goals to be achieved:

• Overall reduction in buttons and controls
• More simplified operation
• Displays which are easier to understand
• More precise driver information
• Higher visibility of text
• High quality appearance

The MID incorporates the controls for the audio system, telephone and the on board computer. Since the same format is used to control each of these systems, operation is more convenient.

The MID does not perform any calculations. It is an input request/display unit using the bus network to communicate with IKE/Kombi and other systems.

There are two versions of the MID, one for use with "high version" clusters and one for use with "base clusters". Also the E38 MID differs slightly in design with the E39/E53.

The MID is designed with two displays:

• Main Display  - A 32 character display presentation for primary information.
• Menu Display  - 6 small displays for labeling function buttons.

For the purposes of this training module, the MID shown will be the E39/E53 version. The E38 MID is operated in a similar fashion and has the same controls. 

The MID also uses the following buttons and indicators:

• Menu Buttons  - The buttons are designed as rocker switches having a left and right side contact. The function of each button changes as the different systems are selected.
• Selector Buttons  - These are used to select the desired system such as Audio, Telephone and the Clock/BC functions.
• Search Button  - Will activate the search feature for the Radio, Tape and/or CD.
• Volume Control  - The volume control know provides two functions. As a pushbutton, the know is used to turn the audio system on or off. As a rotary knob, it is used to control audio system volume (also for telephone "hands free").
• LED's  - There are multiple status LED's which are as follows:
  • A red "fan" symbol indicates the status of parked car ventilation.
  • A set of three colored LED's to indicate phone status

Due to the increased size of the main display, information from more than one system can be displayed at the same time (i.e. radio station and time).