I plan to install a laptop computer in my S, for playing MP3s and DVDs, navigating with GPS, running OBD-II diagnostic software, and serving web pages. I haven't yet figured out exactly how it will mount, but expect to design hardware that will secure it next to the center console, beside the head unit or perhaps a little higher. The computer has an auto power adaptor, but I didn't want to use the stock accessory outlet because the plug would be too close to my elbow when I'm driving and I don't want to be concerned about jarring it loose. Besides, it's less cluttered to have the outlet near the equipment that needs it.

So I installed an accessory outlet kit for about $5 from Radio Shack. Here's the result. You can read all the installation details at my web site.



(Edit: for some reason the image doesn't show up in the post, but you can see it at http://www.blanford.com/AccessoryPowerOutlet/apo11.jpg)

 

Nice job! I did something similar, but didn't use a panel-mount outlet. I hacked apart an accessory extension, and ran the wires to the mesh pocket just below the panel you used. The outlet end sits in the mesh pocket. The other thing I did was to wire it to the power distribution block for my stereo gear -- this gives me constant voltage. I wanted to be able to charge my cell phone without leaving the ignition on .

 

I'm considering a laptop mount similar to what you describe.

Can you tell us more about how you are mounting your laptop?

 

Unfortunately my project stalled and I haven't yet gotten to the mount. But I will!

Two requirements I have are that the mount be stable when in use, and that the laptop can be pushed out of sight, under the dash or seat, when the car is parked. I've seen some smaller pda or cell phone mounts that attach with the passenger seat rail bolt. Possibly one could attach an arm that that is articulated to swing down under the seat. Another possibility is to cut through the cover that the accessory outlet is mounted in and fit an arm to the silver brace behind it, where it could swing under the dash. I am not optimistic about finding an off-the-shelf solution for either of these approaches.

I'm still looking, though, as time permits. Please share any ideas you have.

 

I like your ideas. I posted my question to your thread after unsuccessfully Googling for a prepackaged solution.

I also am looking for a solid mount but would probably take a quick-release from a seat rail mount over a fold-away. With the limited cockpit room in our cars, even a little intrusion into existing space while folded away would be objectionable to me.

I'll let you know if I find/buy anything. Please do the same!

 

http://mywebpages.comcast.net/cowicide/car...omputerwebsite/

Check this site for computer install

Wingman Gold

 

I wanted to add an accessory power socket to plug my GPS into and was going to mount the socket on a bracket under the passenger-side dash. I really wanted something more professional looking...which is exactly what I found with ronblanford's idea.

However, I wasn't real sure about taking measurements and trying to transfer those to the plastic panel. There isn't much room for error so I wanted something "exact."

A little photoshop will get you the picture below. Fortunately, the panel is covered with a bunch of little dimples. Locating the precise dimple in the photograph, I knew right where to drill. What do you know?! It's even center tapped

I'm not sure if all MY's have the same dimple pattern as my 01, but compare your panel to my picture. If the dimples are the same, then start from the 4th of 5 dimples in the top left corner of the panel. Then count down 15 to find the right spot

Hopefully someone will find this useful!

-Pat