I have been thinking about this install for over a month now, so all the details were already worked out in my head. The actual install went really well.

I moved the glove box over to the driver's side opening, and build a wooden bracket to attach to the access cover under the box's false bottom. Once the access panle is pried out, the PC can be easily lifted out when needed, and the install looks real clean. I ordered a replacement glove box for the passenger side and will be able to wrap up the install when it gets in tomorrow.

I needed to exchange the GPS software, so I don't have that installed yet, and my DVD software didn't work, so I need to get a newer version before that is working.

I wrote my own front screen and MP3 player software and those are working very well. At this point I think I have the planet's most expensive MP3 player .

I found an alpine FM modulator that has an off switch so I didn't have to install a toggle like all_bark and Dr. Bonz. An extra bonus is that the modulator is XM satelite ready and can also control a CD changer if I ever want to install those. It was more expensive, but the extra flexability is nice to have.

I also installed an 802.11 wireless adaptor so I have full internet access (while parked in my garage), but more importantly, I can upload/download files easily and use Net meeting to remotly operate the in-car PC from my desktop in the house. Great for configuring/installing etc. I don't have to sit in my car looking at a 7" screen with a flexible keyboard in my lap.

I will take pictures once the new glove box is in and the panels are all back on, but so far, its been working great.

 

You can probably find lots of open networks, too. A little wardriving For instance, all of the Univeristy of TN campus is wireless ready from what I hear.

 

I went for a little wardriving yesterday, and was amazed at how many wireless networks are out there. But, I haven't been able to access any of them. Are they protected? Or is it some setting on my computer? I hear T-Mobile has set up networks at all the StarBucks. Have to pay a fee, though.

 

A lot will be closed (businesses, if that have a clue, should protect their networks). On the other hand, there are a lot of setups done by novices that are open.

Google wardriving, and you'll find plenty of links. Some even have maps of open networks.

 

alang

nice to here it is in and working!

so where did you get that fm modulator? I am thinking of replacing mine to something more high end to see if it helps with the tiny engine whine I hear in mine from time to time.

OMT- Is the 802.11 an USB plug in? I imagine it has to be because there is no pcmcia card slot yet. Where did you mount that as well?

Looking forward to pic's!

 

You can get PCI wireless cards.

 

Good call on the new FM mod. I may at some point go wireless as well. I do exactly what you mentioned...sitting in my car in the garage staring at a 7" screen and with the keyboard on the center console!

Let' see some pics!

 

YUP!

 

I got the FM modulator at Circuit city. It an Alpine CRA-1667RF. It was about $70.

Netgear makes a USB 802.11 device. I think it was about $60 at Fry's with a rebate. Since I have a netgear wireless access port, the setup was super easy. Just had to install the drivers, plug in the device, and type in the access password. Next thing I knew, I was on the net. I mounted it in the mail slot behind the driver's seat.


I did notice something today. I can't get a lot of volume from the MP3 player. The modulator has 3 output settings and I have it set to the loudest. Also the WMP setting is at the highest level as well. I can listen at normal levels, but can't get really loud. I wrote my own custom MP3 player that uses WMP, and that may be whats going on, but I'm not sure. Can you guys get good volume from your machines?

My digital camara is a camcorder that takes OK pictures. I'll do what I can once its all buttoned up. Maybe someone going on the Palomar run this weekend will bring a good camera and can get a few good ones.

 

The FM mods. for both my XM radio and the computer play VERY loudly.

 

Netstumbler will tell you if it's locked down.

Green means its wide open...red means it's secured.

Can't imagine why anyone would just leave their stuff wide open.

What type and kind of wireless card are you using?