Thread: iphone cradle

I have a 2008 S550 4matic. The cell phone reception is poor due to the UV glass. My iphone 4 is connected via bluetooth and works well except for the reception problem. I have been told that if I install an iphone cradle that I would actually be connected to the outside antenna which would eliminate the UV issue. Any thoughts? I could live without the bluetooth in order to get better signal strenth. Thanks

The cradle is connected to the antenna but the docking connector does not have a signal antenna contact. That apple connector is only for charging.

The proximity of the cradle to the phone is what gives it superior reception.

Thanks. It looks like there is no way to improve reception for the iphone in the S class?

Originally Posted by kmeyer52

Thanks. It looks like there is no way to improve reception for the iphone in the S class?

Not if you have IR Glass.

Just so I understand you correctly, The cradle is connected to the outside antenna but the only direct connection from the phone to the cradle is for charging. What did you mean by the proximity of the phone to the cradle is what gives it superior reception? Does that mean that if I install a cradle and put the phone in the console alongside it I will get better reception? Also, I assume that the bluetooth adapter that I currently have only syncs the phone with the vehicle and the adapter is not tied in with the antenna. Sorry for being so picky but the poor reception in our rural area drives me crazy. I often have to get out of the vehicle to use the phone. Thanks again -Keith

When the phone is in the cradle there is an antenna induction system in the cradle. You would ideally fit the phone to the cradle for the best reception.

Just to clarify, there is an improvement in signal reception when the phone is placed in the cradle, because the antenna is connected to the cradle and there is an inductive pickup when in the cradle.

The cradle also uses bluetooth so you don't have to have the phone in the cradle, but then you would get no better reception (i.e no way to improve reception unless phone is in the cradle)

The Mercedes iPhone 4 cradle doesnt yet work with the iPhone 4S - there is a firmware update for the cradle due very shortly (which can be installed by any clueful Mercedes dealer)

The cradle is available here: -

Comand Online Ltd :: Mercedes Phone/Bluetooth :: Mercedes iPhone 4 Phone cradle without cable.

Richard

Thanks for explaining the inductive aspect of the cradle. If I do purchase one, I will post how well it works. Thanks again