I've noticed that my Columbus (or maybe something else from that area of the dash) seems to be active when I get into the car without even putting the keys in the ignition. This even when the unit had been switched off on leaving the car. The sound is much like that of a whirring disc drive.

Surely any booting up of the system would only begin once the ignition or unit were switched on?

Any ideas or at least similar experiences to put mind at rest?

Perfectly normal, the Columbus will power up as soon as you unlock the car so its ready to go when you are. it is indeed the Columbus booting up just like a PC.

its the hard drive on the columbus

After switching the ignition off, the unit does normally switch off but leave what sounds like either cooling fans or the HD running for a short time (I haven't timed it to see how long).

When you get in the unit doesn't start until you press the 'on' button or you turn the ignition (then only if the ignition was switched off with the Columbus still active).

Can't say I've noticed any noises before the Columbus starts though.

Have you just fitted the unit?

Do you know about the battery drain issue with early CAN gateways (2007 & earlier vehicles as a guide)?

I've noticed that my Columbus (or maybe something else from that area of the dash) seems to be active when I get into the car without even putting the keys in the ignition. This even when the unit had been switched off on leaving the car. The sound is much like that of a whirring disc drive.

Surely any booting up of the system would only begin once the ignition or unit were switched on?

Any ideas or at least similar experiences to put mind at rest?

Yes, mine does exactly that so like mannyo says, it is completely normal behaviour for a Columbus unit.

Ian

Thanks for the replies. I shall consider myself reassured.