Some of you may be aware of my latest project to install a computer in my car, a sort of media center to replace the standard CD player. Well the PC has arrived, and I rigged up a test bench last night to get it running, install the OS and front end software etc. I'll put up some pics when I'm home. As it runs off 12v it was simply a matter of connecting the power inputs on the 12v DC-DC PSU to the 12v and ground lines on a normal ATX PSU. Then I had to wire in a switch from the positive to the ignition line on the 12v PSU to simulate a key being turned. I also had to bridge pins 13 and 14 of the ATX power plug to fool the ATX PSU into thinking its plugged into a real computer.

It's running tinyxp at the moment, and I have installed RoadRunner as the front end, so far all is working well. The screen is on its way from the US, and when it's here ill have to fabricate a fascia to make it fit in the double din spot that will be vacated by the factory head unit. The audio from the PC is sent to a 5 channel amp (of which I'm only using the 4 x 35wrms channels), and then out into two 6.5" splits in the front, and 6" speakers in the rear. I've also got to sound deaden the 4 doors.

You can view progress here.