I've decided to build myself a truckputer with my own custom front end (interface). My question to you guys is what would you like the computer to able to do?
This is what I have so far:
GPS
DVD
Music (MP3, CD, Sirius)
Weather/Traffic
OBDII Monitor/DTC code reader

I want those to all be embedded but also have an option for seperate programs to launch like MS Office or anything else an EU might need.

 

Ive been working on one for a while. Check out mp3car.com. A lot of info there.

 

I've been spending all my computer time at mp3car.com actually. There's so much information, although evertime I do a search I seem to only get results from 2005-2006 but it still all helps. I just thought I'd get some F-150 specific input.
What are you using for your front end?

 

Navigation and photography are the two main reasons for my system. Email and staying connected to the internet is always a plus...






My needs also include a mobil office...

 

Jd i really like that mount from your post on my power inverter. but you know the truckputer isnt actually a laptop its a computer that runs through your head unit.

Im in the middle of making mine its out of a xbox i soft moded it. you can run linux's ubuntu not as fancy as most but i think it will work all im waiting on are some female usb ends

 

My personal wishlist is:

rain aware summer vs winter mode.

summer, no rain = remote start, opens all windows & sunroof
summer, rain = remote start only

optionally, truck shuts off and automatically closes everything after doors are closed.

winter = just remote start

gps (with no ack screen!)

High fidelity audio, I've seen some computers put in cars, but if you're relying on the onboard d/a converters I wonder what it will sound like.

radar/laser detector integration?

auto-magic b-slapping module, that controls an arm in the bed that slaps anyone around you texting, dialing and/or speaking on their phone. (alas, just a dream)

 

I plan on running Road Runner as a front end with iGuidance integrated into it. I also have a 10" touch screen mounted into a dash bezel ready to go.

 

I'm not sure I like RR, especially the way it opens winamp, and on my laptop it opens it infront of RR. I know you can set to hide it but I think I'm going to try my hand at making my own. My programming abilities suck comparatively speaking but if I get the basics I can pass it off to someone who knows a little more.

Where you able to fit that 10"er where the stock HU is or do you have a custom enclosure?