Your Pioneer AVIC-Z3 HDD multimedia AV navigation server provides all the entertainment you'll ever need on your road travels. The AV Source controls M-CD, as well as the iPod and TV connections. When it recognizes your multi-CD changer on the EXT 1 instead of M-CD, it may not necessarily mean that something is wrong, although it could mean that something isn't quite right. The good news is that the AVIC-Z3 typically recognizes all connected devices, and it won't take you long to determine if a repair is really necessary.
Symptoms
When you select the M-CD source, your multi-CD changer doesn't respond, but when you select the EXT 1 source, it does respond. Some functions of your multi-CD changer aren't enabled when you select the EXT 1 source. Alternatively, all of the functions of your multi-CD changer may be enabled, but under the EXT 1 source instead of the M-CD source as you'd expect.
Causes
"EXT 1" stands for "external unit 1," and "EXT 2" is "external unit 2." These source connections are allocated for future or current devices that are connected but not completely controlled by your AVIC-Z3 Pioneer navigation system. If your multi-CD is recognized as "EXT 1," the AVIC-Z3 can control basic functions; however, some other functions may not be available. If two multi-CD changers are connected and all of the functions of one or both of your multi-CD changers are controlled, by default, the AVIC-Z3 automatically allocates each externally connected device to EXT 1 and EXT 2.
Solutions
Contact a qualified Pioneer service technician to remove or disconnect the second external device from the AVIC-Z3, if you're not using it. After the service is complete, press the "AV" button on your AVIC-Z3, touch the "Source" icon, then touch "M-CD." If problems persist, ask the qualified Pioneer service technician to check the connections, as well as the compatibility of your multi-CD changer with the AVIC-Z3. If certain functions don't work correctly, have it replaced with a more compatible multi-CD changer.
Considerations
You may save money by not making additional changes if the basic functions of your multi-CD changer work under the EXT 1 source allocation. Even though your multi-CD changer may not be completely compatible with the AVIC-Z3, weigh the pros and cons of spending time and money for a replacement. On the other hand, if your multi-CD changer is inoperable, or you want the device to be completely controlled by the AVIC-Z3, a professional inspection and repair is definitely needed.
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