Garmin GVN53 using the Colour VE SSV Holden LCD

[cuvier100]

For the last few weeks I have been helping my son install a Garmin GVN 53 into his Holden Commodore VE SSV using the inbuilt colour LCD.

The task was to install a Garmin 3D GPS with text to Speech (spoken street names) and RGB video output using the Holden Colour LCD screen for around $1.2k. The composite input using the aux switches off at around 3kMPH so this was not suitable. Plus the resolution of the composite video is not flash. The Holden LCD also does not support a touch screen so a unit with a remote had to be used.

The Holden sat nav units are $2.5k when ordering a new car or about $3.5k to $4k fitted aftermarket! The Holden unit uses a DVD to load the maps and has a terrible 2D screen and no text to speech. Its like buying ten year old technology at "skiming" prices. The VDO unit was similar but at $2.5k. The HiTV unit comes in around 2.0k and uses the factory radio knobs but has poor 2D/3D map displays with no text to speech.

We therefore purchased a Garmin GVN 53 from Octapc with the 09 maps ($0.6k without maps and $0.85k with maps). Made a custom harness so that we had a RGB output from the GVN 53. Sourced an interface (GMLAN Module) so that the Holden LCD screen will activate when the Sat Nav button is pressed. This required a logic signal to the GMLAN to tell the radio head unit to switch on the RGB LCD input.

Then we designed and built a mute interface between the GMLAN module and Garmin GVN 53 so that the factory sound system dropped in volume and permitted the Garmin to talk using the factory speakers.

After a number or prototypes and testing its completed. A demo of the completed project can be seen at: http://www.eftel.net.au/~jdiz/output1.avi

We are now thinking about an IR interface between the Garmin and Holden Radio buttons but the remote on the Garmin is very easy to use as it is the same as using a telephone to send SMS messages. Plus the remote only uses one button for most commands so it is very easy to use.

Mike

[Art]

Wow!
Now that's a project :) looks real good.
Is the Holden LCD exactly the same size as the Garmin model?

[cuvier100]

Hi Art,

The GVN 53 does not have an LCD. It is just a black box and is designed to be configured with any type of LCD that has an RGB or composite input.

Mike

[Art]

Ah, ok, I didn't know there was a Garmin like that available.

The composite input using the aux switches off at around 3kMPH so this was not suitable.
It would be cool to have the GPS display any time the vehicle is below 3KMPH, but I guess you'd be unscrewing things to find a signal for that.

[cuvier100]

The GPS uses the RGB input and therefore is on all the time and is not blocked at after 3kMPH.

[Art]

I mean have the GPS override whatever other input is active below 3KMPH,
so the GPS is always displaying at those speeds.

[Crunchie]

Great project, I am looking to do the same but I am not having any joy regarding the RGB interface or the muting option.

[mlenser]

How do you input addresses etc the gps - I assume the stereo doesn't have a touch screen?

[cuvier100]

Crunchie,

You need to activate the Sat Nav Option on the Holden entertainment unit.

One method is to activate the GPS via the RGB inputs is to use a module that interfaces with the single wire GMLAN and therefore sends a signal to the GMLAN to turn on the SAT nav options, menu and RGB input. The muting is also done the same way (i.e. it turns the volume down and places the sat nav audio on the Holden radio speakers). The module is a device that sends a binary code to the GMLAN. You cannot make it yourself unless you understand the GMLAN binary code required. Another possible way is to reprogram the radio software (but I have not done this).

You need to get this issue sorted before purchasing the GVN53.

You maybe able to buy a module from Adrian at No limits in Melbourne or Brian at Autotainment in Perth. You will also need to ensure that it is compatible with the mute function on the GVN as the GVN is switched to ground (high or low) and the typical modules I have seen around want a 5 Vdc input max.

The special harness to connect to the Holden entertainment unit can be purchased from Holden as a spare part for about $28.00. I think No limits can supply the same already made up. Its the smaller wiring harness for the Holden sat nav system. You need to modify it to suit - which is easy.

You also need to modify the GVN53 harness for RGB and this involves puling out the wires from the GVN53 plug you don't need and pushing them into the holes you need. Or getting the pins from an old 1.44 floppy drive plug. You prize out part of the plug on the side and the pins come out.

To spread the cost of the module you may also want to incorporate a reversing camera which requires a module or the software on the radio flashed.

You might find that these modules are expensive as the companies selling them are also selling the HiTV units and wnat you to buy this unit. The HiTV uses the Holden radio buttons and is much better than the Holden option. But its navigation software is extremely disappointing. You spend about $2000 for something which uses the same looking maps as the really cheap ebay GPS units. But it is the only real option if you can't get the GVN53 GMLAN interface.

The pins arrangements can be found at this site:

http://www.eftel.net.au/~jdiz/scan.pdf


The GVN53 uses a remote control which is much easier to use than using the buttons on the Holden entertainment unit. The GVN53 also supports spoken street names and the latest Gamin maps. To me this is what it is all about.

As Holden don't support a touch screen the remote is a good substitute.

Mike

[Nicko]

all I get is a black screen and audio in media player... so i can't see what you have done.... very weird

[mlenser]

Works for me Nicko. Must be a video codec missing. I use k-Lite Codec Packs and very rarely can't watch a video.

[cuvier100]

Nicko,

Yes, you need the K-lite codecs.

Mike

[Nicko]

ok I have watched it, pretty good indeed. Shame you didn't take any snap shots of your work in progress.

[cuvier100]

Here are some pics of the install. Description and links below.

GPS receiver near the centre speaker under the grill. Magnetic mount but tape and stick on padding for confidence.

http://www.gpsaustralia.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2015&stc=1

Left side of dash console with glove box removed.


http://www.gpsaustralia.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2016&stc=1

Left side with Garmin in position but not connected.


http://www.gpsaustralia.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2019&stc=1

Left side with the Garmin control cover open (not connected).


http://www.gpsaustralia.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2020&stc=1

Right side under dash


http://www.gpsaustralia.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2017&stc=1

Right side under dash with all wiring in place.

http://www.gpsaustralia.net/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=2018&stc=1

Mike

[turbocorty]

You guy's may be interested to know that the GVN53 is now fully integrated into the VE, and all functions are controlled via the headunit.

See video for DEMO.

Cheershttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yZcfd9GaAA8

[Nicko]

So the screen is not a touch screen? Interesting method in choosing options etc. Great effort.

[turbocorty]

No The screen is not touch...

For this reason most of the buttons have dual functions - eg the 6 softkeys select the menu item that appears above them when pressed and release quickly, they also select menu items 1 to 6 when pressed and held for longer than 2 seconds.

The rotary knob doubles up as a zoom button when held pressed for longer than 2 second.

These are the limitations, but the system is still very easy to navigate and use.

cheers

[vicracer]

Hi Guys, I only have composite out on my GPS unit, so is there any way to convert composite to RGB so I dont have the screen turning off in motion.
thanks in advance.

[turbocorty]

most units have rgb also.

what brand/make is your unit?

cheers

[vicracer]

Naa it only has Composite. I had it given to me awhile ago and I think I've fond more wrong with than just that. But after checking out the Garmin GVN53 I think I'll just bite the bullet and spend the money to get one.

Thx again.

[Vette1]

Hi turbocorty have you thought about selling this setup as a kit for us non electronic people. Or is this not viable due to labour time?

[turbocorty]

Hi Vette1,

Depending on demand, it may be an option to create a plug and play kit. You would still need to take apart your glove box and other trims to install the system. With good instructions, this would not be too difficult I guess.
The system is now available from any of the CAMS member audio shops.
Cheers,

[cuvier100]

We upgraded the GVN53 module's interface unit so that the GPS can be controlled from the Holden's air conditioning and entertainment control buttons. It's fantastic!

In my view it is the best aftermarket unit around to suit the VE colour LCD screen. It is also money well spent. The price for the GVN unit installed is also now extremely reasonable considering what Holden want for their cumbersome and obsolete sat nav unit.

At the same time as the upgrade we installed an Alpine reversing camera with autoswitching module.

Mike

[cssjamin]

Thanks for the info... this is my first post
My business partner and I are seriously looking into this and appreciate the info already provided :)

[cuvier100]

CSSJamin,

You won't be disappointed!

If you are in Melbourne Nolimits have a good deal with this unit installed.

Otherwise PM turbocorty and he should be able to help you or point you in the right direction.

Cheers

Mike

[cssjamin]

Thanks Mike,

We are in Adelaide... no anyone there that can provide pricing and/or installation?

Richard

[turbocorty]

Hi,

Tonkins car audio in adelaide should be able to help you.

Cheers

[Devoran]

Hi there,

Do you guys have anyone in Brisbane that sells everything required and can do the installs? Looks like a great system.

One thing I did notice is that HiTV are now doing a touchscreen-driven option (http://www.holden.org.au/index.cfm?objectid=A6D5F515-0A8F-722A-4D6D1A24EB760A48). I can't find further information about this, but assume they are using some sort of overlay or something to achieve this? Just wondering if you guys have looked into this possibility or whether it's a limitation of the Garmin unit?

I'll be going with this option either way - the HiTV maps etc are terrible. No TTS puts me off too.

[Nicko]

This does have an overlay but requires technical know how in modifying the VE

[turbocorty]

Hi Devoran,

The gold cast car sound stores should be able to help you.
The Tweed heads store has already installed a couple so give them a call and they may be able to direct you to someone closer.

The main issue with the touchscreen option is the factory warranty and the durability of the conversion once done.

Cheers

[benspi]

Hello what GM LAN interface did you use the model would help and more detail on the install plugs, pinouts and so on.

thanks

[scoutmaster]

...me.too.tm

I'd like to buy a kit of parts, and that goes for the reversing camera mod as well. would really like to install both, especially now the mod has the buttons on the head unit working...

any clues, documnetation, pinouts, parts lists, where/who to buy from etc appreciated...

:ScoutMaster

[entjoe]

Hi I am new to this forum and have read this treat with interest. can someone please explan
1./ what a GM lan is in this case? is it just some wires or is it a programable module and what does it do?
2/ What does it do?
3/ is it just specific to the connection of the gps ? or does it have other functions?

Thanks

[turbocorty]

Hi,

GMLAN is the general motors local area network within your vehicle. It is used to allow all the components in you vehicle to communicate to each other.

There are a few modules available to do different things - The Garmin module allows you to connect the GVN53 and control it via the factory buttons.
The REV-09 module allows you to connect a reverse camera that switches automatically when you select reverse.

Instructions are included with the kits.

The Garmin kit can be purchased from any CAM audio member and the REV-09 directly from me.

Cheers

[entjoe]

Thank you turbocorty
How do I find the Cam Audio members? and what does the Garmin module include.

With the reversing cam what does that cost? and what do you get with it?

Thanks Again