In the Russian Federation, as in many other countries, it is legally prohibited to use mobile phones while driving, so as not to be distracted from driving and not to occupy your hand. To make phone calls, you can turn on the speakerphone on the gadget itself, but in this case you will have to raise your voice to be heard clearly. A wired headset will constantly cling to various objects and create inconvenience. The best solution would be to use a special device that can be connected to your phone to output sound through a powerful speaker or the car’s standard audio system.
What it is
A hands-free system for a car is a set of technical means compatible with a mobile device for receiving or making phone calls, as well as conducting conversations without using your hands.
In everyday life, such a device is widely used under the term “Hands free”.
Main functionality:
- ensuring the reception of incoming calls at the request of the driver;
- convenient control that does not distract from driving;
- storing the latest incoming calls in memory with the ability to call any of them;
- clear retransmission of speech without extraneous sounds, noise, or “microphone effect”;
- muting or turning off the sound of the audio system (tuner, mp3 player, etc.);
- playback of all sounds from the phone along with conversations;
- reliable support for Bluetooth channels;
- Possibility of easy dismantling to continue communicating by phone outside the car.
Principle of operation
The operation of any scheme is based on the synchronization of a mobile phone with a gadget via the Bluetooth protocol. After a telephone call is received on the mobile phone, the signal is duplicated on the loudspeaker system. The driver can only reject the call or answer it using the appropriate buttons.
The main advantages are:
- increased concentration of attention while moving;
- the driver has free hands;
- universal installation in any car;
- Plastic housing material ensures long service life.
Disadvantages of a public address system:
- low sound quality in budget models;
- a small number of memorized incoming numbers that can be called without dialing from the keyboard;
- mandatory compatibility of the system with a mobile phone;
- not always well-thought-out ergonomics.
Modern cars are usually equipped with a multimedia kit with a “hands free” function to make driving easier when making a phone call. All you need is a mobile phone that communicates with the radio. Basically, all the equipment is from foreign manufacturers, since, unfortunately, domestic manufacturers have still not been able to launch the production of high-quality hands-free devices for cars.
Types of devices
- Smartphones with hands-free function. However, when the gadget is removed from the face, the sound quality deteriorates. In addition, the mobile phone quickly discharges, which is extremely disadvantageous when driving for a long time.
- Speakerphones are devices in a plastic case with a built-in microphone and speaker, connected to a car cigarette lighter with a 12V voltage. The communication channel with the mobile phone is established using the Bluetooth protocol or via an AUX cable. The system is controlled via a remote control, which has a universal mount on the panel or on the steering wheel.
- Built-in devices are special car multimedia kits with an increased price and good functionality. Some models are equipped with a voice dialing and speech recognition system; the sound of the microphone and speakers is transmitted without distortion.
- Connectable devices – after the first power-up via Bluetooth, a connection is established automatically when the engine is started. Such devices do not have their own speakers, and the sound is transmitted to the audio system. When a call comes in, the radio or music is automatically muted. The microphone is placed close to the driver for increased sensitivity and better sound quality.
- Detachable or universal gadgets are stand-alone gadgets that are not tied to a car. The system is usually easily installed on the steering wheel or visor. It has a simple interface and convenient functions.
Types and characteristics
Hands-free calling is provided by several technologies. I am a fan of wireless gadgets, so I will tell you in detail about Bluetooth technology. It allows you to connect any smartphone and make the most of its functions.
The hands-free devices themselves come in different types and classes:
- Built-in. These are special car radios. They are distinguished by increased cost and good functionality. The sound of the speakers and microphone is transmitted without distortion, the interlocutor can be clearly heard, and some models have voice control. For example, a good representative of this class is the speakerphone with Bluetooth in a 1 Din car radio.
- Stationary or plug-in. These are devices that integrate with the car's audio system, if possible. After the first connection, the car speakerphone via Bluetooth connects to the smartphone automatically when you turn on the ignition. Such devices do not have their own speakers, transmitting sound to the car's audio system. During a call, the music or radio being played is automatically muted. The microphone is installed separately, closer to the driver, to transmit better sound.
- Universal or removable. These gadgets are completely autonomous and not tied to the car. This loud Bluetooth connection for a car is installed on the visor or on the steering wheel, has convenient functions and a simple interface. Connecting it is no more difficult than any wireless headphones.
Criterias of choice
There is a wide range of public address devices on the domestic market. First of all, you should look at the technical specifications and workmanship. You should not waste money on the lowest-class devices that are not able to provide high-quality conversation and sound. To avoid making mistakes when choosing, experts advise what to pay attention to:
- Noise reduction level – a high value will not allow the interlocutor to be distracted by the noise of the wind, wheels or running engine.
- Versatility – the ability to automatically pair with various models of mobile devices.
- Synchronization - quick navigation in contact lists will be provided by a gadget that easily transfers data from a smartphone to the built-in memory.
- Monitor - a device with a screen is much more convenient and allows you to view information about incoming calls, call duration or missed calls; the high resolution of the display allows you to display a photo of the caller.
- The control panel can be located in a convenient place and provide comfort when moving.
- Automatic connection – to reduce the time it takes to connect the device to a mobile phone.
- Additional memory slots – when using the gadget to listen to music.
How to set up a headset: step-by-step instructions
In order to set up a speakerphone in your car, you need to purchase a suitable gadget (or use the built-in one), install it and connect your phone to it. When purchasing, you will already have an idea of where you will attach the device. When choosing, it is worth remembering that Apple products only connect to versions from Bluetooth 4.0. Earlier ones will not work.
The connection itself looks like this:
- Turn on Bluetooth on speakerphone. Sometimes a special button needs to be held for a certain time - this is indicated in the manual for the device. For a car radio with Bluetooth handsfree, you need to find the item “Pair Phone” or with a similar name - it will make it visible on the network.
- Turn on Bluetooth on your smartphone. Make your phone visible by checking the appropriate box in the settings.
- Select your gadget from the list of detected devices. It may ask for a pairing code. Unless otherwise specified in the documentation, this is “0000” or “1234”. Sometimes the code is displayed on the screen of the device or radio.
- The speakerphone for the car via Bluetooth is connected. She will receive calls and play audio through her speakers.
Where can I buy
Popular models of gadgets are purchased in digital supermarkets or showrooms that sell equipment for cars. Consultants will give recommendations and advice - what they are, their varieties, which company is better to buy, how to choose, how much it costs.
If there is no decent choice in your place of residence, the best new items can be ordered online on the pages of the popular domestic aggregator Yandex.Market or the Chinese site AliExpress, as well as in the online store of the largest digital marketplaces. There you can study the description in advance, compare characteristics, look at photos and user reviews.
Various hands-free devices for cars in Moscow are offered at prices ranging from almost 300 rubles (LiZi BT-X6) to 44,700 rubles (Jabra Speak 810 MS).
Review of popular models
Below I will give an overview of several good models. They are given as an example - you can find a suitable option on the Internet or on your own, choosing a device to suit your taste.
ENKLOV
ENKLOV is a Bluetooth-enabled car speakerphone from Aliexpress. This gadget has a button that activates voice dialing. It connects easily to your phone, has a sensitive microphone and loud speakers.
pros
- easy connection;
- good sound on both sides;
- magnetic mount;
- up to 100 hours of standby time;
- price.;
Minuses
- Bluetooth 3.0 will not connect to Apple products;
- sometimes – sound quality.;
Price:
about 800 rubles
Hama H-104810 Nova
Hama H-104810 Nova is a budget device for a car. Equipped with a powerful battery that allows you to work without recharging for a long time.
pros
- text-to-speech conversion;
- 145 hours standby time;
Minuses
- mono sound;
- audibility is not good enough;
Price:
about 1000 rubles
Jabra Freeway
Jabra – hands-free communication in the car via Bluetooth. This is an excellent high quality speakerphone. Jabra Freeway is equipped with three speakers and two microphones, and an FM transmitter can transmit music and calls directly to the car's audio system.
pros
- virtual surround sound;
- FM transmitter;
- noise suppression;
- long battery life;
- design.;
Minuses
- there is no provision for displaying battery charge;
- price.;
Price:
about 6000 rubles
Parrot CK3100 LCD
Parrot CK3100 LCD is a device that connects to the standard car speakers. You can adjust the volume, and the screen allows you to see the signal strength and the name of the caller. The system is equipped with a voice recognition function: you can call a person by voicing a name from the phone book.
pros
- monochrome display;
- good sound quality;
- noise suppression;
- voice control;
- compact body;
Minuses
- price;
Price:
about 7000 rubles
