Carputer
 

Hey guys. I have finished my carputer install into my Z! Stay tuned I will post up some pics showing my install.

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Cool...waiting for the pics and maybe some DIY tips.

I am in for pics.

Well here are some pics of the install. I built a mini-itx form factor pc using an i3-2120t processor. This processor was a good choice for a carputer because it has a very low power consumption but is still a very fast chip. The computer has a 120 gb hard drive that I filled up with about 15 gigs of music.. I will add a lot more on future dates.

I bought an automotive car power supply known as the m4-atx power supply. This power supply has some neat features for automotive applications. It accepts a 12v signal as a switch and shuts down/starts up the computer when you startup or turn off your vehicle. so far it has worked great. The pc boots fast too, by the time I am in gear reversing its already playing music.

I have a double din touch screen in the dash that is also powered by the m4-atx psu. I am running centrafuse front end software because its a very nice touch interface for automotive environments.

I also replaced the factory component speakers with some JL audio 6.5 inch components and purchased a shallow mount rockford fosgate sub. I am powering the whole system with an alpine mrp-f300 4 channel amplifier. This amp seems to do a pretty good job filling up the Z with sound although I am considering adding another amp for the sub because it seems to struggle a bit to really drive the sub and the component speakers.

This is just the beginning of this project though. I need to install a microphone for the bluetooth functionality as well as a GPS receiver for navigation. I also intend on installing a backup camera. I also plan on installing a slim mount dvd drive somewhere in the dash so that I can listen to traditional cds or plop a cd in there and rip it to the hard drive.

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That looks like a solid build, very similar to mine. As for the GPS, I actually just got mine working pretty well, and I didn't have to purchase the Nav version of Centrafuse. What screen did you end up using? I'm debating getting a new one to replace my current screen the Mini Touch MT700. It's been giving me too many touch response issues.

Are you using the sygic nav? I am using a liliput screen. so far it has not given me any issues. The exact model number slips my mind right now. I like your flush mount aux input. I am thinking about doing the same exact thing, but also with some usb ports.

I actually am using the Garmin Mobile PC software. Since it was discontinued, it became easier to "find" online, if you know what I mean. I use that through the Apploader plugin, coupled with an old Garmin USB GPS18 Receiver, and it seems to work pretty well. I'm not sure, but if the Garmin Mobile PC software works with a USB receiver like this:

Amazon.com: GlobalSat BU-353 USB GPS Receiver: GPS & Navigation

You could save a hell of a lot of money instead of buying a license for Sygic/Destinator.

Lilliput screens are the screens I have been looking at. I made the mistake of not researching my screen before I got it, as several people have reported erratic touch response. The plus side, it is a capacative touch screen, and the brightness is incredible.

The aux cable is pretty easy. ^.^ I was also looking at flush mount USB cables, but I haven't looked too hard into the solution for that. If you find one, let me know!

Also, it's awesome to see another CarPC in the 370z's! Hope everything works out to your plans, since I can say this cost me more than I thought it would! :bowrofl:

EDIT: I found the website I got the AUX cable from:

FRONTX - Webstore - Pay through CCNow Inc.

Turns out they have flush mount USB's and stuff as well. It's perfect for CarPC needs.

Ya carputer is awesome but man its a lot of work and definitely a money sink. That said I enjoy the challenge and reward of such a project. can't wait to go on a road trip and let my brother drive while I play scII in the passenger seat lol!

I think the biggest challange I have is finding a way to cleanly mount a dvd drive in the dash somewhere. any ideas?

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