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Having a GPS when exploring off road is quite useful. At first I had a laptop sitting on the
seat that I used for GPS, but the laptop usually got in the way or someone had to hold it.
Thats when I decided to build a custom computer to mount in the truck that would be out of the
way.
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The construction of the computer started with an IBM T40 laptop. It was then stripped down to
only what I needed. The screen, case, keyboard and modem were taken out. Not having a screen
lengthened the battery time, but I wanted more so I modified it to use two extended 9-cell
batteries. A new power switch was needed as the old one was on the keyboard. A new case
had to be built for it as well.
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The computer part of this project has changed. Instead of the laptop I used a real small desktop.
It has most of the same functionality as the laptop, but it has to use an inverter for
power. A little modification was needed for this computer. I had to solider wires
to the board so I could connect it to my front panel.
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A front panel was made and mounted on the dash of the truck to power it on, plug in USB devices
and turn on power supplies. For the control panel I had to make a 9 foot wiring harness for the
power and USB. For a display I use a Wireless Screen. The screen took some time to mount and
make it rigid so it wouldn't move around. A mini USB keyboard is kept under the seat.
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With the computer I can run Delorme GPS software. Audio is plugged into the truck stereo, so I have
tons of music to play. Because the display is wireless I have two wireless devices so I can still
connect to a wireless network (laptop version). I will also have the ability to run data logging or ECU management
software on the computer if necessary. With the two extended batteries I can get 10 hours of run time,
but I have it also plugged into car power to charge. The display runs off of car power as well.
That is why I added 2 extra 12V adaptors. I have also installed a 200W inverter so I can run
other powered devices as well. I will add a second car battery for the inverter power so the desktop
can run while the engine is off. Both computers can be swapped quickly to run in the truck.
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