-
CAR&HIFI – Product
Of The Year 2021The C&H editors-in-chief on the product of the year:“The market offers a lot of good car entertainment devices, but only a few are so good that they simply inspire. Our many years of testing experience gives us the opportunity to identify the really outstanding devices. So we made up our minds to distinguish truly successful items with the award “Product Of The Year”. Signaling to buyers, that with the “Product Of The Year” they do purchase a highly functional, significant or nice sounding car-entertainment product”.MORE >> -
Z-N966 tested
by Car & HifiThe Z-N966 was tested in the Car&Hifi 6/2020.
Conclusion:Large and great display, huge range of functions and outstanding performance in all areas: The ZENEC Z-N966 is an absolute premium infotainer not having to fear any comparison. "Premium infotainer in a class of its own"MORE >> -
9in HD Display
InfotainerSharp, brilliant and BIG picturesThe capacitive, touch-sensitive 9“/ 22.9 cm TFT HD display with glass surface provides high-definition images (1280x720p) for finely resolved, crisp and brilliant images.MORE >> -
DAB+
Twin TunerFull DAB+ functions and featuresThe Z-N966 includes a DAB+ twin-tuner system giving you the full range of the digital broadcasting standard, including various comfort functionalities such as dynamic station list, MOT slideshow, DLS-text, as well as DAB<>DAB and DAB<>FM Service Following.MORE >> -
The Z-N966
„Audio Machine”Professional audio adjustments + functionsA DSP chip with 5-channel time alignment for the optimization of the center stage, the graphical 10-band equalizer with 7 sound presets, as well as the active crossover with high- and low pass filters for the pre-amp line outs and the internal amp give you full control for adjustments personal sound tuning.MORE >> -
Turn the Infotainer
into a NaviceiverNav-packges for passenger cars and motorhomesFor the Z-N966 there are three separate nav software packages available, to update the device to a full function naviceiver. With the Z-EMAP66-PC3 turns the Z-N966 into a sat nav system fit for passenger cars. The Z-EMAP66-MH3 and –MH7 are navigation packages for use with motorhome vehicles, featuring a wealth of dedicated functions.MORE >> -
CarPlay and
Google Android AutoPerfect Android smartphone integration on the goThe Z-N966 is Apple CarPlay and Google Android AutoTM 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.BACK >>
Z-N966 – 9“ / 22,9 cm Infotainer with HD Display
The Z-N966 of the ZENEC PRIME series is a top-class DAB+ infotainer for vehicles with 2-DIN mounting slot. The capacitive, touch-sensitive 9“/22.9 cm TFT HD display with glass surface provides high-definition images (1280 x 720 p) for finely resolved, crisp images.The Z-N966 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-N966 is Apple CarPlay and Google Android AutoTM 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.
The Z-N966 includes a DAB+ twin-tuner system giving you the full range of the digital broadcasting standard, including various comfort functionalities such as dynamic station list, MOT slideshow, DLS-text, as well as DAB<>FM/DAB<>DAB Service-Following.
The up-to-date 4.1 Bluetooth module features comfortable hands-free functions with optimized operation and high quality.
The Z-N966 allows the connection of up to three rear-view cameras and also convinces with its sophisticated audio features. A DSP chip with 5-channel time alignment allows optimization of sound travel times for each speaker, providing for best center stage imaging on either the driver or passenger seat. The respective delay can be set as distance in centimeters or as time in milliseconds. With the graphical 10-band equalizer you can manually optimize the sound to correct for particularities of your vehicle or simply to suit personal preferences. An active crossover with high and low pass filters completes the impressive audio feature list.
The Z-N966 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 1,000 mA charging current.
The Z-N966 can send audio signals to external Bluetooth headphones or active speakers via A2DP, so you can enjoy your music collection outside of your vehicle.
GPS navigation function for the Z-N966: Three navigation software packages are available to extend the infotainer purposefully. With the Z-EMAP66-PC3 package (3 years map care subscription) the Z-N966 becomes fit for passenger cars. Z-EMAP66-MH3 (3 years map care subscription) and Z-EMAP66-MH7 (7 years map care subscription) are nav-packages conceived for motorhome vehicles – featuring a wealth of dedicated functions to ease driving in such large vehicles.
Z-N966 Video
General function overview
Vehicle Compatibility
General: The Z-N966 does fit in vehicles featuring a 2-DIN mounting provision for vehicle-specific radio panels or 2DIN mounting kits.
- The Z-N966 does only fit into 2-DIN mounting slots aligned straight (90° angle) relative to the dashboard surface. The surface of the dashboard around the mounting slot should not be curved excessively in the vertical or horizontal pane.
- If a vehicle-specific 2-DIN mounting kit is deployed, kit must be designed to accept a mounting metal frame height of 113 mm. „Premium cover kits“ are an exception. They need to offer an aperture of at least 178 x 102 mm for the direct installation of the device, without the need to use of the metal mounting frame included in the set.
- Due to the large 9“ display, care must be taken to identify potential coverage of safety-related items in the cockpit, such as hazard warning light switch, airbag areas, etc. which may become obscured by the device front panel, impairing the respective function. ZENEC assumes no liability for vehicles where the type approval / operating license is at risk. Depending on the vehicle model, storage compartments, document holders, etc. may also become impaired in their function.
Specifications
9“ HD display Infotainer, upgradable with navigation function*1 | |
Touch sensitive, capacitive 9”/22.9 cm LCD-TFT HD display (1280 x 720 pixels) with glass surface | |
OSD menu in 15 different EU languages | |
DAB+ twin-tuner with dynamic station list, DAB<>FM and DAB<>DAB Service Following, MOT slideshow and DLS-text | |
FM RDS radio with 18 station presets | |
Google Android AutoTM | |
Apple CarPlay | |
Bluetooth 4.1 hands-free module with A2DP music streaming | |
Control of up to three cameras systems with auto switching, adjustable grid lines | |
CAM sensor key for direct camera control | |
SP-REM remote control App for smartphone control of audio source playback functions (iOS/Android) | |
RGB multicolor key illumination (amber preset) | |
2 x IR remote control incl. Maxi-remote | |
4 x 50 W amplifier |
Bluetooth 4.1 hands-free module | |
Import of 1,000 phone book entries with 3 phone numbers each | |
Memory-resident phonebook with direct access to sync’d contacts | |
Fast dial function for contact favorites | |
Phonebook contact search function via keypad for given and last name | |
Source mode for wireless music streaming to external Bluetooth loudspeakers and headphones | |
iD3-Tag display in A2DP mode (artist, title, album) | |
Internal Bluetooth microphone, additional input for external microphone*2 |
DAB+ receiver with twin tuner
|
|
FM RDS radio with 18 station presets and DSP noise masking | |
Multi-zone function | |
USB(1) 2.0 port on device backside for CarPlay and Android AutoTM | |
USB(2) 2.0 port on device backside for A/V file*3 playback from USB memory device | |
5-CH time alignment by audio DSP (0 - 10 mS delay) | |
Graphical 10-band equalizer with 7 EQ-presets | |
Made for iPod/iPhone | |
High- and low-pass x-over for Front/Rear/Sub with 12 dB/oct. slopes | |
HDMI input for compatible accessories and mobile devices | |
24 Bit D/A converter |
4.2 RCA line pre-out (3 V) | |
3 x RCA input for camera video signal (CVBS) with switched power supply and microphone-input (Cam1) | |
1 x DIN FM antenna input socket | |
1 x SMB DAB antenna input socket with 12 V phantom power supply | |
1 x USB(1) 2.0 port with ~1,000 mA charging current for Apple iOS and Android devices | |
1 x USB(2) 2.0 port for A/V file playback (~1,000 mA battery recharging current) | |
1 x RCA A/V input for 2-CH audio and video signal (CVBS) | |
1 x RCA A/V M-Zone output for 2-CH audio and video signal (CVBS) | |
1 x input for external Bluetooth microphone | |
Input for the connection of the programmable SWC interface | |
1 x IR-in for external CAN/SWC interface | |
1 x HDMI port |
*1The navigation bundles Z-EMAP66-PC3, Z-EMAP66-MH3 and Z-EMAP66-MH7 are not part of the set content of the Z-N966 device.
*2External microphone contained in the set.
*3Supported A/V file formats: MP3, FLAC, AAC (MP4A), M4A, WAV, AVI, MP4, H.264, MKV 1080p, MPEG2/TS, MPG, WMV, Xvid.
Product Catalogue
Reviews
Manuals
Installation | Device User Manual | Nav Quick Start Guide (Z-EMAP66-PC3, Z-EMAP66-MH3/MH7) |
Nav User Manual (Z-EMAP66-PC3) Cars |
Nav User Manual (Z-EMAP66-MH3/MH7) MotorHomes |
(Coming soon) | English | English | English | English |
(Coming soon) | German | German | German | German |
(Coming soon) | French | French | French | French |
(Coming soon) | Italian | Italian | Italian | Italian |
Dutch | Dutch | |||
Czech | Czech | |||
Swedish | Swedish | |||
Finnish | Finnish | |||
Norwegian | Norwegian | |||
Polish |
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-N966 uses a modern Bluetooth solution from developed for usage in the automotive environment. The module supports the Bluetooth 4.1 profile, which ensures a high compatibility of the ZENEC Z-N966 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
AW: General: The Z-N966 does fit in vehicles featuring a 2-DIN mounting provision for vehicle-specific radio panels or 2DIN mounting kits.
- The Z-N966 does only fit into 2-DIN mounting slots aligned straight (90° angle) relative to the dashboard surface. The surface of the dashboard around the mounting slot should not be curved excessively in the vertical or horizontal pane.
- If a vehicle-specific 2-DIN mounting kit is deployed, kit must be designed to accept a mounting metal frame height of 113 mm.
“Premium cover kits” are an exception. They need to offer an aperture of at least 178 x 102 mm for the direct installation of the device, without the need to use of the metal mounting frame included in the set.
- Due to the large 9 inch display, care must be taken to identify potential coverage of safety-related items in the cockpit, such as hazard warning light switch, airbag areas, etc. which may become obscured by the device front panel, impairing the respective function. ZENEC assumes no liability for vehicles where the type approval / operating license is at risk. Depending on the vehicle model, storage compartments, document holders, etc. may also become impaired in their function.
AW: It should be an analog / resistance based steering wheel remote. Follow the instructions of the button assignment in the device main manual on p.7. Alternatively, the connection of a multifunction steering wheel via a separately available vehicle-specific SWC interface is also possible, which is connected to the device via the IR-In.
AW: If your vehicle is equipped with a CAN based OE steering wheel remote control, it can also be connected to the Z-N966. For this purpose, depending on the vehicle brand, model and model year, a vehicle-specific CAN/Stalk interface and a connecting wire (ZENEC ZEY-ZENECLEAD) need to be purchased separately.
The functionality related to the multifunction steering wheel depends on the used CAN/SWC adapter. Make sure that the adapter you want to use is compatible with the ZENEC IR-In interface protocol.
Load More
AW: Yes.
AW: No, but there is an optionally available accessory item called “GBA-HDMIBOX” (1 x HDMI, 2 x USB) which works with the Z-N966.
Load More
AW: Right after the first power-on process and after separation from the vehicle battery, the Z-N966 will perform an automatic radio station search. Depending on the vehicle location and the frequency band to be scanned, the search process can take up to 2.5 minutes. During the search period, radio stations cannot be accessed nor selected by the user.
AW: The Z-N966 features an integrated DAB+ twin-tuner. For the reception of digital radio stations, an antenna supporting the DAB standard must be present in the vehicle and connected to the device.
If your motor caravan does not offer a suitable DAB antenna ex works, it needs to be equipped with an aftermarket DAB antenna or DAB splitter, to enable reception of digital radio programs.
AW: The Z-N966 contains a DAB+ twin tuner, providing a dynamic list of DAB+ radio stations currently receivable in the area. The station sorting corresponds to the sequence of the DAB Ensembles and their short ID (e.g. 5C, 7A, 7D, 8D, 12C). The radio stations in each Ensemble do follow the provider station list sequence. Further sorting of stations in the list is not possible. The Ensembles and radio stations are updated by the automatic background scan approx. every 2 minutes.
AW: “ALT” is an abbreviation for “Alternative” and refers to a configurable function key, (see device manual under “Misc Setup” p.61) where a specific function can be assigned via the Setup menu. The Z-N966 unit features an ALT button in the HMI. The following direct function assignments are possible, for the “ALT” button: CAM/NAVI/EQ/Setup/BT-Music/BT/DISP/iPod/USB/HDMI/AV-IN/FM/DAB/Android Auto/CarPlay.
AW: An important feature for motorhomes is the allocation of the CAM key to the rear view camera (if installed), which allows, during normal driving, to invoke the rear view camera picture with the keystroke of the CAM button at any time (e.g. use of the cam as “digital rear view mirror”).
AW: The Z-N966 has in the device settings menu, two selectable control options for the automatic TFT display brightness adjustment. At the device, go to: Setup > TFT > TFT Control > “Car” or “Navi”.
As factory default setting, “Car” is enabled which means that the device dims the screen when low or high beam is activated. For the “Car” based TFT screen brightness control, the “Illu signal” at the ISO-connector is used. Daytime Running Lights with TFT Control set to “Car” mode will therefore cause dimmed screen.
Users driving with daytime running lights should set the TFT Control to “Navi”, so that the day/night time zone data is used to control TFT screen brightness. Note: The “Navi” setting will cause the device to start up in night mode until an actual GPS time signal for device master clock is obtained via GPS downstream. This may take up to 30 seconds.
AW: 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.39/40 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 many countries. Google itself does not publish any availability data for Android Auto. 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.37/38 in the device owner manual).
AW: 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 installed 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“ described on p.78 in the main device manual of the Z-N966. Then connect the iPhone USB cable to the proper cable extension coming from the device (USB1).
For more detailed information about Android Auto, please visit
https://www.android.com/auto/ and https://support.google.com/androidauto#topic=6348027
AW: Long press of the HOME sensor button invokes the audio quick-adjustment menu. (See main device manual p.63 ).
AW: The password function must be set to ON under “Setup” > “System” > “Password Function”. See p.80 in the main device manual of the Z-N966. The default code – 12345 – must be entered once. After this step is completed, device will accept any other individual code combination.
AW: Zenec devices include under-voltage protection sensor circuitry to avoid low voltage boot process to safeguard the unit that may not work as intended without stable supply voltage. The root cause of device reboot issues can usually be attributed to the on-board batteries or power supply network cables and connections, causing the voltage to drop below 10.5 volts during engine start-up.
In case of frequent device reboots after engine starts, please consult your vehicle service point or the motor home dealer to review your car´s starter or second battery and the wiring.
AW: Most problems originate from cables not officially licensed by Apple. Therefore make sure, that either an original cable, or else at least a licensed Apple Lightning cable is used.
Otherwise, perhaps this little trick can help: Power off the iPhone – Power off the ZENEC device.
Switch on the ZENEC device – switch on the iPhone and pair it. Unplug the Lightning cable, reconnect it – then everything should function normally.
Make sure, the iOS version the iOS version of your Apple iPhone is always up to date.
Load More
AW: During the navigation announcement, the volume of the voice announcement can be adjusted by the volume sensor buttons on the device front or via the horizontal volume bar pop-up of the Z-N966. Simply increase or decrease the volume via sensor buttons, or touch and move the VOL slider during the navigation announcement to adjust voice guidance to the desired volume. The last VOL level is retained.
AW: In order to keep the map content of your Navigation micro-SD card up to date, it is possible to update map database with a PC tool called “Toolbox” via the Naviextras online update portal. On Naviextras you have access to free and pay type updates as well as other add-on’s. The navigation package for the Z-N966 comes with a 3-year map update subscription included, allowing you to update the map content for the period of three years after first (GPS) activation at no cost. Within the given 12 month time frame, TomTom (map provider) usually releases two to three content updates (3rd party offer, without guarantee for update cadence).
Navigation software updates, Add-On content und map updates are available here: https://zenec.naviextras.com
Disclaimer: The card update subscription duration can only be guaranteed in its entirety in conjunction with a new device which is put into service together with a new navigation card. For used devices with navigation packages purchased later, limitations apply because the date of the first use of device is crucial. Naviextras places a time stamp point on the device once first sat connection is established.
AW: The TPEG function in the ZENEC navigation software is based on freely broadcasted TPEG data (country-specific coverage). Out of the box, TPEG function is purposedly deactivated.
Make sure, free TPEG data is available in your country. The iGO Navigationssoftware needs to be at least version v9.35.2.209092 of March 2020 or newer.
To activate TPEG, start the ZENEC navigation software. In the main navigation menu “Settings” < “Traffic” scroll down to the last entry “DAB+TPEG. Set this function to "ON".
AW: Please note that ZENEC, for west and east Europe map coverage of your motor home navigation package deploys digital map data provided by TomTom (formerly known as “Tele Atlas”). Even if you have recently updated the navigation map content it is still possible, that digital map data content is imprecise or faulty in areas such as intersections, new roads and other places recently added. In such cases device may provide you with incorrect routing instructions. Please use the respective TomTom tool to report errors to TomTom map share service directly: http://www.tomtom.com/mapshare/tools/
AW: The map data on the navigation microSD card covers 47 countries, as follows:
Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Former Yugoslav Republic Of Macedonia, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Monaco, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Vatican City
Note: The country Cyprus is missing, due to the ongoing strategic and military souveignity conflicts with Turkey.
AW: An up-to-date CampingSchaf POI package (multilanguage version for Z-N966) can be downloaded with the Toolbox. The package is a lifetime license, which means it is free of charge and can be renewed each year. The content of the package is usually updated approx. end of March.
Load More
AW: This device allows to pair up to seven smart phones, whereas only one can be connected to the device. The auto connect function is available for the last smartphone connected to device only.
AW: Your smartphone contacts need to be re-synced manually. Follow the instructions provided in the main device manual on p.48.
AW: No, it is not possible to edit Favourite contact entries on the device. You need to delete the Favourite and re-sync the phonebook on your Zenec device. Then save a contact as Favourite again.
Load More
AW: The microSD card reader on the right side of the Z-N966 is dedicated to the GPS navigation function only. Avoid removing the microSD card during active route guidance or/and when device is in navigation mode. Use of the microSD card reader for music or video file playback is not possible.
AW: It may happen that the file system of the memory stick got damaged, or that the file allocation table of the data carrier is defect due to erroneous write cycles. There may be different reason for this to happen, such as usage or storage of data carriers and problems occurring at the initial format process.
In such cases, you must perform a full format with your PC or notebook, to make it work correctly again.
Info: If the data carrier after formatting is still not recognized by the device, it may be due to an incompatibility of the disk controller chip itself. In such a case, you should use a different USB data carrier of another brand or manufacturer.
AW: Make sure your USB data carrier has been formatted in FAT32 – prior to use. Zenec recommends the use of high quality USB sticks only. Study the corresponding key features of the ZENEC device, for supported USB flash memory data carriers. Note that both USB 2.0 connectors on the backside of the device are limited to 1000 mA maximum current. Since many external hard disk models will easily consume higher operating currents, Zenec does not endorse the use of such products. Additional info for troubleshooting of USB flash memory devices and MP3 playback:
Load More
AW: Updates can be downloaded in the download area of the ZENEC homepage www.zenec.com under> Support> Software updates.
Load More
Images
Optional Navigation Software Package for Z-N966
With the three optionally available navigation packages Z-EMAP66-PC3, Z-EMAP66-MH3 or Z-EMAP66-MH7*1 on 16 GB microSDHC card, the Z-N966 device becomes a full-function naviceiver.
Z-EMAP66-PC3 Navigation for passenger cars
3D software with coverage of 47 countries: Western and Eastern Europe, Great Britain, Turkey, Ukraine, Belarus and Russia (on 16 GB microSDHC card) | |
European Premium POI package with over 6.5 million special destinations | |
Realistic 3D rendering of terrain, landmarks, city centers and highway exits | |
Dead Reckoning navigation for precise route guidance without GNSS signal (tunnels, underpasses, parking decks etc.) | |
Navi Splitscreen for audio sources showing street names and house numbers and turn-by-turn info with distance to next turn | |
Lane assistance, Tunnel mode, 3D auto-zoom for crossings and roundabouts, intelligent alternative route calculation, etc. | |
TTS voice guidance | |
TMC receiver, TPEG traffic service data via DAB + (country-specific coverage, free service only) | |
3 years map update subscription |
Z-EMAP66-MH3 and Z-EMAP66-MH7 Navigation for MotorHomes
3D motor caravan navigation software with coverage of 47 countries: Western and Eastern Europe, Great Britain, Turkey, Ukraine, Belarus and Russia (on 16 GB microSDHC card) | |
Pre-configured motor caravan profiles with additional input of height, width, length, weight and trailer data | |
Camping POI package with approx. 20,000 camp site locations and motorhome stop over sites in Europe (multilingual: in DE/EN/NL/IT/FR) | |
European Premium POI package with over 6.5 million special destinations | |
Realistic 3D rendering of terrain, landmarks, city centers and highway exits | |
Dead Reckoning navigation for precise route guidance without GNSS signal (tunnels, underpasses, parking decks etc.) | |
Navi Splitscreen for audio sources showing street names and house numbers and turn-by-turn info with distance to next turn | |
Lane assistance, Tunnel mode, 3D auto-zoom for crossings and roundabouts, intelligent alternative route calculation, etc. | |
TTS voice guidance | |
TMC receiver, TPEG traffic service data via DAB + (country-specific coverage, free service only) | |
3 years map update subscription (Z-EMAP66-MH3), 7 years map update subscription (Z-EMAP66-MH7) |