Tentative System Design - Comments / Insults?

**dgilman** · 11-01-2004, 05:49 PM

Folks!

I've been doing some research, both here and elsewhere on the InterWeb, and this is the systen I've come up with -

Logic Supply Car System with OPUS mini-ITX Vehicle PC Case (it's the 90W)
- Operating System Windows XP Professional - English
- Motherboard EPIA MII 12000 1.2Ghz
- Xenarc 700TSV 7" TFT LCD with VGA and Touchscreen
- Memory 512MB PC2100/DDR266 RAM
- Hard Disk 2.5" 60GB Hitachi 5400rpm
- Panasonic CW-8123-B Slotloading CD-RW / DVD

I'll add a USB hub (for bluetooth, GPS, WiFi, and one extra for charging my Treo and/or possible radio), as well as mic for voice and then tie the audio output to my (for now) stock stereo system.

Software-wise I'm looking at iGuidance for GPS and either Frodoplayer or MediaCar.

I'm installing in a 2004 M-B (Dodge/Freightliner) Sprinter panel van. Should make down time during the day a lot more fun!

Any suggestions or anything I've missed? I'm buying the system complete from System Logic because I'd rather spend my time customizing the dash then the computer. Any other suggestions for alternate system builders?

Thanks in advance

David

**muldrick** · 11-01-2004, 06:14 PM

Welcome to the threads dgilman.
No suggestions from me, looks good. You are buying it complete?
Most complete systems I've seen are a fortune.
Most people here just build their own systems, it's fun (and a pain) but much more cost efective.
But if time is an issue and money is not, go for it. Looks allright to me.
What will you use for input device (besides touchscreen)?

**dgilman** · 11-01-2004, 06:24 PM

That system is $1586 complete, FYI.

I'd get a bluetooth keyboard/mouse. The Sprinter has a flip down desk.

Right now one of my big debates is whether to do a fixed-in dash mounted LCD or an LCD on an arm so I can swing it close or the passenger can use it easier. The Sprinter cab is pretty big and the center dash is kind of far away.

Thanks!

David

**muldrick** · 11-01-2004, 06:40 PM

That's not bad, got a link to it?
Got a picture of the cab? Maybe get a bigger screen? , but the swing-out arm doesn't sound like a bad idea.

**dgilman** · 11-01-2004, 06:48 PM

Hey, it's the muldrick and dgilman show...

Link to Logic Supply -
(Okay, I'm sure I missed something in the FAQ about not posting links to other shopping places. Use your imagination to figure out the link [If mp3car.com shop sold complete systems, I'd buy mine there])

A cab photo *should* be attached.

David

**muldrick** · 11-01-2004, 06:58 PM

Originally Posted by dgilman

Hey, it's the muldrick and dgilman show...

Link to Logic Supply -
(Okay, I'm sure I missed something in the FAQ about not posting links to other shopping places. Use your imagination to figure out the link [If mp3car.com shop sold complete systems, I'd buy mine there])

A cab photo *should* be attached.

David

Yeah, I went to the website, couldn't find what you're talking about.

Nice cab!

, What about a flipdown monitor? (http://www.mp3car.com/store/product_...products_id=48)

It swivels also

(BTW: No,I don't work for mp3car

)

**RoundSparrow** · 10-19-2005, 07:40 PM

I have a 2005 sprinter and am trying to decide on LCD placement... Any progress?

**DK888** · 10-19-2005, 08:00 PM

Welcome. Nice setup list! Check PM

**dgilman** · 10-19-2005, 11:29 PM

I haven't implemented it yet, but I want to mount the LCD from the center top of the console, right above the radio.

I'm looking at using a small tripod leg and a swivel mount, so you can swivel to either the passanger or driver, and then pull the monitor close (when parked) or push it in, for driving.

Right now it just sits on my lap though.

Also, be very careful about tying into the ignition system for a remote startup on the carputer. I did it, and had major electrical problems. It may have been just me, it may be the car...

Good luck!

**Rafster** · 10-20-2005, 01:31 AM

Here's something you could do:

Get a 15" LCD monitor (you can get these dirt cheap, maybe like $130-$150), and buy this: http://www.digitalww.com/15TSK.htm

Then, make a stand for the monitor coming from the floor of the van. That way you don't have to mess with the very limited room in the dash, and it looks cool.

Peace,

Rafster