Hey guys,

I finally have everything wired and installed, except for the power, ground and ACC turn-on wires for the computer. Two quick questions:

1. Where spot have you guys found to be the best spot to use for a ground (I have a Sedan)

2. What did you use for the turn-on wire? By splicing into the amp wiring?

BTW ... I have a M2-ATX 160W Intelligent DC-DC PSU.

 

1) Not sure because I have a coupe. A good ground can be found anywhere, just make sure to use sandpaper to expose bare metal.

2) I spliced into the car adapter plug inside the center console armrest. This was the easiest spot because I had the center console totally exposed when I was running wires.

 

It depends on where your PC is located. In the trunk I'd use a relay on the light blue wire coming from the HU. In the front of the car I'd use the red wire going to the cigarette lighter (actually I used the one called "Power Outlet" because I think the amp rating is a bit higher).

 

The turn-on wire can be spliced from the amp or any place else that is ignition triggered. The power draw will (should) be very small - to drive a relay only.

In the coupe there is a relay in the passenger forward corner of the trunk under the carpet, which is attached using a bolt. A lot of people use that bolt. Using sandpaper to expose the metal is a good idea as mentioned, but I think that relay is grounded by that bolt by design as I did not have to sand to get a good ground there (I sanded around anyway afterwards to be certain I had a good ground).

 

It seems I am one of the first to install a Car PC into a sedan. I ended up using the G35 Stealth Case for mounting with the spare tire.

I didn't notice any exposed bolts in the trunk to use as a grounding point.

If I tap into the light blue wire going to the amp, do I need a relay; or can I just attach the wires together directly?

One other thing I noticed today, Xenarc my screen started turning white. I know this has to do with the ribbon cable not being connected correctly. I just hope I can fix the problem without ripping my dash apart again.

I will be posting pics up eventually.

Any suggestions welcome.

 

A voltmeter where you can test the resistance between two points is very helpful at finding a ground, touch one to a bolt on the car and another one where you plan on installing the ground, if current will flow its a good ground.