Mk5 Digital Hud And My Thread!

[Lloyday]

So this will be my thread because my Mk5 Fiesta is about to go under some radical modernising and modifying,

But obviously I need you guys there with me for advice and shizzle, tomorrow my alloys are getting fitted and then the sound system is going in, but the next big mod I want to do is to digitalise my HUD or dials.

First off I want a digital Petrol gauge using a Spectrum Gauge such as this but reversed obviously Green being full and red being empty:

A singular, and also a digital read out for my engine temperature. I need some help in wiring up to the car and maybe an electronic whiz to make something like this.

The second mod I want to do is a combined Rev and Speedo With a digital readout for the gear I'm in and also on the rev counter a green point at "perfect shift" that would be a nice effect. Something like this: (content from NFS:shift)

or Cancel

Again probably need help in designing this, Thinking using a cheaper version of an IPAD to run some sort of graphic software maybe. I have no idea, But maybe what I should do is keep these ideas for a future car I have in mind

[tunne1rat]

I think to have this custom built would require a 5 figure budget. If you have that kind of budget then we need to talk!

If not, then it may be wise to make the best of what's already out there.

A good place to start would be to ditch the audio upgrade and install a carputer instead.

This would allow you to run the excellent centrafuse software to take care of your audio requirements and it could also handle some of your digital dash requirements: http://www.centrafuse.com/CentrafuseAuto.aspx

DashCommand (for carputer or mobile) will also allow you to build a custom dash display: http://www.palmerperformance.com/products/dashcommand/windows/index.php

You could also consider the ETB Digidash 2 as this has most of the features you require in a ready built package and is upgradable: http://www.etbinstruments.com/DD2_lite.htm

Also you might consider the Pioneer App radio as there are digidash apps available for this: http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/PUSA/Car/AppRadio/AppRadio+2+(SPH-DA100)

Food for thought.

[Lloyday]

Already have the Speakers ready to go, but all of this is a gold mine, exactly what I'm looking for. If there is customisable digidash apps on it, then that could possibly the way to look, maybe a dismount also to return it to an tablet when I'm not using it in the car, and also will then be protected from being stolen (worst case scenario). I'm liking the carputer Idea.

Will have to treat myself to the Pioneer unit ;D

But what to choose from, What kind of tower do I use? I have a windows Vista Premium tower that I no longer use but the BIOS needs resetting, Could that work? It has about 4GB of RAM if I can remember

[tunne1rat]

Unfortunately you can't just dump your home pc tower in your car!

You need a base unit designed to run from a 12v power supply and can handle a harsh automotive environment.

Basically there are two types, either hideaway base with separate touchscreen such as this: http://www.carcomputer.co.uk/index.php?/car-computer-systems/midrange-system

or fully integrated double din: http://www.cartft.com/catalog/il/770

[Lloyday]

The double DIN piece looks good and trustworthy and also the other monitor may be what I'm looking for but is the double DIN really 9999 euros? a tad high isn't it? may as well by a new car if that's the case

[tunne1rat]

I think that model may be discontinued hence the price.

Have a look here for alternatives: http://shop.vic-ltd.com/index.php?cPath=2855

Or, If you don't mind single din, why not put in a bid on this: http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/karputor-car-pc-complete-setup-touch-screen-head-unit-nav-dvd-data-scan-your-car-/230837315569?pt=UK_In_Car_Technology&hash=item35bef9e7f1

[Lloyday]

Since only now my minds been broadened into this. but what's the difference between a single and double din systems? And I so wish I had money to bid on that right now. its perfect :/

[tunne1rat]

but what's the difference between a single and double din systems?

The size of the hole required in your dash!

Every system is different. There is nothing to stop you building your own spec from scratch as the components can be bought individually and plugged together - just like you would if you were building a PC tower (but on a smaller scale).