Newbie looking for opinions on what to do

**mglsanchez** · 03-24-2006, 11:24 PM

I've been reading these forums for a while. I have a friend who is willing to sell me a loaded Mac Mini for $300, and I'm looking for opinions on whether that would be a good starting point. My other concern is that I have a convertible, and I'm concerned that I won't be able to see the display during the day with the top down.

I would like to use it for:
1. Music
2. Radio
3. Nav

I don't really care too much about playing CDs or DVDs.

Looking for help, Thanks!

**peecee** · 03-25-2006, 09:00 AM

Yes. You just need to get a touchscreen. What kind of vert do you have?

**freak3dot** · 03-25-2006, 09:15 AM

I guess it is interesting that you are looking for new ideas but you have already ruled out DVDs and CDs. Keep your mind open

I am in the same stage as you are. I'm still planning because I won't have the money to put into the project until June 2006. Here is a list of things I want so far; I hope this might help you brainstorm.

Mp3s
FM
Posibly XM
CD
GPS - > Navigation
On board diagnositcs (OBD)
DVDs
TV
video game emulators
persistant internet connection -> for using web apps and uploading my data to one of my servers
USB relays to control some extra lighting systems (one example is lights in the door handles)
Touchscreen

And it all started as wanting to play mp3s in my car and not wanting to buy a new stereo and some fancy adaptor for my creative MP3 player.

**Bugbyte** · 03-25-2006, 12:27 PM

If you don't want to buy that Mini, send your friend's address to me - I'll buy it for $300

You may have trouble seeing the screen. Xenarcs are among the brightest. They are brighter still if you don't get a touchscreen overlay.

GPS on the Mac is limited to either Route 66 or using Virtual PC to run a PC GPS program.

If you need ideas on how to install a Mac Mini and the pros and cons, check the FAQ Emporium. There is a FAQ on how to install a Mac Mini in there.

**mglsanchez** · 03-25-2006, 02:23 PM

Thanks for the help.

My car is an '06 Mustang vert. What do the other vert owners say? In the summer I always have the top down, so I want to make sure that I will be able to see it. I won't do it without the touchscreen, and I'm willing to spend a little extra on the Xenarc.

I won't rule out DVDs or CDs, but I will have most of my CD collection on there, and the car is too small to safely watch DVDs anyway.

I also know womeone who has an Eclipse 5435 for sale for around $1000. I like the flexibility of the carpc, but the Eclipse would be easier. Has anyone seen the Eclipse in a vert? I'm wondering if I would have the same issue with that as well.