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Z-N528 reviewed
by Car & HifiThe Z-N528 was tested in the Car&Hifi 5/2020.Summary and conclusion: " The new Zenec Z-N528 offers in its price range outstanding equipment and features, exemplary usability and great performance both in the lab and in practice."MORE >> -
Z-N528 2-DIN
InfotainerBrilliant screen with glass surfaceThe capacitive 6.75“/ 17.1 cm touchscreen with glass surface enables precise control of the functions - a light touch is enough. The screen offers great brilliance and a detailed, natural image reproduction.MORE >> -
Various audio
DSP settingsProfessional audio settingsA DSP IC with 5-channel time alignment, a graphic 10-band equalizer with 7 EQ presets and an active crossover with 12dB or 24dB/oct. high- and low pass filters offer plenty of adjustability for sound optimization in the vehicle.MORE >> -
DAB+
TUNERHigh quality digital radio receptionThe integrated DAB+ tuner offers important convenience functions such as DAB<>DAB Service Following, MOT Slideshow, DLS text and Comfort Scan for easy to use mobile DAB+ - providing stable and clear reception of digital radio programs.MORE >> -
CarPlay
certifiedIntegration of Apple iPhonesThe Z-N528 supports Apple CarPlay. CarPlay offers iPhone users voice commands via Siri or an intuitive on-screen user interface to make phone calls, navigate, listen to music and access messages. With CarPlay you can focus on the traffic situation.MORE >> -
Google Android AutoTM
on the goPerfectly equipped for Android OS based smartphonesThe Z-N528 comes with Android Auto on board. Android Auto is specially developed for the use of Android OS smartphones in the vehicle. With Android Auto you can conveniently access compatible apps and online services - intuitively via touchscreen or the Google voice assistant.BACK >>
Z-N528 Video
Z-N528 – 2-DIN with apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto
The Z-N528 is a 2-DIN infotainer of the latest generation with a capacitive touch-sensitive 6.75“/17.1 cm display. Via its hard key bar at the front panel, the Z-N528 is perfectly suited for totally straightforward operation while driving.The Z-N528 provides for an easy and totally safe smartphone use in the car. The USB(1) port on the device lets you dock your phone directly to the infotainer – the Z-N528 is Apple CarPlay and Google Android Auto certified. Making phone calls, use Google or Apple maps to find a destination, play music and send or receive messages is true mobile convenience where the choice is yours: control and operate apps either via device touchscreen or with the Apple Siri or Google’s voice assistants. Thanks to the simple, intuitive user interfaces specially designed for in-car use, driver distraction is minimized – thus you can fully concentrate on driving.
The clear digital radio reception of the integrated DAB+ tuner is impressive, while the Z-N528 does score with several tuner comfort functions in addition: MOT Slideshow, DLS text, DAB<>DAB Service Following, and Comfort Scan. The high-sensitivity FM RDS tuner ensures good reception of conventional FM stations in regions where the DAB+ broadcasting network is not established sufficiently well yet.
The Z-N528 supports the playback of the latest audio and video formats of USB memory devices connected via USB 2.0 port. The USB(1) port does charge Apple and Android smartphone batteries with up to 2,000 mA charging current.
The Z-N528 does offer some nice advanced audio setup features. The audio DSP based 5-channel time alignment helps to adjust the virtual speaker locations to yield an improved staging and stereo image. The graphical 8-band equalizer can be used to counteract particularities of the car cabin, or to dial in the sound to suit personal preferences. The active crossover with selectable 12 dB or 24 dB/oct. highpasss filter for front and rear speakers allows the perfect integration of high quality aftermarket speaker systems and amplifiers for smooth and detailed music reproduction.
Lastly, the up-to-date Bluetooth 4.2 module with advanced hands-free functions gives you control over the simple management of contact favorites, a swift phonebook contact search using initial letter of given or family name, or convenient A2DP music streaming.
Function overview
Specifications
2-DIN DAB+ Infotainer | |
Touch sensitive, capacitive 6.75”/17.1 cm LCD-TFT display with glass surface | |
OSD menu in 10 different EU languages | |
DAB+ tuner with DAB<>DAB Service Following, MOT slideshow, DLS-text and Comfort Scan | |
FM RDS radio with 18 preset stations | |
Google Android AutoTM | |
Apple CarPlay | |
Bluetooth 4.2 with hands-free module and A2DP music streaming | |
Input for two camera systems with auto switching function and adjustable grid lines | |
RGB multicolor key illumination | |
4 x 50 W amplifier |
Bluetooth 4.2 module with hands-free function | |
Import of 1,000 phone book entries with 3 phone numbers each | |
Fast dial function for 6 contact favorites | |
Contact search function by given and last name | |
iD3-Tag display in A2DP mode (artist, title, album) | |
External Bluetooth hands-free microphone |
Made for iPod/iPhone | |
USB(2) 2.0 port on device backside for A/V file*1 playback from USB memory device | |
microSD card reader slot for A/V file*1 playback from microSD(HC) memory cards | |
Time alignment function by audio DSP (5CH with 0 to 10 mS delay each) | |
Graphical 8-band equalizer with 7 EQ-presets | |
Active crossover with selectable slope steepness (12 dB / 24 dB/oct.) with selectable high- and low-pass filter frequencies | |
HDMI input for compatible accessories and mobile devices | |
24 Bit D/A converter |
4.2 RCA line pre-out (3 V) | |
1 x DIN FM antenna input socket | |
1 x SMB DAB antenna input socket with switchable 12 V phantom power supply | |
2 x RCA A/V input for camera video signal (CVBS) with switched power supply and microphone-input (Cam1) | |
1 x USB(1) 2.0 port with ~2,000 mA charging current for Apple iOS and Android smartphones | |
1 x USB(2) 2.0 port for file*2 playback from USB memory devices | |
1 x RCA video output (CVBS, NTSC) | |
1 x RCA A/V input with NTSC/PAL auto switching (CVBS) | |
1 x HDMI input | |
1 x 3.5 mm jack connector for external Bluetooth microphone | |
1 x Input for connection of an external CAN/SWC interface |
*1 Supported A/V file formats: MP3, FLAC, AAC, WMA, AVI, MPEG-1/2, MPEG4, M4V (H.264), MKV 1080p, WMV, XviD.
Product catalogue
Test Report
Manuals
Device compatibility
iPhone/iPod Compatibility list | Compatible Audio and Video files | Bluetooth Compatibility |
iPod/iPhone Compatibility list | Audio-Video Compatibility list |
Notes on the Bluetooth hands-free function The Z-N528 uses a modern Bluetooth solution from Sunplus developed for usage in the automotive environment. The module supports the Bluetooth 4.2 profile, which ensures a high compatibility of the ZENEC Z-N528 and all device relevant Bluetooth functions in combination with most actual smartphone brands and models. Exceptions for Bluetooth function or profile components that do not seem to run correctly usually originate from provider-specific smartphone firmware (third-party provider). In order to be sure that a given smartphone is compatible with the relevant BT functions of the target device, it is advisable to test a given device combination in the shop of an authorized retailer before purchase.Additional information: Some smartphones require a confirmation to allow access to the phone book contact list. The phonebook access confirmation needs to be performed by the user, if necessary. If you encounter connection problems, always check to see if a newer firmware version is available for your phone and install it. After a smartphone update you should delete the previous device pairing on the device, restart the smartphone and pair it anew. |
Accessories
FAQ
No. Depending on the use of the device and the target vehicle, a specific antenna should be deployed. For passenger cars, active windscreen antennas are recommended. ZENEC offers a suitable antenna model in its accessories range, which can be obtained from authorized retailers.
http://www.zenec.com/products/zubehoer/antennas/z-eacc-dab1/?lang=en
No, but there is a separately available item called GBA-HDMIBOX, which combines 1 x HDMI and 2 x USB ports which can be used in combination with the Z-N528.
AW: The Z-N528 is designed as a system without remote control among other things, mainly because of the glass type touch panel, offering no opening for the IR eye.
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When the Z-N528 device is powered up the first time, a manual radio station search must be done by tapping on the “Scan” button. The scan may take up to 2 minutes to complete, depending on the signal strength and the amount of receivable the DAB stations.
The Z-N528 features an integrated DAB+ tuner. For the reception of digital radio stations, an antenna supporting the DAB standard is required.
If your car does not offer a suitable DAB antenna, it must be retrofitted allowing you to enjoy the digital radio program.
ZENEC offers two DAB antenna models, the Z-EACC-DAB1 and Z-EACC-DAB2 which can be purchased as separately available accessory items from authorized ZENEC retailers.
Go to Setup> Audio > Slider > Expert Mode to access the „Equalizer“.
ZENEC units include a low-voltage protection to avoid undersupply for certain integrated circuits (ICs) that may not work properly without correct and steady supply voltage. Please consult your car service point or car garage to review your car´s battery and wiring.
First, the password function must be set to “ON”. Before you can enter your own password, you have to enter the default password – 012345 – once.
The deployed hardware platform of the Z-N528 cannot process two external A/V streams coming from the smartphone. Z-N528 device use in practice is thus restricted as follows: Operate the device with the smartphone and the HDMI dongle. Alternatively, use the Android Auto function of the Z-N528 without HDMI dongle.
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The Z-N528 is a 2DIN device model which will fit and work with most vehicles featuring an ex works 2DIN radio mounting slot.
Yes, due to the glass type front system design the Z-N528 system features no opening for the microphone. Therefore, the external Bluetooth microphone must be mounted to be able to use the BT based hands-free function of the device.
If your vehicle is equipped with an OE steering wheel remote control it can be connected to the Z-N528. For this purpose, depending on the vehicle brand, model and model year, a vehicle-specific CAN/Stalk interface and a connecting wire to device (ZENEC ZEY-ZENECLEAD) need to be purchased from authorized retailers separately.
In case of a dual sensor camera with only one 12 V supply, please connect it to the CAMERA1-In port. For dual sensor reversing cameras, a separate accessory GNL-SWV2X1-RCA is available, which can be used to connect the cam to the CAMERA1-In port. Only if the twin sensor cam unit features two individual cameras featuring separate 12 V supplies, use the CAMERA1-In and CAMERA2-In ports and connect them to the Camera-1 12 V and Camera-2 12 V supply leads of the device.
The Z-N528 features a double phantom power. By default, the DAB supply is activated and the FM supply is deactivated. Depending on the target vehicle and the antenna system, or if a different solution is used than supported by the included adapter cable – P.ANT, FM supply, DAB supply can be used and switched individually.
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Yes, the Z-N528 features adjustable grid line overlay function generated by the device. The grind lines can be adjusted for the vehicle and the connected camera when camera source is active.
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The smartphone needs to be searched via ZENEC device (see main device manual).
Usually the device will generate a 6-digit code automatically, which then needs to be confirmed.
In case you have to manually enter a PIN code, try four times zero (0000).
Your smartphone contacts will only be downloaded after your confirmation during the first connection after search&pair. Any later changes made to your contacts must be refreshed by a manual download (see device user manual, or see the re-sync button in the phone book).
It is not possible to edit favorites. However, you have to delete and re-assign a new contact after you refreshed the downloaded phonebook on your ZENEC device.
Device allows to pair several smart phone showing up in the device list, while only one phone can be active.
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Enable Bluetooth on your iPhone. Then connect the iPhone USB cable to the proper cable extension coming from the device (USB1). CarPlay should now start without any further ado. (Else read the info provided on p.34/35 in the main device owner manual).
For a good read on the general function scope of CarPlay including an overview of CarPlay supported apps and additional information, go to the official Apple website: https://www.apple.com/en/ios/carplay/
AW: Google Android Auto is not (yet) available in all countries worldwide. Google itself does not publish any availability data for the Android Auto app. You can, however, register at www.android.com/auto with your email address to be notified of the Android Auto availability in your country.
(Else read the info provided on p.32/33 in the device owner manual).
To use Android Auto with your Android Smartphone, at least Android 5.0 (Lollipop) or a higher version of the Android operation system must be present on your smartphone.
To use Android Auto on your ZENEC device, you have to adjust time and date on your ZENEC device correctly. Please pay attention to chapter „Setup Operations → System → Clock & Date Setup“ shown in the main device user manual of the Z-N528. For more detailed information about Android Auto, please visit
https://www.android.com/auto/ and https://support.google.com/androidauto#topic=6348027
Please make sure your SD-cards/USB-sticks are FAT32 formatted. ZENEC suggests using high quality memory product with a maximum of 32 GB capacity. Higher capacity may work also but cannot be guaranteed. Also note that the USB connection is designed for a maximum current consumption of 500 mA. This means that normal mechanical hard disks are usually not compatible because the starting current of the disk is too high. In this case, the external hard drive is not indexed.
Yes, you can use CarPlay or Android Auto. Else, you can also use BT-Music for audio playback.
The device is featuring two USB ports, which for the assigned functions do not reach fully redundancy. See the following definition which functions are supported by the USB1 and USB2 ports:
USB1: Apple MFI (Made for iPod/iPhone)/ Apple CarPlay / Google Android Auto / 1A quick charge function / USB media playback / Device software update
USB2: USB media playback / 1A quick charge function
It may happen that the file system of your device is damaged: by high frequent write/re-write cycles, inappropriate usage (including storage), errors on first format or some other reasons.
Windows OS for example offers 2 different ways of format, quick-format and full-format. In such problem cases it is advisable to perform a full-format with FAT32 as file system.
Note: if even after full format, your data devices are still not detected, it may result from an incompatibility of data carrier controller-ICs. Please try a different brand/maker.
No, the TA broadcast volume will not increase automatically. Depending on the device model, a pop up prompting “Traffic announcement” or an Icon is displayed if the TA function is set ON.
Yes, the microSDHC card reader located on the front panel of the Z-N528 is reserved exclusively for audio and video playback.
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Attention: Software updates can only be applied via USB-1 Port. Parts of the update package will not be recognized via USB-2.
Please make sure that you pay attention to this point, when installing the device yourself. USB-1 port needs to be connected and well-marked. In case the device was not installed by yourself – please try the other USB Port in case you see that the update is only partially installed or device is misbehaving. The update instructions usually mention all important steps in detail.
Periodically, ZENEC provides software updates which contain system enhancements, to keep your device up to date.
Updates can be found in the download area of the ZENEC homepage www.zenec.com under Support> Software.
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