IPod car docks allow you to charge your device in your vehicle and play it at the same time in place of the automobile's stereo or radio. The car docks play audio through the vehicle's existing stereo system and are powered though the vehicle's cigarette lighter. The devices, which retail for around $50 or less depending on model, are a cheaper alternative to satellite radios and are perfect to charge your iPod while on the go.
Function
The two functions of iPod car docks are to play the music stored in the device through the car's stereo system and to charge the iPod. The music on the iPod is played through the dock, which typically has an FM transmitter on it. The user can set the transmission of the device to a specific FM frequency and then tune the vehicle's FM radio to that set frequency to hear the iPod.
The device is charged through the vehicle dock, which powers the iPod using the power from a vehicle's cigarette lighter. The power supply is sufficient enough to operate the iPod and charge it at the same time. The dock typically has a base that is mounted to the vehicle's dashboard and the iPod can easily be inserted and removed.
Types
There are several types of iPod vehicle docks made by different manufactures. There are a number of docks available through Apple, the manufacturing company of iPod. These docks range from ones that will simply charge to ones that will charge and operate two devices, such as the iPhone and IPod. In addition to the vehicle docks from Apple, there are others made by different companies on the market. These docks can be universal ones and often can power and operate other mp3 players and devices, whereas the ones from Apple will only work with their products. One such example of a universal iPod car dock is the Logic3 MIP 166. This will work with an iPod and other mp3 players.
Benefits
The biggest benefit of an iPod car dock is it allows you to listen to your iPod while operating a motor vehicle. Because they do not have a built-in speaker, iPods must be used with external speakers, such as headphones. Using the car dock in lieu of headphones is a safe way to enjoy downloaded music while driving. Also, because iPods need to be charged after repeated or extended use, a car dock is a way to use an iPod without draining its battery. The dock can also give a quick charge to the iPod without needing to plug it into a computer or plug-in charging base.
Features
The iPod car docks typically have a feature that allows you to plug the device in for charging without playing the iPod. This feature is good for when you want to use the dock just as a charger because the battery charging is maximized since the iPod is not in use. Some car docks will also have remote controls to operate the iPod while docked. These are handy features that enable the driver to change the song without reaching up to the dock, or they enable a backseat passenger to operate the iPod.
Considerations
When setting the transmitting frequency of the car dock, you should choose one that is not in use by a radio station in the area. Selecting the same frequency will cause interference as the car's radio antenna pulls in the more powerful signal from the radio station's transmitter. Because of the tendency for interference, when driving long distances it might be necessary to change the transmitting frequency as you drive in and out of signal reception areas from radio stations. When selecting the transmitting frequency you do not have to worry about passing vehicles getting the signal from your dock. The range of the transmitters are extremely limited and are designed to be received only in the immediate vicinity.
Warning
Like other plug-in devices, such as radar detectors and cell phone chargers, iPod car docks use power from your vehicle's battery and can drain it when use for a prolonged period of time. To prevent draining the battery, car docks should be unplugged when not in use and should only be used when the vehicle's ignition is on. IPod docks can also be an attractive target for car thieves so you should disengage the dock from the base and store it in the glove compartment when leaving your vehicle for extended periods of time.
Tags: iPod while, operate iPod, transmitting frequency, your vehicle, charge iPod, charge your, cigarette lighter