The Axxess ASWC-1 is an interface and wiring harness designed to facilitate the integration of aftermarket radios with factory steering wheel controls. The device features a Micro “B” USB port for updates and includes a programming LED and reset button for configuration. Installation involves connecting the ASWC-1 to the vehicle’s wiring harness and, in some cases, to the radio directly. The ASWC-1 supports auto-detection for select vehicles and offers manual programming options, including button remapping and radio type selection. Proper grounding is critical for optimal performance.
Interface Components and Tools
The ASWC-1 interface package includes the ASWC-1 interface unit itself, a 12-pin harness with a male 3.5mm connector, and a female 3.5mm connector with brown and brown/white wires. Installation requires specific tools, including a cutting tool, a crimping tool, and tape. All connections are intended to be made at the radio location. The interface is designed to be updatable via Micro “B” USB.
Installation Procedures
Initial installation steps involve connecting the ASWC-1 to the vehicle’s chassis ground. The documentation strongly recommends using a dedicated chassis ground wire, connected directly from the ASWC-1, without extensions, and utilizing a properly crimped ring terminal. Following the ground connection, the red wire of the ASWC-1 should be connected to the vehicle’s 12-volt accessory wire while the ignition is off. The subsequent step requires locating the correct steering wheel control wire(s) within the vehicle’s harness, referencing the “ASWC-1 Vehicle Instructions” available on the Axxess website (www.axxessinterfaces.com) for vehicle-specific guidance.
Radio-Specific Connections
The ASWC-1 requires different connection procedures depending on the type of aftermarket radio being installed. For Metra OE radios, the steering wheel control Key 1 wire (gray) must be connected to the brown wire of the ASWC-1. The brown/white wire should be isolated and taped, as it is not used in this configuration. For Kenwood or select JVC radios equipped with a blue/yellow steering wheel control wire, this wire should be connected to the brown wire of the ASWC-1.
Programming and Auto Detect Mode
The ASWC-1 offers both auto-detect and manual programming modes. The auto-detect mode is applicable to select vehicles, as indicated in the “ASWC-1 Vehicle Instructions” on the Axxess website. If auto-detection is supported, the documentation will specify any required actions. The interface features a programming LED that provides feedback during the programming process. If the LED does not illuminate steadily, pressing the reset button for three seconds and restarting the process from step three is recommended. If the issue persists, manual programming, detailed on pages 19-21 of the documentation, may be necessary.
Manual Programming: Changing Radio Type
To switch between radio types, the following procedure should be followed: after three seconds of turning the ignition on, the volume down button on the steering wheel must be pressed and held until the LED on the ASWC-1 illuminates steadily. Releasing the volume down button will cause the LED to turn off, indicating that the device is now in radio type changing mode.
Remapping Steering Wheel Control Buttons
The ASWC-1 allows for remapping of steering wheel control (SWC) buttons. Before remapping, it is recommended to ensure the ASWC-1 is visible to observe the LED flashes confirming button recognition, and turning off the radio may be helpful. The following button assignments are pre-defined:
- Volume Up
- Volume Down
- Seek Up/Next
- Seek Down/Prev
- Source/Mode
- Mute 7.
- Preset Down
- Power
- Band
- Play/Enter
- PTT (Push to Talk)*
- On Hook 14.
Dual Assignment Instructions
The ASWC-1 supports dual assignment of functions to steering wheel control buttons. Specifically, the Seek Up and Seek Down buttons are pre-configured to function as Preset Up and Preset Down when pressed and held. To assign a long-press function to another button, the following steps should be taken: turn on the ignition without starting the vehicle, then press and hold the desired steering wheel button for approximately 10 seconds until the LED rapidly flashes green.
The following table outlines the dual assignment legend:
| Button Number | New Button Action | Not allowed | Not allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seek Up/Next | Seek Up/Next | ||
| Seek Down/Prev | Seek Down/Prev | ||
| Mode/Source | Mode/Source | ||
| Mute | Mute | ||
| Preset Up | Preset Up | ||
| Preset Down | Preset Down | ||
| Power | Power | ||
| Band | Band | ||
| Play/Enter | Play/Enter | ||
| On Hook | On Hook | ||
| Off Hook | Off Hook | ||
| Fan Up | Fan Up | ||
| Fan Down | Fan Down | ||
| Temp Up | Temp Up |
Firmware Updates and Compatibility
Maintaining the ASWC-1 with the latest firmware is crucial for optimal performance. Users are directed to visit axxessinterfaces.com to download the WebXXpress program for updating the device via the Micro “B” USB port. The documentation notes a potential compatibility issue with Clarion radios; if the ASWC-1 does not function correctly with a Clarion radio, users should attempt the other Clarion radio type setting. A similar consideration applies to Eclipse radios. The ASWC-1 is compatible with radios running software version 2.1.4 or higher.
Troubleshooting and Resetting
If the ASWC-1 fails to function correctly, resetting the device can often resolve the issue. This is accomplished by pressing and holding the reset button on the ASWC-1 for three seconds, releasing it, and then restarting the installation process from step three. If the LED continues to flash instead of illuminating steadily, manual programming may be required.
Important Considerations
The documentation emphasizes the importance of a solid chassis ground connection for the ASWC-1, particularly in vehicles with data communication systems. It is recommended to use a dedicated ground wire directly from the ASWC-1, avoiding shared ground connections. A properly crimped ring terminal should be used for the ground connection. Additionally, users should consult the radio legend and their radio’s owner’s manual to ensure compatibility and proper configuration.
Conclusion
The Axxess ASWC-1 interface provides a solution for retaining steering wheel control functionality when installing an aftermarket radio. Successful installation requires careful attention to wiring connections, proper grounding, and, if necessary, programming the device according to vehicle-specific instructions available on the Axxess website. Regular firmware updates are recommended to ensure compatibility and optimal performance.