The receiver of the GPS satellite navigation system supplies the navigation computer with the current position of the vehicles in degrees latitude and longitude.
A CD with map data is loaded in the CD drive of the navigation computer. The navigation computer combines the vehicle position calculated by the GPS with this map data.
The current position is shown on the on-board monitor under ”Location display”.
The driver can enter a destination. The navigation computer calculates a route from the current location to this destination based on selectable criteria (without freeway, shortest distance, etc.). The calculated route is shown in the route display.
With the aid of arrow indicators and distance data on the on-board monitor and a voice output function, the navigation computer indicates how and where to get into the correct lane or turn off while the vehicle is moving.
The navigation computer calculates the distance covered from the signals from a wheel speed sensor.
The ”gyro” informs the navigation computer of the rotary movements of the vehicle (e.g. when turning off etc.). The gyro is installed in the casing of the navigation computer.
An alternative route is recalculated automatically if the driver does not follow the route instructions.
A CD drive is integrated in the navigation computer. The map CD is loaded in this drive.
The navigation computer also features a fan. If the cooling capacity of the fan is not sufficient, the navigation computer is switched off due to overheating and this status is indicated on the on-board monitor.
The gyro is an inertia sensor which records the forces which occur during a change in direction and transfers this data to the navigation computer in the form of a voltage change. This gyro is fitted in the casing of the navigation computer.
The Global Positioning S ystem is a system which was originally developed for military use, in which approx. 20 satellites in ground orbit send position-related signals. These signals are evaluated by a computer specially developed for this purpose and converted into a position. The accuracy of the system varies; however, it is at least within 100 m.
GPS reception is only possible when unobstructed view of the sky is ensured.
GPS, in conjunction with the MINI navigation system, consists of an antenna and a receiver which evaluates the satellite data received via the antenna and transfers the calculated vehicle position to the navigation computer. The GPS receiver is integrated in the navigation computer.
The navigation computer evaluates the signals from the wheel speed sensor (rear right wheel) and thus determines the distance covered.
The data the navigation computer requires for route planning is stored on the map CD. It is advisable to use the latest updated version in order to take account of any changes in the road system.
The acoustic signals are transferred via 2 AF lines directly to the radio.
The image signals are transferred via RGB lines to the LC monitor. The user interface, i.e. the menus on the on-board monitor, is set up by the navigation computer.
Important
After the navigation computer has been replaced, a test drive lasting approx. 15 minutes is necessary, during which GPS reception must be ensured.
If a new version of the operating software is offered by BMW, it should be loaded as follows (refer also to instructions on the CD):
Important
Do not change the terminal setting during the loading procedure! Ensure adequate voltage in the vehicle electrical system.
The operating software must be loaded first prior to encoding the navigation computer.