A while ago i started my carputer project.

Ultimate objectives are:

--Keep it as clear as possible i.e. not to mess the car
--Ease of use
--Have my mp3 collection with me
--Have internet (YES! IN THE CAR )
--Watch movies (YES! IN THE CAR )
--Have my photos with me anytime
--Have handsfree cell with BT connectivity

I already have:

--7" Xenarx touchsreen
--OEM dash navigation
--80gb 2.5" Seagate momentus

What i need to run the project is:

--VIA 13000SP
--512MB RAM
--M1/2 PSU
--Casing
--Bunch of cables


Instead of buying all these i thought to:

Buy a Creative Vision M ($300) and have it in the cupholders or somewhere there but connect it through the TVOUT function to the xenarc that i will certainly install.

I will really appreciate your input.
Please help me to get through this dilemma (greek word )


Thanks guys!

 

As the former owner of the original creative jukebox, the jukebox 3, and zen micro photo, I considered the Vision M instead of a carputer as well. The reason I decided against the Vision M was safety, yes, safety. I'm excluding watching movies while driving or similar conduct in my reasoning, because I don't do that. I had each of the mp3 players in my car but was often disappointed because I always ended up either making playlists and not touching it while driving, playing "all tracks" as a playlist and then skipping through the songs until I found one I didn't mind hearing, or trying to select songs while driving. The interface on the mp3 players is great when you're not trying to operate a vehicle, but difficult and unsafe to use when driving (a manual transmission, no less) at 60mph, and making playlist relegates the mp3 player to the functionability of a CD which you already have. The larger Xenarc screen will make this easier, but will still require you take to take your eyes off the road and occupy one hand too often IMO. I like the carputer with touchscreen because I'm not limited to previously selected songs, if I get the urge to hear a certain song, I can find it much easier and safer on my carputer than I could scrolling through my mp3 player. Just my thoughts, hopefully, they are helpful. BTW, my carputer cost less than $1000, and I'm assuming you spent at least $300 for your xenarc and will spend another for $300 for the Vision M. Personally, I would go ahead and spend the extra and get all of what I initially wanted and avoid the possibility of future disappointment.