Thread: simple Questions

Hi, and welcome to the forums. The advantage of using the M10k, is that it draws a lot less power than a normal mobo., and it's really small. The downside is not as the speed of the thing, but its video capabilities.
Using the Opus, you won't need an inverter, you just connect a 12AWG wire from the battery directly to the Opus, and that's it.
The M10k supports 5.1 channels output, but, you are right, you won't be able to use you mic, if you go the 5.1 way.

the via boards are low on power consumption, you can use pretty much any computer within limits of the 150w power supply, which is rather low

no you dont need and inverter

correct about the microphone, you can always get a usb microphone or a usb soundcard tho

Originally Posted by arking

Hi everyone, i am two days new here and i have done so much reading here, but still can't figure out ... perhaps, my questions are too simple?

for now i can't wait to have a carpc in my car and i am thinking to get a VIA M10000 , actually do i have to use this...what is the advantage with using VIA, i saw many of you using it .

and OPUS , if i buy a 150W DC-DC , do i need something else for the power ? like inverter? or if i have a opus then i dont need a inverter?

can i use a normal computer with OPUS 150W? or i have to use special motherboard (M10000) ?....

if i have use M100000, there is one input , one output , one mic., and i know i can switch it to 5.1 channels, so it means i can't use MICrophone if i use 5.1?

these are the questions i have , thanks

My question is similar...
I've got a P4 1.3 gig mobo (or i was thinking of going with a mini-ATX mobo P4-3Gh)
I also noticed that not many folks seem to be using something that fast.
Is it power consumption that is the main reason for the VIA boards?
Those of you using the VIA boards, do they run as efficiently as a P4?
I've got a Ford Ranger normal cab, so i wanted to go with something beefy in speed but small in size, since i have no space behind the seat.
I can build you a great PC but i dont know much about auto electronics, hence the "noob" question.
Thanks

Ooops, i should have read all the way down the thread...
I guess my question really is: What are the ramifications of using my P4 motherboard and 1.3 Gig proccesser?
NIC you said something about keeping it within the 150 watts. Again, is that a constraint of the power from the vehicle?
I have a 300 watt Power Supply which I could use as long as i figure out a way to go from DC to AC and run this thing.

most people who get the VIAs do so for size. I put mine in my armrest ... try doing that with even a mini atx!

also, the mini-itx boards produce a lot less heat and are easier to keep cool.

a word to the wise ... the onboard audio of the M10000 SUCKS. Get a good USB soundcard and you'll be much happier.

Also, 5.1 is pretty much useless in a car unless you have a lot of extra money to spend to do it right, and plan on watching movies on a regular basis. There is no added benefit to 5.1 for MP3s or NAV.

ramifications for using a P4 ... you have one handy and have extra space in your vehivle ... in that case it's more cost effective to use the P4.

Otherwise the M10000 with enough ram will be enough power to do most of what you'd want to do in your car.

Thanks Shakes!
Actualy space is at a premium. I saw what you did in the armrest and have considered that option also (so then my neice gets the P4).
I'm thinking i'm going to have to custom build a case and mount it behind the seat.

it should be. you should be able to power your LCD off that too.

If you can use a slimline (i.e. laptop) CD/DVD drive it'd be better. They consume less power.

Same for the hard drive.