If a device was originally paired while in Demo Mode, a similar condition could occur that
randomly continues to drop Bluetooth pairing after exiting Demo Mode. If the vehicle is not
in Demo Mode, but it is believed the device was originally paired while in Demo Mode, then
delete the device from the radio, delete the radio from the device, and perform the pairing
process again.
Loss of functionality on the above items may be due to the design intent of the vehicle while in
Demo Mode, no correction is needed for these conditions. This is the normal operating
characteristic of the Demo Mode of the vehicle. Once the vehicle is sold, select the option labeled
“Not a Demo Vehicle” to exit Demo Mode.
Data Communications
The infotainment system communicates with other devices on multiple serial data networks during
operation.
Ethernet AVB
At the core of the infotainment system is the Radio Ethernet AVB (Audio Video Bridging) switch,
which communicates directly to each contributing Infotainment module terminator. The Ethernet
harness consists of twisted pair wires from point to point. Each module on the Ethernet
infotainment system sends/receives data at 100 megabit per second (Mbps) to/from a specified
port at the Radio. Some system configurations support a 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps) connection
at the Radio to/from the TCP (Telematics) module. The Radio/Ethernet will also be used to
program USB S/W update files to the modules connected to the Ethernet ports. Some of the data
services performed over Ethernet AVB include: Chime, Service Programming via Over-The-Air
updates, OnStar Turn-by-Turn directions and all other OnStar data services.
Local Interconnect Network (LIN)
The Local Interconnect Network (LIN) Bus is a single wire communication system. This bus is used
to exchange information between a master control module and other smart devices which provide
supporting functionality.
The Remote Radio Receiver, Information Display, Infotainment Controls and the Multifunction
(tunnel) Controls all communicate on the LIN bus.
Controller Area Network (CAN)
The Radio will communicate with other modules and systems in the vehicle via CAN and CAN5.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes will be read on CAN/CAN5 to diagnose Ethernet, LIN and system faults.
CAN will also be used for programming calibrations using TIS2Web/SPS. CAN takes the place of
GMLAN on Global-B architecture systems. CAN5 is a sub-system of the entire CAN network on a
vehicle and is the specific network that connects the Infotainment modules on the vehicle.
For additional information refer to Data Link Communications Description and Operation
Remote Radio Receiver
Overview
The Radio is the Ethernet master. The radio also communicates with other components and
systems within the vehicle via CAN/CAN5 and LIN. The remote radio receiver communicates with
the info display module via the LIN bus for control information, touch communications and
dimming level. Digital video data is sent to the display through a dedicated video cable.
The Radio receiver contains internal antennas for Bluetooth ® and WiFi. The Radio also has an
external WiFi antenna (on applicable systems) that is used to receive local WiFi signals at
increased distances. This is mainly used to support Over-the-Air updates.The Radio must be
mounted properly to obtain proper wireless signals and GPS position. The remote radio receiver is
responsible for receiving all broadcast audio bands. Broadcast signals from AM, FM, XM and DAB
bands are transmitted to the radio via the vehicle antenna systems. The remote radio receiver is
also responsible for the following: Video for the infotainment display, Bluetooth ®, USB, memory
card reader, and speech recognition functions.
The Radio has phone projection capabilities that can transmits information directly to the vehicle
infotainment system through Bluetooth or a USB connection. Downloadable applications will be
available based on distracted driver safety requirements.
Radio Power
The radio receives battery power and ground from the vehicle harness.
The radio does not use a discrete ignition feed circuit for power moding. The power mode master
provides the system power mode to the radio via serial data messages. The power mode master
determines the system power mode by processing power mode information from ignition switch
inputs. Serial data power modes supported by the radio are OFF, ACCESSORY, RUN, and CRANK
REQUEST.
The radio can be turned ON with the ignition OFF. After 10 minutes of inactivity the radio will
power down. If any setting (e.g. changing the station) or volume has been changed or if the radio
has been powered OFF than back ON the 10 minute timer will reset from that point.
Radio Audio Outputs
When not equipped with an amplifier, the radio outputs all audio signals to the speakers via the
vehicle wiring harness.
When equipped with an amplifier, the radio outputs all audio signals digitally over Ethernet.
Speaker Operation
Speakers turn electrical energy into mechanical energy to move air, using a permanent magnet
and an electromagnet. The electromagnet is energized when the radio or amplifier (if equipped)
delivers current to the voice coil on the speaker. The voice coil will form a north and south pole
that will cause the voice coil and the speaker cone to move in relation to the permanent magnet.
The current delivered to the speaker is rapidly changing alternating current (A/C). This causes the
speaker cone to move in two directions producing sound.
Antenna System
Multi-Band Antenna
The multi-band antenna is located on the roof of the vehicle. This type of antenna may be used
with the AM/FM radio, but is primarily for cellular, GPS signals, and XM, if the vehicle has these
features. Keep this antenna clear of snow and ice for clear reception. If the vehicle has a sunroof,
the performance of the system may be affected if the sunroof is open. Loading items onto the roof
of the vehicle can interfere with the performance of the system, ensure the multi-band antenna is
not obstructed.
Diversity Antenna
The diversity antenna system can use up to 2 antenna amplifiers and an AM/FM element that is
part of the rear end spoiler assembly or applied as appliqués to the rear glass. With 2 antennas
the right antenna 1 receives both AM and FM signals, while the left antenna 2 may receive FM and
DAB signals only. The antenna amplifier receives the signals from the rear end spoiler antenna
element or from the glass antenna element. Each antenna amplifier is connected to the radio by a
coaxial cable.
The radio antenna amplifier is enabled when the radio is turned on. The radio provides battery
voltage to the antenna amplifier using the center conductor of the antenna coaxial cable. When a
12 V signal is seen by the amplifier on the center conductor of the antenna coax, the received
signals are amplified.
With a 2 antenna amplifier system when the AM band is selected on the radio, the antenna 1
amplifier connects the AM antenna to the radio. When the FM band is selected, both antenna
amplifiers provide FM signals to the radio. The radio switches between the two FM antennas,
monitoring the signal strength and combines the signals to create one stronger signal.
Global Positioning System (GPS) Antenna
The global positioning system (GPS) antenna is part of the multi-band antenna located on the roof
of the vehicle. The GPS antenna is used to collect the signals of the orbiting GPS satellites. Within
the antenna is housed a low noise amplifier that allows for a more broad and precise reception of
this data. The GPS antenna amplifier is powered through the coaxial cable.
The GPS antenna is connected to the telematics communication interface control module via a
coax cable. The GPS signal is sent to the navigation radio via an Ethernet harness
External WiFi Antenna
On some system configurations, an external WiFi antenna is connected to the radio to support
longer range reception, compared to the internal Wifi antenna. Over-the-air updates is the main
feature supported by this antenna. Data transfers used for consumer media will also be supported
by this antenna when connected to a local network. The antenna is connected to the radio via
coaxial cable.
Radio Reception
AM/FM Radio Signal
The radio signal is sent from a broadcast station and is then received by an antenna. The strength
of the signal received depends on the following:
The power output (wattage) of the broadcasting station
The location of the vehicle (or receiver) relative to the broadcast tower.
Height of the broadcast antenna
Height of the receiving antenna
Obstacles between the tower and the receiver
Atmospheric conditions
What band (AM or FM) the station is broadcasting
Type of antenna and the ground plane
Sirius XM (SXM) Digital Radio Receiver (If equipped)
A service fee is required in order to receive the XM service.
The XM satellite receiver is integrated into the radio. XM satellite radio provides digital radio
reception. The XM signal is broadcast from two satellites and, where necessary, terrestrial
repeaters. The high power satellites allow the antenna to receive the XM signal even when foliage
and other partial obstructions block the antennas view of the satellite. Terrestrial repeaters are
used in dense urban areas. These repeaters will receive the satellite signal and re-broadcast them
at much higher power levels in order to ensure reception in areas with densely packed tall
buildings. Even with repeaters the signal can be compromised resulting in loss of XM.
SiriusXM 360L
SiriusXM with 360L interface has enhanced in-vehicle listening experience for subscribers. The
experience now offers more categories and system learned recommendations toward discovering
more personalized content.
To use the full SiriusXM 360L program, including streaming content and listening
recommendations, OnStar Connected Access is required. Connected vehicle services vary by
model and require a complete working electrical system, cell reception, and GPS signal. An active
OnStar connected plan is required, if the customer declines OnStar Terms and Conditions the
following message can be displayed: Connection Unavailable, Please call OnStar Agent.
Reference the SiriusXM user guide for use and subscription information.
SiriusXM Tune Start
SiriusXM Tune Start is a feature that begins playing the current song from the beginning when you
tune to a SiriusXM music channel in the stored Favorites. This feature can be enabled/disabled
through the radio Settings menu.
When equipped, Tune Start works with most SiriusXM music channels when the channel has been
saved as a Favorite in the radio. The SiriusXM app in the radio also has a list of Favorites. Saving
a SiriusXM music channel as a Favorite automatically saves it in the hidden SiriusXM Favorites list.
If a SiriusXM music channel is not working in Tune Start ensure the channel exists in the SiriusXM
Favorites list. SiriusXM Favorites can be found in the SiriusXM Settings menu under Listener
Options. Note that SiriusXM channels stored by default in new vehicles are not stored in the
SiriusXM Favorites list. These channels would need to be stored as Favorites by the user for them
to appear in the Sirius XM Favorites list. The radio may require a sleep cycle before Tune Start will
begin to function on newly saved Favorites. Tune Start will only begin to record SiriusXM Favorites
with the Ignition On, so some buffering time is required before Tune Start can function after the
vehicle is started.
Tune Start is a SiriusXM feature. Reference the SiriusXM user guide, or contact SiriusXM for use
and subscription information.
High Definition (HD) Radio (If equipped)
HD Radio delivers subscription free local broadcasting in a digital format which may include song
title, artist name, album art, weather, traffic data, etc., on AM/FM bands. Up to four stations could
be available on a single frequency for e.g. if radio station is 96.9 FM, the HD enabled radio would
have additional broadcasts on 96.9 HD1, HD2, HD3 and HD4. The digital technology allows for
clear reception quality and additional information.
Auto Volume Control (If equipped)
With auto volume control, the audio system will adjust automatically to make up for road and
wind noise as you drive, by increasing the volume as vehicle speed increases. To use auto volume
control, set the volume at the desired level, and then select either Off, Low, Medium-low, Medium,
Medium-high or High.
Microphones
This system utilizes two hands free audio microphones, the primary microphone on the driver side
and a secondary/reference microphone for the front passenger side. The primary microphone is
connected directly to the Telematics Control Module. It is also connected by an analog pass-
through circuit to the radio from the Telematics Control Module. Without OnStar the primary
microphone is connected directly to the radio. The secondary microphone is always connected
directly to the radio.
The primary microphone is used for emergency and OnStar calls. During normal operating
conditions it also provides Bluetooth calls and speech recognition to the radio. The secondary
microphone is used as a reference for the primary microphone for Barge-in and Passenger
Interference Cancellation during speech recognition and also to enhance the driver side hands free
calls. For MY18 and beyond the secondary microphone can also be used for front passenger hands
free phone calls. Barge-in allows a user to speak over the system prompts. Passenger
Interference Cancellation ignores unwanted inputs from cabin noise that is not related to the
prompts given by the user.
The front passenger secondary microphone is never used as a direct source for an OnStar call.
The second microphone input modifies the primary microphone input to reduce background noise
and other interference. An OnStar call requires the microphone to be directly connected to the
Telematics Control Module. During a normal (non-emergency) OnStar call the Telematics Control
Module receives an audio signal from the primary microphone and sends the signal to the radio
via the Ethernet connection. The radio processes the OnStar call audio and sends it back to the
Telematics Control Module via the Ethernet connection. During an emergency button call the
Telematics Control Module contacts the OnStar call center directly and does not send the signal to
the radio.
Bluetooth ® (If equipped)
Bluetooth ® wireless technology is a short-range communications technology intended to replace
the cables connecting portable and/or fixed devices while maintaining high levels of security. The
operating range of the signal is approximately 30 feet.
The available features and functions are determined by the type of device and the software within
the devices being used. For a feature or function to operate, it must be supported in both devices.
The first connection between devices is established through a process called pairing. In order to
pair two devices, a password (passkey) has to be exchanged between the two devices. One device
will generate the password, the other device accepts the password to complete the process. Once
the devices are paired, future connections between the devices will occur automatically when the
devices are on and within range of each other.
The Bluetooth ® hardware is internal to the Remote Radio Receiver. The antenna is internal to the
Remote Radio Receiver. The Remote Radio Receiver supports streaming of data (music, voice,
information) from cellular phones and other mobile devices that support those features. The
Remote Radio Receiver is also capable of interfacing with cellular phones for hands-free features.
The device must be paired to the system to use the available Bluetooth ® feature(s). The
pairing process must only be performed once for each device, unless that device’s
information is deleted.
Depending on model year up to 10 devices can be paired, refer to owners manual for
details.
Streaming Audio allows playing music from the mobile device wirelessly. Music stored on the
mobile device can be viewed and controlled from the display.
To stream audio from a mobile device, the device must be unlocked, and any additional
applications should be closed.
Refer to the owners manual, supplements, and the device manufacturers information for pairing
instructions.
WiFi
The WiFi hardware is internal to the Remote Radio Receiver. The WiFi or WLAN antenna is called
the Wireless Communication Antenna which is connected to the Remote Radio Receiver. WiFi
expands the abilities of the vehicle as described below:
Connect to home WiFi to update software
When used with OnStar 4G LTE HotSpot service, it provides internet access to devices in the
vehicle when connected to the HotSpot. This requires the purchase of OnStar WiFi data
plan.
Enables in-vehicle networking between passengers’ devices, like home WiFi network
Allows remote access to external connected device application data for vehicle internet
application use
Back Office Registration
The Radio must be registered with the GM Back Office in order to receive downloaded information
such as approved applications, module software updates, weather and traffic information for
current location. The vehicle must have a Cellular or WiFi connection to complete the initial
registration process. This process will verify the assembly plant factory feed data from the BCM,
CGM and Radio serial numbers to the VIN and if the security checks are met, then the user must
complete the registration process by entering email and required personal information. The
registration status can be verified through the Radio “Setting – About selection.
When any of these secured ECU’s are replaced, a new serial number will be recorded during the
service calibration process and appended to the vehicles history data for uninterrupted back office
connection.
If the Radio is replaced, the user can recover settings/applications by reregistering the email
account. During the initial registration process the user will enter an email/password. The user will
then be sent a follow up verification email link to setup the account completely. If the complete
account setup is not performed the password reset security questions will not be entered, which
will prevent reregistering this email account in the future if the password is forgotten. The radio
will operate in Demo Mode or as Guest until a user profile has been set up.
Applications (If equipped)