Thread: Carputers and mobile phone control

I've got a computer and 7" touch screen in my Discovery. I don't have it intregrated with a phone though.

I found heaps of handy info on this website-

MP3Car.com - Your source for mobile computing solutions!

Have a look at some of the software they use. It might do what you're looking for.

I use this touch-screen "front-end" called Centrafuse. It is probably the best "front-end around unless you are into writing code and want to customise something.

Flux introduces Centrafuse™

You will see a list of compatible blue tooth mobiles in the details section and manuals in their Downloads section to give you an idea what Centrafuse and plug-ins can do.

I use the the Destinator GPS & mapping package integrated into Centrafuse for on-road and Ozi Explorer software for off road with everything from Hema digital maps to sat photos.

I note your intention to use laptop bits. I would recommend against that if you want to set up a touch-screen system. I am going to have to post a work log of my on board system one day as it is a pretty interesting build.

I said ...."I am going to have to post a work log of my on board system one day as it is a pretty interesting build" ........here is a quick snapshot:

System is based upon a DC to DC mutiple voltage USB featured converter (a Carnetix), DC mini ITX size motherboard (170mm X 170 mm Commell LV-677) running a Core 2 duo mobile (4Mb cache) and 2 gig of DDR2 low profile ram....ie A ultra fast multiple application capable set up that chews no juice.

Got a 2 1/2 inch SATA HD, DVD/CD burner/reader and hardware stuff associated with features below sitting in a 5mm extruded heatsink style case that holds every thing and is only 2 inch deep that sits under drivers seat. Quick connects deal with removal for gnarly water crossings.

Features inc wireless broadband and network with exterior high gain antennas, 2 GPS mapping platforms, Analogue/digital TV, AM/FM radio, Custom made dash mount slot load DVD/CD burner/reader/multi card reader/ USB/Firewire/audio head unit, 5 X channel dual amp audio set up, mobile phone integration, rear camera and more.

All controlled via 8 1/2 inch overhead VGA touch screen (Centrafuse front-end) and voice recognition.

Current project upgrade is sorting OBI 1 engine management from D1 ECU and a remote controlled under vehicle camera.

Yeah I know ....more $ in this than my D1 worth... ..as I said I will post some work log pics shortly.

Originally Posted by CowsGoMoo

I've got a computer and 7" touch screen in my Discovery. I don't have it intregrated with a phone though.

I found heaps of handy info on this website-

MP3Car.com - Your source for mobile computing solutions!

Have a look at some of the software they use. It might do what you're looking for.

CowsGoMoo do you have any photos of where your touch screen is mounted.

Originally Posted by The Fish

CowsGoMoo do you have any photos of where your touch screen is mounted.

Funnily enough yes

see here -
http://www.aulro.com/afvb/gps/34425-...uchscreen.html

Please ignore the cardboard mock up. A fibreglass cover is in progress...... But you get the idea.

Happy to answer any questions.

That is a nice set-up CGM. I have a 8 1/2" screen overhead mounted...will try and post a pic on the weekend

This is my 8 1/2 ' touchscreen in a D1. I chose overhead as I think it provides a better and safer view when driving. it is located out of any glare and half the sighting distance compared to dash mount.

It is also fully adjustable (sits in a not slip rubber bush) so with finger touch I can swing it down towards me for square on viewing or swing up for other passengers to view. Screen size and posotion allows rear seat viewing.

Screen has VGA and 2 X RCA video channels so I can scroll between VGA computer and cameras hanging of the RCA's.

It is hung off a stainless bar and spacer arrangement (hidden) using the factory overhead console/sunshade fixings. All wiring down the right hand A-pillar.

Looks good. It definately is out of the glare up there and a good size for mapping software.