Linux Based CarPC

Uber-Review writes "If you have been looking for a Linux based car PC. One man has made this a reality and documented putting together a Linux based car PC. Some of the features of this on board car PC is it can automatically sniff and record locations of wireless access points and plot them with GPS. You can watch a movie, browse the internet, get weather forecasts and stream Direct TV from your house right to your car. For an added bonus, you can remote start the car, and connect to it from inside the house and use SSH in, and transfer files without even getting off the couch."

Love the idea but...

[jhfry]

I have planned to build one of these for a long time, but everytime I start to price components I realize it's not worth the money and time it would take me.

What I really want is a video server for DVD movies for the kid's tv in the back seat. I mean the tv/vcr combo thats there now is great... until the tape ends and needs rewinding. Not to mention that VHS tapes are so bulky that we only keep 5 or so in there.

Give me a video server that fits into the opening in my minivan and I'll be as happy as a fly on s#!t on the next road trip!

Careful

[Work Account]

Spending $500-1000 to put a computer in your car will cost $500-1000.

But insurance will not appraise your vehicle at its fair market value + $500-1000, so if someone smashes and grabs your penguin box, it's gone for good.

Re:Just wondering..

[rob_squared]

Its about $80 a month for unlimited access. For that speed, its worth it if you use it at home too.

That wasn't too hard, I wonder what those other guys issues are. In fact I bet a lot of people looked it up just because of your question, I didn't even know.

Re:Windows is actually better for the car

[sxpert]

tried roadster [linuxadvocate.org] ?

Re:Careful

[spiralscratch]

Why wouldn't comprehensive insurance cover this?

If you can provide receipts and evidence that the equipment was actually mounted in the car (i.e. take pictures), then yes, they will replace any stolen equipment. Depending on the policy, you may have to inform your carrier of the upgrade at the time of install. Some may charge you a small premium for every $1000 or so you add in equipment.

This would be no different than having an upgraded stereo system.