~ Computerizing a Fiero ~ by Mister ~ (Laptop & Touch Screen)
So, after Laptop - New or Used ??
And this little nightmare...Touch screen problem-USB 1.1/USB 2-XP-Driver-Worcol-Touchkit-Solution
Comes the promised build thread...and yes...It's a Fiero:peace:
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e39632c124.jpg
Tech support for this Carputer setup came from all you good people on mp3car.com - So thanks!!
« On y va »… (let’s go)…
~ Concept:
As with all my Fiero projects - I aim to have the benefits of an upgrade and keep the 1986 stock look as much as practical.
The use of a laptop rather then a designated Carputer comes from a limited budget and the multi purpose functionality of a laptop.
The docking station will provide the quick connect solution (and prevents Laptop theft when away from car)
~ Components:
1. HiInfo - in-dash, non-motorized 7” touch screen (imported from China)
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31b522c82.jpg
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31b54c84e.jpg
About this unit:
The Good:
- Stealth screen! you can not tell it's a screen when closed
- Colors match the Fiero dash colors
- Non motorized - less things to break
- L/R motion (about 20*)
- FM radio build in
- Screen is good and bright
The Bad:
- No proper RCA AMP output
- Display is blue rather then red
- Low end electronics (cheaply made)
- "Stupid" firmware (cheaply made)
Bottom line - I works but I [HL]DON'T[/HL] recommend it.
2. IBM/Lenovo – Thinkpad X41 12" Ultra portable laptop [1.5Ghz/1G/40G] with docking station
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31b5a4e13.jpg
About the laptop: nothing but praises for this machine - Excellent, solid build, functions great and the most important perfect size. (you'll see why soon)
3. Kensington mobile power supply
4. Fiero Head Unit Mount - http://www.humount.com/
5. Software:
- Win XP sp2
- iGuidance - http://www.inavcorp.com/pro...uidance_software.php
- MS streets & Trips - http://www.microsoft.com/streets/default.mspx
- Media Engine http://www.mediaengine.org/
I've customized one of their skins with the Fiero logo.
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31ee156c8.jpg
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e32429f647.jpg
(Pic at wrong display ratio)
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X41 Docking station Installation:
This is the Fiero center console - between the two seats.
Do you see where this is going...
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31ee28380.jpg
A perfect size match :thumb:
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31ee4e4bd.jpg
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31ee73a42.jpg
Good old Jigsaw :D
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31ee99b80.jpg
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31eeb934a.jpg
First test fit
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31eed7788.jpg
Trimming the side wall for the connectors: VGA, Power, USB, (Serial connector for scanning would be done later)
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31ef05808.jpg
Test fit with the X41 and door cover
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e322957c5f.jpg
In car installation:
Cables: VGA, USB from Touch screen, USB from GPS, Power, Audio out
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e322979751.jpg
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e322999303.jpg
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e3229baa0d.jpg
First problem(s) cable size coming out from the docking station are too long.
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e3229dc116.jpg
Just loving the way it was made to be there !
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e322a0b51d.jpg
One problem laptop Carputers have is the remote power button to start and reset. The location I've chose presented a very simple solution:
Dock power button -->
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e322a2cc27.jpg
Drill
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e322a4faa0.jpg
And...VOILA (I'll have to find a plastic push pin to match the hole made in the center console side vent.
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e322a71a35.jpg
First solution for the USB plug size.
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e322a9dc58.jpg
Slim USB hub I found @ Radio Shack ($10) note the plug size difference
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e324254f25.jpg
Perfect fit !
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e32427bc1a.jpg
Screen Installation:
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31b565a90.jpg
Looks like any other head unit...
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31b5cb720.jpg
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31b5e3da9.jpg
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31b6085db.jpg
Side motion
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31b62336b.jpg
Driver P.O.V
Media Engine
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31b63c5b5.jpg
iGuidance
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31edefb08.jpg
Photos...Videos...Whatever....
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/imag...e31b58c3a1.jpg
Test Drive: After a short test drive I had to disable the Thinkpad hard drive protection software.
It basically pauses the HD rotation when sensing strong motion. I know the risk... Hey, it works :D
Either then that...So far so good... :thumb:
Still to resolve:
- Center console door hinges or other connectors.
- Need to get a right angle VGA adapter to solve the VGA cable problem
http://www.l-com.com/product_images/...DG90H15MF2.JPG
- Power plug size
- Clean up the wires
- Consider USB sound card (better sound)
- Unlocking the docking station cable
Etc...
Opinions, comments, ideas and suggestions are always welcome
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***Disclaimer: This is an amateur write-up. Information here is provided for explanation of the general idea, I will not be held responsible for any damage to your car, your garage going in a blaze or destruction of your marriage life :D Please use information at your owe risk - Thanks.***
