Kenwood DDX917WS Manual

The Kenwood DDX917WS is a 6.8-inch multimedia receiver with built-in Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, HD Radio, SiriusXM readiness, dual camera inputs, 4V preouts, and customizable display options. Features include capacitive touchscreen, voice control, USB connectivity, and advanced audio processing. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Bluetooth Connectivity 8. Smartphone Integration 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6.8-inch capacitive touchscreen, Bluetooth wireless technology, USB port, RCA preouts, camera inputs, remote control.

Feature	Description
Display	6.8-inch WVGA capacitive touchscreen
Bluetooth	Hands-free calling and audio streaming
Apple CarPlay	iPhone integration for apps and navigation
Android Auto	Android smartphone integration
HD Radio	Digital radio reception with song info
Camera Inputs	Dual camera capability for backup/front view
Preouts	4V RCA outputs for amplifiers
USB Port	For smartphone connection and media playback
Voice Control	Siri Eyes Free and Google Assistant
SiriusXM	Satellite radio ready (tuner required)

Installation

Professional installation recommended. Ensure vehicle is parked safely with ignition off.

Disconnect negative battery terminal for safety.
Remove factory radio using appropriate tools.
Connect wiring harness following color codes.
Connect antenna adapter and GPS antenna if applicable.
Mount unit securely in dashboard.
Reconnect battery and test all functions.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before installation. Use proper fuse ratings.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup wizard.

Language selection: Choose preferred language (default ENGLISH).
Clock setting: Set current time and date.
Bluetooth pairing: Search for and connect to smartphone.
Radio presets: Scan and save favorite stations.
Display settings: Adjust brightness and color themes.
Source setup: Configure audio sources and priorities.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Park vehicle for initial setup.

Specifications

Display: 6.8-inch WVGA capacitive touchscreen
Bluetooth: Version 4.1, A2DP, AVRCP, HFP
Power Output: 22W x 4 channels (MOSFET power IC)
Preout Voltage: 4V front/rear/subwoofer
Radio: AM/FM tuner with HD Radio
Video: Rear camera input, front camera input
USB: 1.5A charging, audio/video playback
Operating Voltage: 12V DC (negative ground)
Dimensions: DIN size (178mm x 100mm)

Controls and Settings

Access settings via touchscreen or physical buttons. Front Panel: POWER/VOLUME knob, SRC button, HOME button.

Touchscreen: Source selection, menu navigation, phone controls, app access.

Audio: Equalizer (13-band), time alignment, crossover settings, loudness. Display: Wallpaper, button color, dimmer settings. System: Bluetooth, camera, steering wheel controls, language. Source: Radio presets, media playback, smartphone apps.

Connecting Devices

Smartphone: USB or Bluetooth. Camera: RCA video input. Amplifiers: RCA preouts.

Ensure ignition is in accessory position.
Connect USB cable for smartphone integration.
Pair Bluetooth devices in settings menu.
Connect backup camera to designated input.
Route amplifier cables properly.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best performance and reliability.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Supports hands-free calling and audio streaming.

Enable Bluetooth on smartphone.
Access Bluetooth menu on head unit.
Select "Add New Device" and search.
Select your phone from discovered devices.
Enter PIN if required (typically 0000 or 1234).
Grant necessary permissions on phone.
Test call and audio functions.

WARNING! Do not pair devices while driving. Keep attention on road.

Smartphone Integration

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto provide seamless smartphone integration.

Apple CarPlay: Connect iPhone via USB, follow on-screen prompts, access apps, maps, messages. Android Auto: Connect Android phone via USB, enable debugging if required, access Google services. Voice commands available through Siri or Google Assistant.

Care & Cleaning

Turn off unit before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth only; no chemical cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive materials or liquids. Avoid pressure on screen.

Regulatory Information

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power	Wiring/fuse	Check fuse, wiring connections, battery connection.
Bluetooth not connecting	Pairing/range	Delete old pairings, ensure within range, restart devices.
Screen not responding	Calibration/static	Perform touch calibration, clean screen, reset unit.
No sound	Settings/wiring	Check volume, mute, speaker connections, fader balance.
CarPlay/Android Auto not working	Cable/software	Use certified cable, update phone software, restart devices.

Reset: Settings > System > Factory Reset if available.

Service: 1-800-536-9663; www.kenwood.com/usa