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System Overview
Display Features
Internet Apps
USB Port/SD-Card Slot
iPod/Aux Connectivity
Built-in Bluetooth
Audio Section
Tuner Functions
Remote Control
System Overview
The Parrot Asteroid: The Parrot Asteroid is a Single-DIN,
in-dash car receiver with multimedia connectivity & hands-free capabilities. The Parrot Asteroid car receiver offers connection to select web service apps
(via 3G smartphone or USB dongle),
voice recognition control for music playback, & hands-free phone communication.
The Parrot Asteroid plays many types of music
sources; such as Internet Radio, iPod/iPhone, USB device, SD/SDHC memory card, and
Bluetooth stereo (A2DP).
Note: This unit does
not feature a built-in disc mechanism for CD or DVD playback.
3G Network Requirements: The Parrot Asteroid requires
connection to a 3G Network using a 3G Network USB dongle (sold separately) or
your Bluetooth enabled smartphone's 3G Network plan.
Safety Warning: All functions requiring increased attention should only
be used while your vehicle is stationary. Driver & passenger safety, along with
the safety of fellow drivers should take priority over phone calls, music, & navigation
instructions.
Display Features
Single-DIN Mount: The reduced depth of the Asteroid facilitates the
installation in standard Single-DIN head unit locations of most makes of newer
vehicles.
Note: As always, please consult the
Crutchfield Car Selector to verify fit with your vehicle.
Detachable Face Plate: The
Parrot Asteroid combines an elegant detachable faceplate equipped with backlight
buttons & an innovative guiding system to insert the faceplate. A face pouch
is included to protect the faceplate when detached.
3.2" Color Screen: The large high-definition 3.2" color screen
(262,144 colors)
displays in all your information, phonebook, menus, music, playlist, album
covers, internet applications, & more. You can adjust the 3.2" color
screen's brightness and switch from Day or Night mode.
Jog Wheel: The unit's main functions are all accessible via the
discreet jog wheel, making browsing through the menus more intuitive.
Virtual Keyboard: The Asteroid provides an on-screen virtual keyboard
that allows lower & upper case letters A-Z to be entered, using the jog wheel.
Date & Time: The Parrot Asteroid features a 12/24 hour clock
& date display. The unit's date & time can be automatically set via
the tuner's RDS signal.
Internet Apps
Android OS: The Parrot Asteroid
features an embedded Android operating system which allows the use of
pre-installed
Internet applications & Navigation services, thanks to its 3G & GPS
capabilities.
Note: Additional apps maybe available in the future for download.
Internet (3G) Ready: The Parrot Asteroid can connect to the Internet using either a
3G Network USB dongle (sold separately), or by using a compatible Bluetooth enabled smartphone's
3G data sharing network connection.
Note: Connecting the Parrot Asteroid to the Internet using an
3G Network USB dongle requires an appropriate subscription offer &
may result in large additional roaming fees. Check the terms of use with your
provider for more information. Make sure you check regularly your allowance and
usage.
GPS Receiver/Antenna: The Parrot Asteroid includes an external GPS
receiver/antenna module which plugs into a USB port on back of the head unit.
The GPS receiver/antenna module works in conjunction with the unit's Navigation The GPS
receiver/antenna module should be installed in a unobstructed
area along your vehicle's dashboard.
Internet Applications: Several types of Internet applications (music,
geo-location, driver assistance, weather, etc) are pre-installed onto the Parrot Asteroid.
The Parrot Asteroid is a multitasking device, so several applications can run
simultaneously.
Note: To ensure that you do not continue to use 3G data, make sure
to close applications. The use of some applications may require a fee or need a
subscription. All applications may not be available in all countries.
Travel Apps: The Parrot Asteroid offers several Travel type
applications to help you along your drive.
- Maps: The Maps application provides you with advanced mapping &
geo-location functions, free of charge. Your position is displayed on the
head unit's 3.2" color screen, which can be zoomed in/out. You can select
from various Point-of Interest types (Bars, Coffees, Community, Finance,
etc.). The unit will then display points-of-interest (from the selected
category) near your current position on the map. You can also enter a
point-of-interest manually, by using the unit's jog wheel & virtual
keyboard. Once you have chosen a specific point-of-interest, you can either
call that point of interest from your connected Bluetooth enabled cell phone
or have the Asteroid display directions to the point-of-interest from your
current position on the unit's 3.2" color screen (no audible directions).
- Roadtrip: The Roadtrip application is a really
effective tourist guide. It helps you discover nearby points of interest
(POI) with the help of detailed information and photos. Launching the
Roadtrip application will display the list of nearby POIs. A toolbar shows
the POI nearest to where you are as well as your distance from it. The Alert
Mode even informs you automatically of any nearby POIs even when the
Roadtrip app is not currently being used. Once you have selected the POI,
all the information about it is displayed. You can then:
- View information from Wikipedia about the POI
- View photos of the POI (if any are available).
- View the route to this POI (only available with Maps app running in
background)
- Call the POI (if a Bluetooth enabled phone is connected)
- See what the weather is at the POI (only available with Weather app
running in background)
- Wikango HD: The Wikango HD application legally notifies
you of the presence of mobile speed cameras, as well as of road traffic
incidents and disruptions. Its operating principle is community-based; you
are notified of the presence of speed cameras after another Wikango
community member (Smartdriver) sees one and then reports it. The use of the
Wikango HD application is legal all over the United States and Europe apart
from in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. You are entitled to a 30-day free
trial period.
Weather App: The Weather application tells you about weather
conditions and gives the weather forecast for several days around your location
or in a town of your choice. When the Weather application is run, the weather
conditions at your location are displayed. If you have defined Favorite
locations, the weather at these places is also displayed.
TuneIn: TuneIn is a
Internet Radio music application. The TuneIn application lets you
listen to local and international Internet radio free of charge. You can access
more than 50,000 on-line radio stations and podcasts from around the world. You
can choose the type of radio station or podcast you want to listen to and then
select your specific radio station/podcast. You can also manually search for a
radio station or a podcast, using the units jog wheel and virtual keyboard. In
addition, you can create a Favorites Station List. You can even view Radio Name,
Radio Logo, & Song/Artist Information on the head unit's display.
TextFriendly: TextFriendly is an interactive service that
allows you to access your emails and text messages directly from the Parrot
Asteroid, by voice (hands-free). The TextFriendly service features a set of
voice recognition and synthesis software in order to read emails/text messages
& compose or answer an emails/text messages. The service exists in multiple
languages, including English, American English, Spanish, & French
Note: TextFriendly is $4.99 per month, or $39.99 per year.
USB Port/SD-Card Slot
4 USB Ports: The Parrot Asteroid is equipped with 4 USB (type-A)
ports. One USB port is labeled "iPod" and designed for iPod/iPhone use
only. The other 3 USB (type-A) ports can be used to connect the included GPS
receiver/antenna for navigation, an Internet USB dongle for Internet apps, and a
USB memory device for music playback. The Asteroid is compatible with the
majority of 3G Network USB dongles, MP3 audio players, USB thumbdrives, & USB
external hard drives.
Note: Use the included 5' USB extension cable to make connecting &
disconnecting your USB device or Internet (3G) USB dongle easier.
SD-Card Slot: The Parrot Asteroid is also equipped with an SD-card
slot located behind the detachable faceplate. The SD-card slot supports playback
of music files stored on SD or SDHC memory cards.
Note: mini SD/SDHC & micro SD/SDHC memory cards are
compatible with adapter (sold separately).
Compatible Compressed Audio Formats: The Parrot Asteroid's USB port &
SD-card slot supports playback of the following compressed music files -
MP3, WMA, AAC, WAV, & OGG.
Music Control: You can browse your USB device's or SD-card's music
files by Artist, Album, Song, Genre, or Playlist. Once you have selected a
category, you can search each category alphabetically.
Voice Recognition: The Voice Recognition function allows you to select the artist/album you want
to hear via voice recognition. You can simply access your music by
pronouncing the name of the artist/album stored in your music library and the
music will be launched automatically. This function is only available if you are
using the Parrot Asteroid with a USB, SD, or iPod device.
Note: Several minutes of loading may be necessary when connecting
your audio device (USB/SD/iPod) to the Parrot Asteroid for the first
time, particularly if you are using audio peripheral with a large capacity
or containing many audio files. This loading time will allow your audio
files to be accessible via voice recognition.
Software/Firmware Updates (via USB): You can download the latest
software/firmware updates for free from the Parrot website via a USB thumbdrive.
The USB thumbdrive (containing the software/firmware download) is then inserted
into the Asteroid's USB (type-A) port. These updates will enable you to receive
new features & improve the product's compatibility.
Note: The tested Parrot Asteroid contained firmware/software
version 1.3.0. There is a firmware/software version 1.4.0 available.
iPod/Aux Connectivity
Apple Device Direct Connection: The Parrot Asteroid's
rear-panel USB port (labeled "iPod") can be used to connect your iPod/iPhone/iPad
to the head unit, via the included iPod cable or the dock connector-to-USB cable
which comes with your iPod/iPhone. The Asteroid supports audio playback, music
navigation, information display, & charging of your compatible iPod/iPhone (does
not charge the iPad).
- Music Browsing: You can browse your iPod/iPhone/iPad's
music library by Artist, Album, Song, Genre, or Playlist. Once you have
selected a category, you can search each category alphabetically.
- iPod/iPhone Display: The head unit will display your
iPod/iPhone/iPad's music file information, including - Track/Folder #,
Elapsed playing time, Song title, Artist name, & Album Art.
- iPod/iPhone Charging: The head unit's USB connection
will power & charge your connected iPod/iPhone battery when your vehicle's
ignition switch is set to the 'ACC' or 'On' position. This unit does not
charge the iPad.
Note: Your iPod/iPhone/iPad's controls will be locked
during connection. If your iPod/iPhone/iPad has no initial battery
charge, then the unit will not recognize it.
iPod/iPhone Compatibility Chart: The Parrot Asteroid is
"Made for iPod/iPhone" compatible and supports the following iPod/iPhone/iPad
model functions (as of November 2011):
|
iPod Model |
Generation |
Tested Version |
Wireless |
Media Type |
Control Type |
Display Type |
Charge |
|
Bluetooth |
3G |
Audio |
Video |
Unit |
iPod |
Album Art |
Song Info |
Track # |
|
dock connector |
3rd |
N/A |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
clickwheel
color |
4th |
N/A |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
|
mini |
1st |
N/A |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
| 2nd |
N/A |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
N |
|
video |
5th |
1.3 |
N |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
classic |
80GB |
1.1.2 |
N |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
120GB |
2.0.1 |
N |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
160GB |
2.0.4 |
N |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
nano |
1st |
1.3.1 |
N |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
2nd |
1.1.3 |
N |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
3rd |
1.1.3 |
N |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
4th |
1.0.4 |
N |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
5th |
1.0.2 |
N |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
6th |
1.1 PC |
N |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
touch |
1st |
2.2.1 |
N |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
2nd |
4.2.1 |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
3rd |
4.3.5 |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
4th |
5.0 |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
iPhone |
2G |
3.1.3 |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
3G |
4.2.1 |
Y |
Y |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
3GS |
4.3.5 |
Y |
Y |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
4 |
4.2.7 |
Y |
Y |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
4S |
5.0 |
Y |
Y |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
iPad |
1 |
4.3.5 |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
|
2 |
5.0 |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
N |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Y |
Note: Apple iPod/iPhone software updates may change
functionality results. If you download a newer software version, you may
need to reset the head unit and your iPod/iPhone to regain functionality. If
this doesn't work, you may need to wait until a newer software update is available.
iOS 5.0 Note: Apple recently released iOS 5.0 for the iPod touch &
iPhone. This new software is currently not entirely compatible with the Parrot
Asteroid, as it is not yet possible to share 3G connection with an
iPhone (tethering). Also, there are several compatibility problems between the
iPhone 4S and the Parrot Asteroid's current software version. Parrot is already
working on a future software/firmware update for the Asteroid to fix these
problems.
Note: Downloading the latest software version 1.4 from the Parrot
website solves this issue.
AUX Input: The Parrot Asteroid features a rear-panel 3.5mm auxiliary
input for connecting an external audio player, such as a CD player. The
Auxiliary input must be "activated" in the unit's menu.
Built-in Bluetooth
Bluetooth Technology: Bluetooth wireless technology enables
voice, data, & music to be sent via a short-distance radio link. It connects a
wide range of electronic equipment without requiring additional cables.
Furthermore, it extends the communication possibilities for mobile phones and a
large number of devices. The Bluetooth stereo (A2DP) profile uses the same radio
frequencies and can be used to send music tracks from one device to another.
Bluetooth wireless technology offers a range of 33 feet (10 meters).
Bluetooth v2.1 + EDR: The Parrot Asteroid features built-in Bluetooth
(v2.1 + EDR) for advanced hands-free communication & wireless audio streaming.
Bluetooth Profiles: The Parrot Android supports the following
Bluetooth v2.1 + EDR. Profiles.
- HFP (Hands-Free Profile): Hands-free communication with
your Bluetooth enabled cellular phone in the vehicle (incoming/outgoing
calls supported).
- HSP (Headset Profile): Provides support for Bluetooth
headsets to be used with mobile phones.
- OPP (Object Push Profile): Phonebook transfer from your
Bluetooth enabled mobile phone to the head unit.
- PBAP (Phone Book Access Profile): Phonebook access from
your Bluetooth enabled cell-phone to the head unit.
- A2DP (Advanced Audio Distribution Profile): Music
streaming from your Bluetooth enabled phone or audio player to the head
unit.
- AVRCP (Audio/Video Remote Control Profile): Basic music
playback control of your Bluetooth enabled phone or audio player from the
head unit.
Bluetooth Compatibility: The Parrot Asteroid is 100% Bluetooth
compatible with virtually every Bluetooth-enabled cell phone, smartphone, PDA &
iPhone (iPhone 3G/3GS/4). You can visit the
Parrot Support Site to confirm that your cell phone is compatible.
Pairing: You can pair up to 10 devices with the Parrot Asteroid. The
Parrot Asteroid allows you to use the telephone & audio streaming functions from
two different phones without having to disconnect one of them.
Hands-Free Communication: The Parrot Asteroid supports Bluetooth
hands-free communication for your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone. The controls
of the Asteroid can be used to dial a number, answer an in-coming call, or end a
call. You can listen to phone calls through your car's front speakers & talk
through the included external microphone. The Parrot Asteroid can retrieve
phonebook contacts, and call history from your Bluetooth enabled mobile phone.
Dialing A Number: Using Parrot Asteroid, you can dial a
phone number in one of the following ways:
- Direct Dial: The Parrot Asteroid allows you to directly dial a
phone number from the unit's jog wheel & virtual keyboard.
- Phonebook Access: The Asteroid allows you to upload your phonebook from your
Bluetooth enabled phone, so calls can be launched simply by browsing your
phonebook. Each time you add a contact name, the Asteroid automatically
synchronizes your cell phonebook. The Asteroid can support up to 8,000 total
contacts (2,000 per paired phone).
- Voice Recognition: The Parrot Asteroid features user
independent voice recognition & voice synthesis (text-to-speech). The
Asteroid automatically associates user-independent voice recognition tags, so
calls can be simply launched by voice. The Asteroid recognizes your
voice & the name you are saying without any prior teaching process. When you
speak the name or the contact you want to dial, the call is automatically
dialed.
- Redial: You instantly redial the last dialed number by holding down
the unit's call button.
Note: Only the contacts stored in the phone memory are synchronized.
If your contacts are stored in your SIM card memory, transfer them onto your
phone memory.
Receiving A Call: An incoming call is indicated by a ringtone
(8 ringtones to choose from). The name of
the caller is announced, if the number is recorded in the phonebook of the phone
connected to the Parrot Asteroid. When a call comes in, the Asteroid
automatically mutes your car stereo and the caller's voice comes through your
vehicle's front speakers. All the call information from the phone is displayed on the
unit's bright 3.2' display.
Call Waiting: During a call, you can receive another call if
your phone supports this functionality.
Caller I.D. Announcements: If your Bluetooth enabled
cell-phone supports Caller I.D., the caller's name (if in phonebook) will be
announced to you over your vehicle's speakers. The Asteroid's control screen will
also display the name (if in phonebook).
Double External Microphone: The Parrot Asteroid features an external
double microphone with noise reduction (NR 3.0), echo cancellation (AEC), and full duplex
operation which provides crystal clear calls at normal conversation level. The
microphone features an integrated adjustable mounting bracket with an adhesive
backing. The integrated bracket also features a mounting hole to attach the
microphone with an optional self-tapping screw. In addition, the microphone
comes supplied with a visor clip to mount to your vehicle's sun-visor.
Note: The ideal location for the microphone is near the rear-view
mirror. The microphone needs to be pointed towards the user.
Muting a Call: You can mute
the head unit's microphone so you can still hear the caller, but the caller
cannot hear you.
Private Mode: To follow on your conversation in private, you can switch instantaneously the communication
between the Asteroid and your Bluetooth
mobile phone.
Note: A call is automatically transferred to your phone, when the
faceplate is removed or after 30 minutes of communication with the ignition
turned off.
Wireless Audio Streaming: The Parrot Asteroid supports Bluetooth audio
streaming (A2DP) & control (AVRCP). You can stream music from your Bluetooth
enabled phone or other Bluetooth stereo device. The Parrot Asteroid allows basic
playback functions (Play/Pause, Fast Forward/Rewind, Skip/Previous) of your
connected Bluetooth device. The Asteroid will even display the playlist of your
connected Bluetooth device. All music files will played back through your car's
speakers (front & back).
Audio Section
MOSFET Amplifier: The Parrot Asteroid is equipped with a 23W
(RMS) x 4Ch MOSFET amplifier. Compared to conventional power supplies, the MOSFET
amplification circuit is smaller and more efficient, and it delivers increased
power with less distortion and absolutely zero on/off switching noise. More
power means louder and cleaner music at higher volumes because you're not
pushing the limits of the amplification circuit.
6V/6CH Preamp Outputs: The Parrot Asteroid is fitted with
six 6-volt
preamp outputs (Front, Rear, & Sub).
Subwoofer Controls: You can control the volume (+/-6dB) of the
subwoofer preamp output independently from the main volume. You can also adjust
a the low-pass crossover frequency (50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 120, 140, 160, 180,
200Hz) for the subwoofer preamp output.
Equalizer: The equalizer allows you to adjust low, medium,
and high frequencies to your preferences. You can choose between a 7-band EQ
(60, 150, 400, 1k, 2k, 6k, 15k Hz) or 10 EQ presets (Off, Vocal, Pop, Club,
Punchy, Deep, Crystal, Custom 1/2/3).
Virtual Super Bass Effect: The Virtual Super Bass effect amplifies
bass frequencies. The Cutoff Frequency setting allows you to select the bass
cutoff frequency for the speakers (the lowest frequency that the speakers can
generate naturally). The Virtual Super Bass will then reproduce the frequencies
that are lower than this cutoff frequency. The Effect Intensity setting allows
you to adjust the level of bass frequencies generated by the Virtual Super Bass
effect.
Loudness: The Loudness function is a dynamic adjustment of bass &
treble based on listening volume. This function compensates for the human ear's
loss of sensitivity to bass and treble frequencies when the volume is low. The
Loudness function can be set to Off, Low, Medium, or High.
Automatic Volume Control: The Automatic Volume Control function
automatically adjusts the volume of your music to the surrounding noise level.
If the Automatic volume control option is activated, the music volume will
increase or decrease along with the surrounding noise level.
Tuner Functions
AM/FM Tuner: The Parrot Asteroid is equipped with a built-in AM/FM
tuner with manual, seek, and preset tuning.
Infinite Preset Stations: The Asteroid lets you store as many preset
stations for AM & FM as you want.
RDS: The Radio Data System (RDS) feature displays radio
broadcast information such as artist, title, & album when listening to
compatible AM/FM stations.
Traffic Alert: The Traffic alert option allows the Radio source to be
automatically activated a& selected when the current station starts broadcasting
traffic information.
Remote Control
Steering Wheel Control Interface: A steering wheel control interface
(Parrot
Unika,
available from manufacturer) can be used to connect your vehicle's steering wheel controls
to the Parrot car stereo. With this interface you will be able to make phone
calls via the steering wheel controls while keeping your hands on the wheel.
