How to Play a Flash Drive in a Car

Hooking up a Flash drive to your car stereo is possible with a USB compatible FM transmitter.

Many people now download new music to Flash drives, but are unaware that the music saved on them can be played on a car stereo system by using an FM transmitter with USB compatibility. FM transmitters emit radio frequencies that your car's radio antennae can pick up. Once you have the proper FM transmitter, the rest is extremely simple.

Things You'll Need

• FM transmitter with USB compatibility

Instructions

1. Purchase an FM transmitter with USB compatibility. Most FM transmitters that are sold in local stores do not offer USB, but only auxiliary input, so you are likely to have to go to an online retailer. Ensure that the model you choose has a USB port.

2. Power on the FM transmitter while sitting in your car. Dial your car stereo's radio tuner to the same frequency channel as the transmitter is set to. It is best to use a lower frequency for better reception.

3. Plug your Flash drive into the USB port on the FM transmitter. The transmitter will then detect your audio files and play them sequentially through your car stereo.

Tips & Warnings

• The volume that comes from FM transmitters is usually significantly lower than the output of your stereo's radio tuner. For that reason, turn the volume on the radio down before powering off the FM transmitter.

References

• Microdia: Car MP3 Player with FM Transmitter Manua