Thread: ~ 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



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)





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



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.




(Pic at wrong display ratio)

~~~

X41 Docking station Installation:

This is the Fiero center console - between the two seats.
Do you see where this is going...



A perfect size match





Good old Jigsaw





First test fit



Trimming the side wall for the connectors: VGA, Power, USB, (Serial connector for scanning would be done later)



Test fit with the X41 and door cover



In car installation:

Cables: VGA, USB from Touch screen, USB from GPS, Power, Audio out







First problem(s) cable size coming out from the docking station are too long.



Just loving the way it was made to be there !



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 -->



Drill



And...VOILA (I'll have to find a plastic push pin to match the hole made in the center console side vent.



First solution for the USB plug size.



Slim USB hub I found @ Radio Shack ($10) note the plug size difference



Perfect fit !



Screen Installation:



Looks like any other head unit...







Side motion



Driver P.O.V

Media Engine


iGuidance


Photos...Videos...Whatever....



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

Either then that...So far so good...

Still to resolve:
- Center console door hinges or other connectors.
- Need to get a right angle VGA adapter to solve the VGA cable problem


- 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

~~~~~

***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 Please use information at your owe risk - Thanks.***