What is a carputer
A Carputer is, quite simply a Computer in a Car. Why? Well, why not?!
Okay, first reason is I'm a spod, and I like my car. So this way I get to spod in my car!
Actually not really. It actually serves a number of purposes (purpae?), namely: -
| MP3 Player | It gives me instant access to x,000 music files without swapping and scratching CDs. |
| Satelite Navigation | By integrating Destinator 2 satellite navigation software, I can now use it to find my way when I'm lost! |
| Movies | As well as music I can play movies. Now obviously this is not for when I'm driving, but for when I'm bored waiting for someone, or just for the sake of it! |
This is my second carputer installation, details of the original, including a home made power regulator can be found here.
What's it made of
The system is based around a VIA EPIA M9000 Mini-ITX motherboard. This board has almost everything required for a computer, all that is required in addition is RAM, hard disk and power. A case is optional, and in my case messy (which is why you won't find any pictures of that here yet!).
To this I have added 256Mb RAM, and a 40Gb Hard Disk.
For power, I am using a 90 Watt DC-DC ATX PSU from Opus Solutions. This provide clean power to the computer, as well as automatic startup/shutdown, and protects against resets when I start my car.
That's it, I'm bored for now. I'll post more details when there's more to post!
Other Features
For security purposes, my installation has a mask. This is basically the front of my old double-DIN OEM head unit, which I can cover the screen with, and make it look like there's nothing to nick. Not foolproof (you can't be 100% safe from scallys), but protects from opportunists!
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