101 questions

**JimmieII** · 12-21-2005, 01:20 PM

Hey I am starting a new project and could use some input on the overall design of this thing.
I have been looking at putting a computer in the G for a while now and I finally got the resources to do so.
I am planning on using a lap top that recently took a leap of faith off of my bed and onto the floor (suicidal piece of ssss) as my base. I am trying to use the VGA out with a converter to my in dash which I will use as a monitor. I will be using a wireless keyboard that will mount in the glove box and a wireless held mouse or Joystick mouse to control everything.
Ohh yeah and what would i need to read real time diagnostics and make adjustments from the cars computer on this system.
Screen: Jensen 9510

Laptop specs
Processor AMD 64
Wireless connection
100 Gig hard drive
1 Gig ddr memory
Not sure of the video and sound card but it played pretty good when I had it hooked up to my home stereo. (Yeah I know that’s not much to go on but that’s all I know at this point in time)

Problems:
1) The power button, is it possible to extend the ribbon connects the power button with the motherboard?
If not what can I use as an alternative on and off switch?
2) When I run the audio outputs from the lap top to my screen will I have many problems?
3) Will I have many heating and cooling issues with this system? I plan on incorporating a laptop cooling pad under the laptop to pull the heat off of it but will this be enough?
4) I will be using Microsoft’s maps and streets software with the GPS system for navigation and was wondering if anyone could give me any suggestions on were to mount the GPS unit. I know it has to have a direct view of the sky at all times to work and I was wondering if just pointing it out the front window would be enough or would I need more?
5) Would this project require me to do any additional power upgrades to my car to ensure that everything will work properly?

Stereo System
Jensen 9510 indash
Poineer EQ
alpine M-500 mono amp
alpine F-450 5 channel amp-comming soon
1 farat cap rockford
1 kicker square
kciker 6.5
infinity 6X9
Planet audio components-comming (should be in the mail)

**ITL** · 12-21-2005, 01:45 PM

real time diagnostics would require OBD-II connection. You're also going to need a re-programmable ECU for the car which typically run > $1k if you want to make changes. You can get read-only info for $50-$300. Search.

1) Yes. search
2) Why would you run audio to your screen? Most people run it to their stereo.
3) It depends on where you put it. My pc is in my glovebox. Did it get too hot? YES. I added two fans to circulate air from the cabin. Where are you putting it?
4) Mine's on my front dash, passenger's side. Works great!
5) Shouldn't, you just need to decide between an inverter or more proper dc-dc power supply. Once again: search.

There is an incredible amount of info on this forum. You can also check out the worklogs and see what other people are doing. All of your questions could be answered by simply looking around a bit.

Good luck and welcome to mp3car.