CEA-2012-A defines the requirements for implementing an aftermarket network based on the Media Oriented Systems Transport (MOST^®) specification. It is based on the MOST Specification. CEA-2012-A documents the subset of requirements needed to create an aftermarket MOST network that can be used independent of any vehicle network and can also be connected to a factory-installed network if the vehicle manufacturer chooses to provide a gateway function. CEA-2012-A provides an overview of the requirements. Specific implementations need to be developed using the detailed MOST specifications.

CEA-2012-A applies to any type of device connected to an aftermarket MOST network. Devices compliant with the normative provisions of CEA-2012-A interoperate with any other MOST compliant device.

CEA-2012-A addresses the MOST functions currently available and the system requirements needed to provide timing master, network master and connection master functions.