iPod car adapter images

Pretend Radio Station

This RoadTrip FM transmitter plugs into a power outlet and charges the iPod at the same time. FM transmitters send FM radio signals into the car's interior that are picked up by the car's FM antenna. The greater selection of FM channels, the better chance of finding an effective one, especially on long trips. (Image courtesy of Griffin Technology, www.griffintechnology.com)

Pretend Tape Cassette

Containing no tape inside, the SmartDeck adapter gets the digital music from the iPod, converts it to analog and directs magnetic signals to the tape head. The buttons on the car's tape player can control the iPod because the dock connector is bi-directional. The SmartDeck converts the movements of the tape deck into commands for the iPod. (Image courtesy of Griffin Technology, www.griffintechnology.com)

Analog and Digital

Like all music players, the iPod has analog output for a headset, which can be input to any amplifier and speakers, whether in the car or not. The iPod's dock connector port at the bottom of the unit provides a bi-directional, digital connection to an iPod-specific car adapter as well as to a computer or desktop iPod docking station (see iPod dock).

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