Well, after lots of research and budgeting, I've decided to embark on a new project for my ride...

I am in the beginning stages of my Carputer project: MacMustang

My intentions are to run a Mac Mini with full capabilites such as GPS navigation, DVD player and rear-view camera...coupled with replacement speakers and amplifier to round out the sound quality. The unit is already loaded with Bluetooth and Wireless capability, so that just makes the project easier...

Although it is diffcult to find software (especially front ends) for easy use of all functions, I'm sure it will be a nice added feature once it's all said and done...

Anyone who is interested in this project please feel free to add your input/suggestions and I'll be sure to add updates for those who might be interested in taking this kind of project on...

 

man good luck..........that stuff is over my head, but I'm interested in your progress......keep us updated!!!!!!

 

man good luck..........that stuff is over my head, but I'm interested in your progress......keep us updated!!!!!!

 

thanks...

an important thing to note is that I am in no way shape or form a computer guy...I know the basics and I'm trying to learn as much as possible to get this going. I'm hoping that I can provde an example for any mustang enthusiasts who are willing to spend the time and money on something that can be very useful and fun.

 

wow you had me worried for a sec... i thought this was gonna be a thread about some sort of fast food sandwich.....


this will be interesting to watch

 

I did some preliminary measurements and guess what...it should fit fairly well on the underside of the armrest...with a little bit of Dremel work, of course...

 

If you have any questions, holler. You're hitting on my three hobbies: computers, car audio, and Mustangs, so I'll help you with anything I can.

 

thanks Infinity...I should get my Mac Mini this week and I'm getting ready to order some other parts as well...

 

anybody have suggestion on a screen and dash it? it seems the Liliput and 04+ F-150 dash kit are what work...

 

That is the correct dash kit. I know the Liliput works- I'll dig for some other info. Do you require touch screen, or do you want the clearest readability?

 

touchscreen definitely...my Mac comes in tomorrow, so I'm going to play with it a little to see how BootCamp works and the feasibility of running in Windows XP....if it works, I might try running some front ends like Roadrunner to see how it interacts with the Mac...

I'm a little dissuaded by the notion that there is just not alot of software for Mac's right now...

 

Machine, i was researching the same earlier, and found the following links that could help you in your quest.. good luck

MAC Vroom

MacCar on MP3Car

FAQ: Installing a Mac Mini in Your Car

as for the front-ends, i believe you have iDash
CarMinX
AMP
driveXpress

 

Is there a way to make the Mac OS work with a touchscreen. I had considered this a few months ago and was told it wasn't possible. I've had Macs for the last 4 years and love them so it's naturally what I'd like to use for a car computer. Update us all on how it works. I'd be very interested to see how you do it.

 

thanks louie...I'm following that FAQ thread religiously...

however, I'm trying to find a screen that will fit the dash kit, but also has the auto-switch to RCA input. That way, I can wire my rear-view camera to send signal to my screen when I put the shifter in Reverse...I know Xenarc has one, but I'm trying to find something a little less expensive that will perform the same function...

 

yes...there are "front ends" that utilize the touch-screen to access programs, but they are *relatively* new...

I beleive that some of the latest touch-screens DO have drivers for Mac OS...

 

you can try the beta from egalax http://www.egalax.com.tw/eg/drivers.htm#intel, thats the only touch screen driver I can think of right now(I'm assuming youre getting the intel mac mini). I'm a huge mac fan and interested to see how this turns out for you. as far as gps receivers go there are tons of bluetooth receivers that range in price from $!50-$500. Also not sure if youre up for this but you you could always get a cheap webcam and a long usb cable to set up your backup cam. Just use photo booth(which comes with OS X) then you can take pics of people when you pass them the only draw back is it wouldnt automatically turn on if you put it in reverse.

 

Intel Mac Mini is in...taking measurements for a custom shelf under the armrest...

I'll post pics once I fabricate the piece...

 

It's been done and has been the plan for my car as well since I first got her almost a year ago. The hardest part is the front end, especially the GPS functions, there really isn't a good GPS mapping solution for Macs. Look to the PC guys for some guidance as well. Beside the links already noted, take a look at these as well:

2005 Mustang Coupe v6 Install (PC, but good info)
2006 Mustang GT Install (A mini plus a lot more)
Mac-centric links (Lots of good resources)

I'll be eager to hear how it goes for you.

 

Great project for sure!! Good luck with your Machine and have fun with it. You will learn a lot.. Patience is def. a virtue when building a mini PC.. Here's a few pics of mine:

 

Wouldn't it just be easier to buy a double din with all of those features? I am going to by a Pioneer DVH 6800 for 900 bucks, add the XM for 100 bucks and the nav, gps and cool auto performance computer function for 300. It won't cost much more than buying a good quality desktop. How much will it cost to build your own machine?