A+ for creativity. If the implementation works for you then more power to you

I am sorry, but all I can think of is getting the BSOD in the car

 

why not just use a pda?
for example i have dell x30 in a seidio dock that is level to the top of the steering wheel so i can see without taking my eye off the road.
so it has internet(html), mp3 player, gps(bt receiver), pocket tv and media player for vids like pron um i mean movies
i suppose i can use that audio input for the stock headunit but i dont use the mp3 player alot

 

Very creative, I agree with Mikes2k A+ for that.

I prefer the Pocket PC/Ipod solution. Both play over my stereo. I have a mini-mixer now to ensure both play since I found out the hard way you can't plug in two devices into a simple Y adaptor into the same input. Added an extra $40 bucks but it works where the other option didn't.

I now have audio through ipod and Navigation through PPC.

 

I use some foam padding under the laptop and it fits in snug - so it has been doing fine so far - good point about using padding when you install a computer - I missed that point. I did a heavy duty test it by driving in my usual manner (wheeep wheep) and it has held up in the florida heat and S2000 driving for over a year. Used to start with.

As for the PDA / IPod idea - I have pocket PCs and an Archos and tried them both first but the controls are not nearly as handy. The nice large touchscreen with large easy to see buttons is much easier to use without taking eyes off the road. Just inches from the shifter.

As for the question about using GPS and MP3s with no keyboard and mouse - the 7" touchscreen does the trick. The GPS system is harder to use with only the touchscreen but there is a USB rollup keyboard to find the location. Once it is in, the GPS is easy to use with just the touch screen. The MP3 playing apps suck with the tiny buttons - all of them - WinAmp, Media Player - even with skins they suck. That is where the simple Visual Basic program comes in - nice large buttons and selection list for playlists - and visuals to help distract you from driving (with the option to turn them off it they bother you or your passenger). I can give anyone that wants a copy the program. Not that anyone else will really attempt this so it seems - just a propeller head install.

I did not want to cut any holes in the S2000 and wanted to keep the stock stereo and controls - so that was the primary motive behind the location and basic overall setup.

Just figured I'd share the setup since it took some figuring out to make it all work with no holes or mods.

 

go to mp3car.com and spend a few minutes surfing. there is lots of info on free programs like frodoplayer and mediacar that are designed specifically for using carputers with mp3, nav, and other features. much easier than trying to write your own vb app