See KH Verada Car PC Write Up Here (http://www.aussiemagna.com/forums/showthread.php?p=839271#post839271).
See TL Magna Car PC Write Up Here (http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_0668editedcopyjpg.jpg)

My TL Magna Car PC
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2159jpg.jpg

My KH Verada Car PC
http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/8669/img1830bw5.jpg

Looks mint, but why isn't it installed in the woodgrain trim? Ash tray looks lonely there on its own now....:cry:

Better than your average stereo? :P

Yeah I'm gonna miss the woodgrain but it couldn't be avoided. The screen has been moulded into a regular dash piece then sprayed black (bought from a member of this forum), so I'm going to have to make do with enjoying the device inside the dash, not the dash surround :P

Very worthwhile compromise :P

Any hell yes!! Sounds much better than the standard unit. Got it running off a 4ch soundcard to a 4ch Sony amp, and it is sweet!! Just gotta switch the rear channels, connected them back to front. When I tested the four speakers using the soundcard diag thing, they are the wrong way round lol

Gonna take some better pictures tomorrow, I didn't get it all back together until dark. Ended up having to take the whole dash off again after realising the climate control and hazard lights button weren't connected (no aircon or blinkers) :nutkick:

EDIT: And big thanks to my dad!! Was a great help with the install.

Nice:) ...it's time to speed up my install:D

I wana give this a try :D

So what can you actually do with it, does it run windows?

Have you got wi-fi so you can park at maccas and use their hotpot? lol

Glad the screen is serving you well. Looks real nice.

Thanks mate it is working great for me :D

I had a bit of an issue on the first day where the system would not go into hibernate more than once. After the first time, it would only go to standby. Turned out I needed to install a patch to fix hibernation on more than 1GB RAM (partly because I was too lazy to upgrade the system to SP2 :P). I've got a cheap USB webcam coming off eBay, thinking of installing it behind the number plate and drilling a hole in one of the dots on the plate. Should be here late next week.

So far it's all working quite well except for the amp switch on (comes on too soon and pops). Haven't had a chance to finish my writeup yet, but it's coming ;) My sister likes being able to watch the Simpsons on it on the way home from school lol

http://img502.imageshack.us/img502/3105/img1833wr1.jpg

why buy a webcam? you couldve just bought a reversing camera, that wouldve been easier to fit, and just converted the RCA output of it ;)

I could have, but they are far more expensive than a USB webcam.

It wouldn't have been any easier to fit it either, don't plan on hanging it off the back of the number plate like those aftermarket kits you see.

Yeah usb cams are cheap as chips, im also thinking of setting up a dash mount usb cam, but I will have trouble integrating the software to be touchscreen friendly.

I came across this app that is supposed to integrate with RoadRunner, going to try it out and see how it goes when my camera comes.

http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/software-software-development/58683-one-click-webcam-recording.html

It looks promising, tell me how it works for you. I was looking for more of an automated system with a 2 day recording buffer, like police cars have.

Now THAT is some quality work!
If only these units were mass produced they really do look awesome.



Gonna be painting that gloss? ;):bowrofl:

need specs on it all mate

looks great btw well done

looks good, but i would take that centre section back out and get it woodgrained back up!
There are places that do it, and you can get the rest of your dash done to match it, then it'd be sexy as!

That looks awesome. :)

Try get GPS working in it now :D

That looks awesome. :)

Try get GPS working in it now :D

GPS has been working fine since I put it in, only problem is the latest maps I've found are from 2005 :shock:

Top work bud... looks wicked!

Excellent work champ. I'll be looking at getting a carputer in the future :)

Just a couple of updated pics, I've switch the skin I'm used and have half-installed my reverse camera. The skin is called TR-Blue, and I have modified it, changing three of the buttons to Speed (for a fullscreen GPS-based speedo once I get the code right), Min (minimise the frontend) and Reverse (for reverse camera, still says Mixer atm).

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/2062/IMG_2118.jpg

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/7167/IMG_2119.jpg

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/7346/IMG_2117.jpg
There will be a large digital speedo above "Verada"

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/7327/IMG_2124.jpg
Every car PC should have one of these Powermate knobs

The camera (USB for $12 delivered!) is wired up and working, my dad and I are going to drill a small hole behind the number plate so it can see out the back. All I get at the moment is a very dark picture of my amp :P Followed the boot release cable to get it down to the PC.

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/8852/IMG_2111.jpg
Electrical tape only temporary...

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/3476/IMG_2112.jpg

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/3848/IMG_2123.jpg
Image with the boot slightly open

I'm probably going to buy a second camera and mount it behind the front grill, for both parking and (not that I've had any trouble with that, so really its for...) fun purposes :P

Going to take some much better photos for my writeup, just haven't had the chance. The above shots make the screen look terrible, but it looks pretty good in real life, even during the day. It's fabulous at night though.

Do you have a picture of the size of the actual pc? Where did you put it?

The computer itself is very small since it is based on an MiniITX board with the tiny M2-ATX PSU, but it's currently mounted inside a suitcase-like box so it's sort of larger than it needs to be.

I'll try and find the photo I took of it straight after it was bolted down, isn't in my photos folder.

That looks insane man, pitty you couldn't fit it to the woodgrain! What the hell does that Powermate knob do? Looks like iDrive haha

You need this awsome product..

Centrafuse (http://www.fluxmedia.net/)

Nice install to btw.. Anychance you are going to get all the centre console matched in shiny black?

That looks insane man, pitty you couldn't fit it to the woodgrain! What the hell does that Powermate knob do? Looks like iDrive haha

Haha, everyone say's it looks like "that BMW knob thing", and that's because it's sorta supposed to. Touchscreen is great, but the knob is sooooo much easier for play/pause and adjusting the volume.


You need this awsome product..

Centrafuse (http://www.fluxmedia.net/)

Nice install to btw.. Anychance you are going to get all the centre console matched in shiny black?

Centrafuse does look great, I might consider it when I have the money, but Road Runner is doing very nicely for me atm.

I've considered the glossy black, I even did a photoshop, and I do like it a lot but I don't have the skills to do it.

http://img164.imageshack.us/img164/2600/veradalcdglossyrv2.jpg

New addition (aka. I just thought of it)

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/1301/22022008082.jpg

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/747/22022008084.jpg

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/7412/22022008085.jpg

And I fixed my GPS-based speedo, just gotta make it look better, and have "km/h" or something after the number.

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/5850/21022008081.jpg
Sorry about the pic, was doing 91kph at the time :P

wow nice work, can't wait to see your write up.

looks real nice Mitch. How are you planning to paint the dash... mask the screen or remove the components first? Im interested on the new addition, is that a phone? How does it work and what does it do?

looks real nice Mitch. How are you planning to paint the dash... mask the screen or remove the components first? Im interested on the new addition, is that a phone? How does it work and what does it do?

Honestly I'm not sure yet, I'm thinking glossy black would look nice, or get it woodgrained somehow, but that's a way off. Gonna be starting back at uni in less than 2 weeks, so I won't have much time to fiddle with this once I'm back. Will just leave it as is for the time being.

The device is a Nokia N810 internet tablet. I've got it connected to the car via ad-hoc WiFi, and using a VNC Viewer to view the Car PCs screen. The N810 display is 800x480, so the 800x480 image coming from the computer looks perfect on the display. Even has a thumboard for text entry!

http://img337.imageshack.us/img337/8232/img1644dw8.jpg

It's not really anything that will get used that often, just thought I'd try it and see how it worked.

Also since I've got the GPS speedo working properly, I figured I might spruce it up a bit. Thoughts?

http://img231.imageshack.us/img231/1482/speedtachokb6.jpg

That looks great...well done mate! I would personally paint it piano black but then you'd have to paint the ash tray the same to make it all look cohesive.

That looks great...well done mate! I would personally paint it piano black but then you'd have to paint the ash tray the same to make it all look cohesive.

Yeah that's what I'd do, buy a standard ashtray/ciggy panel and have that painted the same colour. Also bought a spare air vent (the one up top) that can be painted. Can't wait to have the money/time to do it, but it's not a top priority atm.

New speedo in....

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/3779/IMG_2198.jpg

....and working!

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/2778/IMG_2214.jpg

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/5738/IMG_2206.jpg

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/9241/IMG_2183.jpg

Thinking I might change the background to use this image I just took of the tacho:

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/8794/img2212or6.jpg

Now to go out and get the reverse camera going...

Also changed the icon that represents the car in the GPS program:

http://img299.imageshack.us/img299/5935/img2203og4.jpg

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/1396/img2202cw6.jpg

that looks sweet as. would love to do this myself.

real interested in knowing how you did this and what parts you used.

Man that looks so mint. If your interested I've got a black Verada ash tray section I'm looking to sell. PM me if your interested :P

hah, a nice touch on the GPS. That nokia thingy has some potential, its like a hi tech remote.

Thats sick work man.
Awesome thread, Awesome work. :thumbsup:

very cool stuff, looking foward to seeing it all working properly, looks great

Thanks guys!

Got the reverse camera installed yesterday morning, decided against drilling into the boot/number plate, instead going for the much simpler and less destructive route of using the key hole. Removing the lock was so easy, just two bolts and a plug.

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/8837/img2215rr6.jpg

To position and hold the camera while the glue set I had to remove the boot taillight.

http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/5379/img2218bf6.jpg

And the finished result!

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/9169/img2221kz4.jpg

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/8651/img2222wu4.jpg

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2227/img2224do2.jpg

The photos make it look somewhat messier than it really is (and my car dirtier :-P), going to clean it up a bit now it has set. I used some automotive sealant stuff to hold the camera in the right position (pointed slightly inwards to get a semi-centred image of behind the car) and foam behind it to make sure it doesn't fall out. Took it through the carwash today with no ill-effects.

The camera has several LEDs around it to illuminate whatevers in front of the camera when it's dark, which has the unintended but cool effect of lighting up the sealant in a cool blue glow at night.

Camera worked great in the garage, but after that things didn't work so well. Retrospectively, the problem makes sense really. The light outside is so much brighter than this $12 webcam would normally encounter that the image is completely white. Can't see anything.

I'm going to try placing some tinting in front of the lens to decrease the light getting in. Placing some sunglasses in front of the lens helped very slightly, you could see a couple of shapes but still useless. Going to work on that tomorrow.

(Gah! Damned 5 image limit, had to remove the smilies :-P)

if you want to keep your boot lock maybe you could drill a hole on the opposite side and make it symmetrical, wouldnt look out of place at all then and will match up both sides

Looking great friend, the new updates have improved it heaps more, also ive got those photos of the casing your currently using which i could upload if you need,

When I bought my new car in September 2007 I knew I would be keeping it for a few years, so I decided that I was going to take the plunge, and build a Car PC like those that I had read about on the MP3Car.com forums. The computer would replace the standard audio system, and add MP3 playback, video, GPS, GPS tracking and internet access to my car.

http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/2956/img1184hs6.jpg

After months of dreaming about such a setup my Car PC is finally installed. I've had the computer on my desk for over 3 mths now but time and money (for the amp) kinda pushed it WAY forward to this day. Since my dad was off work for the Australia Day holiday, we decided it was time to tackle it.

First off the computer. It's has the following specs, including prices paid for the components and where I got them:

* Intel D201GLY Motherboard US$69.95 (~AU$78) (MP3Car.com)
* Intel Celeron 1.33Ghz (Integrated onto motherboard)
* 1GB RAM - AU$35 (local PC shop)
* 250GB 3.5" HDD - AU$85 (local PC shop)
* Sound Blaster Live! PCI (4ch output) - had lying around
* USB WiFi - AU$40 (eBay)
* USB BT AU$15 (eBay)
* USB GPS - AU$70 (eBay)
* USBFever Mini USB Keyboard - US$24.99 (~AU$28) (online store)
* Griffin PowerMate USB Controller - US$49.99 (AU$56) (griffintechnology.com)
* Griffin Radioshark v1 - AU$23 (eBay)
* 7" Lilliput LCD (running at 800x480 via PowerStrip) - AU$100 (member of AussieMagna Forum)
* M2-ATX 160W DC-DC PSU - US$89.94 (~AU$100) (MP3Car.com)
(NOTE: Mobo and PSU were US$207 with shipping to Australia)

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/545/img1396ao5.jpg

http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/5526/img1397ve6.jpg

The motherboard was chosen both for it's size and cost reasons. The Mini ITX boards based on the VIA chips were a bit out of my price range, and having used the Intel on my desk for a while it's definitely up to the job. It has no problems with high-res DivX files, whilst simultaneously running GPS. For $69.95 it was an absolute bargain!

RAM is cheap, so 1GB was a no brainer. 2GB is overkill (my MacBook Pro has that much!), and 512MB too weedy. The system needed to be able to run both GPS and Video/Audio simultaneously.

I decided to go with a full size HDD because I wanted the storage space. There is the concern that the vibrations and high-temperatures in a car would damage the HDD, but it doesn't have any critical data on it, so if it does die one day, I won't lose any sleep over it.

The SoundBlaster soundcard was a last minute decision. I was going to use the onboard sound, but then remembered the SB that I had lying around. Popped it in, loaded up the drivers, and now it outputs 4ch to the 4ch amp!

The WiFi, Bluetooth and GPS adaptors were bought on eBay. The WiFi adapter is mounted in the parcel shelf (between the rear speakers) and the Bluetooth and GPS adapters behind the back seats. The GPS antenna is right at the back of the parcel shelf.

The USB Keyboard is a miniture one from USBFever that fits perfectly in the glovebox, and it easy to use whilst sitting on my leg in the drivers seat (not while driving, obviously :-P).

The Radioshark software worked perfectly, but I quickly found the reception to be rather poor. Until I work out how to wire it up to the car antenna, it's in a drawer.

The PowerMate was added shortly before installation, and it's brilliant. I have it setup to control the volume when turned, scroll through songs when playing music (aka. next/previous), and skip forward/backward when playing video. Every car PC install should have this.

The display I bought off a member of both MP3Car and AussieMagna, as he was changing his Car PC setup and didn't need it anymore. It's a 7" Lilliput with a USB touchscreen, perfect for controlling RoadRunner, the frontend I'm using. Using PowerStrip, I have the display running at 800x480. For some odd reason the 800x480 display will not display that resolution properly without some tweaking from PowerStrip.

I've found RoadRunner to be pretty much perfect for me, as it works with MapMonkey, and works well with the PowerMate and RadioShark (when I get it working).

The system spent about three months on my desk before being installed, for several reasons.

1. Wanted to get it all configured before bolting it down in the car.
2. Was progressively buying the pieces when I had the money to do so.
3. Time.

Reason 1 was prevalent right up to installation.
Reason 2: I finished buying all the bits in early December.
Reason 3: Uni, work, travelling and Christmas in NZ all conspired to push installation till January 26th (Australia Day!). Ok, the travelling and NZ trip we're great, definitely worth the delay :-P

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/6268/img1776pe9.jpg

http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/59/img1783tp9.jpg

My original idea was to install the PC into the glove box, but some testing a few days before was started the installation showed it just wasn't possible. The glovebox wasn't going to be big enough to accommodate the motherboard, PSU and a 3.5" desktop HDD. Time to move to Plan B, install the PC in the boot. This actually was a better idea anyway, since the glovebox is a very confined.

My dad and I installed the system over a 2 day period.

Along the left side of the car are all the power cables for the PC, Amplifier, turn-on wiring, display and power button (necessary for when Windows crashes).

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/4311/img1791od9.jpg

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/2789/img1790jy8.jpg

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/5373/img1792xm9.jpg

Along the right side is the VGA cable and USB extension cable. The USB extension cable runs to the glovebox, where it meets up with a 4-port hub to connect the USB touchscreen, Powermate knob, the USB Keyboard, and a spare USB for either a mouse or USB memory stick.

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/3828/img1799bt8.jpg

All the wireless radios went in, behind the back seats and under the parcel shelf. These locations were selected to get the best signal out of the car without adding antennas outside.

http://img247.imageshack.us/img247/8538/img1789ky7.jpg

We built the computer case ourselves using a cheap metal-look briefcase ($20 of cheap wood and metal-look plastic sheeting) and a bathroom vent. Total cost was $25, and it came out quite well. The case has more than enough room for the mobo, PSU and HDD. Whilst I haven't had any trouble with heat, I will likely add two PC case fans to increase airflow.

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/6461/img1787pi0.jpg

http://img187.imageshack.us/img187/8440/img1786ts6.jpg

Powering the speakers is a 4 channel 500W Sony amplifier. Certainly not the best in car audio, but will serve me nicely until I have the money to improve on it. Sounds just fine for AU$168!

The PC case and amp are mounted on a plank of wood that is bolted to the original carpet. It's not attached to the chassis, but it's wedged in tight, it's not going anywhere! (somehow I have misplaced these photos, will take some more tomorrow)

During the screen install the dash looked like a wreck! Glovebox was out, kick-panels out, dash out, almost everything out! All went back together just fine, but oddly (and somewhat worryingly) I had several screws left over :-P

http://img102.imageshack.us/img102/3429/dsc00143cv7.jpg

http://img235.imageshack.us/img235/9509/img1795vt7.jpg

http://img204.imageshack.us/img204/1031/img1796xd1.jpg

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/2269/img1800fd5.jpg

http://img159.imageshack.us/img159/3456/img1808es8.jpg

http://img159.imageshack.us/img159/6339/img1810jc7.jpg

The Powermate USB knob is attached to the centre piece with velcro, and the USB cable runs up to the glovebox.

http://img159.imageshack.us/img159/1327/img2124or0.jpg

http://img168.imageshack.us/img168/5486/img1802do3.jpg
Thanks to Hamish and Andy for some background entertainment

With all the cables run, everything connected, the seats bolted back down, and the panels back on this was the result:

http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/2561/img2127ka1.jpg

http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/8669/img1830bw5.jpg

http://img523.imageshack.us/img523/6481/img2207oe6.jpg

http://img148.imageshack.us/img148/7167/IMG_2119.jpg

http://img409.imageshack.us/img409/72/img2115cf9.jpg

I've been using this system for several weeks now and it is working beautifully. Apart from the odd crash (unavoidable since it's running Windows :-P) it's fantastic, can do anything you can do on a regular computer.

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/4904/img2205oo4.jpg

Two days ago I altered the icon on the GPS app that represents the car driving along the road. Now shows the back of my car driving along hehe :-)

http://img184.imageshack.us/img184/1396/img2202cw6.jpg

Well that's pretty much it. I have already posted about of few other additions to my Car PC:

Reversing Camera: http://www.aussiemagna.com/forums/showthread.php?p=839247#post839247

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/2227/img2224do2.jpg

Digital Speedo: http://www.aussiemagna.com/forums/showthread.php?p=838638#post838638

http://img442.imageshack.us/img442/3779/IMG_2198.jpg

http://img256.imageshack.us/img256/1145/veradabwbackgroundxh6.png

Spare post should I need it ;)

One more, just in case :P

Mate that is a kickass writeup :D you keep making me think about doing it, but I don't have the money haha.
I think it's hilarious how Windows just crashes cos it can, even when it's just playing mp3's and the likes.
Is there a reason for it at all that you've noticed? or it just dies?

Sweet job man

Man, thats A LOT of writing, but a good read lol Looks like it worked out well for you, and the install looks very professional, should do you well! Only thing left to do is paint up the console aye so its a nice glossy black :P

That looks awesome. I especially like the speedo and tach readouts. Well done.:)

I'm quite excited, I found a guy here in Australia with the steering wheel audio controls for the 3rd gen! I had been scouting an overseas source who had one for similar money, but this one should be here tomorrow!!

My idea is to dismattle the controls and wire them up to an old game controller I have that will send keyboard commands to RR. Looking forward to that extra bit of control without having to touch the screen!

Haha awesome mate, saves me looking for you down here in Vic lol Gonna be interesting to see how it turns out! When your done build me one :P

Well it came in today, and I'm going to have a go at wiring it to my game controller tonight, but I am now wondering how exactly it connects to the steering wheel. There are no screw holes or anything on the base of my wheel. Any thoughts?

I "believe" you take the front of the wheel off (the horn pad) and it clips in there somehow. careful with the airbag though lol

Yeah I figured that was how it worked, any way to disable the airbags without disconnecting the battery? I hate having to baby the car for ages until it learns how to idle :P

And woot!!! Email notifications!

Crash the car into something and set the airbags off? They won't go off twicelol

No better ideas, maybe you should just baby it for a bit, I need to do that to mine, I had a heavy foot the last time I disconnected mine.

Actually that's probably a good idea, I want my car to learn to change up at 2300rpm. At the moment it does it at 3000rpm, and only if I really concentrate and play with my foot can I get it to shift at 2300.

Not usaually one to dig up old threads but that is fracking SWEET!!!

Thanks mate, I have been loving it over the last few weeks. It just works, only restart it maybe once a week, and even that isn't necessary, could go longer. No heat problems either.

Reversing camera didn't go quite to plan, mounted perfectly in the keyhole and worked fine in the garage, but can't expose properly outside so the whole image is while. I guess you get what you pay for ($12 delivered :P)

very nice setup mate! Good Work! :D

After having it sit around on my desk for several weeks, I've finally installed my pop remover. Before I added this the speakers would pop each time the computer booted, because the amp power-on delay wasn't long enough (not adjustable).

http://img88.imageshack.us/img88/2815/n66agl5.jpg

This is what I used, an N66-A from these guys here (http://www.davidnavone.com/cart.asp?14&pid=146) that Bigs recommended. Adjustable from 0-30sec turn-on. After some fiddling getting the time right it works like a treat.

No more popping!

Next project is to fix up the scratched display bezel and spray the whole console (vents to the centre strip) in glossy black. Would have liked woodgrain, but too expensive. Besides, I think it will look good :D Started today with a spare set of centre vents I bought. Currently a WIP, will post when they are done.

http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/7702/ventswipwc4.jpg

I'm also planning to build some kind of enclosure to cover the amp and PC box so they can't be seen, and for protection from stuff in the boot.

classy stuff

This morning I ordered a MUT-II/OBD-II cable to get some info out of my car into the PC.

http://www.limitless.co.nz/evoscan/

Should arrive in 2 weeks, looking forward to it!

This morning I ordered a MUT-II/OBD-II cable to get some info out of my car into the PC.

http://www.limitless.co.nz/evoscan/

Should arrive in 2 weeks, looking forward to it!
Nice one. I was looking at getting the ECUDataScan from that site:

http://www.limitless.co.nz/EvoScan/images/ECUDataScan.gif

When you get your cable and plug it into the diagnostic port under the dash can you please tell me if the check engine light or any other indicator lights light up in the instrument panel?

Will do.

I really liked the look of that, would be great to somehow integrate it into the instrument cluster, but its price and the fact I wanted integration with my PC kept me with the cable+software combo (AU$114 delivered with software).

I'm thinking of buying a small monochrome LCD (similar in design to the ECUDataScan actually) and attempting to mount it in the IC, haven't decided yet.

This morning I ordered a MUT-II/OBD-II cable to get some info out of my car into the PC.

http://www.limitless.co.nz/evoscan/

Should arrive in 2 weeks, looking forward to it!

I really don't know if this will work, anyway good luck with your projects.

Ive been told the evoscan will give all sensor readings on a magna. But Mitch can be the guinea pig ;)

Haha, yeah well it says it supports our cars so we shall see. If not, there is the refund route, or eBay. ;)

I love to see this project work, please give us an update as you install.:D

looks good, but i would take that centre section back out and get it woodgrained back up!
There are places that do it, and you can get the rest of your dash done to match it, then it'd be sexy as!

If this statement is true, where would i go to get it? as im making a panel for my IES/CarPC thats going under my screen and if i could get it to have teh same Woodgrain front that would be great.

TIA

Update on the cable! It arrived today, and I have just given it a shot, and, well, I don't think I have it configured right.

Installed the software on my PC, plugged it in and the interior lights start flickering. I started the car, and the flickering stopped (WTF?) and hit the connect button. The software connected, and bringing up one of the default dashboards showed the rev counter showing the correct RPM (updating several times a second by the looks of it).

Main problem no is with the cable connected, the park and neutral lights flash on the dash, as does the TCL off light.

Any thoughts?

Would that evoscan thing work on a 1st gen ?

Nah mate, doesn't have the port for it.

Would it work with my TE exec since it doesn't have a trip computer or anythin? Thinkin of puttin a carpc in in a few months...

Well it says 96-2005, and your car is basically the same as mine. If you feel under the grey panel beneath the steering wheel, to the left you will feel a black and a while connector. The black is the MUT-II connector, and I'm not quite sure what the other is.

So guys, any ideas on why all the lights on the dash start flashing wildly with this thing connected?

With the April 19 meet coming up, I decided to stop putting it off and fix the display bezel. I bought it used (thanks BiGGy!), and it had several scratches/gouges on it.

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/4903/IMG_2608.jpg

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/3975/IMG_2613.jpg

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/8853/IMG_2611.jpg

Cont. next post

A few days ago I picked up the PlastiBond, and today I bought the primer (why I didn't get both at once, no idea) and this morning I set to work. First job was to take it all apart.

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/7200/IMG_2606.jpg

Once again the car looked like a wreck inside :-P

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/7185/IMG_2619.jpg

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/6547/IMG_2607.jpg

First job was to cover up all the scrapes and gouges with the PlastiBond. I was probably a bit too liberal with my application, but that only meant I had to sand a bit more off.

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/4688/IMG_2615.jpg

When it had hardened (which didn't take long), I started sanding:

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/8945/IMG_2617.jpg

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/5032/IMG_2616.jpg

With the sanding done, on went the primer:

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/2776/IMG_2618.jpg

I wasn't completely happy with the result the first time around, so a bit more sanding and another coat of primer went on before painting.

With the primer dry it was time for painting!

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/2337/IMG_2620.jpg

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/8674/IMG_2623.jpg

http://img514.imageshack.us/img514/3715/IMG_2625.jpg

After seeing these results I have decided to repaint the vents and centre control strip, to make sure they look identical.

nice work.

I want to try building a display from scratch now, gonna try and convince my dad to put on in his new car when he gets it in May (satnav/DVD/TV was a $4500 option!)

http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/7864/img2626cu4.jpg

Gloss black looks smick, next best thing to woodgrain I reckon :P

Next we have to see it in the car all fitted, have you done the lower console to match?

Got a response from the Evoscan guys, apparently I need to disconnect pin 1 on the OBDII connector to stop the ECU going into diag mode. Going to give it a shot as soon as I get the chance, I want this thing going!!

Also, does anyone know the sort of readings I should be getting from the O2 sensor? I get readings from it, but I'm not sure what I should be getting. I'm hoping to work out if it's working properly or not.

Got a response from the Evoscan guys, apparently I need to disconnect pin 1 on the OBDII connector to stop the ECU going into diag mode. Going to give it a shot as soon as I get the chance, I want this thing going!!
Have you had the chance to disable pin 1 yet? I really want to get the ECUDataScan module but don't want all those flashing diagnostic lights in the instrument panel either.

Sorry mate, haven't gotten to it yet. Been too busy to do anything for the last few days! Will post here as soon as I have given it a shot.

Might ask my stepdad if he can have a look at it today while I'm doing uni assignments...

Gonna post a video of the Evoscan setup (again, when I get the chance, damn life! haha).

Lugos old black Verada ashtray is on the way, hopefully it will be painted and ready for the April 19 Liverpool meet!

I've decided to repaint the centre console strip again, on the final coat the can started spluttering and has left a weird dot pattern in places. At least it's easy to remove!

Kinda looks odd at the moment with the woodgrain one.

Turns out it won't be in a old kettle box either, sorry to disappoint you, ended up traveling off in an offical AusPost box lol

Be kind to my old interior insert now, or there will be hell to pay :badgrin:

Can't wait to see it all shiny black and complete, carputer ftw, I'd love one, just a pitty I cbf doing it haha

Sorry Lugo, I'm going to have to rough him up a bit....then prime and paint :P

Looking forward to it all being painted the same colour! I would still love to get a hold of the woodgrain centre console piece with lids though :(

Hey about the evoscan, i was going to tell you just dissconnect the one pin, thats what was causing all my issues. The diagnostic lights on the dash stoped flashing and everything is back to normal.

Also last night i was playing with the guages, and i made one that looks pretty cool, its just a little cpu hungry to run.
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y214/ezzab69/dash2.jpg

Looks cool when its in action
http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y214/ezzab69/dash3.jpg
The top of the dash has a red flashing light whish flashes when between 5800 -5600rpm

So what is the hardware requirement for this?

Mate that is seriously awesome, I have to give that a go!!

How did you go about disconnecting pin 1?

I'm thinking tomorrow arvo I'm giving this a shot, don't have uni.

Very easy, pin number one is on a completly seperate port next to the obd connector, for easy plugging and unpluggin.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y214/ezzab69/DSC04350-1.jpg

Just unplug it and you should be set

I haven't been using that white connector at all, I still get a bunch of lights on the dash. Will have to photograph and post.

I took some videos of the dash when the Evoscan software and cable are connected:

http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=uomrnA5CE6w

http://au.youtube.com/watch?v=P2egOF1bXr8

That's very cool, time to save some money

hmm, those are the same lights i had flashing on my dash, the anti-lock and engine lights, but as soon as i unplugged the 2nd cable they seemed to stop.

since i'm using a laptop i boot it up and hit the connect button in evoscan when the car is already running, for the few seconds while it connects the engine light flickers a couple times then it turns back off, and i can drive without any lights flashing at me.

maybe try contacting evoscan again and asking them what they actually mean and maybe a procedure to how to do it.

The ash tray is painted! Will install it tomorrow and get a photo ;)

The ash tray is painted! Will install it tomorrow and get a photo ;)
Cmon man I've been here waiting since 12:01....its been over 4 hours now!

Cmon man I've been here waiting since 12:01....its been over 4 hours now!

lol

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn63/mitchelloke/dash1.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn63/mitchelloke/dash3.jpg

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn63/mitchelloke/dash4.jpg

This photo shows why I'm not too happy with the cupholders/gear surround thing.

http://i301.photobucket.com/albums/nn63/mitchelloke/dash2.jpg

Mate that looks awesome.

Did you end up using the whole ash tray or just the front on your old ash tray?

You've gotta make a trip down to melb now so I can see it running, never seen a carputer before lol Does this make it complete? :cool:

Yeah I used the whole ashtray. Forgot to mention that I stuck a 4-port USB hub in the ash tray ;)

I suppose it's not completely complete yet, I still need to get the USB FM radio I have working, but it's pretty damned close ;)

Is it just me or did no-one else realize he spelt "Octain" wrong? Shouldn't it be "Octane"????

']Is it just me or did no-one else realize he spelt "Octain" wrong? Shouldn't it be "Octane"????

I was trying to work out what you were talking about, I assume you mean the Evoscan dash; Yes, octane was misspelt.

A quick question for those who have taken all the dash bits out, do your air vents sit flush with the rest of it all? Mine are sitting too far forwards and it looks a bit crap. If I push it back to flush it looks great, but as soon as I let go it slips forward about 2-3mm.

http://img261.imageshack.us/img261/6654/p1010649mediumwv4.jpg

I know what I have to do to get the OBD-II cable to work without the car flicking into diag mode, just gotten get to doing it lol Cable is ready and waiting ;)

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/8431/p1010663mediumbo8.jpg

I know what I have to do to get the OBD-II cable to work without the car flicking into diag mode, just gotten get to doing it lol Cable is ready and waiting ;)
Don't hold out on us!

the left hand bottom corner clip must be broken or you haven't pressed hard enough to clip it in

Mine was sticking out like that when I took it apart to change my headunit. Solution: I got pissed off one day and hit it so hard i thought I broke it, been sitting beautiful and flush ever since! :D

Mine was sticking out like that when I took it apart to change my headunit. Solution: I got pissed off one day and hit it so hard i thought I broke it, been sitting beautiful and flush ever since! :D

I just may have to try that, because it's p***ing me off :P

How do you go with power and stuff?
Like.. When does it turn on, how did you set it up to turn off/hibernate.
Boot times from hibernate.
Just interested to see how it all works is all

Cheers.

How do you go with power and stuff?
Like.. When does it turn on, how did you set it up to turn off/hibernate.
Boot times from hibernate.
Just interested to see how it all works is all

The computer is powered with an M2-ATX 160W DC-DC power supply that takes the battery's irregular power output and streams a clean 12V to the PC. The PC doesn't skip a beat even when starting the car or putting the foot down.

The power supply integrates a turn-on wire that "presses" the power button on the PC (connects the power pins on the mobo) just like a normal head unit. The amp is also turned on by the computer power supply, but the turn-on is delayed by a relay to stop the pop sound (because the PC doesn't turn on completely before the amp does).

Boot times from hibernate are excellent. It takes about 25 secs before music starts flowing from the speakers. I turn on the ignition as soon as I get in the car (not necessarily the engine), and by the time I'm out of my street (about 10m's from where I park) it's all up and running. I've had this going for over 3mths now and it never bothers me.

Reliability has been fantastic, a reboot maybe once a week (like any Windows PC). HDD is fine too, despite those who say a 3.5" desktop drive wouldn't survive the rigours of being bolted to a car.

In short, I can't imagine not having the Car PC now!

The computer is powered with an M2-ATX 160W DC-DC power supply that takes the battery's irregular power output and streams a clean 12V to the PC. The PC doesn't skip a beat even when starting the car or putting the foot down.

The power supply integrates a turn-on wire that "presses" the power button on the PC (connects the power pins on the mobo) just like a normal head unit. The amp is also turned on by the computer power supply, but the turn-on is delayed by a relay to stop the pop sound (because the PC doesn't turn on completely before the amp does).

Boot times from hibernate are excellent. It takes about 25 secs before music starts flowing from the speakers. I turn on the ignition as soon as I get in the car (not necessarily the engine), and by the time I'm out of my street (about 10m's from where I park) it's all up and running. I've had this going for over 3mths now and it never bothers me.

Reliability has been fantastic, a reboot maybe once a week (like any Windows PC). HDD is fine too, despite those who say a 3.5" desktop drive wouldn't survive the rigours of being bolted to a car.

In short, I can't imagine not having the Car PC now!

Man that's awesome, I think I might end up getting a cheapo amp and get into this sometime soon.. The only thing that'll be hard is finding a screen at such a good price as you got yours for!

The only constraint now is money!

I'll post back (eventually) when I get started on any of it, don't wait for it though :P

Yeah the screen is definitely a big chunk of the whole project. I was lucky to find one second hand, new they would be around $250-300.

Make sure you get a proper VGA touchscreen model, not some cheap LCD with no VGA input or touchscreen.

Ok I have the drivers footwell panel off again, and I'm looking at the diagnostic connector. If I cut the wire for pin 1 will it affect the normal functioning of the car in any way?

EDIT:

I decided just to take the punt and give it a go, and with pin 1 disconnected I get nothing. There is no connection, nothing.

Emailing Evoscan....

Ok I have the drivers footwell panel off again, and I'm looking at the diagnostic connector. If I cut the wire for pin 1 will it affect the normal functioning of the car in any way?

EDIT:

I decided just to take the punt and give it a go, and with pin 1 disconnected I get nothing. There is no connection, nothing.

Emailing Evoscan....
Try disconnecting pin 9 either on the cable or on the car. Evoscan said this should stop the flashing lights. Not sure what pin 9 is meant for though.

Weird, they told me pin 1. Will give pin 9 a go.

Had some spare $$ in my PayPal account so decided to order a Digital TV tuner and boosted antenna. Will hopefully arrive some time next week!

Have yet to give pin 9 a go on the diagnostic cable, too damned busy :(

I received the TV tuner and antenna a few weeks ago and the news isn't good. The tuner is quite nice, and has a really nice picture when I run a really long aerial lead from the house, but using the antenna in the box is hopeless. Absolutely no signal at all.

I figured that would be the case, so I bought a boosted antenna from the same seller, who said it was compatible with the tuners in his store. Aparently not, so I'm now contesting the auction with PayPal (god I hate them) since the seller refuses to refund my money.

Other than that the system has been running brilliantly. It is so stable now I could almost swear it was a standard double din DVD unit.

Over the holidays I am going to run a new USB cable, since the one I have now isn't USB2 so file transfers using the plugs up front are PAINFULLY slow. I'm going to put the new USB ports in the ash tray, along with a shutdown button (currently in the glovebox), a reset button (don't have one) and a switch to disable auto turn-on/off.

I suppose I should add a picture of the setup atm, with my fabulous new steering wheel ;)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/ralliartwheelmitchello.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/drivinghomesfun-1.jpg

lookin awesome man!

Im thinking of getting the evoscan OBDII cable for my carputer..

Hows your evoscan been going lately?
Have you had any luck stopping the lights flashing on the dash by killing pin 9 or any other methods?

Having the lights flash is the only thing stopping me getting it atm.... :doubt:

Im thinking of getting the evoscan OBDII cable for my carputer..

Hows your evoscan been going lately?
Have you had any luck stopping the lights flashing on the dash by killing pin 9 or any other methods?

Having the lights flash is the only thing stopping me getting it atm.... :doubt:

Hey mate, interesting you should mention that since I recently received an email from Evoscan about the latest version of their software, which apparently stops the diag lights from coming on.

Haven't tried it yet, will try and give it a go today.

Hey mate, interesting you should mention that since I recently received an email from Evoscan about the latest version of their software, which apparently stops the diag lights from coming on.

Haven't tried it yet, will try and give it a go today.

Awesome!! Im eagerly awaiting your results :D

Just gave the new version a try and Evoscan won't even connect with the disable diag lights option enabled.

I tried the evoscan 2.3 version with my TE, yeah no flashing lights during driving.

I don't get them while driving, only when stopped.

Picture from the back seat ;)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3079/2657589137_e54f05272a.jpg

Picture from the back seat ;)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3079/2657589137_e54f05272a.jpg
Star Trek Deep Space Nine?

Star Trek Deep Space Nine?


:thumbsup: Dad hasn't seen DS9 yet.

Screen from this install is up for sale in the FS section! Just drop it into your dash, hook it up to a PC and you're away!

Today I reverted my car audio back to stock, and it sucks :P

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3147/2737944172_53acb85038.jpg

I did learn a few things that I will be sure to implement in the system going into the TL:


Install a standard head unit for radio
Add a "valet" switch to disable auto-startup functionality
Have both power and reset buttons handy up front
Have a powered USB hub up the front for thirsty devices
Install Windows XP SP2/SP3, SP1 has a few niggly bugs
Use a Bluetooth adaptor that supports the built-in Windows Bluetooth software
Spend more than $12 on a reversing camera, it might work that way

MitchellO - What radio did you use in this install?

I have just about finished my install in the TL..

So far I have:
AMD X2 4850e 2.5G 45W CPU
Jetway NC62K AM2 mainboard with Geforce 8200 IGP
1Gb 800Mhz DDR2 RAM
M2-ATX
BU-353 GPS
1Gb 266x CF Card (Windows installed)
250Gb 2.5" External USB HDD
Bluetooth
ADS Tech Instant FM USB radio with RDS..

I must say, the USB radio is very good quality, actually better than the HQCT which is meant to be the holy grail of radio in car computers.. Take a look on www.digital-car.co.uk. One of the forum members has re-written the firmare and dll for it and I think it is just as good as the headunit, if not a little better. Other benefit is that in the near future it will support TMC which is the traffic management stuff for GPS... Auto updates on congestion and accidents and stuff.

BTW - I may have a ADS Instant FM up for sale if you want it.. They are about US$30 and a colleague picked up two while in the states last week.. I already had one and he got me a second and one for himself but he may not want his.

Also, have you looked at the frontend "FreeICE" written by mp3car member (now digital-car.co.uk member) CdRSkull. His stuff is awesome, but he does like flash and shockwave, so pretty CPU intensive.. Hence why I have upgraded from a VIA SP13000 to an AMD X2...

EDIT - Just re-read your install thread.. Radioshark, no wonder you want to go back to a head unit.. I would suggest you try one of these USB FM tuners first...http://www.adstech.com/products/RDX-155-EF/intro/RDX-155-EF_intro.asp?pid=RDX-155-EF

It is based on a Silabs chip, and very good quality and reception when connected to the car antenna.. Which is a simple mod. I can post some photo's of it if you wish.

Yeah the Radioshark was a piece of crap, wouldn't even get signal standing outside without any trees around.

I like the idea of having the radio integrated with the PC, but I think I'll stick with my plan to use a headunit. That way I can take the Car PC out and fiddle/upgrade and still have something to listen to in the car.

That is why I have just windows installed on the CF card and all my apps/media on the USB HDD.. I can test new apps on my laptop and then just take it out to the car and away I go.

Awesome. I just read the whole thread and found it very interesting!

My only suggestion would be to properly mount the "iDrive" button; velco is a real drop it quality compared to the rest of your work.

Other than that, awesome! :D

Awesome. I just read the whole thread and found it very interesting!

My only suggestion would be to properly mount the "iDrive" button; velco is a real drop it quality compared to the rest of your work.

Other than that, awesome! :D

Thanks mate :D

Yeah I haven't decided where I'm going to put it in the new car. It will be better than before, velcro won't make an appearance :P

I reckon if your willing to go to the effort, relocate the power window controls back to the doors where they always used to be, then make a custom fitting piece to mount the "idrive" control where the power window switches are now, has the potential to look great! :P

Or even easier, use the fusion brain or similar to create window switches as part of the computer software.. Then you could remove the switches and use the touchscreen instead. Now that would be cool.

Barty/Lugo, funny you should say that as I've made inquiries into wrecked Magnas with black interiors to pinch the door trim with power window switches lol

I really like the idea of integrating it into the centre strip, worked brilliantly there in the old car, fell right to hand when resting my arm on the armrest.

Or even easier, use the fusion brain or similar to create window switches as part of the computer software.. Then you could remove the switches and use the touchscreen instead. Now that would be cool.

That WOULD be very cool. :cool:

New screen in the house :D Unfortunately I reckon it will be a few weeks before it's in the car :(

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_1736.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_1740.jpg

WOW Looks great, cant wait to see it once its in your car.
oh BTW sent u a PM bout the power Supply just wondering if u have sent it off yet :D

nice new screen Mitchello lol will be awesome once yours is in again...

haha guess what i got that screen and when i plugged it in, i accidentally reversed the polarity and blew a capacitor :rant:

but its all cool, DAM-088 soldered a new one in after a quick trip to JayCar, and all is working again haha

I took a gamble with that when I was setting mine up, got lucky ;)

Have fun getting it back together after you took it apart? I had it in and out of the bezel at least 5 times, and it's a damned pain when the ribbon cable didn't quite lock in :P

haha its sitting in parts on my desk atm as im trying to repaint the bezel lol, yeh i hated getting it back together the first time... :rant:

I swear I bought that same screen for a friend. Lilliput 7" Touch? Max res 1024x768?

There are a couple of different 7" models from Lilliput. I've got the EBY-701 and have no complaints.

Yeah the max res is 1024x768 but it just looks crap at that res. The native res of the panel is 800x480, but a lot of people (myself included) have problems getting default drivers to output that correctly to the LCD. Oddly, I reloaded my Car PC while it's been sitting on my desk and the latest drivers for my mobos onboard graphics support 800x480 out to my screen perfectly, no more PowerStrip!!

Took the console out of my car today, wanted to finally get the planning stage going. I'll be using my original console for the job, and buy a spare.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/06092008016.jpg

Screen fits into the spot very nicely with a little scrapping of the plastic lugs that click into the dash. I'm trying to decide if I want to have the screen flush with the dash, or slightly sunk in like you can see here.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/06092008017.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/06092008019.jpg

On the plus side it should provide a little protection from the sun, and prying eyes when parked, but I don't think it looks as factory as it would if I cut away the 6mm of plastic that sinks back into the dash.

New screen was a lot easier to disassemble than the old one, despite being the same model. Looks a tad different inside, with longer cables, perfect for the modder who needs to take it apart! Guess it's a later revision.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/06092008020.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/06092008025.jpg

One thing about the TL, I love that the console surround isn't bolted to the DIN bracket like in the TE-TJ, makes removal a 10 second job!

i was thinking of doing this some time down the track but i was wondering with the touch screen do u need and special type of window operating system ect XP or vista 32bit or 64bit or is there some thing else that u use.... also with the carputer is there much drain on ur battery if u where to have one of them and to amps or would it require a new more powerful alternator.....

With the touchscreen anything you can get drivers for goes. I'm using XP since drivers are easy, plenty of software available and it's quick.

On the power front you have two options: DC to DC or standard AC power supply run through an inverter. Using a DC to DC PSU (like the M2-ATX) uses a lot less power, is quieter (aka silent) and many have built-in shutdown controllers. No need for bigger alternators or anything.

Got sick of waiting to go to the wreckers to get the bezel, so I started hacking up the one out of my car. Would be using it anyway, since it's scratched and has a slight crack. Need to remove the 6mm deep ring of plastic around the DIN slot, used a soldering iron to slowly but accurately melt it away, final product came up pretty bloody good!

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3288/2834945529_b021509ef9.jpg

Fits right up against the face of the bezel now.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2213/2835101679_a11c488de9.jpg

Are you going to sand and repaint? Still looks pretty scratched to me!

Really looking forward to what you come up with when it's all done!

Don't worry, what you see in the photo is FAR from finished, I only worked on getting the console ready for plastibonding yesterday. I'm going to paint the console and the strip down the middle of the car (what is that bit called???) silver, like it was originally. I considered black, but it would be too drab considering the whole interior (dash, seats, carpet, steering wheel, gearstick) are black.

MitchellO,

Gee that looks so familiar, did exactly the same on mine except I used a dremel instead of a soldering iron to melt the plastic (fumes would have been nasty)... One thing to watch out for, the back of the LCD screen housing will foul on the metal brackets which hold the clips in.. I had to cut away some of the rear housing for the LCD...

Also, the mini-VGA plug for the LCD will interfere as well.. I just chopped some of the strain-relief away and all was good..

Anyway, good luck.. I guess I should post up some pics of my install sometime soon.

Did the main work on it today, very happy with the result. Still needs some work to remove some grooves and slight bumps, but it's well on the way.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/08092008356.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/08092008357.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/08092008358.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/08092008361.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/08092008363.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/08092008364.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/08092008365.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/08092008366-1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/08092008367.jpg

In that last photo the screen isn't screwed back into the bezel, will sit straight when in properly :-P

I reckon that looks fantastic mate, I know where I'm goin if I ever decide to do something like this :P

holy sheet!

what a thread! this setup is unreal! top job man! something to be proud of thats for sure!

Man,

I thought I was meticulous.

I remember reading this thread when I first joined. You're still going. Top quality work, cant wait to see the pic of this back in the car.

Perhaps one refinement away from implementation:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/10092008380.jpg

Just finished some more sanding, priming and painting. Definitely looks better now.

Before
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/10092008381.jpg

After
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/11092008388-1.jpg

Drying
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/11092008387.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/11092008389.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/11092008391.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/11092008392.jpg

I'm so glad you decided to sand and respray a few more times, it looks million times better.

Great job by the way !

What front end you using this time, centrafuse 2.0 ?

Looking good mate.... I'm really thinking about doing this now!!!!

Are you going to do anything with those button holes?

They have buttons in them, they just don't light up constantly (thank god :P).

First test fit in the car, and it's perfect!! Was a bit concerned about the screen clearing the DIN cage, but as it turns out I won't need to put the DIN cage in there at all, is held in very well by the vent clips and the little compartment below the climate controls.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/12082008397.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/12082008394.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/12082008395.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/12082008396.jpg

Will be painting the other silver parts of the dash the same colour.

Not functional yet obviously, since I haven't run any of the wiring or put the PC in the boot yet, but I'm hoping to get that all done before the next NSW meet!!

its coming along quite well mate good work

Niiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiic e! :clap:

nice job man, looks at home in the TL dash.

looks excellent mate.. well done!!

Next Wednesday is confirmed for re installation!!

Will be so good to have it back :D

Looking great mate, can't wait to see it back in. I've just ordered everything for my carPC so i'll be looking at putting it in in the next few weeks.

Any chance of you writing up a quick DIY for fabricating the screen into the dash? Looks like you did a great job and I have no idea what materials to use and what steps to take :)

Sure thing mate, would be happy to writeup a little guide on how I did it. I can assure you there are better guides out there though, and much better looking jobs than mine, I'm just happy with it for my first attempt :D

Might be bumping the install up to Saturday, a mates gonna give me a hand with it. I'm going to be running a USB cable to the centre console that will appear next to the 12v outlet for phone charging and USB drives.

Very nice project:clap:

I hope you don't mind, I chopped your project and move the buttons down just to see if this will look nice also. What do you think?:think:
http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o248/MagnaTech07/12082008394.jpg

Not at all, believe me I had the thought to put them there, but the ribbon cables were too short. Some screens actually have the buttons below the screen, and it would be better since the screen could be more centred.

What's the go with the moulding near the top and bottom of the button bezel? Looks a bit rough..

Otherwise this is a top notch install :D

Not at all, believe me I had the thought to put them there, but the ribbon cables were too short. Some screens actually have the buttons below the screen, and it would be better since the screen could be more centred.

Fair enough, congrats for the job well done.

What's the go with the moulding near the top and bottom of the button bezel? Looks a bit rough..

Otherwise this is a top notch install :D

That's the area that I'm not happy with, I need to do a bit more work there to get it spot on. I don't think I applied enough putty when I was ironing out the kinks from the first round of bondo. It's a lot closer than it was after the first bonding session though. Need to buy some more sandpaper, both light and tough.

WIP

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3133/2871859482_714c1fa633.jpg

WIP
??? wtf

??? wtf
Work in progress at a guess.

Got all the cabling run today, will either hook it all up tomorrow or Wednesday afternoon.

(Note to self: don't be a lazy **** next time and use your good camera)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/20092008.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/CIMG9256.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/CIMG9259.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/20092008012.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/CIMG9260.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/20092008004.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/20092008005.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/20092008011.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/20092008008.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/20092008007.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/20092008006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/20092008009.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/20092008015.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/CIMG9265.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/20092008017.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/CIMG9261.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/CIMG9262.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/21082008399.jpg

Dude, can you do me a fav and email me the touchscreen drivers to db_newman@hotmail.com - I installed the exact same screen in a friends 300zx carpc this weekend. Left/right works fine, up/down are reversed and the edges do not touch properly :(

Atm we have to control it with KB/Mouse in the boot.

Great job btw, how much would you charge to mould the same screen in to a 300zx facia? I'm not good with that ****.

I can see infinity in the last picture!!!

Guys I've got some bad news...



















































































Those of you coming on the cruise are going to be so jealous when you see it all installed and working!! :D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2133.jpg
Screen assembled ready for installation

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2134.jpg
Back of the panel

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2140.jpg
Resuming work!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2137.jpg
Running more cables

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2142.jpg
Slight mess

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2143.jpg
Dad wiring up the amp while I did the dash

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2150.jpg
All connected

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2151.jpg
How it's going to look, nice and clean

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2157.jpg
All working, no smoke!!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2156.jpg
GPS

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2148.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2159.jpg
It's good to have it back :D

mate that is bloody excellent work.. well done!!

thats mad as!!! I want one....

Good job :D.

What'd you do with the cup holders?
I'm guessing you put a reversing camera in? How'd you hook that up? All automatic when you put 'er in reverse?
Where are you're usb ports?

I'll be putting in for one soon, starting to get together amps/parts/etc now :).

Thinking of seeing if you'll do up a dash for me or I might see if the bybyte pre-built thingo's measure up alright if you're busy or it's too much hassle, but yeah, I'd be ecstatic to have something of the build quality of yours :D.

At the moment no I don't have a reversing camera, haven't got the money for it right now, but I think it's on the cards. Would love to have a front-mounted cam though :D

Mounted an USB port inside the centre console (see pics). It's completely on it's own, without any hubs to get in the way of speed or power so it can be used for 2.5" external HDDs.

I've had a PM or two about making screens for people, and at the moment I can't simply because with work and uni I don't have the time. Might be a possibility in about 2 months though.

Wanted to post a link to the screen I used in my new setup, same model as before (Lilliput EBY-701) but a later revision and it ROCKS! It's so bright and easy to see in both bright sunlight and with sunglasses on. Also has auto-on feature when powered, and has longer cables inside so it's easier to disassemble.

http://afewthoughts.dyndns.org/mcs/media/eby-701/eby-701-stock-lg.jpg

http://www.aussiemagna.com/forums/showpost.php?p=922383&postcount=426

Bloody bargain compared to some of the others out there. I did get it while the dollar was in the mid-90s which is a plus :D

im building one also left the screen till last seems like its going to be expensive, any way to wedge 8" in to a tf dash or is the ash trey to close may just go with what you have yet

8" would be a tight fit, would require more cutting away of the bezel plastic to get it to fit properly, then you might have clearance issues in the dash. 7" fits perfectly in both the TE-TJ and TL-TW, and the screens are cheap. Highly recommend the one I used.

I hate you, it looks way better than mine!

Made a small, quick addition to the Car PC a few days ago. I added a front-facing camera, mounted on the rear-vision mirror, to film out the front of the car on cruises and the like.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2307_1.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/IMG_2308_1.jpg

This is the camera I had installed in my Verada to use for reversing, but it was only a few days ago that I found the setting that would let the damned thing work outside (everything was white when used outside before).

I'll tidy up the gaffer tape install at some stage, but you can't see it from inside the car (or outside for that matter).

Will get some pics of it displayed on the car PC and a video shortly.

Whats the video quality like?FPS? and resolution?

All ican say is "Look ma' No hands!"

Quality isn't too bad (for a $12 webcam), framerate is good and resolution is 640x480. Plenty for Youtube :P

awsome job man, nice and neat... unlike my old TP

hey just wondering where did you get the PSU from ?

Bought the PSU from MP3Car.com, was a lot cheaper when the dollar was worth something.

Hey guys, as part of my Car PC refinement I'm looking to make a skin for it. This is what I did the other day, thought I'd get some thoughts on it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/Magna-RR-Menu-demo.jpg

Why the light blue? Well was matching the colour of the climate control illumination. Thought of silver, but it just didn't look any good.

i like it, do me one with a red diamond a lil better :) went to connect my screen today stoped in my tracks need a svga adaptor dam extenstion was male both ends didnt realise

i like it, do me one with a red diamond a lil better :) went to connect my screen today stoped in my tracks need a svga adaptor dam extenstion was male both ends didnt realise

Lol, yeah those homosexual cables no good for extending!

Can do one with a red diamond easy, I've designed it to the colour can be easily changed with a few clicks in photoshop.

Lol, yeah those homosexual cables no good for extending!

Can do one with a red diamond easy, I've designed it to the colour can be easily changed with a few clicks in photoshop.

Use a chrome diamond :) And use the TJ font to do MAGNA VR-X, then chrome it.

Anyone know what the font is?

thats sick i want one! :D

Finished repainting the cupholders, centre console strip and the compartment below the climate control.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/01122008531.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/01122008537.jpg

Haven't gotten to take the LCD out to fix up yet since I haven't yet run a cable to the front to play music from my iPod :P

i may have fogot my vga adapter but i did run 2 usb canbles to the back :)

looking good mate, whats the paint code on the silver cause i'm tossing up between silver or panio black

It's is an acrylic silver paint from Bunnings, matched up very well with my bumper inserts which are Lightning Silver (the Ford colour). Will get a pic of the can this arvo for you.

You know you're an enthusiast when you drive your car around like this:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/03122008009.jpg

Screen is back in the primer, should look better this time :D

Touch layer of my screen isn't working anymore, apparently a rather common problem with Lilliputs. Not quite sure what to do about it tbh. Thinking I might by one of the Eee 7" touchscreens off eBay, since the screen is working fine, only the touch isn't.

:rant:

Dude, your whole set up is insane, so clean and smooth looking. Good work man.

Mitch,

Couple of things with the touch screen, unless you have physically damaged it, it could be one of the following:

1) 4-wire connector between panel and PCB not connected properly or damaged.
2) Sometimes the front panel can jam up the touch screen if it is pressing too hard on the touch screen. Try running a business card or something around between the bezel and screen.
3) Is the touchkit driver loaded properly, did you plug the USB into the same port on the PC.. Windows and USB is very touchy.

Anyway, good luck with it.. My system has been very stable for at least 6 months now.. Must get round to posting up some pics.

Can't have you being the only one on here with an awesome CarPC in their TL.

1. Nope, it all looks fine, first thing I checked. It was working for about an hour after I put it back in the car, then just died. Apparently it happens with Lilliputs....

2. Had the panel/PCB out of the case and it was the same.

3. Tried three different computers and several different ports, no cigar.

Got a remote in there are the moment to control media playback, no where near as convenient as a touchscreen.

The Eee touch screen kit looks like it would do the trick, just be sure to check the measurements match up with the Ex-Audio (lilliput) screen. If all goes well, you may even be able to use the built in touchscreen controller in the lilliput and just plug the touch panel straight in. Looks like the connector is the same.

I was actually thinking the other way around ;) I think the USB circuitry on the screen is the problem, and if I connect the original touch layer to the new controller it will do the trick.

Going to order it now and hope it arrives soon!!

Don't know why I was thinking the actual screen would be the problem.. It is more likely to be the USB circuitry.

I have an external USB touchkit controller lying around somewhere as a sample from when I was designing an embedded PC for Topcon Positioning Systems. ie. I am an Electronics Hardware Engineer..

I will have a look at home for it tonight, and if you want it, just pay for the postage of it.

Or you could get something like this - http://cgi.ebay.com.au/USB-4-Wires-Resistive-Touch-Screen-Panel-Controller_W0QQitemZ330291278316QQcmdZViewItemQQpt ZAU_B_I_Electrical_Test_Equipment?hash=item3302912 78316&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=66%3A2|65%3A1|39%3A1|240%3A1318

I ordered one just after I posted, USB touchscreen controller + 7" touchscreen for $50 delivered!! (search eBay for item 200284149695)

Hopefully will arrive by the end of next week.

Thanks for the offer mate, very much appreciated :D

Well after a lot of messing around with a moronic eBay seller I've finally got my touchscreen working again. The first touchscreen kit I bought was incomplete (cables missing), contacted the seller who wouldn't respond. Had to file a dispute with PayPal, and ended up with a refund ($50 refund, but it cost $20 to return the incomplete kit).

Anyway, found another seller with the same sort of kit, slightly more ($10) but it arrived quick and had everything in the box!! Ripped the dash out of my car, cracked open the display and hook up the original touchscreen layer to the controller that came with the new touchscreen. Hooked it up to my dad's laptop and the touchscreen worked perfectly!! Used a plastic case from a USB to house the controller, and duct taped it to the display.

The whole ensemble
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/13012009680.jpg

New USB Touchscreen controller
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/13012009681.jpg

4-wire touchscreen cable
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/13012009682.jpg

MitchellO,

You should have got back in touch with me after the first ebay drama.. I still have that controller I mentioned to you when you bought it.

Anyway, good to hear you have it up and running again.

I picked up an Alpine Type R 12" sub over the holidays, it's a nice addition to the car pc setup. Also switched from FreeICE to Centrafuse, Centrafuse is just more complete and has more features being a commercial product.

Gah! I forgot your offer, sorry mate, thanks though :D

you're my hero! i've wanted to do this for a while but you've given such great info and ideas. Thanks for posting so much on this mate.

Nice job there, heat shrink tubing might also be a good idea to cover the controller.

A loooooong overdue update to my car PC. About a month ago I installed some Alpine Type S splits in the front and the difference is night and day from the stock speakers. Sure they aren't the best speaker out there, but they sound great for $188.

Since installing them, it is blatantly obvious how crap the stock 6x9s in the back are, so they will be the next to go.

EDIT: Below is a fail, has serious hibernation issues. Sound quality is brilliant, but if I have to reboot every since time to use it, it doesn't matter how good it sounds.

With the speaker replacement underway, I decided it was time to do away with integrated sound and go for something decent. It needed to be USB, since I have only one PCI slot and that will be filled with a graphics card at some point (yes, a PCI one, will do the job perfectly with low heat and power consumption). After a bit of searching, I went with a Soundblaster X-Fi Surround 5.1.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/soundblasterusbxfi.jpg

http://www.soundblaster.com/products/product.asp?category=209&subcategory=669&product=17751

The card is perfect for my install, since it has 6 channel analog outputs (currently running in 4 channel for the two front and two rear speakers) and is USB.

After installation I noticed and instant difference in the quality of the sound. It's much richer, and feels like it fills the car much better than the basic split stereo sound I had before.

The one thing I have noticed recently with all these USB devices is an increase in boot time. It's not unbearable, but it is longer than I would like, so I will be exploring options for decreasing the time. The problem is POST, which takes about 20 seconds (haven't really timed it), followed by about 7 seconds of Windows XP hibernation resume.

longer post times can be the result of more hardware for the bios to assign/share an irq channel

longer post times can be the result of more hardware for the bios to assign/share an irq channel

Yeah I know, unfortunately there is nothing to trim from my setup.

What would be really helpful is if the BIOS could skip all the checking and everything, other mobos do it and boot so quickly. I'm seriously considering using a different motherboard with a bit more power and faster POST times.

Can you reflash the bios to a different version or something?

Can you reflash the bios to a different version or something?

depending what bios version he has , you can turn some of the checking off

Yeah I was on the Intel site last night to see if there was anything new, and there is an update, so I might give it a try. Problem is sometimes these bios updates can fix one thing but break another.

Earlier tonight I had a go at stripping out some stuff (aka. USB devices). Dumped the USB Capture card (took the reversing camera out, looked ugly), disconnected the Evoscan cable (rarely use it, can easily reconnect should I want it), ditched the USB WiFi (trying out using a DLink G730 portable WiFi bridge powered by USB but connected to Ethernet) and managed to strip out a USB hub. Boot times have dropped by 10 seconds, so I'll leave it be for the time being.

Still considering a different motherboard, but that will have to wait since I'll have to get a CPU to go with it, and I'm getting my clutch done on monday ($800 :()

depending what bios version he has , you can turn some of the checking off

Yeah, I assumed Mitch would already be onto that, he's pretty cluey, even if he does drive a pretend VRX

this is amazing, i read every single page of the 24 pages with my jaw open

absolutely incredible, you should win prizes for this ****

This is insane! Great work mate.

Only seen 2 other PC dash installs, but this one is the best!
Going to give this some serious thought before I install the new stereo.
Thanks for the great info.

Got my headunit in a few weeks ago, still need to sort out some cabling issues but it's almost there!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v492/mitchello/Car%20Pics%2020090717/IMG_3529_01.jpg

This is absolutely outstanding! Well done!!! I just read the whole thing from start to end! I'm very very Jealous!!!

Thanks mate ;) Absolutely loved this setup in my TL, going to get stuck into one for my Ford as soon as I can!! Having had it in my two previous cars it sucks going back to CDs (and no vids :cry:)

Yeah but the ford one is way better

This is true ;)

hey it looks like u did a dash swap in this.
is that the case? u started off with a two piece centre dash thingy ma jig and in the later sections u upgraded it to the single piece one.
was that an easy swap? can it be done with a th magna? the new dash looks so much better.
is there a thread for that? lol
excellent work bro, bloody inspirational.
cheers