Installation Instructions

Installation Instructions

  Important: Please take the time to read and follow these instructions carefully.

Failure to do so may result in damaging the screen controller or the models circuit board.

  Important: Please take the time to read and follow these instructions carefully.

Failure to do so may result in damaging the screen controller or the models circuit board.
Specifications
Test Mode
Installation
Adjustable Settings
Troubleshooting
Specifications
Test Mode
Installation
Adjustable Settings
Troubleshooting

  Technical Specifications

  Technical Specifications

  Power

Input power: 4.5v-6v DC
Max power consumption: 0.04A @ 5v
Estimated run-time using standard alkaline AAA batteries: 12hrs*
Estimated run-time using Fanhome USB-C rechargeable power bank: 6hrs*

*Performance may vary depending on make and composition of battery and how many other devices are enabled on the model.

  USB-C

The screens can be powered by practically anything with a USB-C connection, such as a USB power bank or even a laptop. However, to provide enough power to the whole model and support all its features, a USB-C power adaptor with 4.5v-6v DC Output at a minimum 2A (10W) is recommended.

Most phone fast chargers will be suitable, but please check the rating on the adaptor before use.

  Power

Input power: 4.5v-6v DC
Max power consumption: 0.04A @ 5v
Estimated run-time using standard alkaline AAA batteries: 12hrs*
Estimated run-time using Fanhome USB-C rechargeable power bank: 6hrs*

*Performance may vary depending on make and composition of battery and how many other devices are enabled on the model.

  USB-C

The screens can be powered by practically anything with a USB-C connection, such as a USB power bank or even a laptop. However, to provide enough power to the whole model and support all its features, a USB-C power adaptor with 4.5v-6v DC Output at a minimum 2A (10W) is recommended.

Most phone fast chargers will be suitable, but please check the rating on the adaptor before use.

  Installation

  Installation

Step 1 Powering down

Important: Before you begin, switch the model OFF via the switch under the battery compartment. Remove any batteries and ensure that any alternative power sources (such as third-party power mods) are disconnected from the mains power supply.

This modification contains sensitive electronics. To avoid static shock which could damage the device, please ensure you handle the device with care and avoid touching the metal parts whenever possible.

Later in this guide you will be able to choose exactly how you wish to power your model.

You will have the option to power KITT via any one of these methods, but never at the same time:

  1. Via a USB-C power adaptor (Recommended)
  2. Via a USB-C rechargeable power bank
  3. Via existing AAA batteries (Estimated run-time 12hrs*)
  4. Via a third-party power mod or alternative power source
Important: Before you begin, switch the model OFF via the switch under the battery compartment. Remove any batteries and ensure that any alternative power sources (such as third-party power mods) are disconnected from the mains power supply.

This modification contains sensitive electronics. To avoid static shock which could damage the device, please ensure you handle the device with care and avoid touching the metal parts whenever possible.

Later in this guide you will be able to choose exactly how you wish to power your model.

You will have the option to power KITT via any one of these methods, but never at the same time:

  1. Via a USB-C power adaptor (Recommended)
  2. Via a USB-C rechargeable power bank
  3. Via existing AAA batteries (Estimated run-time 12hrs*)
  4. Via a third-party power mod or alternative power source

Step 2 Preparing the dashboard

This modification is designed to be installed at Issue 44.

If you’re not at that stage yet, you can test your screens and preview the animations in ‘test mode’ here.

To continue with the full installation, you’ll need to get the underside of your dashboard to this point.

The following parts can be removed from the dashboard and will no longer be needed: 4C, 4D, 4J, 4P, 48H. They will be replaced with the new monitor assembly.

LED cable H (part 44C) from Issue 44 can also be disconnected from the main circuit board and removed as it will no longer be needed.

Step 3 Installing the dual monitor bezel

Ensure the lens is clean on both sides before installing.

Using tweezers, remove the 3M backing and install into position, starting at the bottom-right corner of the bezel.

Step 4 Installing the stock dashboard panel

Install the stock dashboard panel (part 4I) from Issue 4 into the new monitor assembly.

When handling the device, take care not to hold or put any pressure on the LCD screen. This is a fragile component and may break if not handled with care.

Step 5 Installing the LED’s

Install the three LED’s from Issue 44 into the rear of the new monitor assembly. You will need part 44E (J) with the yellow cables and part 44B (G) with the red cable.

Step 6 Connecting the cables to the screen controller

Take the long single black cable provided within this kit and connect to the G.O socket on the screen controller, as pictured.

Take the long black and grey cable provided within this kit and connect to the PWR socket on the screen controller, as pictured.

Ensure that the cable colours and wire orientations match the photos exactly!

Step 7 Installing the USB-C cable (Optional)

In this configuration, you must ensure that USB power is your models only power source.
  Never have batteries or other power mods installed at the same time as powering your model via USB-C.
Power option 1 – USB-C (Recommended)

If you would like to power your entire KITT model via USB-C, remove any existing power sources and/or batteries and continue to connect the angled end of the supplied USB-C cable to the USB-C port on the side of the screen controller.

  Bonus feature

Did you know, that using this method will also allow you to power your model using a rechargeable USB-C power bank for portability!

Power option 2 – Standard AAA batteries or third-party power mods

If you would like to continue using an existing power source, such as the standard AAA batteries or a third-party power mod, skip this step and do not install the provided USB-C cable.

Step 8 Fitting the monitor assembly to the dashboard

Carefully insert the monitor assembly into the dashboard, checking alignment with the screw holes and that any cables don’t get trapped beneath the assembly.

Using a PH0 screwdriver, install the monitor assembly using 3 x BP screws provided with Issue 4. You should have plenty of spare BP screws by the time you reach this stage.

  Awesome screwdrivers

I would highly recommend a set of these Wera screwdrivers, they’re by far the best modelling screwdrivers I’ve ever owned. You can also purchase the PH0 screwdriver individually here.

Step 9 LED (G) adjustment

After installing the monitor assembly, carefully bend LED part 44B (G) with the red cable downwards into the dashboard.

Tuck the red and black LED cable beneath the monitor bracket and circuit board. This will help hide the cable from view once the installation is complete.

Step 10 Fitting the remaining stock dashboard parts

  Future mods incoming

At this stage, it’s worth noting that I will have more modifications in the near future to improve other areas of the dashboard and steering wheel. If you’re interested in these future improvements, it would be worth holding off installing the remaining stock parts of the dashboard to allow easier access in future. In the meantime, if you would like to enjoy the monitor animations you can skip to Step 14 and continue to connect the electronics.

If you’re happy to continue with the stock dashboard parts, continue with the magazine instructions at Issue 48 – completing the underside of the dashboard and steering wheel assembly.

Route the LED, USB-C (if installed at step 7) and monitor cables under the cutout section of part 48A. When fixing part 48A ensure no cables are trapped beneath.

  Remember that part 48H is not needed and will not be fitted as part of this upgrade.

Step 11 Running the cables back to the main circuit board

As per the magazine’s instructions at Issue 65, feed all the dashboard cables and USB-C cable (if installed at step 7) through the centre console and footwells (part 52A).

Step 12 Routing the USB-C cable through the engine bay

All of the dashboard cables, except for the USB-C cable, will route back towards the rear of the model to the main circuit board.

If you’ve chosen to power you model via USB, route the USB-C cable forward beneath the footwells and down the right-hand side of the turbine engine so that it appears beneath the model.

Step 13 Routing the USB-C cable beneath KITT

Temporarily remove the bracket beneath KITT holding the silver exhausts in place, lift the left exhaust slightly and pull the USB-C cable through.

Reattach the exhaust bracket to keep the USB-C cable in place.

Step 14 Cable connections to the main circuit board

Disconnect cable L (part 44E installed at Issue 44) from the main circuit board and move it to socket H.

Connect the long single black cable coming from the monitors into socket L.

Ensure that the cable colours and wire orientations match the photos exactly!

Step 15a Cable connections for USB-C power

To power your model via the USB-C cable, disconnect the battery connector cable (C), or any other alternative power source from the 5VIN socket and replace with the long black and grey cable coming from the monitors.

Ensure that the cable colours and wire orientations match the photos exactly!

Step 15b Cable connections for alternative power sources

Alternatively, if you would like to continue using an existing power source, such as the standard AAA batteries or a third-party power mod, connect the black and grey Y-splitter cable into the spare socket directly next to the 5VIN socket and leave your existing power source connected to the 5VIN socket.

Then, connect the long black and grey cable coming from the monitors into one of the connectors on the Y-splitter cable.

The spare connector on the Y-splitter cable is provided for future modifications. Important: Do not connect anything else to this unless instructed to do so in future modifications.

Ensure that the cable colours and wire orientations match the photos exactly!

Step 16 Powering up

  The installation is now complete!

If powering via the original AAA batteries or an alternative power source, you can now switch on power to the model.

If powering via USB-C, you can now connect your power adaptor or power bank to the USB-C port beneath the model.

You’re now ready to activate KITT via the watch to enjoy your upgraded monitor screens.

  Test Mode

  Test Mode

If you’d like to test the device and preview the animations ahead of installation, you can trigger the ‘test mode’ feature.

Please note: This is not intended for continuous or permanent use, and should only be used as a quick initial test to confirm your board and screens work as expected ahead of installation.

To trigger test mode, follow these steps:

  1. With the device disconnected from the model, connect power to the screen controller via the USB-C connection.
  2. Check for the green light on the board, indicating that the board is receiving power.
  3. Using a small screwdriver, make contact between the two pins on the G.O socket. Hold in place for 2-3 seconds and the screens will begin to play. Please note: If connection is lost between the two pins, the animations will stop. When installed normally and correctly following the full installation instructions above, the animations will play in full and loop continuously – only stopping when KITT is powered off.
  4. Once you have confirmed that the device is working as expected, disconnect the USB-C power and proceed with the full installation here.
If you’d like to test the device and preview the animations ahead of installation, you can trigger the ‘test mode’ feature.

Please note: This is not intended for continuous or permanent use, and should only be used as a quick initial test to confirm your board and screens work as expected ahead of installation.

To trigger test mode, follow these steps:

  1. With the device disconnected from the model, connect power to the screen controller via the USB-C connection.
  2. Check for the green light on the board, indicating that the board is receiving power.
  3. Using a small screwdriver, make contact between the two pins on the G.O socket. Hold in place for 2-3 seconds and the screens will begin to play. Please note: If connection is lost between the two pins, the animations will stop. When installed normally and correctly following the full installation instructions above, the animations will play in full and loop continuously – only stopping when KITT is powered off.
  4. Once you have confirmed that the device is working as expected, disconnect the USB-C power and proceed with the full installation here.

  Adjustable Settings

  Adjustable Settings

Adjusting the screen brightness

The screen brightness has been pre-set to ensure optimal blacks and rich colours. However, if you wish to adjust the brightness of the screens you can do so by following these steps:

  1. Turn off the model and disconnect power.
  2. Eject the MicroSD card from the screen controller.
  3. Insert the MicroSD card into a PC so that you can browse the contents. The MicroSD card will either be named NO NAME or KITT on your PC.
  4. Within the contents of the MicroSD card, you will find a config.txt file.
  5. Open the config.txt file and you will find the following settings: player_y:8,brightness:50
  6. brightness:50 indicates a 50% brightness. This can be adjusted to a setting between 0-100.
  7. Once you’ve made your changes, save the config.txt file to the MicroSD card and reinsert the MicroSD card into the screen controller
  8. Reconnect power to the model and enjoy your updated settings.

Adjusting the vertical height

The vertical height of the animations have been pre-set to ensure correct placement within the dual monitor bezels. However, if you wish to adjust the vertical height, for instance if they look too low within your monitor screens, you can do so by following these steps:

  1. Turn off the model and disconnect power.
  2. Eject the MicroSD card from the screen controller.
  3. Insert the MicroSD card into a PC so that you can browse the contents. The MicroSD card will either be named NO NAME or KITT on your PC.
  4. Within the contents of the MicroSD card, you will find a config.txt file.
  5. Open the config.txt file and you will find the following settings: player_y:8,brightness:50
  6. player_y:8 indicates that the screens have been lowered by 8 pixels from the top. If your animations look too low on the monitor screens, reduce this setting back to 6 for example to raise the animations by 2 pixels. If your monitor screens look too high, increase this setting to 10 for example to lower the animations by 2 pixels.
  7. Once you’ve made your changes, save the config.txt file to the MicroSD card and reinsert the MicroSD card into the screen controller
  8. Reconnect power to the model and enjoy your updated settings.

Adjusting the screen brightness

The screen brightness has been pre-set to ensure optimal blacks and rich colours. However, if you wish to adjust the brightness of the screens you can do so by following these steps:

  1. Turn off the model and disconnect power.
  2. Eject the MicroSD card from the screen controller.
  3. Insert the MicroSD card into a PC so that you can browse the contents. The MicroSD card will either be named NO NAME or KITT on your PC.
  4. Within the contents of the MicroSD card, you will find a config.txt file.
  5. Open the config.txt file and you will find the following settings: player_y:8,brightness:50
  6. brightness:50 indicates a 50% brightness. This can be adjusted to a setting between 0-100.
  7. Once you’ve made your changes, save the config.txt file to the MicroSD card and reinsert the MicroSD card into the screen controller
  8. Reconnect power to the model and enjoy your updated settings.

Adjusting the vertical height

The vertical height of the animations have been pre-set to ensure correct placement within the dual monitor bezels. However, if you wish to adjust the vertical height, for instance if they look too low within your monitor screens, you can do so by following these steps:

  1. Turn off the model and disconnect power.
  2. Eject the MicroSD card from the screen controller.
  3. Insert the MicroSD card into a PC so that you can browse the contents. The MicroSD card will either be named NO NAME or KITT on your PC.
  4. Within the contents of the MicroSD card, you will find a config.txt file.
  5. Open the config.txt file and you will find the following settings: player_y:8,brightness:50
  6. player_y:8 indicates that the screens have been lowered by 8 pixels from the top. If your animations look too low on the monitor screens, reduce this setting back to 6 for example to raise the animations by 2 pixels. If your monitor screens look too high, increase this setting to 10 for example to lower the animations by 2 pixels.
  7. Once you’ve made your changes, save the config.txt file to the MicroSD card and reinsert the MicroSD card into the screen controller
  8. Reconnect power to the model and enjoy your updated settings.

Troubleshooting

Troubleshooting

Please note: Each device has been fully tested before dispatch to ensure you have an issue-free installation.

The majority of questions I get asked are easily answered by carefully following the installation instructions above.

If you experience any unexpected results, please check back over the instructions carefully, check all connections, then refer to the troubleshooting tips below if you need further assistance.

If you still need help, please contact me for assistance.

 The screen shows the message “SD card error”

This occurs if the Micro SD card cannot be read or contains corrupt data. Any failure to initialise the SD card will result in an error message being displayed on screen.

  1. Check the card is fully inserted into the screen controller. The card should sit flush with the edge of the screen controllers circuit board. The card is spring loaded – with the power off, push the card in for it to eject and try re-inserting.
  2. Ensure that the contents of the card are only as per supplied. Removing, renaming or changing the file structure or folders on the SD card will likely result in incorrect operation.

 The screen does not power up at all

  1. Check all supplied cables are connected correctly in the appropriate sockets, as per the instructions above. If you have only connected the USB-C power cable, the screens will not load correctly. The screen controller needs to be correctly wired back to KITT’s main circuit board as per the instructions above to function correctly.
  2. Try disconnecting the mains power to KITT, reconnect, and try powering up KITT again from the watch.
  3. When powered up correctly, a small green LED will be lit on the screen controller circuit board. Check for this light.
  4. The screen will only power up when the dashboard is illuminated by pressing the appropriate button on the K2000 Comlink watch and will automatically power off when the dash lights go out. The monitors will turn off once the current animation has finished playing.
  5. Run a visual check on the ribbon cable feeding from the screen controller to the screen – checking that it hasn’t been damaged during installation. Don’t pull or interfere with the ribbon cable as it may become damaged.

 The screen remains on all the time.

  1. Check the supplied single black cable is properly connected at both ends to the correct sockets, as per the instructions above.
  2. Ensure the dashboard LEDs supplied with the original kit are connected to port ‘J’ on KITT’s main circuit board.

 An animation freezes, doesn’t complete or doesn’t continue to the next animation.

This may occur if the Micro SD card cannot be read or contains corrupt data.

  1. Ensure that the contents of the card are only as per supplied. Removing, renaming or changing the file structure or folders on the SD card will likely result in incorrect operation.
  2. If you’ve made no changes to the cards contents and still experience this issue, please contact me for assistance.
Please note: Each device has been fully tested before dispatch to ensure you have an issue-free installation.

The majority of questions I get asked are easily answered by carefully following the installation instructions above.

If you experience any unexpected results, please check back over the instructions carefully, check all connections, then refer to the troubleshooting tips below if you need further assistance.

If you still need help, please contact me for assistance.

 The screen shows the message “SD card error”

This occurs if the Micro SD card cannot be read or contains corrupt data. Any failure to initialise the SD card will result in an error message being displayed on screen.

  1. Check the card is fully inserted into the screen controller. The card should sit flush with the edge of the screen controllers circuit board. The card is spring loaded – with the power off, push the card in for it to eject and try re-inserting.
  2. Ensure that the contents of the card are only as per supplied. Removing, renaming or changing the file structure or folders on the SD card will likely result in incorrect operation.

 The screen does not power up at all

  1. Check all supplied cables are connected correctly in the appropriate sockets, as per the instructions above. If you have only connected the USB-C power cable, the screens will not load correctly. The screen controller needs to be correctly wired back to KITT’s main circuit board as per the instructions above to function correctly.
  2. Try disconnecting the mains power to KITT, reconnect, and try powering up KITT again from the watch.
  3. When powered up correctly, a small green LED will be lit on the screen controller circuit board. Check for this light.
  4. The screen will only power up when the dashboard is illuminated by pressing the appropriate button on the K2000 Comlink watch and will automatically power off when the dash lights go out. The monitors will turn off once the current animation has finished playing.
  5. Run a visual check on the ribbon cable feeding from the screen controller to the screen – checking that it hasn’t been damaged during installation. Don’t pull or interfere with the ribbon cable as it may become damaged.

 The screen remains on all the time.

  1. Check the supplied single black cable is properly connected at both ends to the correct sockets, as per the instructions above.
  2. Ensure the dashboard LEDs supplied with the original kit are connected to port ‘J’ on KITT’s main circuit board.

 An animation freezes, doesn’t complete or doesn’t continue to the next animation.

This may occur if the Micro SD card cannot be read or contains corrupt data.

  1. Ensure that the contents of the card are only as per supplied. Removing, renaming or changing the file structure or folders on the SD card will likely result in incorrect operation.
  2. If you’ve made no changes to the cards contents and still experience this issue, please contact me for assistance.