Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD Manual

The Kenwood Excelon DNX890HD is a premium in-dash navigation receiver featuring a 6.95-inch WVGA touchscreen display, built-in Garmin navigation, Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming, HD Radio compatibility, SiriusXM readiness, dual USB inputs, dual camera inputs, and support for various audio/video formats. Below are key sections covering installation, features, 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 Operation 8. Audio Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 6.95-inch WVGA touchscreen, Garmin navigation system, Bluetooth connectivity, HD Radio, dual USB inputs, rear camera input.

FeatureDescription
Display6.95-inch WVGA resistive touchscreen
NavigationBuilt-in Garmin navigation with lifetime map updates
BluetoothHands-free calling and audio streaming
HD RadioDigital radio reception with artist/title info
USB InputsDual USB ports for media playback
Camera InputDual camera inputs for rear/front cameras
Audio FormatsMP3, WMA, AAC, FLAC, WAV
Video FormatsMPEG-1, MPEG-2, DivX, XviD
SiriusXMSatellite radio ready (tuner required)
Power Output22W x 4 channels (MOSFET power IC)

Installation

Professional installation recommended. Ensure vehicle is parked and ignition is off.

  1. Disconnect negative battery terminal before beginning installation.
  2. Remove factory radio using appropriate removal tools.
  3. Connect wiring harness following color-coded wiring diagram.
  4. Connect GPS antenna and place for optimal satellite reception.
  5. Connect microphone for hands-free calling near driver position.
  6. Test all functions before final assembly.

WARNING! Incorrect installation may damage vehicle electrical system. Use only recommended installation accessories.

First-Time Setup

Power on unit; follow initial setup wizard.

  1. Language selection: Choose preferred language for interface.
  2. Time/Date: Set current time and date format.
  3. Bluetooth pairing: Pair mobile phone for hands-free operation.
  4. Navigation setup: Accept terms, download map updates if needed.
  5. Audio settings: Configure sound preferences and equalizer.
  6. Source priority: Set default audio source preferences.

CAUTION! Do not operate navigation while driving. Pull over safely to adjust settings.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

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

Touchscreen Interface: Home screen with customizable shortcuts, swipe gestures for navigation.

Audio Settings: 13-band equalizer, time alignment, crossover settings, loudness. Navigation Settings: Route preferences, avoidances, map display options. Bluetooth Settings: Phonebook access, call history, audio streaming quality. System Settings: Display brightness, button illumination, safety warnings.

Connecting Devices

USB devices, smartphones, backup cameras, external amplifiers.

  1. USB Connection: Connect USB storage devices for media playback.
  2. Smartphone: Bluetooth pairing for hands-free and audio streaming.
  3. Backup Camera: Connect to rear camera input for automatic activation.
  4. Amplifier: Use RCA preamp outputs for external amplification.
  5. Steering Wheel Controls: Connect via interface adapter if supported.

Tip: Use high-quality USB cables for reliable data transfer and charging.

Navigation Operation

Garmin navigation with lifetime map updates and traffic alerts.

  1. Destination Entry: Use touchscreen keyboard or voice command.
  2. Route Calculation: Multiple route options (Fastest, Shortest, Eco).
  3. Points of Interest: Search for nearby gas, food, hotels.
  4. Traffic Alerts: Real-time traffic information with detours.
  5. Lane Guidance: Visual lane assistance for complex intersections.
  6. Speed Limits: Display current road speed limits.
  7. Where Am I?: Emergency information and nearby services.
  8. Favorites: Save frequently visited locations.

WARNING! Always pay attention to road conditions. Navigation is a driving aid only.

Audio Features

Advanced audio processing with multiple source options.

FeatureDescription
Time AlignmentAdjust audio timing for optimal sound staging
13-Band EQPrecise frequency adjustment
CrossoverHigh-pass and low-pass filter settings
Sound RetrieverEnhances compressed audio quality
Drive EQAutomatic EQ adjustment based on vehicle speed
Audio MixBlend navigation prompts with audio playback

Care & Maintenance

Use microfiber cloth for screen cleaning. Avoid harsh chemicals.

CAUTION! Do not use alcohol-based cleaners on touchscreen. Keep unit dry and avoid extreme temperatures.

Regulatory Information

FCC ID: A3LDNX890HD. This device complies with Part 15 of FCC rules. This product incorporates copyright protection technology. Kenwood and Excelon are registered trademarks of JVCKENWOOD Corporation. Garmin is a registered trademark of Garmin Ltd. For support, visit www.kenwood.com/usa or contact 1-800-536-9663.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No powerWiring/ignitionCheck power and ground connections; verify ignition wire
No GPS signalAntenna placementReposition GPS antenna; ensure clear view of sky
Bluetooth not connectingPairing issuesDelete old pairing; restart both devices; re-pair
Touchscreen not responsiveCalibration/screen protectorRecalibrate touchscreen; remove screen protector
No soundSettings/wiringCheck mute; verify speaker connections; reset audio settings
USB not recognizedFormat/compatibilityUse FAT32 format; check file compatibility; try different USB device

Reset: Hold SOURCE button for 10 seconds to reset unit.

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

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