Ok... big day just happened and no instal hs happened. However i did learn a few things.
1. Take apart your dash before you even start building. This lets you know what kind of space you have and if anything will be in the way.
2. Never rush. Rushing just means you will not finish 100% and your stuff will look like crap.
3. Always have a backup plan. Buy 2 of the same parts if you think you might mess up. Sure it will be more expensive, but nobody likes to pay double on shipping if you would have had the foresight to buy 2 items.
Ok, ill just run through how the day started.
I was finishing up my clear coat, and i decided to take apart my dash. I give props to honda, they made a dash that you cant take apart unless you know what your doing.
Test out my new dash. Doesnt it look really pretty?
Then i test fit my case.
As you can see... its kinda sticking out by a few inches. It sticks out so much modifying the dash piece to extend the screen out was not an option. So i did what i said i would do, i cut the case in half.
Then i redid the power connection for the lcd so it was removeable from a atx connection.
After that, i made the dvd holder.
As you can see, the front portion of the dvd drive is scratched up. It doesnt matter at this point, as im hoping to get a slot load whenever i find extra $$$$$.
I tested out the new dash, and yes it does fit. I wanted then to install the lcd and run wires to the passenger seat, but ran into another problem. The lcd screen sits too low for the heater controls to fit. So this is what i need to do now. I need to trim the bottom of the lcd screen, and modify the case yet again to sit higher. Then i need to trim the case down as not to block the dvd drive. Yes, more busy work for me to do just because i didnt open the dash first.
Lots of extra scrap metal...
I was also hungry, so i made me pasta
Ok, so this is what is going to happen. Im gonna trim the lcd, and then run wires to passenger seat. Make a new case, and install underneath the seat. I think thats all that needs to be done to get it working.
Now dont fret, this is actually a good thing. Now i have easier access to the computer. This means i can add/remove hw that i do or dont need. Also means less wire and clutter up in the dash area. So its not a bad thing.
However, now that i know that the heater controls can be moved, it got me thinking. What if i used the whole dash as a screen? I could easily move those controls into the bottom compartment if i wanted too. I could easily then do a 10 or 12 inch screen.
But im already too invloved in this. Also, i think i might take a break from this. Its been 7 months since i graduated with a degree im computer engineering. I still havnt found a job, and its only me to blame. I really havnt been looking, as ive been to busy with with this project. Also, money is tight on the wage im making now, so until i find that all exclusive great job, i think this project is on hiatus.
Sorry guys, i need a job. Cya all in a few weeks or months, whenever i do find a job.
Matt
Linear Mode
