Quote: Originally Posted by
yalpngulp 
i just came up with an idea for you guys. i tested just now and it works.
it does require soldering 2 wires inside the laptop to the lid open/close switch
once done, hook up a relay to your ignition that closes the circuit when ign is off
then set windows to standby when lid is closed, it will automatically resume when circuit opens
you do know that there is already a solution for powering on laptops with 2 wires soldered and a relay circuit, so your idea isn't new.
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=75071
and the best setup is to set it so that the lid does nothing, you tap into the power button instead. Both can be used technically. But power button is easier to get to on most laptops. Usually involves removing ONE panel only
Personally I prefer a laptop install for several reasons.
1: Smaller Footprint
2: Built in battery
3: Tuned support for hibernate/suspend features
4: Shock resistant harddrive already encased
5: Wifi Already built in. Can add on if you want greater coverage, or just tape into the antenna.
6: Less induced noise issues. PCI sound cards tend to pick up everything
7: Lower power draw
8: Better bang for your buck when counting power, a Cheap 300-400 dollar used(or new) laptop will outperform a via system.
As for the upgradability concerns. Everythings coming in usb now. And there always IS pmcia cards/express cards. Then theres laptops that actually support full size PCI cards if you connect them to a docking station.
and as for closing the screen forcing your ocmputer to hibernate/sleep. Goto Start - Settings - Control Panel- Power Options - Advanced Tab.
In the middle where it says "When I close the lid to my portable computer"
Change the drop down to "do nothing"