Has anyone put an Apple TV in a MINI yet? I have a Nav screen.... couldn't that be used?

 

From what I understand, the Apple TV only has a HDMI output for it's video signal. Thus, you'd need to find a way to convert it to a composite output for use with the MINI's nav screen (if that's even possible???).

While I've never seen an Apple TV, and so I don't know for sure, I would imagine that if it has a way to be externally controlled (like a remote control, mouse, and/or a keyboard), then it could indeed be installed in the MINI (with some work).

 

The AppleTV has component out... and I have seen a mention of a component to composite adaptor, see:
http://www.appletvhacks.net/

The AppleTV uses a remote.... so that part would be easy.... I thought to myself... why not use the AppleTV as the source, instead of a HU, and have the digital go out to something like the Alpine PXA-H701 / PXA-H701 combo.... Does that make you think "Hmmm"?

 

I went the easy way... and installed a 20 inch monitor in the back of the car.. with a few strobe lights to set it off..
I think Im happier with that then the look of the apple tv

 

I've seen a Mini in a MINI... Not using a built-in Nav though.

 

I plan on doing a Mac MINI in my MINI. It only makes sense. You can get a G4 MINI for cheap. I have 2, one for a computer and one will be my carputer. I don't have the NAV so I will do a custom screen. In my next MINI I will not have a headunit, just a computer and an amp.

 

One other thing to note is that the resolution and color depth on the 1st gen MINI's nav screen isn't the greatest. Therefore, I wouldn't look for a spectacular output from the Apple TV unit on your MINI's nav screen. I'm sure it will still be usable though.

I currently have a PlayStation II thin unit in my MINI and while it works great, the screen leaves a lot to be desired. I.e. it just wasn't made to display anything other than the simple low color nav maps and the rear/front view camera detail.

 

Another interesting related link: https://www.timekiller.org/carpc/

It's not a Mac, and it's in a Mazda, but has some really neat ideas.

 

Do you have pics of this you can post? Your setup sounds pretty cool & it'd be neat to have a visual. Also, we have the HD Apple TV at our home & the unit is designed as a wireless setup to sync with your iTunes for display on your TV. I think this thread is more along the lines of "having a hard drive to access your audio & video library." From what I recall, there's a unit called carPC or something which would be a better setup.

 

Hidden behind the tv our ps2 is mounted sideways.. to play of course the italian job at car shows, under where it says ruffcat... there are blue strobe lights hidden.. and then up under the dash on the drivers and the passenger side.. we zip tied more blue strobe lights that groove with my stereo.
The tv is mounted to a piece of mdf that is cut out the shape of the boot.

 

Very cool & clever!! What a great idea to have at car shows & to surprise friends when you lift the back hatch.

 

CooperGear have done your carputer yet?