Are car PCs any good?

[Dal123]

Hey guys, I posted a thread approximately one year ago seeking some advice for my requirements:

• A new digital Head Unit with Bluetooth to connect Iphone 5 and emails etc load on screen and play mp3s;
  
• Decent Sat Nav;
  
• Reverse Camera;
  
• Retain steering wheel controls;
  

Optional but preferred:

• Front Camera - that will record as surveillance (would like the reverse also to record);
  

 

Someone recommended a car PC, however I am a little sceptical on this as SatNav software varies in quality and I had an old PDA when they first came out and the SatNav software was terrible. I also prefer Macs if possible however there does not seem to be any info on SatNav software for Mac.

 

I would prefer a single screen, to replace the Bose system as I think two screens may look a little too much. I was going to replace the Bose Head Unit, is this a single or double din? I have the cubbyhole at the top.

 

Others recommended the http://www.caraudiocentre.co.uk/product_m-jvc-kw-av70bt_p-27469.htm so I may do that, or a Pioneer HU. I see Pioneer do this add-on SatNav thingy http://www.pioneer.eu/uk/products/25/111/241/AVIC-F260/page.html.

I have no idea on the wiring, but have read quite a few threads on here.

 

My budget is £800 for supply and fitting, but I am willing to do myself if I get organised.

 

Grateful of any guidance.

[Randy_Baton]

If you want to use ios just get an Ipad mini and mount it, if you want something cheaper go with a NEXUS7 and stick either of them in the cubby hole.There are a few different people on here doing different things with tablets. Think one of the member traders is selling an IPAD mount.

 

Can't think of a reason to have a dedicated in car PC these days, just get a tablet.

 

I went for a more tablet 'ghetto' mount, you can see it in my build thread, link in my profile.

[Dal123]

Thanks Randy, glad my scepticism was warranted. This Pioneer AVH-H5600BT HU looks pretty good and looks like it has a Satnav app, though may work out expensive on the tethering and download limit on the mobile phone. Doubt one would get speed camera updates on it also.