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2005 Mazda 3 GT - CarPC

Welcome to my Mazda 3 CarPC (aka Carputer) site, a project where I installed a 7 inch touch screen LCD monitor in the dash and a computer underneath the passenger seat, which I use as a multimedia player and navigation system. Please feel free to send your questions and comments to: info@deletedtheory.com.

I also wanted to thank NappyJim, Kareem and BestBuy Dave for their help on this project. There will be more to come!

News:
Installed and Running- July 26, 2005
Over the weekend I completed the install. It took me a full day to mount the LCD, build the brackets, paint the Xenarc's face plate and carve out the aftermarket stereo mount.

I also updated the website, adding pictures of the final product, pictures of the installation and some links.

Still Outstanding:
  • Create bed for PC and Carnetix under the passenger seat
  • Adjust LCD Display - Lower by about 1 cm and tilt up
  • Clean up the edges of the LCD Display Case
Website - July 22, 2005
Started the website today! I am also completing the last of the wiring tonight. I should have the PC installed soon.
my carpc history
My first CarPC was in my 2001 Toyota Corolla S, which I traded in this year. My experience with the last carpc was great, however; it is always nice to have a chance to make some changes to the original design. Here are my high level requirements, which were motivated by my last install.

1.Clean Install
My last install was rushed by my excitement. This time around I am paying special attention to the installation. Hiding the wiring, switches, computer, GPS, WIFI, and, having the LCD Screen mounted cleanly within the dash.
2. No damage to the stock car or equipment
This was actually a requirement in my last install as well. I don't want any problems when I pull this sucker out.
3. Preserve stock deck
Keeping the stock deck in the system has some advantages, which outweighed the fact that I had to wait 3 months to get the PIE Audio interface for the Mazda3's stock deck.
  • Preserve the Steering Wheel Controls
  • Keep AM/FM radio
  • Remove the need for an amplifier (Although, you can still use one)
  • For times when the CarPC is down. (it does happen)
CarPC Features:
Multimedia Player - CD, WAV, MP3, DVD, Pics and Video

GPS Navigation System

WiFi enabled - Internet, LAN, and Remote Desktop Access

Ignition Controlled Power and Shutdown with Dash Mounted Switch Override:
    1) Computer is Off
    2) Computer is On
    3) Computer's state is controlled by the ignition.

Stock Stereo in the Glove Box - used with the steering wheel controls


CarPC Setup:
7' In-Dash Touchscreen LCD (Xenarc)
VIA Epia M Motherboard with 1GHz Processor 
256 Megs of RAM
20 Gig Laptop HD
GPS
D-Link Wireless USB Wi-Fi (A/B/G)
Carnetix Power Interface
Stock Deck
PIE Audio Interface

Software:
Windows XP SP2
UbiquityV by Digital Wheelz
Mappoint
2006 :: developed by deleted theory :: info@deletedtheory.com