Computerize your car

Step 4: Anchor the PC

At this point, the CPU is just about ready to be mounted. Be sure to allow ample clearance for any connections on the unit. USB connections, the power button, and any slot will need to be accessible. If the unit has an internal DVD drive, the CPU needs to be positioned so that the drive is in the standard flat position. Although most drives can work sideways, the optical head won't have the same shock-absorbing ability in that orientation.

If the CPU has its own mounting bracket, secure the empty bracket first to make sure everything is square and fits properly and the car's panels fit back in place. This is where self-tapping sheet-metal screws come in handy. Since you already ran the ground and power connections, this is a good time to terminate the wires with crimped-on connectors. Go through a dry run by connecting and plugging in all of the peripherals to make sure there is enough clearance for everything.

Getting audio from your computer to the car's sound system can be an entire project in itself. If your stereo head unit has an auxiliary input, it's easy to connect the audio output on the computer to the input of the stereo. If you need to add an auxiliary input to your stereo, take a look at Pacific Accessory or Precision Interface Electronics, which both specialize in auxiliary adapters for stock stereos.

If you're going to use a GPS antenna (and why wouldn't you?), check that it can be mounted with direct overhead sky access while still having enough cable to reach the CPU. A USB extension cable may be required if the cord is not long enough. A good trick to hide a GPS antenna is to find sheer speaker fabric in the same color as the vehicle interior. Wrap the antenna in the fabric and secure the antenna to the rear deck with Velcro, double-sided tape, or a simple mounting base.

Access to the Internet while on the road dramatically increases the functionality of an in-car computer. The cheapest way to go is an 802.11 Wi-Fi card, but Wi-Fi connections are short range and don't travel well. Until a technology such as WiMax covers cities with a blanket of continuous Internet coverage, Wi-Fi will remain useful only at hot spots or unsecured access points.

Wireless providers offer another solution through GPRS/EDGE networks, which give you cell phone range. With a data-enabled phone, you can connect through Bluetooth or data cable and see transfer speeds from 56Kbps up to 2Mbps, depending on the offering and technology. Or you can opt for the PCMCIA card version that lives in your PC. Each service provider has its own cost structure, and not knowing your plan details can lead to catastrophic data usage bills.