FAQ: How much do car PC's cost?

**Bugbyte** · 06-02-2005, 01:12 AM

A frequently asked question by newbies is, "how much does a car PC system cost?"

Naturally, the answer is "that depends." On what type of system you install, whether you use left old or free components, the level of fit and finish, etc. The range is wide, from under $100 to several thousand dollars but most members seems to be able to do it for around $1,000 give or take.

So while there isn't an easy answer to this question, here is a poll answered by members on how much they spent on their car PC's and this thread by Hummdinger caused a lot of member to weigh in on their system costs. You may find the answers enlightening.

**Nic** · 06-02-2005, 01:23 AM

the answer is always too much, at least twice what you were going to spend

**Psychobiker** · 06-02-2005, 03:59 AM

Well, I sourced my parts from the electroic recycling bureau in Dublin, the whole thing set me back about €80, or $100. The screen is the most expensive part, lol! More than thrice the cost of the PC, which is decent - 1GHz, 264MB RAM, 40GB HDD. Not over-the-top, but it's only a shell for mp3s! And I've just WiFi-ed the house and carputer (for when it goes in), as WiFi is great for downloading stuff IN the car!

L

**Pudge** · 06-02-2005, 01:41 PM

The basic components generally aren't too pricy, depending on what you want to do. But the wiring, the screen, and the "oohohh i need this next" is where it adds up. Also, working in a new audio system really takes it's toll on your wallet.

**Psychobiker** · 06-02-2005, 02:47 PM

I second that motion

**Stealth97** · 06-03-2005, 12:21 AM

After tons of Ebay hunting, I found a new VIA EPIA M1000, Case, 512mb ram, CDRW/DVD combo for $300, along with a Xenarc 700 TS for $340. I expect to pay another $150 or so for a Power supply. I am doing my own install, so saving lots of cash there. I already have an operating system. Most interface software is free, but donations appreciated.

How much you want to spend really comes down to budget. If you want all your equipment within a week, and pay someone to install it, You could have easily spent $2k on the above system, but if you are patient, do your research, you will get the best deal. Just do all your research before you make any purchases.

**aoLhaTer** · 06-08-2005, 03:24 AM

You can do a carputer really cheap but you end up with....something cheap
If you want it done right you're going to have to spend money

I tell people $1000-1300 for a good system but for a budget system it can be done $500-700

**Psychobiker** · 06-08-2005, 07:42 AM

About €700, which is about $1000 will get great one. Power supplies and extension cables and monitors are where is stings

**OriginalNick2** · 06-09-2005, 06:45 AM

try and order all at once - will save loads in delivery charges

**RS3RS** · 06-09-2005, 06:53 AM

Take the price that you think it will cost. Double that.

Take the time that you think it will take to install it. Now, multiply that by 5.

That should give you some what of an idea.