Thread: Comand ntg 2.0 (w164)

Hey there. I'm new to this forum & looking for some help with my COMAND. I did a quick search and came up empty handed. I have a 2006 ML500, and I am wanting to install a reverse camera. Is this possible to do with the version of COMAND that I have? I removed the module from the dash, and I only have 3 FAKRA (not the green one that I apparently need). Is there still a way to make the reverse camera retrofit functional? If so, what components do I need?

Anyone? 10 char

If you are using the USA COMAND I believe that the COMAND itself can be fitted with the extra FAKRA connector.

However in the European version it must be completely replaced. You may also wish to consider using the NTG 2.5 version in that event.

[QUOTE=BenzModz;5254]If you are using the USA COMAND I believe that the COMAND itself can be fitted with the extra FAKRA connector.

Can you elaborate?

I guess that I should clarify that it is the MCS II version that I have.

I understand that MBDOCTOR does the upgrade. At least that was the impression I got several years ago.

Originally Posted by BenzModz

I understand that MBDOCTOR does the upgrade. At least that was the impression I got several years ago.

I've been in touch with a few places that offer these services; however, I am convinced that it can be done without; especially when I get a different answer from every place that apparently "know" these units . Besides, the cost involved, something about "modifying" the HU makes me apprehensive.

Interestingly, I found posts on another forum from one person describing the theory of connecting a stripped (male end) of a video cable or even a stripped RCA cable to pins 1 & 7, & then linking the camera to the female end. Another person showed actual photos/"proof" of successfully doing this with a video cable. No need for expensive conversion bits, or hacking & splicing the HU, etc. Apparently, according to the person that successfully did this mentioned in the post that the resistance between pins 1 & 7 doesn't need to be exactly 75 Ohms, it can be as high as 100.

I've tried contacting both people for a better explanation of how to "connect" a 1 wire cable to 2 pins , especially when those positions are allready occupied on the harness (if I recall correct) & how to make a "permanent" connection with this set-up without shorting out or causing damage. I'm still waiting for replies...

Anyone try this, or know the "how-to"?

You can more easily order a new head unit with the camera connection.

Originally Posted by BenzModz

You can more easily order a new head unit with the camera connection.

I guess that the idea was to save $$$$. Those who were able to connect a camera to pins 1 & 7 did so for the cost of a camera and wire, vs. hundreds for a new camera-ready head unit or an interface.

Just be careful that you have electrical isolation at the camera end. I use the Mercedes interface (very small black box in rear of car) for a reason and that is because it electrically isolates the camera from the COMAND.

Originally Posted by BenzModz

Just be careful that you have electrical isolation at the camera end. I use the Mercedes interface (very small black box in rear of car) for a reason and that is because it electrically isolates the camera from the COMAND.

OK. Thanks for the tip.