Kenwood Excelon DNX8120 Manual

The Kenwood Excelon DNX8120 is a high-performance double-DIN multimedia navigation receiver featuring a 6.95-inch touchscreen display, built-in GPS navigation, DVD/CD playback, Bluetooth connectivity, HD Radio compatibility, iPod/iPhone integration, USB connectivity, and advanced audio processing. Below are key sections for features, installation, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Navigation Features 8. Audio/Video Playback 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6.95-inch WVGA touchscreen display, Built-in Garmin GPS navigation, DVD/CD player, Bluetooth hands-free, USB port, iPod direct control, HD Radio tuner.

FeatureDescription
Display6.95-inch WVGA touchscreen (800x480)
NavigationBuilt-in Garmin GPS with preloaded maps
Media PlaybackDVD-Video, DVD-Audio, CD, MP3, WMA
BluetoothHands-free calling and audio streaming
USB PortFor USB storage devices and iPod connectivity
HD RadioDigital radio reception with artist/title info
Audio Processing13-band EQ, time alignment, crossover
Video OutputRCA composite video output
Steering Wheel ControlCompatible with most vehicle interfaces
Power Output50W x 4 channels (MOSFET power IC)

Installation

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

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal before installation.
  2. Remove factory radio and mounting brackets.
  3. Connect wiring harness following color-coded connections.
  4. Connect GPS antenna to rear of unit and place for optimal reception.
  5. Connect Bluetooth microphone in optimal location.
  6. Secure unit in dashboard and test all functions.

WARNING! Always disconnect battery before installation. Use proper wiring harness for your vehicle.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup wizard.

  1. Language selection: Choose preferred language for interface.
  2. Time/Date settings: Set current time and date format.
  3. Bluetooth pairing: Pair your mobile phone for hands-free operation.
  4. Navigation setup: Accept GPS terms and calibrate touchscreen.
  5. Audio settings: Configure EQ presets and sound preferences.
  6. Source priorities: Set default audio sources.

CAUTION! Do not operate navigation or video functions while driving.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Primary control via touchscreen interface. Physical buttons: POWER/VOLUME, SRC, EJECT.

Touchscreen Menus: NAVI, AUDIO, VIDEO, SETUP, PHONE, SOURCE.

Audio Settings: 13-band equalizer, loudness, bass boost, subwoofer level, time alignment. Video Settings: Screen adjustment, brightness, contrast, color settings. Navigation Settings: Route preferences, map display options, voice guidance. Bluetooth Settings: Phonebook sync, call history, audio streaming quality. System Settings: Display language, clock format, button sounds, safety lock.

Connecting Devices

Multiple connectivity options for various media sources.

  1. iPod/iPhone: Connect via USB cable for full control and charging
  2. USB devices: Flash drives and portable hard drives
  3. Bluetooth: Pair mobile phones for calls and audio streaming
  4. Auxiliary input: 3.5mm jack for external audio sources
  5. Rear camera: Connect backup camera for safety
  6. Amplifiers: Use preamp outputs for external amplification

Tip: Use genuine Kenwood accessories for optimal performance and compatibility.

Navigation Features

Built-in Garmin navigation with comprehensive mapping and routing.

  1. Destination entry: Address, points of interest, favorites
  2. Route calculation: Fastest route, shortest distance, avoid tolls
  3. Turn-by-turn guidance: Voice prompts and visual directions
  4. Map display: 2D/3D views, day/night modes
  5. Traffic information: Real-time traffic updates (subscription required)
  6. Lane assistance: Guidance for complex intersections
  7. Speed limits: Display current road speed limits
  8. Where Am I?: Emergency information and nearby services

WARNING! Program destinations only when vehicle is safely parked.

Audio/Video Playback

Comprehensive media playback from multiple sources.

  1. DVD playback: Insert disc, automatic play begins
  2. CD playback: Audio CDs and MP3/WMA CDs
  3. USB playback: Browse folders and play supported files
  4. iPod control: Full menu navigation and playlist access
  5. Bluetooth audio: Stream from compatible devices
  6. HD Radio: Digital broadcast with multicasting
  7. Playback controls: Play, pause, skip, repeat, random
  8. Video playback: DVD video with parking brake safety

CAUTION! Video playback disabled while vehicle is in motion for safety.

Care & Maintenance

Proper care ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Use soft, dry cloth for screen cleaning. Avoid chemical cleaners. Keep discs clean and free of scratches. Regular firmware updates available from Kenwood website. Protect from extreme temperatures and moisture.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive materials on touchscreen. Avoid liquid cleaners.

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. Garmin and MapSource are trademarks of Garmin Ltd. iPod and iPhone are trademarks of Apple Inc. For technical support, contact Kenwood at 1-800-536-9663 or visit www.kenwood.com.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring connectionCheck fuse and power connections; verify battery connection
No GPS signalAntenna placementReposition GPS antenna; ensure clear view of sky
Bluetooth not connectingPairing issueDelete old pairing; restart pairing process; check phone compatibility
Disc not readingDisc condition/formatClean disc; check for scratches; verify supported format
Touchscreen not responsiveCalibration neededRecalibrate touchscreen in system settings
No soundAudio settingsCheck mute; verify source selection; check amplifier connections

Reset: Press reset button on faceplate or disconnect battery for 30 seconds.

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

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