Well, I've decided to embark on a new project with my 'vert.... instead of paying $1200 for a mobile audio/video system that may or may not be obsolete in a couple of years, I'm going to atempt (emphasis on attempt) to build and integrate a mobile pc unit into the car. This is all very new to me... I'm fairly handy with computers (good with hardware, a bit foggy w/bios, totally clueless when it comes to writing code and such), and fairly innovative, so I'm going to go for it. I'm pretty sure I'll be able to pull it iff w/out any real cutting in the interior. Anyway, here's the breakdown thus far:

Powered by a Pentium 3 500 mHz 'puter, 192 mb RAM, 10G HDD, CD/R drive, radio/TV tuner card, mounted in the trunk

Software will probably be Linux slackware... also installed on my home pc via a dual boot system

Display will be a 5.75" LCD screen

Interface will be via console mounted touchpad and an I/R remote

Data transfer via I/R home network system

I'm hoping the LCD will be small enough to fit where the radio is now.... thinking of just removing that panel altogether. If it will fit, then I'll pick up a spare panel from the junkyard to do the cutting on. I'd really love a touch screen, but I don't think I could afford one of those right now. This system will be used primarily for mp3 storage and playback, but will also be used for movies, GPS, and hopefully real-time weather and traffic updates via cellphone internet link. I'll be creating a website to follow the progress of Project eT/A, if anyone's interested in it. Any suggestions will be welcomed...Wish me luck!

BTW, the website that gave me the idea is here... check it out!
www.dashpc.com

 

I have been wanting to do this for a couple years now... check out
www.mp3car.com