mercdriver

At the rear of the bottom armrest console, there is a connector that almost looks like an ethernet connector. Can anyone tell me what this is for?

Thanks!

MTI

if it looks like a threaded barrel connection, then it's the antenna connection for the old cell phones that MB used to install. There should also be a cable connector that would attach to the phone cradle if the phone connected to the stereo system headunit.

mercdriver

Yes, this may be it. I guess the next question is can I get replacements for the phone/parts, etc that used to be attached here?

xvvvz

The system was an analog one so the original equipment won't work with most current cell services. I have seen some posts about retrofit kits but I don't know if they are worth the effort, expense and hassle.

mercdriver

Thank you for this info.

tfoeckler

Are there any other uses for this connection? Seems like someone here would have figured out some way to mod it into something useful. Is there any electricity going to it?

MTI

As stated, the electronics (located in the trunk) are designed exclusively for the out of date CDMA/Analog cell phones. Most modern service providers do not offer analog service due to the FCC requirements for "enhanced 911" service which relies on a digital connection.

There is an "aftermarket" device, called a Mikbox, that can adapt V60 and similar Motorola "startac" phones, but given the price, it's probably more than the cost of getting a better headunit with a modern Bluetooth connection.