Multi Media Interface

the MMI controls (to the rear of the gear lever) on a left-hand drive Audi Q7

The Audi Multi Media Interface (MMI) system, is an in-car user interface media system developed by Audi, and was launched at the 2001 Frankfurt Motor Show.^[1] MMI was introduced in the second generation Audi A8 around 2002 and implemented in majority of its latest series of cars/automobiles.

Concept

MMI consists of a single integrated interface, which controls a variety of devices and functions of the car. The system consists of the MMI terminal and the MMI display screen.

The central element of the MMI terminal is the control dial. This dial can be rotated, to navigate up and down through menus, and pressed to activate a selected highlighted function. Starting with MMI 3G system an integrated joystick in the main control dial can be used to for example navigate the map. Depending on the MMI generation and configuration, four to eight function buttons surround the control dial which are used to launch the various features. The MMI screen is available as a 5-inch monochrome black & red or 7-inch 16:9 full colour display, depending on the variation of MMI fitted in the car. MMI uses Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST) technology to interconnect the various systems. Harman Becker Automotive Systems manufactures the MMI system, utilizing QNX Neutrino's Real Time Operating System (RTOS) software.

Functions

MMI operates a large number of in car entertainment components, car electronics, and other functions. The list below indicates the scope of systems controllable by MMI. However, depending on the actual car model, along with which version was specified (MMI Basic, MMI High, etc.), only some, and not all functions will be applicable or available.

• Satellite navigation, including traffic management (TMC)
• Radio tuner
• CD changer
• TV tuner
• Telephone and directory
• Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, climate control, and seat heating
• Car setup (e.g. central locking and convenience function (coming home/leaving home, power sunroof and windows) options, global audio settings, suspension settings etc.)
• Driver information (e.g. fuel economy statistics (often encompassed by "trip computer" functions), battery level, tire-pressure monitoring, etc.)
• User manual (full on-board car user manual, displayed on screen)

MMI Generations

A right-hand drive 2005 Audi A6 (C6), showing the Multi Media Interface (MMI) controls

A left-hand drive 2007 Audi S6 (C6), showing the MMI controls, and the display screen in the dashboard

The MMI system has been improved over the years and now features internet connectivity through MMI Connect introduced in recent models.

Cars

Audi models for which MMI is available:

Criticisms

While intuitive and user-friendly, MMI can be difficult to operate when driving. Improvements have been made to enable easier access, the MMI 3G feature a new Joystick on the central knob to make it easier to for example input a destination using the navigation map.^[12] For the Audi Q5's MMI infotainment control system isn't as user-friendly as it is in some of Audi's other models, partly due to the location of its controls low down on the center console.^[13]

Software updates

The MMI system firmware can be updated by an Audi dealer.

• MMI 2G systems can be updated via a DVD disc containing the firmware update.
• MMI 3G and 3G+ systems can be updated by using a SD Card/USB/CD/DVD containing the software. The total update process can take approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes.^[14] Once the updated software is applied it requires a PIN to re-activate the navigation system.^[15]
• To enter the MMI software update menu, the [Setup] and [Return] buttons have to be pressed simultaneously for 5 seconds. This menu also enables import/export settings to USB or SD Card, the settings are saved as an AES encrypted zip file.^[16]

Version history

MMI 2G Software Versions:

MMI 3G and 3G+ Software versions:

P=Shipped with car; K=Update software

BNav seems to be for Basic and HNav for version with Hard-Disk

MMI 3G and 3G+ Navigation Database Versions:

All firmware updates for MMI 3G Basic, 3G High and 3G Plus:

Pseudo-MMI

Certain Audi cars have a "pseudo" type of MMI. These are the A3, A4 (B6 and B7), the TT and the R8 - when fitted with the RNS-E DVD based "Audi Navigation Plus" system. Whilst appearing to be a similar layout, and operating in a similar manner, these two systems are very different, are unable to share mapping discs or software, and are not able to control non-ICE functions (such as Climate, convenience or suspension settings).

Competing technologies

Other car manufacturers use similar technologies in their car, including BMW with its iDrive system and Mercedes-Benz with its COMAND system; Lexus uses a mouse-based Remote Touch system; Ford uses a product called Sync.

See also

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Audi.

• Audi Navigation Plus
• Global Navigation Satellite System

References

External links

• Audi A6 '05 SSP 326 Shows all MMI Module Locations and Specs and Blueprints
• Audi A6 '05 SSP 323 Shows all Mechanical and Electrical Module Locations and Specs
• Audi USA MMI Information
• Audi MMI emulator
• Audi navigation and electronics sub-forum Independent forum dedicated to Audi Navigation systems
• Audi RNS-E FAQ Independent blog dedicated to Audi Navigation systems
• Audi list of Navigation parts
• Audi Navigation Microsite