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Home >> Mercedes Benz >> 2020 >> S560e >> Repair and Diagnosis >> Electrical >> Body Electrical >> Electrical System - Body - 222 Chassis (2 Of 8) >> Basic Knowledge >> Audio Mode, Function - GF82.85-P-2030LF

Audio Mode, Function - GF82.85-P-2030LF

Model 217, 222 up to model year 2018 

G15301138Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ USA

Shown on model 222 

G15301139Courtesy of MERCEDES-BENZ USA

Shown on model 217 

Function requirements, audio mode, general 

General information on the audio mode 

The functions of the audio mode can be selected, activated and configured using the following controls on the Audio/COMAND control panel:

The signals are sent from the Audio/COMAND control panel over the telematics CAN to the COMAND controller unit.

The functions of the audio mode can be selected, activated and configured using the following controls of the left multifunction steering wheel button group:

The functions of the audio mode can be selected, activated and configured using the following controls of the right multifunction steering wheel button group:

The control signals of the left multifunction steering wheel button group and the right multifunction steering wheel button group are forwarded as follows:

Steering wheel electronics →

Steering LIN →

Steering column tube module control unit →

Chassis FlexRay →

Electronic ignition lock control unit →

User interface CAN →

Instrument cluster →

User interface CAN →

COMAND control unit

The functions of the audio mode can be operated with the voice control system. The voice commands are converted into electric signals by the hands-free system microphone and forwarded to the COMAND controller unit.

Using the telephone keypad (except code 448 (Touchpad)), the functions of the audio mode can be operated (e.g. selection of radio stations) depending on the context. The control signals of the telephone keypad are forwarded via the following route:

Telephone keypad LIN →

Audio/COMAND control panel →

Telematics CAN →

COMAND control unit

Using the touchpad (with code 448 (Touchpad)), the functions of the audio mode can be operated. The signals are transmitted by the touchpad via the telematics CAN to the COMAND controller unit.

IMPORTANT The signals from the touchpad are looped through in the Audio/COMAND control panel.

In vehicles with code 816 (Entertainment remote control) or code 867 (SPLITVIEW), the functions of the audio mode can be operated using the remote control. The headphones and remote control antenna receives the Kleer® radio signals from the remote control and forwards them to the COMAND controller unit.

In vehicles with code 864 (Rear Seat Entertainment System), the audio mode functions can also be operated using the Rear Seat Entertainment System. The COMAND controller unit receives the control signals over MOST from the Rear Seat Entertainment system controller unit.

In vehicles except code 810 (Sound system) and code 811 (Advanced sound system), the COMAND controller unit outputs the audio signals corresponding to the volume and tone settings over the vehicle's speaker system.

In vehicles with code 810 (Sound system) or code 811 (Advanced sound system), the audio signals and the volume and tone settings are forwarded over MOST to the sound system amplifier control unit, which then actuates the speaker system.

The audio mode consists of the following component functions:

Function sequence for volume and sound settings 

All volume and tone settings are performed using the COMAND controller unit. This is performed either by the user or automatically by the COMAND controller unit. The sound settings are shown on the Audio/COMAND display. The sound settings can be changed with the "Sound" menu and the system returned to the default settings via the system settings.

IMPORTANT In the AUX media source (through the AUX connection electrical connector), the "Standard" or "Boost effect" option is available in the "Volume" menu. The input level can be increased by selecting "Boost effect".

In vehicles with code 810 (Sound system) or code 811 (Advanced sound system), as well as the general sound settings (treble, bass and balance) the COMAND controller unit also has additional sound settings.

The volume and sound settings function is subdivided into the following subfunctions:

Function sequence for manual volume and sound settings 

Manually volume and tone settings can be selected as follows:

IMPORTANT The audio output via the speaker system is interrupted by actuating the mute function button in the right multifunction steering wheel button group.

Function sequence for speed-dependent volume control (SDV [GAL]) 

The volume is adapted to the noise situation in the vehicle interior with the help of the speed-dependent volume control. The noise level in the vehicle interior is determined via the vehicle speed, whereby the assignment depends on the respective body variant. The instrument cluster sends the vehicle speed over the user interface CAN to the COMAND controller unit. The COMAND controller unit increases or decreases the output level in accordance with this information.

In vehicles with code 810 (Sound system) or code 811 (Advanced sound system), the SDV [GAL] is optimized through the use of the hands-free system microphone. The signals from the hands-free system microphone are transferred via the following route:

COMAND controller unit →

MOST →

Sound system amplifier control unit

The sound system amplifier control unit evaluates the sound level for the signals, and adapts the volume of the audio signals to the interior or vehicle noise level.

Function sequence for radio operation (FM, AM, HD radio) 

The antennas receive signals for the frequency band FM (ultra-short wave) and AM (medium wave and short wave (SW) (not available in all national versions)). The following useful signals relevant for the radio reception are modulated onto these signals:

Vehicles with code 494 (USA version) are equipped for reception of HD radio. In HD radio, digital signals are sent over the radio frequencies along with the analog signals. This makes audio signals available in better reception quality, and additional information and services can also be received and used. These signals are processed by the HDTV tuner integrated into the COMAND controller unit.

Model 217.3 and model 222:

The FM-1 and FM-2 signals or the HD radio signals (with code 494 (USA version)) are received via the following route:

Rear window antenna →

FM, AM, CL [ZV], DAB and KEYLESS-GO antenna amplifier and FM 2 and DAB antenna amplifier →

COMAND control unit

The AM signals are received via direct lines via the following route:

Rear window antenna →

FM, AM, CL [ZV], DAB and KEYLESS-GO antenna amplifier →

COMAND control unit

Model 217.4:

The FM-1 and FM-2 signals or the HD radio signals (with code 494 (USA version)) are received via the following route:

Windshield antenna →

FM, AM, CL [ZV], DAB and KEYLESS-GO antenna amplifier and FM 2, DAB and TV 1 antenna amplifier →

COMAND control unit

The AM signals are received via direct lines via the following route:

Trunk lid AM antenna →

AM amplifier →

FM, AM, CL [ZV], DAB and KEYLESS-GO antenna amplifier →

COMAND control unit

The radio mode function sequence consists of the following procedures:

AM tuner function sequence 

For the MW and SW radio frequency bands, the useful signals are broadcast using amplitude modulation (AM). These signals are demodulated by the AM tuner integrated into the COMAND controller unit. In other words, it separates the useful signals (audible frequencies) from the carrier signal (inaudible).

IMPORTANT Model 217, 222

up to model year 2018

with code 494 (US version)

Model 217, 222

up to model year 2018

with code 498 (Japanese version)

Only MW frequencies are received in the AM frequency range.

Function sequence for FM double tuner with multipath reception 

For the FM radio frequency band, the useful signals are broadcast using frequency modulation (FM). These signals are demodulated by the FM tuner integrated into the COMAND controller unit. In other words, it separates the useful signals (audible frequencies) from the carrier signal (inaudible). The COMAND controller unit integrates the useful signals from the FM, AM, CL [ZV], DAB and KEYLESS-GO antenna amplifier and from the FM 2 and DAB antenna amplifier (model 217.3 and model 222) or FM 2, DAB and TV 1 antenna amplifier (model 217.4) into an optimized signal (phase diversity). For additional information, such as Weatherband (with code 494 (USA version)) or Vehicle Information and Communication System (VICS) FM multiplexer (with code 498 (Japan version)), an additional tuner function is integrated in the COMAND controller unit.

Function sequence for HD radio, with CODE 494 (USA version) 

The digital signals are decoded by the HDTV tuner integrated into the COMAND controller unit. Additional information and services are shown on the Audio/COMAND display, e.g. program service data, artist experience, traffic information.

Function sequence for Radio Broadcast Data system (RBDS) (with CODE 494 (USA version)) or Radio Data System (RDS) (except CODE 494 (USA version), except CODE 498 (Japan version)) 

In addition to the radio program, many radio stations (FM) also broadcast additional digital information such as station name, type of program and traffic message channel recognition. This information is evaluated by the COMAND controller unit and shown on the Audio/COMAND display, if an RDS or RBDS station is tuned and the "RDS" or "RBDS" function is activated.

Function sequence for DVD, CD audio 

The DVD/CD audio function enables audio CDs or audio DVDs (including MP3 format) to be played. User guidance for controlling DVD or CD functionality and displaying supplemental information is carried out via the audio/COMAND display.

The control communication between the COMAND controller unit and the Audio/COMAND display takes place over the telematics CAN; the picture signals are sent by the COMAND controller unit over an LVDS line to the Audio/COMAND display.

Function sequence for Secure Digital (SD) memory card 

The memory card reader is integrated into the COMAND controller unit. Audio data stored on an SD card can be shown on the Audio/COMAND display by activating the "Memory Card" media source and played back by the COMAND controller unit.

Additional function requirements for storing audio CDs on the COMAND controller unit (with CODE 531 (COMAND APS) and CODE 494 (USA version) or with CODE 498 (Japan version)) 

Function sequence, storing audio CDs on the COMAND controller unit (with code 531 (COMAND APS) and code 494 (USA version) or with code 498 (Japan version)) 

Audio CDs can be stored on the integrated hard disk of the COMAND controller unit and subsequently retrieved using the "Search" menu. The storage procedure is started during media operation by selecting "REC" in the "Media" menu bar. Only the entire audio CD can be stored on the hard disk. If the storage procedure is canceled prematurely (e.g. by selecting "Cancel"), no data is stored. Stored audio CDs can be retrieved using the "Search" menu in the "Media" menu bar. The individual tracks can also be retrieved using the general search function.

IMPORTANT Up to 12 audio CDs can be stored. When 12 audio CDs have been stored, an audio CD must be deleted before a new audio CD can be stored. In order to delete stored audio CDs, a stored audio CD must be played back. A stored audio CD can be selected for deletion using "Options" in the Media menu bar.

Function sequence for connections in stowage compartment (telephone compartment) between the front seats 

External devices (e.g. Walkman, Universal Serial Bus (USB) memory stick) can be connected to the AUX connection electrical connector, the USB 1 electrical connector or the USB 2 electrical connector. The electrical connectors are connected to the COMAND controller unit over a direct line.

When a device is connected to an USB electrical connector, the COMAND controller unit switches to the new media source.

When connecting a device to the AUX connection electrical connector, the AUX media source must be activated in the "Aux" menu.

The COMAND controller unit outputs the audio signals for the connected devices over the speaker system or it forwards them over MOST to the sound system amplifier control unit (with code 810 (Sound system) or code 811 (Advanced sound system)).

In the "USB storage" menu, user guidance is provided over the Audio/COMAND display. The COMAND controller unit generates the displays and transmits them to the Audio/COMAND display over an LVDS line. The "Aux" menu is operated from the external device (except the volume and tone settings).

Function sequence for Media Interface (with code 518 (Media Interface)) 

The Media Interface also allows iPods and MTP devices, such as the Zune MP3 player, to be connected to the COMAND controller unit via the USB electrical connector in the stowage compartment (telephone compartment) between the front seats. With code 518 (Media Interface), the USB interfaces support the following standards:

IMPORTANT The "Media Interface" function is integrated in the COMAND controller unit. The Media Interface can also be used to play back video sources (does not apply for Lightning connection).

The function sequence for the Media Interface encompasses the following processes:

Playing back media 

The COMAND controller unit recognizes when a USB device (including iPod) is connected using the adapter cable, and it switches to the connected media source. The menu navigation and the graphical display of the menu navigation take place on the Audio/COMAND display and are dependent upon the connected portable terminal.

IMPORTANT When AUX devices are connected, the COMAND controller unit does not switch to the connected media source. To activate the AUX media source, the user has to call up the "AUX" menu on the COMAND controller unit himself. AUX devices must be operated on the device itself.

IMPORTANT In the AUX media source, the "Standard" or "Boost effect" selection is possible in the "Volume" menu. The input level can be increased by selecting "Boost effect".

Evaluating metadata 

Metadata is stored in the connected device in addition to the actual media files. This metadata is collected by the COMAND controller unit in a memory so that the corresponding metadata can then be searched for. Metadata includes, for example, the title, artist, composer, album, genre, audio book, podcast, file identifier, file type (audio or video).

Cover art (cover flow) 

When playing pieces of music, the corresponding cover art is shown on the Audio/COMAND display if the cover art in question is stored in the portable terminal (e.g. iPod). The maximum file size for processing cover art is 5 MB. The COMAND controller unit adjusts the resolution to 240 240 pixels, 16 bit colors, and converts the file to the JPG format. When searching for albums or pieces of music on the connected device, the corresponding cover art is also shown on the Audio/COMAND display.

Function sequence for digital radio (DAB) (with CODE 537 (Digital radio (DAB))) 

The tuner unit permits the reception of digital radio in DAB format. The stations are categorized into groups in DAB, so-called "Ensembles". The signals are transmitted as DAB band III signals. The DAB functions are controlled over the COMAND controller unit. The information or displays required for control are shown on the Audio/COMAND display.

The DAB band III signals are received via the rear window antenna (model 217.3 and model 222) or via the windshield antenna (model 217.4). The tuner unit receives the 2 DAB band III signals to ensure reception diversity (selection of the best signal) by means of:

IMPORTANT Model 217.3, 222

up to model year 2018

with code 537 (Digital radio (DAB))

with code 865 (TV tuner)

TV signals are also received via the TV 2 and DAB band III antenna amplifier. The tuner unit separates the signals internally via an integrated antenna splitter.

The tuner unit transmits the DAB signals via MOST to the COMAND controller unit and receives the FM station lists from there. If a comparable FM station is found, it is requested by the tuner unit. The COMAND controller unit provides the FM audio signals on the MOST when the DAB mode is active. If the DAB reception worsens, a switch is made to the COMAND controller unit's FM station, whereby the tuner unit adjusts the time lag between the digital and the analog signal. This makes the switchover almost inaudible ("seamless linking").

The tuner unit is designed as a multi-tuner and thus offers the following advantages:

Function sequence for Satellite Digital Audio Radio Service (SDARS) (with code 536 (SIRIUS satellite radio)) 

The tuner unit makes it possible to receive stations from the satellite radio provider "Sirius satellite radio". The SDARS system is controlled by the COMAND controller unit and this is implemented through the MOST. The information or displays required for control are additionally output via the Audio/COMAND display in the instrument cluster.

To enable multichannel reception, the SIRIUS satellite radio signal is broadcast 3-times (through two satellites and one terrestrial station). The multifunction antenna (model 222) or the SDARS antenna (model 217) receives all three channels from the SIRIUS satellite radio (Sat 1, Sat 2, terrestrial station) and transmits these signals via a direct line to the tuner unit. The tuner unit receives the signals, decodes them and then sends them over the MOST to the COMAND controller unit (except code 810 (Sound system) and code 811 (Advanced sound system)) or to the sound system amplifier control unit (with code 810 (Sound system) or with code 811 (Advanced sound system)).

IMPORTANT SDARS provides services such as SIRIUS Weather, alerts and RTTD (Real Time Traffic Data).

Function sequence for Bluetooth® audio 

The Bluetooth® antenna enables the COMAND controller unit to receive Bluetooth® audio signals from external devices. Bluetooth® audio is divided into the following additional information:

Search for devices and authorization 

The same options exist for the authorization of a Bluetooth® audio source as are available for telephony:

The device lists are set up the same for Bluetooth® audio and telephony. In the respective list, only those devices that support the corresponding Bluetooth® profile of the respective function are found or displayed during a search. With Bluetooth® audio these are Audio Video Remote Control Profiles (AVRCP) and Advanced Audio Distribution Profiles (A2DP), and for telephony it is the Hands-free Profile (HFP). If a device supports both functions, it appears in both lists after authorization.

Connection and reconnection 

An authorized device can be connected by means of selection in the corresponding list. If a device is connected that supports both HFP and AVRCP/A2DP, all profiles are connected. In this case the device is a telephone and the source of Bluetooth® audio at the same time. On most devices, it is necessary to start the player on the device so that it can then be controlled through the COMAND controller unit.

When starting, the COMAND controller unit proceeds according to the following strategy: It firstly checks whether an authorized telephone module with Bluetooth® (SAP-profile) (A34/1) (with code 379 (Telephone module with Bluetooth® (SAP-profile))) is plugged onto the mobile phone contact plate (X237/1) (with code 386 (Comfort telephony)) or onto the rear mobile phone contact plate (X237/2) (with code (856) (Business telephony in rear passenger compartment)). If this is the case, the COMAND controller unit connects to the telephone module with Bluetooth® (SAP profile) and is in telephony status, with code 379 (Telephone module with Bluetooth® (SAP profile)).

If an authorized telephone module with Bluetooth® (SAP-profile) (with code 379 (Telephone module with Bluetooth® (SAP-profile))) is not present, a check is then made to determine whether there is an authorized telephone in the mobile phone cradle (A34/15) (accessories) (with code 386 (Comfort telephony), up to 30.11.2015) or in the universal smartphone cradle (A34/17) (with code 386 (Comfort telephony), as of 01.12.2015). If this is the case, the COMAND controller unit connects to the telephone and assumes the comfort telephony status.

If no mobile phone cradle is present or no telephone inserted, the COMAND controller unit searches for the last two telephones. If one of these devices is found, the COMAND controller unit connects to this device. If this telephone also supports AVRCP/A2DP, these profiles are also connected.

If a device is connected that only supports HFP and a change is made to the Bluetooth® audio application, "No Bluetooth® audio equipment connected" is shown on the COMAND controller unit where corresponding audio sources are also shown in the device list.

The "Connect last device" function bar enables the last used Bluetooth® audio source to be connected. However, the connection to the current telephone is interrupted here.

If a device is connected that only supports AVRCP/A2DP and a change to telephone application is then made, the connection to the device is disconnected and the COMAND controller unit begins the search for the last two telephones.

Metadata and display of information 

The display of information for Bluetooth® audio depends on the respective device used. If this supports AVRCP 1.0, "Audio streaming" is exclusively shown on the Audio/COMAND display and in the instrument cluster.

As of AVRCP 1.3, the track, album and artist are shown. In addition, the currently played time of the track can also be conveyed.

Furthermore, there is the option of changing between the normal track sequence and shuffle.

IMPORTANT It is possible to jump to the next or the previous track using the scroll forward and backward button.

IMPORTANT Notes on supported devices for Bluetooth® audio can be found under: http://www.mercedes-benz.com/connect 

Function sequence for audio output via headphones (with CODE 867 (SPLITVIEW)) 

The special equipment SPLITVIEW (code 867), enables the front passenger to access the media sources without distracting the driver's concentration. The front passenger selects the audio source using the remote control. The COMAND controller unit sends the audio signals over the headphones and remote control antenna as Kleer® radio signals to the radio frequency headphones. Furthermore, the COMAND controller unit sends the audio signals via the following route:

LVDS line →

Audio/COMAND display →

Headphones electrical connector (cabled)

IMPORTANT As an alternative to the radio frequency headphones, cabled headphones can also be connected to the headphones electrical connector (cabled). The cabled headphones are not included with the special equipment.

  Electrical function schematic for Digital Audio Broadcasting function Model 222 up to model year 2018 with code 537 (Digital radio (DAB)) PE82.60-P-2057-97SEA
    Model 217 up to model year 2018 with code 537 (Digital radio (DAB)) PE82.60-P-2057-97SEC
  Electrical function diagram for audio mode, function Model 222 up to model year 2018 PE82.60-P-2058-97SEA
    Model 217 up to model year 2018 PE82.60-P-2058-97SEC
  Electrical function schematic for SDAR function Model 222 up to model year 2018 with code 536 (SIRIUS satellite radio) PE82.60-P-2060-97SEA
    Model 217 up to model year 2018 with code 536 (SIRIUS satellite radio) PE82.60-P-2060-97SEC
  Overview of system components, telematics   GF82.85-P-9999LF
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