Just got a new car, does it need a carputer? [Questions!]

enkne1 · 08-04-2005, 08:47 PM

I just recently got a 2005 Nissan SE-R. Initially I wanted to put only a nav in because I honestly felt that was the only thing missing in this car. I eventually came here and seems like I have endless options with a carputer.

The main things I want to do with my carputer are:
1) Use primarily for NAV
2) Occasionally watch movies
3) perhaps have a word processing in order to record things

My goal is to mount my 7" liliput here where this person put in a GPS
http://tinypic.com/9atg82.jpg
I'll most likely store the pc itself in the glove box

I have a few general questions:
1) Is having a carputer the type of thing that requires a lot of maintenance? As in more so then my desktop computer in my house?
2) I live in NJ so does extreme hot and cold temps affect the comp at all?

I don't want to spend more then 700 and found someone to sell me a full system for that exact price. It includes...

Voom carputer case
Epia m1000,512mb ddr, M1-ATX car power supply (auto startup and
shutdown with car ign.)
20gb shock mounted laptop drive w/ ide adapter.
Everything has been assembled and all the wires are wrapped.
7" touchscreen LCD
an external USB slimdvd drive

I just want to make sure that this system is sufficent for me.

Its a brand new car so I'm nervous to start ripping it apart for an install.

thanks for everyone's help.

NeckPayne · 08-04-2005, 09:36 PM

Looks like a sweet location for the install. You should also consider that the carputer can be used for your mp3 collection.

You'll of course need a GPS receiver and the software to run with it, so factor this in to your costs. Otherwise $700 seems like a fair deal for all that.

Where are you planning on mounting the external drive?

You also want to consider whether you can plug the audio output into your head unit or not, or if you'll have to run it through a separate amp.

1) It won't require more upkeep, but you may find that you can't stop tweaking it. Its not a small project to undertake (mostly wiring problems), but since your friend already has the system put together for you, most of the computer setup work is probably already done.

2) As far as extreme temperatures, people are running their carputers in far hotter and colder places than NJ. Keeping it in the main cabin (under seat) can help reduce temperature swings to a certain extent. Shouldn't be too big a problem.

Good luck!

Bugbyte · 08-04-2005, 11:10 PM

Of course it needs a car PC in it! Bigger hard drive. By the time you get some music, and OS and some applications on there, you'll be filling it up.

$700 is a good price, figure another $200 more for a GPS and mapping software.

Temperatures not a problem.

enkne1 · 08-05-2005, 11:28 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by NeckPayne

Where are you planning on mounting the external drive?

You also want to consider whether you can plug the audio output into your head unit or not, or if you'll have to run it through a separate amp.

I'll probably mount the external DVD drive anywhere. Most likely under the seat with the comp. I know its not the best place, but it'll have to do.

Also, I have the bose system so i don't think there is a plug in anywhere. Its the same headunit as in the picture I posted above. Does this mean I'll need an amp as well?

turbocad6 · 08-05-2005, 11:45 AM

If you even have to ask that question about the car needing a pc you already know the answer...

edrex · 08-05-2005, 11:47 AM

Quote: Originally Posted by enkne1

Also, I have the bose system so i don't think there is a plug in anywhere. Its the same headunit as in the picture I posted above. Does this mean I'll need an amp as well?

The Bose system may be setup for XM which means that I believe it will have some sort of Aux In on the back of it. Check with the guys over at nissanclub forums for a definite answer.

As far as your screen location goes, that is reqally probably the worst place you could put it. It will be much to low to be able use with ease (keep in mind you WILL be using this while driving). I would suggest relocating the 3 guages into the pillar and mounting your screen above the headunit.

Good luck with your project. There are a few 3rd gen Altimas that have finished products to luck at. Do a search in the Projects section to see what others are doing.

enkne1 · 08-05-2005, 10:59 PM

yes, in fact the car has a SAT button which is used for SIRIUS radio so i'm sure it has an AUX input. As for location, thats the only place I plan on mounting the screen. I'm not about to rip apart the entire dash of my brand new car.