The first run of my H2 PC's are now for sale. Here is what is included:

PC - 1Ghz Processor
512 RAM
Onboard Video
Onboard Sound
CDRW/DVD ROM
Adapter to hook this system to the stock Bose sounds system - NO AMPS NECESSARY
7" Wide screen monitor with touchscreen
Mount as shown in the dash below
XM Radio Box and Harness
XM Antenna
GPS Antenna
All necessary cables for connection
Windows XP Pro
Delorme Street Atlas 2006

I will personally setup each of the PC's, check the screens, setup the necessary drivers, GPS, etc.

There are a few things you will need.
1. Wire to run to Power (I will show you where)
2. Wireless of your choice (There are too many options here so I have not included it.)
3. Ability to install it. (If you wanted me to install it, we can discuss that, I am in Knoxville, TN)

The introductory price on these is going to be $1879 USD and will include ground shipping to the continguous US.

I would like a $1000 deposit via PAYPAL at nick.steffens@usionline.net
If I don't receive 5 deposits the projects costing will have to be reviewed and anyone who sent in a deposit will be notified and their money refunded.

I have set this up to build 5 at a time and expect a 3 week delivery to the first 5. If I can get them done sooner, I will. You will be notified that your unit is complete and I will expect the balance of the payment for the unit in 24 hours unless we make another arrangement and after reciept of the balance your unit will be shipped.

OPTIONS:
If you want the scanning software that I use, please contact me. It would be a $700 option, I can work that out with you.
A few have expressed interest in a dual processor. I personnally see no use in it, but can provide that as well. This would be an additional $325. Any optional equipment would need to be included in you initial deposit.

The frontend software will be installed and setup as well. This software is an open source front end and all pertinent information will be provided to each purchaser. I will provide support for the software, but I am not charging for the inclusion of the software with the PC.

I think I have included all of the necessary information to get this started, if there are any other questions, I will do my best to answer them.

Here are some pictures of the units:











Paypal for deposit is nick.steffens@usionline.net

The first run of my H2 PC's are now for sale. Here is what is included:

PC - 1Ghz Processor
512 RAM
Onboard Video
Onboard Sound
CDRW/DVD ROM
Adapter to hook this system to the stock Bose sounds system - NO AMPS NECESSARY
7" Wide screen monitor with touchscreen
Mount as shown in the dash below
XM Radio Box and Harness
XM Antenna
GPS Antenna
All necessary cables for connection
Windows XP Pro
Delorme Street Atlas 2006

I will personally setup each of the PC's, check the screens, setup the necessary drivers, GPS, etc.

There are a few things you will need.
1. Wire to run to Power (I will show you where)
2. Wireless of your choice (There are too many options here so I have not included it.)
3. Ability to install it. (If you wanted me to install it, we can discuss that, I am in Knoxville, TN)

The introductory price on these is going to be $1879 USD and will include ground shipping to the continguous US.

I would like a $1000 deposit via PAYPAL at nick.steffens@usionline.net
If I don't receive 5 deposits the projects costing will have to be reviewed and anyone who sent in a deposit will be notified and their money refunded.

I have set this up to build 5 at a time and expect a 3 week delivery to the first 5. If I can get them done sooner, I will. You will be notified that your unit is complete and I will expect the balance of the payment for the unit in 24 hours unless we make another arrangement and after reciept of the balance your unit will be shipped.

OPTIONS:
If you want the scanning software that I use, please contact me. It would be a $700 option, I can work that out with you.
A few have expressed interest in a dual processor. I personnally see no use in it, but can provide that as well. This would be an additional $325. Any optional equipment would need to be included in you initial deposit.

The frontend software will be installed and setup as well. This software is an open source front end and all pertinent information will be provided to each purchaser. I will provide support for the software, but I am not charging for the inclusion of the software with the PC.

I think I have included all of the necessary information to get this started, if there are any other questions, I will do my best to answer them.

Here are some pictures of the units:











Paypal for deposit is nick.steffens@usionline.net

very cool . . . anymore pics/info. I think I want one

What other questions do you have or what would you like to see? Post them up and I will take them one at a time

How's the noise from the main box? Do you have some pretty quiet fans?

Would someone not very audio/video minded be able to do the install?

How is the Delorme Street Atlas 2006? and is this DVD NAV?
Can I hook up my Alpine NAV?
Is there a wireless mouse/keyboard?
Can you get online with your cell phone if no wireless cnnection available?
Can I run the JL Stealth box sub thru this with an amp?
Can I run a CD/DVD player to a aux input?
Is there an output for the NAV and DVD to run other screens?
Where is the DVD rom located?
Does that screen flip up?
Sorry for all the questions?

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by dochummer:
How's the noise from the main box? Do you have some pretty quiet fans? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

The only noise there is is on initial startup... there is about a 3 second whine. Other than that you hear no noice. There are two fans in the case and one on the processor, you cannot hear anything, even with the system muted.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by xAltitude:
What outputs does it have (i.e head rest screens) and is there any slots for a wireless card? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

It has one vga and one composite output. You can buy some readily available units to split and boost the VGA signal to go to several monitors or you can get composite video splitters as well. This will not be a problem for you.

The board I have picked do not have a PCMCIA slot. I can use one that does, if you want it that way, I will supply it for no additional charge. You will have to sacrifice the ability to add a PCI card later though. The reason I did not include this is that I have been using a USB dongle with a long cord mounted high up in the vehicle. I don't know how well it would work with the card under the seat. I can supply the unit this way though. It would also have a CF slot with this configuration as well.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by MovinH2:
Would someone not very audio/video minded be able to do the install? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

The hardest part of installing this will be taking the console out. The rest is very easy. It is just popping some panels out to run wiring, it is very straight forward. There are really less than 15 connections that need to be done. I will do all of the modifications to the video screen, etc.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by NJ H2:
How is the Delorme Street Atlas 2006? and is this DVD NAV?
Can I hook up my Alpine NAV?
Is there a wireless mouse/keyboard?
Can you get online with your cell phone if no wireless cnnection available?
Can I run the JL Stealth box sub thru this with an amp?
Can I run a CD/DVD player to a aux input?
Is there an output for the NAV and DVD to run other screens?
Where is the DVD rom located?
Does that screen flip up?
Sorry for all the questions? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

1. The Delorme software is very detailed. The 2006 version is MUCH better to use. To still do on the fly programming you really would benefit from using a keyboard, the computer has an On Screen Keyboard, but using a mini one is the best way. On a scale of 1 to 10 I would say it is an 8, I like the features, I like the maps, etc. I have used it on a long trip, it will respond to voice commands if you set up a microphone, it will also give voice commands while you are driving. I hooked mine up in my house before I put it in the truck and programmed in all of the normal places that I travel. THEN it is VERY easy, you just pick where you are going and starting from on a pull down menu. It is not DVD nav, all the maps are on the hard drive, no need to tie up a drive.
2. I have no experienve with teh alpine NAV, if you can hook it up through a computer you can use it. There are two more Video inputs for this screen. If you can feed it to a normal composite video feed, then you should be able to use it. I am not sure about the sound. Sorry I am just not familiar with it.
3. If you can interface your phone with a computer, you can use it to get online with this, it has all of the functions of a normal PC.
4. Yes you can run amplifiers with this and an auxilary sub box. Basically have an RCA that runs from the computer to the adapter harness, you would just run the RCA to your amp and then from the amp to the adapter.
5. There should be no need for a CD/DVD player in an aux input. You will have 80GB of HD space to store movies or songs. There is a CD/DVD drive on the unit or you can remote locate it, with the purchase of a USB external housing.
6. I covered the "other screens" question in another reply.
7. No that screen does not flip up, it is mounted exactly where it is.

The questions are not a problem...

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by xAltitude:
and is there any slots for a wireless card? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I went ahead and ordered a board with the wireless slot to see if the wireless PCMCIA card is effective or not.

What about connecting an Ipod? Will the uspec adapter allow it to function in place of a CD Changer? I cant dump the Ipod contents to the Car Cpu as it is Paired with my Desk top. Can you think of a better option that would allow ipod menu access on the Touch screen?

Oh yea, What if you have Factory XM? Do I have to swap out the XM Reciever and Antenna? I have The 2005 TSN with XM and My Ipod replacing the Changer.

If you can make the ipod work with a PC you can probably make it work with this. I don't know about integration into the system. If it had it's own software it can be embedded and them an option added to the menu to listen to it. If you can point me to he software you are using I can try it. My wife has an iPod, I could try it with hers.

Again.. not sure why you would need it though. I have about 6,700 mp3's on my pc. If I down load a song, I just transfer it to it via wireless or my USB drive.

With the factory XM, that is a good question. I would assume that the factory antenna would work. You could probably get it all to work with it, I have not researched it so I cannot give you a firm answer on either.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by md_sailor:
What about connecting an Ipod? Will the uspec adapter allow it to function in place of a CD Changer? I cant dump the Ipod contents to the Car Cpu as it is Paired with my Desk top. Can you think of a better option that would allow ipod menu access on the Touch screen? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I took an old head unit I have here and hooked it up to the computer. Of course you can't control it with the computer, but you can listen to it through the PC, I am doing it right now.

So.. yes you can listen to your Ipod through it.
Hope that helps.

Thank you, What does the Scanner option do? What are you scanning?

The software I use is HP Tuners and it is a fully functional scanner for the truck. You can log anything that the computer has. It is also a fully functioning programmer, so you can program anything with the ECU and transmission.

Damn! This is really cool.

Could it be configured for Sirius?

Does it have an aux RCA sound input? Then I could use my existing Kenwood stand alone sat radio module.

Any remote IR option for control? Something that might be compatible with a Soundgate steering wheel control module?

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by Longhorn:
Damn! This is really cool.

Could it be configured for Sirius?

Does it have an aux RCA sound input? Then I could use my existing Kenwood stand alone sat radio module.

Any remote IR option for control? Something that might be compatible with a Soundgate steering wheel control module? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

1. Yes the front end can use Sirius as well. I could work something out with you if don't want the XM unit. You would be on your own to set it up, there are other skins out there to control the Sirius radio. I don't have one so I cannot tell you how to set it up.

2. You could use the mic input for what you are looking for.

3. I have used a media PC remote on mine, the touch screen is an easier way, but any remote compatible with the computer will work.

Will this Unit function with the Factory GPS antenna?

I'm sure many of us would like to Keep the Factory XM and GPS equipment. It would simplify things greatly. Not to mention expand the appeal to all the Lux owners out here with Factory GPS and XM

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by md_sailor:
I'm sure many of us would like to Keep the Factory XM and GPS equipment. It would simplify things greatly. Not to mention expand the appeal to all the Lux owners out here with Factory GPS and XM </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

The factory GPS unit is tied into the onstar unit and the signal is created in the box. You would have to hack into the box to use the factory antenna. The new GPS antenna is very easy to run and about 1.5" in diameter. The factory XM unit is an add on unit and I have tried to incorporate it.

I don't see how it would simply things at all? If you did not have GPS or XM, the cost to go and buy factory XM and GPS units would far outweigh the cost of the aftermarket ones. The way I have decided to intergrate the computer is the most cost effective way. I have had the Onstar unit apart and investigated using the factory GPS antenna and the work required to tap into it would far outweigh the cost of the aftermarket parts.

You do have the option of continuing to use your factory radio. You can feed the computer into the AUX port on the radio and just switch the factory radio to AUX and make a screen mount for the screen elsewhere. This was what I did the entire time I was originally testing the system.

Hey blown - check your e-mail bro

BLOWNZ06-

You have two PM's...

The GPS antenna Is NOT part of Onstar. I Installed My TSN and XM and GPS. The GPS antenna Is a Chip unit that mounts under the dash at the base of the Windshield.

Sorry.. my post was a bit misleading.

The part of the factory GPS that translates and send the NMEA compliant signal is part of the onstar unit. That is what you have to tap into, not simply plug the antenna into the computer.

This is the information I found, if you have other information, please PM me a link to it.

Thanks.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by H2_SUT_SC:
Hey blown - check your e-mail bro </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

^

Blown, THe antenna for the GPS does plug directly into the Radio here is Klaus's Install link with Clear pictures of the unit..http://www.elcova.com/h2/2003H2GMNavigationInstall.pdf

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">http://www.elcova.com/h2/2003H2GMNavigationInstall.pdf </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

Ok I see what you are saying.. mine only plugs into the Onstar unit... I don't have the NAV radio. This still does not answer the question if this antenna can provide the necessary signal to the computer. I will see if I can come up with anything further. This is certainly interesting though. I appreciate the post... his truck has Onstar as well so does he run two antennas?

All H2s have OnStar, which uses the roof antenna over the driver's head for GPS and cellular. In 2005 this antenna was modified to also support XM.

If the H2 is also equipped with navigation, it has an additional GPS antenna in the dash.

I junked the OnStar and connected the OnStar's GPS roof antenna to my NAV unit. It has a much better view of the sky.

My suggestion would be to use an aftermarket GPS antenna, unless you are junking OnStar.

What mount are you using for you monitor when you left the factory radio in? I would rather have mine set up this way instead of replacing the radio....would this be an option and how would this effect the price?
Tracy

It is an option, I have not prefected the mount. I will be happy to provide what I used for the mount. I am not prepared to provide the mounts. They are not the best way to mount the screen. It was still a bit shakey, etc. It worked very well this way. As long as you don't mind adjusting the screen every once in a while. If you did not mind a screw in the plastic part of the dash (the replaceable part) you could find a better way to mount it for sure. As far as cost goes... I will make the PC package $1779 if you want to go that route. It is actually less work for me. As I said I will send you a picture of what I did for the mount. Anyone with simple hand tools can make it, nothing fancy.. took me about 30 minutes in my garage.

2 antennas? I have 3 on top and 1 in the dash? I have the onstar over the drivers side, The Factory Radio and Factory XM over the Passenger side and the GPS in the Dash. THis is the Reason for asking if the new unit would be able to use the existing XM and GPS. The Factory XM has a Seperate Reciever behind the Glove Compartment that then plugs up to the Factory Head unit. If I have to Abandon these units I dont think I would be interested in the new set up. I have too much time and Money involved in the Installation of them.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by md_sailor:
2 antennas? I have 3 on top and 1 in the dash? I have the onstar over the drivers side, The Factory Radio and Factory XM over the Passenger side and the GPS in the Dash. THis is the Reason for asking if the new unit would be able to use the existing XM and GPS. The Factory XM has a Seperate Reciever behind the Glove Compartment that then plugs up to the Factory Head unit. If I have to Abandon these units I dont think I would be interested in the new set up. I have too much time and Money involved in the Installation of them. </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

You cannot even see the other antennas you will adding. You are going to have let them go or do what I suggested above. These PC's are like anything else aftermarket. This was designed to look as factory installed as possible and I have gotten nothing but positive feedback on them and have many interested. I am setting up the system for my Corvette right now. I have done my best to make the least work possible and integrate it as much as possible.

Ok I understand that The Nav would plug into Onstar, What about the factory XM unit? Will that plug up to your unit?

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by md_sailor:
Ok I understand that The Nav would plug into Onstar, What about the factory XM unit? Will that plug up to your unit? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>

I don't even have one to try it. So I cannot answer that. The antenna may plug up the XM unit. Don't know about the XM unit to PC, again, I don't have one, so no idea. If you can tell me it the XM unit had a 8 pin mini DIN plug on it, I could tell you. Without one I have no idea. As I said, my truck or the Corvette did not come with one.

BlownZ06, PM sent.

<BLOCKQUOTE class="ip-ubbcode-quote"><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-title">quote:</div><div class="ip-ubbcode-quote-content">Originally posted by NJ H2:
How is the Delorme Street Atlas 2006? and is this DVD NAV?
Can I hook up my Alpine NAV?
Is there a wireless mouse/keyboard?
Can you get online with your cell phone if no wireless cnnection available?
Can I run the JL Stealth box sub thru this with an amp?
Can I run a CD/DVD player to a aux input?
Is there an output for the NAV and DVD to run other screens?
Where is the DVD rom located?
Does that screen flip up?
Sorry for all the questions? </div></BLOCKQUOTE>
There is software available for Canada that includes turn-by-turn directions as well. I imagine it would be easy to get up and running on this system.

If you have an existing navigation system and you are interested in the PC aspects of this system, you would be able to use its composite outputs to add to the navigation system. You would lack your touchscreen capability on the PC, but there are a few nice wireless keyboard and mouse sets that are RF, not IR, meaning you do not need line of sight for the remote. (One of the sets uses a gyroscopic mouse so you use it in the air.)

Using a mobile phone to get online would be quite easy, too, as most new ones have USB cables to connect to the PC to emulate a modem. It would vary from phone to phone, but I imagine it would be a simple procedure.

Since the factory stereo is still handling the audio, you can use whatever speakers and subwoofers you want. You could input your own audio using the inputs on the system. (I have a good idea what platform is being used for this system.)

I realize that it is BLOWNZ06's project, but I have built a lot of these systems for customers over the past four years, so I thought I would offer my two cents.