Fobio's CarPC Build

[Fobio]

While some of you were freezing in the cold lining up for Boxing Day sales, I was sound asleep in my warm bed...when I woke up, I went about my Xmas shopping over the Internet...lol...and I bought parts for a CarPC...

To be honest, I really don't want to put more money into this car (that I haven't already...like a ATP GT3071R sitting on my shelf waiting for a SteedSpeed manifold and other BT parts), but I figure a CarPC can easily be moved from one car to the next or worst, use as a home server...

Here are the parts...they'll start to trickle in over the next week or so...Rome wasn't built overnight, and neither will this meager CarPC...lol...

I plan to have the CarPC reside inside the cavernous glove-box, which I hope will make this install a evolutionary step forward from several previous builds...but I'm sure I'm not the first one.

Running Windows 7, the unit will have BT connectivity so I can BT/dongle tether with my iPhone. With Internet access, it will also run internet radio.

Parts List (as of Jan 1, 2011)

Parts already have:

1. Japan Parts OEM Dash Box
2. GROM Audio adapter for RCA in
3. 1 -2 GB of DDR800 RAM
4. 10Hz high performance GPS receiver (BT and USB)
5. Logitech Webcam Pro 9000 (track vids)
6. Microsoft Lifecam Cinema (track vid)
7. MaxQData for PC (datalogging and track vids)
8. BT OBD-II transmitter
http://www1.dealextreme.com/productimages/sku_16921_1.jpg
9. Y. S. Tech 70mm TMD fan
- this fan will be used to cool my glove box, it flows as much as a 80mm and quiter than most 60mm at same RPM.
http://www.dansdata.com/images/coolercomp/tmdfan250.jpg

NEW Parts:

1. Lilliput V70-XB LED Touch Screen
- 7" touch screen, thinner and brighter than normal LCD, with input auto-switch for back-up camera
http://www.short-circuit.com/images/products/monitors/v70-xb.jpg

2. VoomPC 2 CarPC mini-ITX Enclosure
-like a giant heat sink, made for the new(er) mini-ITX mobo's
http://www.short-circuit.com/images/products/cases/voompc2.jpg

3. M2-ATX 160W Automotive PSU
- these have smart circuitry to have delayed on w/ ignition, and anti-pop for amps. I just need it to handle cranks.
http://www.short-circuit.com/images/products/dcdc/m2-atx-p4.jpg

4. Zotac IONITX-F-E MINI-ITX Atom N330 MCP7A-ION DDR2
- this is dual-atom onboard mobo. can do 1080p, can NOT run crysis...it's pretty feature packed, and got it for a deal for $100 with MIR
http://img.ncix.com/images/46917_1.jpg

5. ASUS USB-BT21 Mini USB Bluetooth Dongle Black
- there are cheaper DX/Ebay option, but I didn't want to wait 3 weeks, $7 on Boxing Day
http://img.ncix.com/gif/44255.jpg

6. 12V Metal Switch Latching Push On Button Brass Blue Led
- case does not come with a switch, I will add this one...pricey @ $11...but it's got BLUE LED ring!
http://i.ebayimg.com/14/!CBIYUl!!Wk~$(KGrHqMOKjkEzJ08J5DBBNG,qFt7HQ~~0_12. JPG

7. DYNATRON 40MM x 20MM QUIET FAN WITH 3 PIN CONNECTOR
- extra cooling

8. 2 Fan Cooling Speed Controller 3 Pin
- dials to keep the extra cooling quiet
http://n.mydashop.info/im2/5041/23/23-092/23-092-1A.jpg

9. 6PIN MOLEX POWER PLUG CONNECTOR 12V
- extra 6-pin molex plug to connect car's power to the MTX power supply, so I can unplug the whole PC.

10. Car Reverse Rearview CCD camera for Mazda 3
- the one from www.autodvdgps.com
http://www.autodvdgps.com/bmz_cache/8/844abbc42c01632bbec66aaed6025d8a.image.360x360..jp g

11. Various taps, wires and cables.

12. Software: Centrafuse 3.1, Garmin MobilePC, MaxQData Vectr (video/gps datalogging), Rosetta Stone (Mandarin/Spanish), ShoutCast, iTunes.

13. NEED: Hard drive...looking for a SSD.

14. DECIDING: Logitech Mini DiNovo or Lenovo 2.4GHz keypad/trackball.
http://www1.dealextreme.com/productimages/sku_35909_1.jpg

I'll take more pics of the parts as they arrive and hopefully, put together a meaningful build thread for all to use. I'm also open to suggestions and ideas as well.

[stevenma188]

:pop

[bman13]

:pop

+1 :pop

[K_L]

+1 :pop

+1:pop

[S.F.W.]

what case are you using?

[Fobio]

what case are you using?

2. VoomPC 2 CarPC mini-ITX Enclosure
-like a giant heat sink, made for the new(er) mini-ITX mobo's
http://www.short-circuit.com/images/products/cases/voompc2.jpg

[S.F.W.]

I am very curious how the audio processing quality will stack up against a regular deck. If my Z3 head unit can't be salvaged, I may go this route. Are you planning to install in the glove box?

[Fobio]

I am very curious how the audio processing quality will stack up against a regular deck. If my Z3 head unit can't be salvaged, I may go this route. Are you planning to install in the glove box?

yes...in the glovebox...I haven't measured it yet...but I'm prepared to perform "plastic sugery" if necessary...lol...

I plan to drill a big enough hole to vent the 70mm fan anyway...

this isn't a SoundQ build tho...been there, done that, got the trophies, leather jacket AND the t-shirt...and the bills and headaches...however, I did fantasize about a CarPC being routed back to a 8" touch double-din Caska-style head-unit for some double touch screen sexiness.

[Kappa]

so next is a bathroom and you dont need to leave your car? lol this look sweet!!

[S.F.W.]

all the grom units I see connect to the cd changer port on the back of a standard head unit. How do you plan to connect it ?

[hincapie]

holy:pop:pop

[Fobio]

so next is a bathroom and you dont need to leave your car? lol this look sweet!!

I remember as a kid in HK, I saw on TV this older American with a station wagon that had a toilet, washer/dryer and stove in his ride...I think he even had rails on the side of the car so he could walk around it while it was moving...good ol' 80's apocalyptic blind courage the way Super Dave liked it!


all the grom units I see connect to the cd changer port on the back of a standard head unit. How do you plan to connect it ?

I don't plan to use my AUX input, as that's another cable to run and yes, my GROM goes into the CD changer port...I would just use the green/stereo/front audio out from the mobo that splits to red/white RCA's and that goes into my GROM unit meant for RCA. I can't say for certain because my "ear spectral meter" is just as accurate as my "butt dyno", but I feel routing the signal through the GROM kept it "cleaner"? Going thru the GROM, I never had engine whine...where as I *THINK* I heard engine whine when I plugged some mp3 player to the AUX in.

On the same note, if you're looking into a SoundQ setup, this is the cheapest way to 5.1 surround without investing into "car audio grade" components at inflated prices...

[S.F.W.]

I don't plan to use my AUX input, as that's another cable to run and yes, my GROM goes into the CD changer port...I would just use the green/stereo/front audio out from the mobo that splits to red/white RCA's and that goes into my GROM unit meant for RCA. I can't say for certain because my "ear spectral meter" is just as accurate as my "butt dyno", but I feel routing the signal through the GROM kept it "cleaner"? Going thru the GROM, I never had engine whine...where as I *THINK* I heard engine whine when I plugged some mp3 player to the AUX in.

On the same note, if you're looking into a SoundQ setup, this is the cheapest way to 5.1 surround without investing into "car audio grade" components at inflated prices...

Interesting. I'm an audio nut, very particular about clean sound. Hence my purchase of JL speakers. Going to have to do some reading.

[Fobio]

Interesting. I'm an audio nut, very particular about clean sound. Hence my purchase of JL speakers. Going to have to do some reading.

now, to be truthful, I think I also added a line driver to the routing...my memory does not serve me at all right now...lol...

[S.F.W.]

now, to be truthful, I think I also added a line driver to the routing...my memory does not serve me at all right now...lol...

it would make, to help keep the signal clean.

[Fobio]

it would make, to help keep the signal clean.

ami...get sponsored and do a 5.1 surround system!

[S.F.W.]

ami...get sponsored and do a 5.1 surround system!
help me find a sponsor, and I would do it. Actually would try for a 6 or 7.1 setup. Home theater audio setup in the car. I even know where every additional speaker could be placed, including the center channel.

[mazdilla]

I remember as a kid in HK, I saw on TV this older American with a station wagon that had a toilet, washer/dryer and stove in his ride...I think he even had rails on the side of the car so he could walk around it while it was moving...good ol' 80's apocalyptic blind courage the way Super Dave liked it!



I don't plan to use my AUX input, as that's another cable to run and yes, my GROM goes into the CD changer port...I would just use the green/stereo/front audio out from the mobo that splits to red/white RCA's and that goes into my GROM unit meant for RCA. I can't say for certain because my "ear spectral meter" is just as accurate as my "butt dyno", but I feel routing the signal through the GROM kept it "cleaner"? Going thru the GROM, I never had engine whine...where as I *THINK* I heard engine whine when I plugged some mp3 player to the AUX in.

On the same note, if you're looking into a SoundQ setup, this is the cheapest way to 5.1 surround without investing into "car audio grade" components at inflated prices...

I lost you right after the Super Dave part, but I do know how to put those flat round plastic thingies into the slot in the dash. How six of those round things fit into that little slot is beyond me, but it's quite magical actually, 'cause when I push a button wonderful sounds come from all around me in the car.

[Fobio]

I lost you right after the Super Dave part, but I do know how to put those flat round plastic thingies into the slot in the dash. How six of those round things fit into that little slot is beyond me, but it's quite magical actually, 'cause when I push a button wonderful sounds come from all around me in the car.

haha...we're just talking some fancy walkman with maps and gauges...and random voices form the intertubes...

[SonicBoy]

Have you thought about tapping the A/C duct work near the glove box to aid with the cooling? I know difficult in winter as warm air would be flowing instead of cool.

Nice collection of parts so far. Really interested in the first pic. Did you say it was the BT OBD-II transmitter? If so, what software would interface with that?

You also don't mention anything about storage? Are you planning on going with Solid State drives for durability instead of regular drives?

[Fobio]

Have you thought about tapping the A/C duct work near the glove box to aid with the cooling? I know difficult in winter as warm air would be flowing instead of cool.

Nice collection of parts so far. Really interested in the first pic. Did you say it was the BT OBD-II transmitter? If so, what software would interface with that?

You also don't mention anything about storage? Are you planning on going with Solid State drives for durability instead of regular drives?

Yeah...thought about the a/c duct, but I really just want circulation, moreso than active cooling...and warming.

it's a BT OBD-II transmitter...dealextreme...it connects directly to as a BT device in Windows. Centrafuse and Dash Command were both able to pick it up.


13. NEED: Hard drive...looking for a SSD.

I am running a SSD as a boot drive on my main rig, so I might upgrade that one and move the current SSD to the CarPC. Don't care much about read speed as much as Wake-up speed.

[SonicBoy]

Have you thought about booting from a USB stick? Just as good as a SSD.

[Fobio]

Have you thought about booting from a USB stick? Just as good as a SSD.

actually I have, but I have never implemented a USB drive for long-term boot use...do you have one you recommend that is best for that? having said that, read speeds of USB drives are usually around 20mb/s? vs >200mb/s for a SSD? will that make a dif?

[SonicBoy]

Speed could be a factor however if Windows 7 uses USB sticks for memory boost, it should be quick enough. You might want to go SSD if you are storing a large amount of media on the drive.

I was thinking the use of a USB stick depending on what you were doing. I know you mentioned this is a Win7 system but perhaps you could do something along the lines of the Android OS for different applications.

I haven't played enough with Android on a USB stick so not sure if it is doable but given the fact tablets are coming out with it, should be possible to do. Keep this thread updated as it looks like a fantastic project.

[Fobio]

I was considering an Android implementation, but thought the whole process of making it would be too time consuming with diminishing results since support is slim to none for automobile application. I was seriously considering a 7" Android tablet...

Thanks for looking out and the encouragment!

[mcordy]

SSD's aren't as sensitive to temp and shock as plattered HD's USB is far to slow, ncix (www.ncix.com) has some good deals on SSD's

[sas]

Nice idea.
Year ago or a bit more , my brother have built a “home center “ with Atom ION,
Don’t know all details ,I remember, he did something with Windows configuration to have minimal rearranging of the swap file because of the SSD has a not very big number of writing cycles. From what I know, he downloaded somewhere special video codec drivers to use the graphic processor instead of the main processor. And I remember he boasted that his center consumes only 17 watt.

[Fobio]

SSD's aren't as sensitive to temp and shock as plattered HD's USB is far to slow, ncix (www.ncix.com) has some good deals on SSD's

yeah, I'm strongly leaning towards a SSD...what do you think about the Seagate Momentus hybrid drives? reading the operating specs (temperature), they are similar to SSD's...

http://www5.canadacomputers.com/ProductImages/031555/92042.jpg


Nice idea.
Year ago or a bit more , my brother have built a “home center “ with Atom ION,
Don’t know all details ,I remember, he did something with Windows configuration to have minimal rearranging of the swap file because of the SSD has a not very big number of writing cycles. From what I know, he downloaded somewhere special video codec drivers to use the graphic processor instead of the main processor. And I remember he boasted that his center consumes only 17 watt.

hey...nice build on your GROM like device with CAN-BUS...why don't you have it manufactured and marketed? I don't think many ppl truly realize what it can do on these forums...something like your box is worth another $200 ON TOP of the Caska HU's as an add-on option, if it can allow the owner to not just have the LCD work, but programmable.

and yes, I'm going for low power draw and less heat. so the low power consumption of the ATOM's should be fine and ION does HD, so it's set all in one. From what you're saying, and I'll figure this out during my build, maybe I won't have to use that fan to cool the rig if it doesn't get hot at all...wouldn't that be nice!

The programs I'll likely use to run video will be VLC and Media Player Classic...these have codecs and built-in drivers to supposedly use hardware acceleration...it makes a difference on my current purposely under-powered HTPC, and I can still play SOME driving games at 720p on it. And I have no plans for pRon in the car...lol...

Win7 is also smart in that it knows a SSD when it sees it and turns off defrag and what not...I'm happy with my current SSD and might get another OCZ...

[sas]

I suspected that my brother was exaggerating, and the tricks he used are well known in computer world. I don’t like to watch recorded movies and prefer a live TV picture with switching the channels and with hope that there can be something new and interesting. In another way I’d build such thing too. But I can say, I have found the center he has is very convenient and quick, and what I like it has a slim case.
Will be waiting your carputer.

[whiteomega]

The momentus drives are a good combination of SSD speed and HDD capacity, but for a build like this where you'll end up bumping and bouncing around, an HDD is generally a bad idea, unless you can get some form of shock mounting for it.

I've got an Intel Gen 2 SSD in my desktop system and it's fantastic. 20-second reboot cycles rock. These days you can get reasonably cheap SSDs, though if you need storage space for MP3s, the MomentusXT is probably good enough.

Anandtech has good things to say about the Seagate hybrid HDD:

http://www.anandtech.com/show/3734/seagates-momentus-xt-review-finally-a-good-hybrid-hdd

Note that flash storage on the XT is not writeable by the user; you can only write to the platter. the flash storage is there to act as a super-fast cache for data you need to read. OS files, main programs, etc will all sit there. The Anandtech article has more details.

[mcordy]

I run a momentus XT in my mac and love it. It's fast but still just as sensitive as a regular plattered drive


yeah, I'm strongly leaning towards a SSD...what do you think about the Seagate Momentus hybrid drives? reading the operating specs (temperature), they are similar to SSD's...

http://www5.canadacomputers.com/ProductImages/031555/92042.jpg



hey...nice build on your GROM like device with CAN-BUS...why don't you have it manufactured and marketed? I don't think many ppl truly realize what it can do on these forums...something like your box is worth another $200 ON TOP of the Caska HU's as an add-on option, if it can allow the owner to not just have the LCD work, but programmable.

and yes, I'm going for low power draw and less heat. so the low power consumption of the ATOM's should be fine and ION does HD, so it's set all in one. From what you're saying, and I'll figure this out during my build, maybe I won't have to use that fan to cool the rig if it doesn't get hot at all...wouldn't that be nice!

The programs I'll likely use to run video will be VLC and Media Player Classic...these have codecs and built-in drivers to supposedly use hardware acceleration...it makes a difference on my current purposely under-powered HTPC, and I can still play SOME driving games at 720p on it. And I have no plans for pRon in the car...lol...

Win7 is also smart in that it knows a SSD when it sees it and turns off defrag and what not...I'm happy with my current SSD and might get another OCZ...

[Fobio]

The momentus drives are a good combination of SSD speed and HDD capacity, but for a build like this where you'll end up bumping and bouncing around, an HDD is generally a bad idea, unless you can get some form of shock mounting for it.

I've got an Intel Gen 2 SSD in my desktop system and it's fantastic. 20-second reboot cycles rock. These days you can get reasonably cheap SSDs, though if you need storage space for MP3s, the MomentusXT is probably good enough.

Anandtech has good things to say about the Seagate hybrid HDD:

http://www.anandtech.com/show/3734/seagates-momentus-xt-review-finally-a-good-hybrid-hdd

Note that flash storage on the XT is not writeable by the user; you can only write to the platter. the flash storage is there to act as a super-fast cache for data you need to read. OS files, main programs, etc will all sit there. The Anandtech article has more details.


I run a momentus XT in my mac and love it. It's fast but still just as sensitive as a regular plattered drive

Yeah, I'm just going to bite the bullet and go SSD...I was looking at ways to shock-mount it inside the case, but it might be overkill...

A little off-topic, but I'm consider the Momentus hybrid as a PS3 upgrade to dedcrease GT5 load times...

[whiteomega]

Shock-mounting the SSD is kind of pointless, IMO. It'll stand up to the abuse with no problems. Also..where would you vent the glove box to? I assume into the passenger footwell?

You know, honestly I haven't had a problem with the GT5 load times.. They're not great, but they're not horrible either. I also didn't bother to install GT5 to the hard disk because as the game runs it does this itself anyway (but only for the data it needs). I also don't know that the PS3 will actually work with the momentus XT..it might. If you do go that route, let me know the results..

[Fobio]

A little update....I got an OCZ Vertex 2 60gb as a replacement for my current 60gb Vertex 1...results below.

The mobo is coming next week, which is taking way too long, but the case and screen are here, and pics will come tmr.

I also got the wrong 6-pin molex...anyone know where I can find a couple locally and cheaply?

Here is the Vertex 2 benchmark, which I think is about 10mb/s slower than most online reviews, as they should hit about 283mb/s read...I turned off indexing and defrager, and results are the same.

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash1/hs754.ash1/164521_10150357153525531_756965530_16729136_967189 _n.jpg

[PR3Y11]

if you're anywhere near downtown, active surplus on queen st w right above aldo,
if you're uptown, forget what the place is called but its on vic park north of mcnicole, in a plaza diagonally across from the shell station

[silvermist99]

I haven't use the logitech mininovo but got the Lenovo mini keyboard on boxing day for one of my HTPC for $35~. it is AWESOME. The buttons have good placement but require some effort to press, the trackball works really well. I can see it being an excellent in car keyboard tool -> for in car web browsing and typing.

But u'd want something else to control the music, multimedia control is lacking on it. the multimedia stuff will be done via the touch screen + software?

[Fobio]

Picture time! First set anyway...

Here's the case...slightly bigger than I had pictured...can't say for sure, but it might be a TIGHT fit into the glove box.

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0Y9qrrz5I/AAAAAAAAD8o/HoRfc0WiNw0/s1024/P1050051.JPG

Also slightly longer/deeper than I thought...guess that's why it's called DIY!

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZBPVhepI/AAAAAAAAD88/fmPIMLAUE1o/s1024/P1050056.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0Y-GDLB0I/AAAAAAAAD8s/AMTgfxGT4po/s800/P1050052.JPG

MTX 2 PSU

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0Y_Mvtc0I/AAAAAAAAD8w/BQneMTN5qXY/s1024/P1050053.JPG

Front panel structure, with 2 fans attached, one of the fan is damaged, but I'll likely replace both.

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0Y_jDEm5I/AAAAAAAAD80/4rxa2HwCp-Y/s1024/P1050054.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZAfN985I/AAAAAAAAD84/0WzeIywMJXk/s1024/P1050055.JPG

8-pin molex...not 6-pin, and it comes with an extra connector, so I don't have to hunt for extra ones...

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZBjpGPqI/AAAAAAAAD9A/gdqx57rzRAQ/s1024/P1050057.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZCLxVmuI/AAAAAAAAD9E/HfpJn7KQZ30/s1024/P1050058.JPG

Lenovo wireless keyboard...much thinner/smaller than I thought it'd be, so it's cool.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZCs0GTII/AAAAAAAAD9I/rR2CVDgWXNg/s1024/P1050059.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZDUa0JbI/AAAAAAAAD9M/CyHXHDiMYLk/s1024/P1050060.JPG

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZEF6F2RI/AAAAAAAAD9Q/Y33b2Ba9aXc/s1024/P1050061.JPG

The touchscreen package...

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZFrfJ4EI/AAAAAAAAD9Y/BA-I4IrVXXo/s800/P1050064.JPG

Touchscreen's cable to backup camera...hope it actually holds up!

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZE01ff7I/AAAAAAAAD9U/kLyvDYifYck/s1024/P1050063.JPG

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZGB2IpjI/AAAAAAAAD9c/qCb2PAOiq0M/s1024/P1050065.JPG

Shoddy cabling on the VGA cable to touchscreen...

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZG6dEy0I/AAAAAAAAD9g/HgGE2YAR7C8/s1024/P1050066.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_m50f7LraxWM/TS0ZHXb1rnI/AAAAAAAAD9k/ziGQYiDlSrA/s1024/P1050067.JPG

That's it for now...hopefully, will have next set of pics before mobo comes in week...

[Fobio]

good news...I sent an email off to short-circuit.com last night regarding the busted parts, and they have kindly responded and will be sending me replacements. for the fan and the vga cable...sweet! always nice to deal with responsible internet vendors.

[mazdaskit]

where you mounting that screen ?? where the stock radio is or custom mounts

[Fobio]

where you mounting that screen ?? where the stock radio is or custom mounts

I have the Japan Parts OEM dashbox for aftermarket navi's...it sits on top of the centre vents.

[Chester_Lampwick]

I wanted to a car PC about a year ago. My purposes were a little different though. I wanted to have my car download new podcasts automatically so I aways had fresh ones for the commute. I also wanted to sync kids shows from my DVR in the house to the CarPC, for rearseat headrest display.

But as time went by I realized:

1 - I am way to busy/lazy/unmotivated
2 - I don't care if the kids have anything to watch. Let them play NDSL
3 - My new BlackBerry will download new podcast without user intervention or need of a computer
4 - I spend more time in my other cars anyway

[Fobio]

I wanted to a car PC about a year ago. My purposes were a little different though. I wanted to have my car download new podcasts automatically so I aways had fresh ones for the commute. I also wanted to sync kids shows from my DVR in the house to the CarPC, for rearseat headrest display.

But as time went by I realized:

1 - I am way to busy/lazy/unmotivated
2 - I don't care if the kids have anything to watch. Let them play NDSL
3 - My new BlackBerry will download new podcast without user intervention or need of a computer
4 - I spend more time in my other cars anyway

I figured I needed something to do over winter anyway...inside...lol...

No kids yet, and it's too bad with all the stupid laws about putting kids in the back, as mandatory...I understand the consequences of a collision and air bags + small ppl, but I also have a feeling that it is part of the reason we have more and more bad drivers on the road...I sat shotgun whenever I could back in the day, and I'd mimmick my dad's driving and ask him the W5H (when, why, what, where, who and how) about driving...this was when I was 3 - 4 yrs old...then again, we also didn't have seatbelt laws back then, really. And air bags? You mean my aunt?! LOL

The minor but significant difference here is that none of the components are hardwired in...everything can be moved to the next car or the living room...heck, it's perfect for a kitchen touchscreen setup. Unlike more traditional carpc's, I don't plan to hard mount anything, or custom fit anything...learned my lesson, with custom molded in-dash horn load compression drivers...I can't believe I had no glove box for like 6 yrs...

Speaking of glove box...I think I should get an extra one...lol...I may have to butcher it and reinforce it afterwards. What do you guys think about sourcing one from the wreckers/junkers? I can't see a factory replacement being "affordable"...would be nice to pick one up for under $50...

[-cj-]

Just save any piece(s) that you cut out and hot glue them + reinforce it so that it all fits together like new.... Then swap it with a rental car's glove box. :chuckle

[sas]

Good start Fobio. This project will take some time and efforts, thanks for the photos.
Possible, you can mount a chassis on the furniture rails, into glove box. I think it would be useful.

[Kappa]

Just save any piece(s) that you cut out and hot glue them + reinforce it so that it all fits together like new.... Then swap it with a rental car's glove box. :chuckle

i have always wondered if this would work... if i went and rented a mazda 3 and took the trailling arms off and switched them would they know?

[-cj-]

i have always wondered if this would work... if i went and rented a mazda 3 and took the trailling arms off and switched them would they know?

LOL, providing you replace them after, I don't see why it wouldn't work! I rent cars all the time, usually with National and they NEVER check the car for damage, which is really odd. Mazda might know when the car gets serviced though, but they would never trace it back to you.

.... That being said, I'm just joking. Those cars will eventually be sold to someone. =)

[Fobio]

You guys are jokes...lol...besides, can't find a Gen1 MZ3 rental anymore.

[mleblond]

I hope that the video/car data system works better than on the laptop, because isn't that the main reason for this? if you can manage to see actual lap times live that would rock too!

[n00bMeiSter]

I've been working on building one for some time now. We should meet up sometime and nerd-out lol!
I was going to use a shuttle case and keep it in the trunk or under a seat. I too want one that I can move between cars. Only problem with keeping it in the trunk is the length of cable required (plus signal boosters).

I helped a friend in virginia build one for his miata. He used to take his car to drift / pylon courses on weekends doing time trials or something. He used to just tape a camcorder to his dash lol. Now he can record videos, listen to music, and do all sorts of fun stuff.

[dj_adamix]

You have to remember that if you decide to put it in the trunk, you will run in a lot of troubles with VGA. VGA cables are short for a reason lol. Specially in a car where alternator noise can F$$$ up your electronics. make sure if youre extending your VGA by your self to shild it right. and dont make it longer than neccessary. it wil cause noise to be picked up by the cable and it could (in theory) destroy your touchscreen or your graphic card.

[-cj-]

You can definitely stick it in the trunk. I had 2x 25 ft + 1x 5 ft VGA cables running 1080p to my 46" for months before moving to HDMI. No problem. Just use good shielded cables.

Alternatively, look up VGA "Baulins" (Or balin or something like that) on eBay. They let you run ethernet between two points and then terminate into a small device that ends up converting it to VGA or whatever you want. I have one that turns two Ethernet cables into an HDMI cable.

[Fobio]

Thanks for sharing all the great info guys! A small update...my mobo is taking so effing long...I'm going to complain to NCIX...

Here's my HD ready...I want to show the before, current w/ IDE and current with AHCI speeds.

1.30 FW AHCI
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5122/5373937857_db47a85dbf_z.jpg

1.60 FW IDE
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5084/5373937951_4406e76099_z.jpg

1.60 FW AHCI
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5248/5374537470_26e60c7994_z.jpg

The switch, and some small parts are here...once I have enough new parts arrive, I'll do another update.

[slam525i]

Alternatively, look up VGA "Baulins" (Or balin or something like that) on eBay. They let you run ethernet between two points and then terminate into a small device that ends up converting it to VGA or whatever you want. I have one that turns two Ethernet cables into an HDMI cable.

They're called "Balun" for Balancer-Unbalancer, kinda like modem is a modulator-demodulator.... "Baulin" sounds much cooler though!

[-cj-]

^^ That's what it was...thx. I still haven't used mine, but I imagine it'll work just fine. :) Hm, maybe I should just sell it!

Damn Fobio, I don't have many Windows PC's left in the house, but I should check my AHCI settings.

[Fobio]

Damn Fobio, I don't have many Windows PC's left in the house, but I should check my AHCI settings.

it was a combination of firmware and THEN going AHCI...the Vertex 1 was IDE-only before the latest firmware.

I also called NCIX and bitched...the mobo was order Dec 28th...it's Jan 21 today...so, they're sending it direct to me instead of pick-up @ First Markham...btw, that store, not very customer oriented.

I can't wait to power all this sh!t up. And from the thread that phillie86 posted, it seems like my case might fit. But will still look for an extra glove box.

EDIT: Mobo is on the way! finally.

[whiteomega]

^^ That's what it was...thx. I still haven't used mine, but I imagine it'll work just fine. :) Hm, maybe I should just sell it!

Damn Fobio, I don't have many Windows PC's left in the house, but I should check my AHCI settings.

Don't forget to check the partition alignments too. Windows Vista/7 is good with aligning the partitions properly on an SSD...XP on the other hand doesn't know how. I've no idea what Linux/Mac support is like.

Looks good so far, Fobio.. keep us updated :)

[Fobio]

So an update is long overdue...and I appreciate all the kind words as well!

The mobo finally came, and the are pretty small. The PSU is to the right.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5293/5429259897_97b43ec44b_z.jpg

Here's a closeup of the psu.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5095/5429261127_dc5aa5a622_z.jpg

Here's a shot of the front panel...why it has RCA in is beyond me. I do have a KORG Kaossilator that I can plug in to mess around with...but really...RCA?! I also have RCA/3.5mm adaptors, so no biggie.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5011/5429869132_03c841c5e7_z.jpg

Here's the front cage, with the HD rack. the 2x 40mm fans have been swapped out for higher output ones, but my fan controller wasn't shipped, and I got a refund...so more looking to do. Some old school tricks, as I wrapped the fan wired around the fan enclosure to minmize drag...lol...

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5018/5429263055_648248f8ae_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5132/5429870742_c6ac6aa940_z.jpg

there's no room in the front panel for my switch...I plan to drill a hole in the free space on the back panel and mount it there.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5255/5429264837_343d139853_z.jpg

I've done a bunch of other things and bought a bunch of other things...argh. They've sent me this as well, so I might hack it up and power the PC up to test bench at home. There is no DC in on this model like some others, so I have to cut up the end and put butt terminals on them and plug into the PSU.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5215/5429872904_6bff1976b6_z.jpg

In the meantime, I'm also turning my old desktop PSU into a lab PSU for this kinda thing...I feel safer using that than a AC-DC wall plug...but we'll see what my patience is. I've ordered some parts for this side project and here's the DIY:

How to Convert a Computer ATX Power Supply to a Lab Power Supply
(http://www.wikihow.com/Convert-a-Computer-ATX-Power-Supply-to-a-Lab-Power-Supply)

For the mobo, as I've said before, cooling is very important in this environment, and these mobo, with dual Atom and ION graphics can and will run hot. A mod that I've done is actually found on Zotac's own forum...it calls for replacing a thermal pad with a coppar plate and thermal grease, and more thermal grease for the CPU die.

ION Heatsink MOD How to decrease the ION temps. (http://www.zotacusa.com/forum/topic/2306-ion-heatsink-mod/)

I also ended buying some soldering equipment that I have no business using (I last soldered when I was like 13), but I guess it'll be useful for other things, like splicing my 12V tire pump. Bought some thinner gauge wires for the switch as well...right now, I'd have spent enough on wiring the switch as another mini-itx case with a switch, but one that won't fit this style PSU for car use...might split this into 2 projects....hmmm.

[zakman]

this is coming along so nicely. love what you are doing. keep it up!! cant wait to see it running

[Fobio]

Warning...graphic content...viewer discretion strongly advised.

Since I'm waiting for the parts to convert my desktop PSU into a testing PSU, I had to try a few things to get this made-for-carpc mobo powered up.

First I tried the 12V AC-DC power supply they threw in and spliced it to the carpc's PSU

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5100/5470544734_16d3b475eb_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5095/5470541500_073c2380d4_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5136/5469948907_53feb34e73_z.jpg

This worked fine at first but it only liked loading up MemTest on the external/USB dvd-rom ONCE and it didn't like getting rebooted...I threw it out in the cold balcony a couple of times to get it chill down for a few runs. At 2A output, it wasn't cutting it...plug in a fan, it'd die...then I effed it.

So I just plugged in the desktop PSU. I knew this would work, but it meant resorting to old-school tricks of powering up the mobo at the pins...definitely not for the faint of heart, but you gotta do, what you gotta do.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5176/5470546148_ef312b8ff7_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5133/5470546862_ec709de81a_z.jpg

So now it's running Win7 w/ SP1

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5254/5470547400_7b435c9c56_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5100/5470547912_5ba64c75ae_z.jpg

and of course, I had to test out its wireless and HD playback quality...

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5213/5470548736_9a70a1b46c_z.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5254/5470549612_61c12a7208_z.jpg

Not too shabby for basically a HTPC spec machine...it lamely reports itself as 4 cores tho...lol...

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5212/5469956887_8d4468bfd3_z.jpg

As you can see, I've done what I can to help...lol...ran it thru PassMark, IntelBurntest, and Prime95 overnight, no problems. It's ready to be buckled down, but I'm still installing more stuff on it while I wait for the bits to arrive so I can power it more discreetly. I want to give you guys an update on fitting it in the car. As well, I am considering professional help in wiring the screen in along with the backup camera...we'll see how that goes.

[Olestra]

Nice PC! I bought the same mobo for my carpc build, I love it and all its features. I also have a 7" lilliput with HDMI, 40GB OCZ Vertex SSD, 2 GB Ram and a bluetooth dongle. I've done the double din conversion. Now need to work on audio, still a long way to go...

[-cj-]

Pretty badass! I was reading your first attempt at powering up and saying "Oh no, I hope he didn't..." I'm surprised you even got it to boot!

I'm glad someone still remembers the old school way of triggering the power supply. =) Why do you need professional help wiring the screen in? What connector does the screen have? Is it an old laptop screen or something? You might need some sort of video mux or switcher to deal with the backup camera and PC. I'd wire the camera directly to the screen so you don't need to wait for the PC to boot up or introduce any lag in the system. Instead just have the screen flip between video sources automatically... (Easier said then done I guess... but you should be able to find a box that can sit in between your screen and your devices)

[Fobio]

Nice PC! I bought the same mobo for my carpc build, I love it and all its features. I also have a 7" lilliput with HDMI, 40GB OCZ Vertex SSD, 2 GB Ram and a bluetooth dongle. I've done the double din conversion. Now need to work on audio, still a long way to go...

very similar specs...what case you running? where are you mounting it? got pics to share that can help me out? =)


Pretty badass! I was reading your first attempt at powering up and saying "Oh no, I hope he didn't..." I'm surprised you even got it to boot!

I'm glad someone still remembers the old school way of triggering the power supply. =) Why do you need professional help wiring the screen in? What connector does the screen have? Is it an old laptop screen or something? You might need some sort of video mux or switcher to deal with the backup camera and PC. I'd wire the camera directly to the screen so you don't need to wait for the PC to boot up or introduce any lag in the system. Instead just have the screen flip between video sources automatically... (Easier said then done I guess... but you should be able to find a box that can sit in between your screen and your devices)

yeah...the first time unplugging it, I knew it was't right...I was relying on the tough little PSU to handle what it can, so now I know at least it works...lol...

The screen comes with these really clumsy cables that should be properly tied down, which I can do...the camera requires wiring and remooval of some panels...which I can do...all in one day or a wknd? prolly not since I don't have the room to work on the car like I'd want to. but we'll see how that goes.

the screen itself does switch between sources, which is why I ordered it! =) But like you say, I want to have it hooked to the ignition and comes on independent of the PC, so wiring that, I might need some help.

[Olestra]

very similar specs...what case you running? where are you mounting it? got pics to share that can help me out? =)


Right now I'm at the same stage as you. I struggled to get my SSD in because of lack of AHCI (wish I had seen your thread earlier and helped out).

I have my PC built and it's running XP. SSD's all aligned and ready to go. The PC is sitting in my room as an HTPC for now. I'm still trying to figure out wiring and what audio components to buy. I only started at the end of last summer and then was busy at xmas and now I'm out of town for 3 months. So I'll start up again in the spring.
I'm using an JETWAY JC-300-B mini-ITX case and running AC-DC power supply. I need to get an M2-ATX.

But the computer itself fairly complete otherwise. I'm hoping to put it under the passenger seat and perhaps the AC from lower vents can help cool it. I've done the double din conversion and relocated the remote sensor. Like you, I had no business soldering but bit the bullet and it came out ok. I bought my 3.5mm-RCA cables. I need sub/speakers/amp/double-din dash mount kit. I love that Japan Parts kit you have but holy is it expensive. Where did you order and how much? I'm probably going to cheap out at first and just try the $20 metra kit.

I will hopefully take pictures as things start to go in and maybe you'll be ahead of me and can help me out. =)

[zzz3]

was looking for another thread when i came across this. did you finish installing it?

[Fobio]

everything's ready to be installed right now. I kinda stopped after I blew up a used PC power supply while trying to rig it into a testing power supply. I plan to build another testing power supply, but if I bring it to a shop to have it installed, I can likely skip testing at home.