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| GPS Laptop |
| Since I had the GPS, I tried to figure out a simple way to connect it to my laptop as well . My first version was a mick-mack of spare parts, it worked out to my liking, so I made a cleaner install of things. Low profile so I can leave the laptop in the truck without it being obvious.... takes 2 minutes to connect up or remove. |
| There are limitations, I can't shift while the screen is up, I just configured the laptop so it doesn't go into standby or hibernate.. screen is still active when I raise it. My eyes should be on the road 100% at slower speeds (traffic) anyway, and I still have the GPS screen to fall back on. If I really do need it, my wife can lift it out of its holder and have it on her lap.. I left enough slack in the data cable to do this. |
| This is a homemade version, simple enough for anyone to follow with limited resources. |
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| Found a metal plate, (around 22g) about 2" wider and longer than the base of my laptop. I cut out each corner for easy folding, plus clearance for wiring. |
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| The sides come up about 1", holds the laptop snug, an extra cut was made so I can reach the power switch on the side, as well as the keyboard/mouse socket. Com port is open at the rear. |
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| This install is base on my Steelhorse Console (Here), the size of which made it easy to set up ..but this can be adapted to the original console with hooks. |
| I installed the female side of some velcro (it attracts less dirt) to my console around the cup area. Male velcro is attached to the bottom of the plate/holder. I also added a handle to the drawer of the console, just so I can slip in an arm for added support. (needed when screen is up) You can also see my power plug and data cable around the lower cup holder.. the rest of the wires remain hidden. |
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| The laptop drops into place, ...connect to power and data, and I'm ready to roll.. With the screen down, the laptop continues my armrest........ up, its viewable for both myself and shotgun, keyboard and mouse are at our fingertips |
| The last part was to add a triple outlet behind my console, (power taken from the interior fuse box, empty fuse slot) a small laptop specific invertor is tucked under my seat, power for the GPS runs under the passenger seat... I installed a kill switch to this outlet, just so I can leave everything plugged in, but kill the power to it when not in use. |
| Having the laptop here hasn't interfered with my seating posiotion.. even with winter coats etc.... But I've updated my console and reworked it for my next laptop |
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| This was my first version for a traditional laptop, I have since invested in a tablet, reworked my console area and have an improved setup |
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