mounting a Apple Mac Mini in a FJ80

smileyboy · 11-08-07, 08:34 AM

I have starting purchasing my parts for my mac mini install in my 96 LC.

I have found the touch screen I plan to use and my power supply. I am wondering about mounting locations. Does anyone have nay ideas? I am looking to hide the MINI pretty well, but still have access to burn DVD/CDs and remove the Mini if needed but not too often. If anyone has already installed one Pictures would be great.
Thanks

e9999 · 11-08-07, 09:28 AM

check out my thread on mounting my ham radio for ideas...!

davegonz · 11-09-07, 12:07 PM

Mount it in the center console and make an air vent for it to cool down.

TEPUI · 11-09-07, 12:31 PM

Awesome project, A friend tells me that Mac minis great to use in cars because they use "laptop" hard drives which are vibration proof. On the other hand, I've heard that temperature can be an issue, I'm sure you're taking that into account.

What kind of touchscreen did you pic?
Does it connect directly to VGA?
Specs?

A quick google search for "mac mini carputer" took me to this photo gallery, looks so slick!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/zapwiza...7594054134962/

KliersLC · 11-09-07, 10:32 PM

EricE in the 80 series section has one. Search for info, or PM him...

smileyboy · 11-10-07, 12:31 AM

I chosse the Xenarc 700tsv
list of features can be found here: http://store.mp3car.com/Xenarc_700TSV_p/mon-004.htm

I just need to pick out my speakers and get this hopefully cranked ou tin the next few weeks.
I am still debating a location to mount the Mini. I need good air circulation/security

calphi27 · 11-10-07, 11:33 PM

what frontend are you going to use for the mini? I was toying with the idea of going this route too.

Angel? · 11-11-07, 12:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by smileyboy

I am wondering about mounting locations. Does anyone have nay ideas? I am looking to hide the MINI pretty well, but still have access to burn DVD/CDs and remove the Mini if needed but not too often.

Well, given you want access, I too would suggest inside the center console, if it's dimensions will allow. If it were me, I would put in some type of bracing to keep it from flopping around in the console (which can destroy the hard drive), yet make sure there was enough space for air circulation. Even with proper bracing, I wonder if the unit is rugged enough to run around in a LC (on road let alone offroad) - bouncing around can crash a hard drive.

I would also consider putting a fan on the passenger side of the console with air inlets on the drivers side (both down low to enhance the apperance) to insure adequate cooling. It is going to take a fair amount of cableing under the console to connect up the video display, and any periphials. Take your time, dry fit it many times, ponder the appearance, and don't rush the process - you will be happier with the outcome.

brownbear · 11-13-07, 08:50 PM

I would consider the glovebox. Cut some holes in there, or remove the back behind the mac mini. Then the cables can route fine and it will breathe.

That touchscreen is nice. But you may be able(may) to use a non touch monitor(7 inch). They sell for about 120 bucks. Then use a small bluetooth mouse. Or use the mac remote, with sofa control installed.

Whatever method IMOP the screen needs to be able to hide or be removed. Or you will get robbed.

LandCruisers4Life · 11-13-07, 08:55 PM

This was already done by a friend of mine in a Land Rover club I am in. Unfortunately I don't have any info for you at the present as I am not at home. It's a cool set up. He has his screen in the center console area, and the mini I think under the seat. He also has internet.

smileyboy · 11-13-07, 09:55 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by brownbear

I would consider the glovebox. Cut some holes in there, or remove the back behind the mac mini. Then the cables can route fine and it will breathe.

That touchscreen is nice. But you may be able(may) to use a non touch monitor(7 inch). They sell for about 120 bucks. Then use a small bluetooth mouse. Or use the mac remote, with sofa control installed.

Whatever method IMOP the screen needs to be able to hide or be removed. Or you will get robbed.

Good looking out.

I am working with a buddy of mine that owns a upholstery shop. I will see what we can come up with to hide it.

smileyboy · 11-15-07, 08:00 AM

THis guy has a cool idea. Anyone know how to do this?

smileyboy · 11-15-07, 08:01 AM

one more

rgsiii · 12-07-07, 06:22 AM

I installed one about two years ago. It is in my ROTW write up.

http://forum.ih8mud.com/showthread.p...light=mac+mini

TEPUI · 12-13-07, 09:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by rgsiii

I installed one about two years ago. It is in my ROTW write up.

http://forum.ih8mud.com/showthread.p...light=mac+mini

That is a very nice setup rgsiii! Congratulations.

11-08-07, 08:34 AM	#1
smileyboy IH8MUD Junior Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 133	mounting a Apple Mac Mini in a FJ80 I have starting purchasing my parts for my mac mini install in my 96 LC. I have found the touch screen I plan to use and my power supply. I am wondering about mounting locations. Does anyone have nay ideas? I am looking to hide the MINI pretty well, but still have access to burn DVD/CDs and remove the Mini if needed but not too often. If anyone has already installed one Pictures would be great. Thanks __________________ My rides: 1994 GMC Vandura 2500, Smiley Electric, Inc (North Denver), 195k miles 1996 Toyota Landcrusier 131k 2.5 OME lift, ARB bumper, FJ Alloy wheels, Terra Grapplers 285/70/17, 08 Scion/Pioneer Radio 1996 BMW 328i with M3 kit-wifes DD 2005 yam Wolverine 450 FS: 1984 Honda XR250 $900

11-08-07, 09:28 AM	#2
e9999 You want to do what...? Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: PRK Posts: 10,209	check out my thread on mounting my ham radio for ideas...! __________________ '97: 88K, 3xlock, Custom HD roo bar for sale, 285 MT/Rs on steelies, Hanna sliders, 851+1.5"/863/N73/N74E/SD24, ARB bull with M12, Kaymar with duals, Kaymar rack, Slee TC skid, 2m/440, more stuff, loose nut behind the wheel!) '03: 99K, the better half's... DD souped up DR650

11-09-07, 12:07 PM	#3
davegonz Keeping it Weird Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Austin, TX TLCA# 14650 Posts: 1,131 Blog Entries: 1	Mount it in the center console and make an air vent for it to cool down. __________________ David Gonzalez __________________________________________________ "Penny" Bronze 2000 100-series 33" BFG A/T's, storage drawers, OME Heavy Lift, Kenwood Nav System Old trucks:1993 FZJ80 White, 1993 FZJ80 Green, 1991 4BTJ62 david.gonzalez@gmail.com Lone Star Land Cruisers

11-09-07, 12:31 PM	#4
TEPUI Spread the H8 Join Date: Jan 2006 Location: Chile Posts: 648 Blog Entries: 1	Awesome project, A friend tells me that Mac minis great to use in cars because they use "laptop" hard drives which are vibration proof. On the other hand, I've heard that temperature can be an issue, I'm sure you're taking that into account. What kind of touchscreen did you pic? Does it connect directly to VGA? Specs? A quick google search for "mac mini carputer" took me to this photo gallery, looks so slick! http://www.flickr.com/photos/zapwiza...7594054134962/ __________________ '97 トヨタRZJ90 Get your Land Cruiser T-Shirts, Hats, Stickers here!

11-09-07, 10:32 PM	#5
KliersLC IH8MUD Lifer Join Date: Oct 2004 Location: Stafford, VA Posts: 2,265	EricE in the 80 series section has one. Search for info, or PM him... __________________ No problem, I'll just tow the pig to Salt Lake on a UHAUL trailer...... 95 T100, beater edition 01 Sequoia Limited 02 Camry--Poor replacement for an 80 "A vehicle's capabilities are inseparably linked to the mental instability of the driver"

11-10-07, 12:31 AM	#6
smileyboy IH8MUD Junior Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 133	I chosse the Xenarc 700tsv list of features can be found here: http://store.mp3car.com/Xenarc_700TSV_p/mon-004.htm I just need to pick out my speakers and get this hopefully cranked ou tin the next few weeks. I am still debating a location to mount the Mini. I need good air circulation/security __________________ My rides: 1994 GMC Vandura 2500, Smiley Electric, Inc (North Denver), 195k miles 1996 Toyota Landcrusier 131k 2.5 OME lift, ARB bumper, FJ Alloy wheels, Terra Grapplers 285/70/17, 08 Scion/Pioneer Radio 1996 BMW 328i with M3 kit-wifes DD 2005 yam Wolverine 450 FS: 1984 Honda XR250 $900

11-10-07, 11:33 PM	#7
calphi27 IH8MUD Addict Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: Denver Posts: 806	what frontend are you going to use for the mini? I was toying with the idea of going this route too. __________________ 1990 FJ62 aka -HogMauler- (OME Med-SR-ARB Bull Bar-SROR Sliders) TLCA# 11319 1995 Saab 9k Aero (Custom intake and exhaust) ----- HOPKINS BAY RESORT ----- ---Ask Me About Getting An iPhone or a Wii---

11-13-07, 08:50 PM	#9
brownbear Mod in Hibernation Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Where diesels purr and turbos whine TLCA# 15584 Posts: 6,147	I would consider the glovebox. Cut some holes in there, or remove the back behind the mac mini. Then the cables can route fine and it will breathe. That touchscreen is nice. But you may be able(may) to use a non touch monitor(7 inch). They sell for about 120 bucks. Then use a small bluetooth mouse. Or use the mac remote, with sofa control installed. Whatever method IMOP the screen needs to be able to hide or be removed. Or you will get robbed. __________________ -84 BJ60, Finally on the FN road! -91 FJ80, wife's ride Iron Butt award winner of the Cruise Moab 08 !

11-13-07, 08:55 PM	#10
LandCruisers4Life IH8MUD Lifer Join Date: Aug 2006 Location: San Antonio, Texas TLCA# 16244 Posts: 1,539	This was already done by a friend of mine in a Land Rover club I am in. Unfortunately I don't have any info for you at the present as I am not at home. It's a cool set up. He has his screen in the center console area, and the mini I think under the seat. He also has internet. __________________ 2004 UZJ100 "El Rinoceronte" - Gotta pay to play...

11-15-07, 08:00 AM	#12
smileyboy IH8MUD Junior Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 133	THis guy has a cool idea. Anyone know how to do this? Attached Images __________________ My rides: 1994 GMC Vandura 2500, Smiley Electric, Inc (North Denver), 195k miles 1996 Toyota Landcrusier 131k 2.5 OME lift, ARB bumper, FJ Alloy wheels, Terra Grapplers 285/70/17, 08 Scion/Pioneer Radio 1996 BMW 328i with M3 kit-wifes DD 2005 yam Wolverine 450 FS: 1984 Honda XR250 $900

11-15-07, 08:01 AM	#13
smileyboy IH8MUD Junior Join Date: Jul 2007 Location: Denver, CO Posts: 133	one more Attached Images __________________ My rides: 1994 GMC Vandura 2500, Smiley Electric, Inc (North Denver), 195k miles 1996 Toyota Landcrusier 131k 2.5 OME lift, ARB bumper, FJ Alloy wheels, Terra Grapplers 285/70/17, 08 Scion/Pioneer Radio 1996 BMW 328i with M3 kit-wifes DD 2005 yam Wolverine 450 FS: 1984 Honda XR250 $900

12-07-07, 06:22 AM	#14
rgsiii Disciple of Dan Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Sweet Home Alabama Posts: 600	I installed one about two years ago. It is in my ROTW write up. http://forum.ih8mud.com/showthread.p...light=mac+mini __________________ 1981 BJ42, OME, ARB Lockers, AXT Turbo, Warn M12000 1994 FZJ80 ROTW 1997 FZJ80 40th Anniversary being modified Victimized by CDan Court photographer for HRH The Shaman Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense

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