Newbie - Quik Q for everyone

module · 10-31-2007, 09:39 PM

Hey all Im loving this forum its very detailed and it gets you wanting to start a project right away. This is exactly why I am here and therefore I have a question to ask. I own a 1994 Honda Civic EX and Im having trouble finding any threads with anyone having a vehicle like mine that has a project going on.

I only came across one poster and hes gtom Brazil and hes only got the dash layout so far. Are they any other pics I might be able to see where I can pursue this project, only problem Im having is if I install an indash LCD, it would have to be under the radio slot close to the shifter, or overlapping the heat rads and restructure it all. Any ideas I would really appreciate it thanks.

Nickwell24 · 11-02-2007, 12:23 AM

My best advice, because I had the same issue finding my car type, is just generalize other projects (show off your projects). I'm not sure the size of the din dash, probably single, or 1 and a 1/2 din but normally the set up isn't much different from one car to another, all the wires seem about the same. A good place to start is looking at car repair manuals, Chilton or Hayes seem to be the best. Those will show you wiring, and knowing the wiring behind your dash is always a good thing to know when wanting to start a project like this... good luck.

brucedog · 11-02-2007, 10:16 PM

How's it going?

So true about the energy of the mp3 site and forums, too - I just researched my little heart out; reding LOTS of forum posts and reading the informational text for newbies and people in gen'l who need some direction.

Although one poster wrote "...uyou wont be spoon fed...do some research...", as a long-time electronic tech, I tend to give a decent amount of info away just to get a new guy started. Sometimes that's what it takes to get off the ground.

I have designed and installed my layout of amps, speakers, wiring, l-pads, also power distribution wiring, much from looking at pictures posted on such sites as diyaudio.com...
I just ordered my very first carputer today, the "Beginner! Car Computer Pkg Nicely Equipped" for $599.99.

Then, I added:

>have mp3car install windows XP
>same with Street Deck
>Lilliput VGA touchscreen 7"
Griffin volume, etc controller
>wireless kbd
>4-port usb hub

Total cost, including cables, $1278.00

A few minutes ago, I crafted a cardboard full-scale model of the case the PC will come in. I will then try it out in various appropriate places in rear cargo area of my Saturn wagon.

I also plan to make scale model og usb hub and VGA monitor, and try various places in front of pass. area...

For me, I first specified what I needed in the PC and basic paripherals. I'm a newbie, so I just went with the basics, but with a PC that has room for growth; also quality components. The matter of mounting the PC, monitor and such will come slowly and easily, without drilling holes and generally making my car look cruddy. I may wire or tape some things in place to try them out.

Well, enough. I don't want to try and sound too smart for a guy who has yet to even receive the equipment, but I was just trying to give some ideas of the thought process...

Blessings, Bdog