Convert an LCD Screen to a Touchscreen!

JKK Mobile is UMPC junkie (Ultra Mobile PC), and he has a decent collection of the gadgets and occasionally tinkers with them to see what their made of. While checking out his site I found a great post on how to convert a laptop LCD into a touchscreen. If you're into the CarPC hobby, or just like tinkering with electronics, this could be a great mod for you. It seems pretty easy, and kits for the conversion are pretty readily available and inexpensive (the kit in this post cost about $70).

Check out this post for a photo step -by-step.

Check out this post for a video how-to.

in the forums!

I Want That: Autonet Mobile

This week on Whipnotic's "I Want That" series, Al & Ed's Mr. Mobile shows off a pretty cool wireless internet solution designed specifically for mobile use. The Autonet Mobile router installs in your car and picks up wireless 3G and EVDO signals, providing a nationwide wireless web that can be shared with multiple computers in one car. I couldn't find any info on the manufacturer's site for service packages or coverage areas, but I have an email in via the company's website.

This is definitely a cool toy though, and one that has made it onto my want list (it's getting to be a long list...). Want one? Follow the jump to check out the video and get info on how to win your own Autonet Mobile router.

Uber-Smooth BMW 5-Series

The E34 BMW 5-Series has always been my favorite generation for this luxury sports cruiser. I was scrolling through CarDomain Top Overall A/V nominations when I came across the uber-slick 1990 5-Series owned by CarDomain member e34zoui. The work put into this ride is amazing. It's not over-the-top at all, it's clean, its fresh, it's just done right. The owner reworked the car both inside and out, and there's not much I can say should have been done differently.
The trunk received an impressive custom-fit fiberglass build out for the DLS audio system, and I'd love to say it the most impressive part of the install, but e34zoui never posted pics of the finished install! But from the progress pics and comparing it to the work in the rest of the car, I'm sure it was stunning. The interior was completely restitched in white and beige, including the European M5 seats (the back seats are dope!). It looks like a custom center console was fabbed between the two rear buckets, but I"m not sure. If so, then he did a fantastic job! There's also custom kick panels, custom dash with an 8" touchscreen screen, A Via-powered carPC system, head rest monitors, and a HUGE turbo upgrade (GT28RS) pushing out 426HP to the wheels.

We've got a system list and a few more pics after the jump.If anybody has any other details on this car, we'd love to hear it. Let us know if the forums!

in the forums!

New Kid on the CarPC Block: Arrow Systems

When I stopped by the Diamond Audio booth at CES in January, I noticed the Arrow Systems booth across the walkway. Actually, it wasn't actually their booth, it was another company's, but Arrow had arranged to set up a small display showcasing an Arrow Systems carPC. The Arrow Systems rep wasn't in the booth when I stopped by, so I wasn't able to get any info other than a brochure and a business card. Oh yeah, the Arrow Systems website is pretty bare right now too. But after a quick email to the guys at Arrow Systems guys, I got a good amount of pics, some more product info, and a much better understanding of their direction and ideas.

Arrow's current systems are component-based (like a home PC), meaning the "box" is separate from the monitor. However, to reduce cable and device clutter,  Arrow has incorporated the GPS, Bluetooth, and satellite radio into the PC. Arrow offers an 8" touch screen to control everything as well as custom multimedia software designed to make navigating the options simple. But Arrow's claim to fame is their patented dash mounting device for the screen that they claim will not damage the dash - great for lease vehicles. The monitor will mount on provided-brackets and will allow the monitor to fold 90° to gain access to the radio. Arrow will also offer a double-DIN option with a 7" monitor already mounted and ready to install.
Arrow can custom build the systems to order and they'll offer a few different pre-configured systems as well.

We've got a bunch of pics after the jump that you won't find anywhere else, so check it out!

in the forums!

Navisurfer II: Single DIN CarPC Goodness

Up until the little gem you see above came out, anybody interested in installing a carPC either had to use a double-DIN all-in-one car PC, or go with a separate screen and a remote-mounted computer. With the Navisurfer II, the PC and screen are built together in a single-DIN solution, a first for CarPCs that we're aware of (feel free to correct us, and the Clarion AutoPC does not count!).
The Navisurfer II features a 7" touchscreen with a 800x480 resolution and runs a specially configured XP-for-car or Linux. The software package also includes GPS, a media player, and diagnostics software. The unit also sports an AV input for a back-up camera, and USB. Different packages are available with varying amounts of HDD space, memory, and processor speeds. Prices range from $578 to $656. Check out the manufacturer's site for full specs and more info.

For a low-cost carPC, this is great way to start. I woudln't expect lighting performance or huge multimedia capabilities from this unit, but if you want something a little different in your dash it's probably a great way to go. A "starter carPC" essentially.

in the forums!

Source: GadgetVenue.com