Incorporating a laptop?

Thanks for all the replies guys...  I definitely know I want a laptop in the car to view the diagnostics on the FAST and also to be able to modify the tune as needed.  I already have a Kenwood Excelon 4 channel amp and a nice JL 10" sub.  It looks like I need to compare pricing between a new head unit that has RCA input vs. just using the laptop.  It may make better sense in the end to just get a nice head unit since I can get one that of course has a 4 channel power (at least 22watts RMS or so) but it also should be able to act as a crossover, turn the amps on, etc.  Plus I don't think any laptop has a 4.1 much less 5.1 audio.  Dell doesn't evan say what they have, just "stereo line out/headphone out".  The only detailed description of a laptop soundcard I saw was from Toshiba, it said something like "16 bit audio" and had some sort of "Codec chip" in it and was soundblaster Pro compatible.  Not too promising.  I'm going to visit some shops around town this weekend for some face -to-face with some installers but like I said, it may be better to get a nice head unit that does everything I need that has RCA inputs for the laptop instead of having the computer run the whole show.  BTW, the Toshiba had some cool features like TV Tuner, CD & DVD burner/player, and most importantly a REMOTE CONTROL - that should help out the hands free issue :-)

well...stick with the laptop....all you need to do is get a sound processor.....wait....just get a basic Crossover that has L/R inputs....only thing you'll need is an 1/8" stereo to dual RCA for left and right...sorry I got carried away

go to m-audio.com, they have a usb unit that plugs into any computer and provides up to 7.1 surround, of couse they have the other 4.1 and 5.1 modules but why not go all out....grin