Want to install a Carputer, But don't know where to start. Help please.

**Nickwell24** · 10-13-2007, 02:21 AM

Hey guys, currently i am looking at the basic things i want to put in.
Computer: Mac Mini
Video: In dash motorized screen, w/ radio(optional)
DC-DC power supply
Power button for mac installed into dash.

I know these are the very basics and i need help figuring out what else is required, please help me people who have done this before.

**DarquePervert** · 10-13-2007, 08:12 AM

Start here: http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/advfaq.php

And here: http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/the-faq-emporium/

And here: http://www.mp3car.com/wiki/index.php/Main_Page

**Nickwell24** · 10-13-2007, 04:45 PM

Well i know what i'm using as far as equipment, but i see a lot of people add an Amp into their system, is this required, i don'[t really understand this step.

**Grrrmachine** · 10-13-2007, 04:49 PM

In order to actually give your speakers the power to make a noise, they must be boosted by an amplifier (in much the same way that your home PC's speakers have a power socket.)

The amp takes the weak signal from your PCs sound card, and depending on how big a set of speakers you want, increases the signals. This type of stuff is not limited to CarPCs - it doesn't matter whether the input signal comes from your PC, or your iPod, or your massive 80s Walkman; you'll need some way of making the signal powerful enough to make the speakers loud. Googling for a specific car audio website, or checking the links in the Car Audio section of this place will help you out the most.

**Nickwell24** · 10-13-2007, 04:55 PM

What if i just sent the audio signal from the headphone jack into the back of my existing head unit.

**Grrrmachine** · 10-13-2007, 05:07 PM

If you're keeping your existing headunit AND it has that capability (most modern ones do) then of course, that's fine. Check your user manual for the head unit to make sure you can do this though.
You won't get superloud volume or the option of fitting massive subwoofers (unless you then add an amp) but if you're happy with you're current volume it should be fine. It also lets you use your radio when your PC is (inevitably) not working, and gives you a volume knob too.