Hi to everyone. I am new to the forum so I will be breif.
I have a 1998 XJ8 which has an AI-Net lead in the boot for a CD changer. I also have an Alpine CHA-S634 with the same connector. However when I connect them, the radio Head unit locks to whichever status it was in prior to connection and the Radio display is blank. Do I need to do more or are they just not compatible. Thanks

 

Not compatable, they use a different communication protocol.

 

Sorry, but it is true - the Jag units interact via a Jag specific data communication language that is not compatible with commercial Alpine units.

You can often find Jag changers on eBay for well under $100. Example:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/00-03...fAudioQ5fVideo

 

Is it Jag specific, or is it possibly Ford specific as well?

 

I have an XJ8 cd changer if you would like to purchase it

 

I'am pretty sure it is Jag only.
I have not heard of any Ford units using the Ai-Net bus.
Ford usually use their own ACP protocol on the ACP bus.

The HU in the XJ8 (2000-2003 MY) also has an ACP bus, it is used for the factory fitted Phone, I have had a quick look and there does seem to be activity on the bus when sending commands to the CD changer, I have not had a chance to analayse the data yet, but it may be possible to control a Ford CD changer on that bus. Requires more investigation.