Kenwood Excelon DDX9903S Manual

The Kenwood Excelon DDX9903S is a premium 6.8-inch multimedia receiver with built-in Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, HD Radio, SiriusXM readiness, dual camera inputs, and advanced audio controls. Features include capacitive touchscreen display, Maestro compatibility for vehicle integration, customizable source colors, and extensive audio tuning options. Below are key sections for 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. Smartphone Integration 8. Audio Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6.8-inch capacitive touchscreen, Bluetooth wireless technology, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, HD Radio tuner, dual USB ports, camera inputs, Maestro compatible.

FeatureDescription
Display6.8-inch WVGA capacitive touchscreen
BluetoothHands-free calling and audio streaming
Apple CarPlayiPhone integration with Siri voice control
Android AutoAndroid smartphone integration
HD RadioDigital radio with artist/title info
Camera InputsDual camera capability for backup/surveillance
Maestro CompatibleVehicle integration and data display
USB PortsDual USB for charging and data
Audio Output4V preamp outputs, 13-band EQ
SiriusXM ReadySatellite radio compatibility

Installation

Professional installation recommended. Ensure vehicle is parked safely with parking brake engaged.

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.
  2. Remove factory radio using proper removal tools.
  3. Connect wiring harness following color-coded wiring diagram.
  4. Connect antenna adapter and GPS antenna if applicable.
  5. Secure unit in dash and test all functions before final assembly.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup wizard.

  1. Language selection: Choose preferred language (English default).
  2. Bluetooth pairing: Access Bluetooth menu to pair smartphone.
  3. Source setup: Configure radio presets, audio sources.
  4. Display settings: Adjust brightness, color themes, screen timeout.
  5. Smartphone integration: Connect Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.

CAUTION! Do not operate while driving. Complete setup while parked.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Touchscreen interface with physical volume knob and function buttons.

Physical Controls: Power/Volume knob, Source button, Home button, Camera button.

Audio Settings: 13-band equalizer, crossover settings, time alignment, loudness, subwoofer level. Display Settings: Brightness, contrast, color themes, screen off timer. Source Settings: Radio presets, Bluetooth settings, USB mode. Vehicle Settings: Parking brake interlock, camera settings, steering wheel control programming.

Connecting Devices

Multiple connectivity options for various devices.

  1. Smartphones: Bluetooth pairing or USB connection
  2. USB devices: Connect flash drives or external hard drives
  3. Cameras: Connect backup camera to camera input
  4. Audio devices: Auxiliary input for MP3 players
  5. Satellite radio: Connect SiriusXM tuner module

Tip: Use high-quality USB cables for reliable connections.

Smartphone Integration

Advanced smartphone connectivity features.

  1. Apple CarPlay: Connect iPhone via USB for integrated experience
  2. Android Auto: Connect Android phone for Google services
  3. Bluetooth Audio: Stream music wirelessly from any device
  4. Hands-free Calling: Make and receive calls safely
  5. Voice Control: Use Siri or Google Assistant for commands
  6. App Integration: Access navigation, music, messaging apps

WARNING! Use voice commands and steering wheel controls to minimize distraction.

Audio Features

Advanced audio processing and customization.

13-Band Equalizer: Precise frequency adjustment. Time Alignment: Adjust speaker timing for optimal soundstage. Crossover Settings: High-pass and low-pass filters. Subwoofer Control: Independent subwoofer level and phase. Sound Presets: Multiple preset EQ curves. Advanced Mixer: Fader and balance controls.

Care & Maintenance

Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning screen. Avoid chemical cleaners.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive materials on touchscreen. Keep liquids away from unit.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 Class B compliant. This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Bluetooth is a registered trademark of Bluetooth SIG. Apple CarPlay is a trademark of Apple Inc. Android Auto is a trademark of Google LLC. For support, visit www.kenwood.com or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/fuseCheck fuse, wiring connections, battery connection
Bluetooth not connectingPairing modeEnter pairing mode, delete old pairings, restart phone
Apple CarPlay not workingCable/softwareUse Apple certified cable, update iOS, restart devices
No soundSettings/connectionsCheck volume, mute, amplifier connections, fader settings
Screen not respondingCalibrationReset unit, clean screen, check for obstructions

Reset: Hold reset button for 5 seconds or disconnect battery.

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

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