O'Reilly Published Car PC Hacks--Includes Macs

Fully illustrated and written by innovative computer hardware hackers and automobile customizers, Car PC Hacks is a collection of tips, tutorials, and techniques for installing, displaying, and controlling a car PC, whether Mac or Wintel. It shows readers how to use a keyboard touch screen, or voice-activated in-car computers for things like watching (and even pausing and rewinding) live TV on the road; videoconferencing on the go; and using GPS to create a constant travel record. Clever, detailed hacks include:

• Install a Mac computer that will power on and off just like the car stereo--and won't drain the car battery
  
• Move an entire audio collection to the car and navigate playlists with a remote control or touch screen
  
• Install a PC-based in-car navigation system that is cheaper, faster, and more usable than the factory-supplied setup in new cars
  
• Plug into the car's built-in computer and find out what the "check engine light" is really saying
  
• Enjoy wireless networking and accessing the Internet from the car
  
• Listen to email, news, and RSS feeds while driving
  
• Run a TiVo-like radio broadcast recorder so favorite shows are always ready and waiting
  
• Use a game console as a small, quiet, and affordable in-car computer (and even offering one to every passenger!)

"The time for in-car computing has arrived," says Damien Stolarz--and his groundbreaking new Car PC Hacks (Stolarz, O'Reilly, US $24.95) is the first book to show readers how to put a PC in their ride and create a powerful mobile digital hub. [Bill Fox]