AMD based computer

**StreetStyleTT** · 09-01-2005, 03:46 PM

I am looking to build a carpc for my 1994 supra. I have a box made out of MDF (fiberboard) which I am looking to interline with aluminum and have a plexiglass top so that it displays the internals of the computer. I have been reading on the forums for sometime now and I am still learning. Time is limited for me though and I am trying to piece this thing together as soon as possible so that I can make it to the show in december. If anyone can help me out in this thread I would greatly apprciate it. Its a lot of reading searching around the forum and I am continuing doing so....but I really need the help.

I am looking to use the carpc for shows and performance. My car runs of a stand alone engine management system which uses a laptop for tuning...I want to connect the carpc to it. So I am looking for the following:

show setup (top line parts)
wireless internet to use for webcam, AIM, internet use, etc
gaming (nothing heavy.....maybe things like Counter Strike at car shows)
GPS
MP3
dvd-rw burner
vcd/dvd/svcd
car cameras to record from the webcam short movie clips

I know a lot of things I wont use...but after putting so much effort and time into the car, I will be honest with everyone here.....I want to be able to have the "bragging rights" at the car show. At the same time there are things that work and then things that are a total waste of money. Money is an issue for me, but I rather save up and buy something worth it then use a cheap suppliment.

from what I have read a lot of people are running VIA boards. I just found out that AMD is something that people run in the car as well. I wouldnt mind running that as I am worried a p4 will run too hot and draw too much power. Who makes mini motherboards for the AMD processor though? What power supply would I need?

Thanks for the help guys and I am sorry if I sound rude for just asking without serching more. I'm just pressed for time and I am dealing with enough tension with the audio shop and the paint shop to be able to focus on this.

-

Street

**StreetStyleTT** · 09-01-2005, 03:53 PM

more research has shown me the option of a

Abit VA-10
supports AMD Athlon XP 3200 with 333MHz FSB

comments?

**XxAndyxX** · 09-01-2005, 05:10 PM

The reason why I wouldn't use an AMD processor is because it's power hungry. P4's don't use as much power as the AMD Athlon. Now, if you're going with the Mobile AMD processor (I highly recommend this), then power will not be an issue.

As for a power supply, there a bunch of options. I personally use a 150watt OPUS, which has worked great.

Good luck, and welcome to the forums!

**0l33l** · 09-01-2005, 05:23 PM

Originally Posted by XxAndyxX

The reason why I wouldn't use an AMD processor is because it's power hungry. P4's don't use as much power as the AMD Athlon. Now, if you're going with the Mobile AMD processor (I highly recommend this), then power will not be an issue.

The opposite is true!

**2 STanGeR** · 09-01-2005, 05:23 PM

StreetStyleTT, I have been doing the same things as of late. I actually have one of the Abit VA-10s on my desktop right now. I was thinking about using it, but I am not sure of the power consumption either. I guess I will have to run all the wires and power and see what happens. I will let you know what I find out ASAP.

**XxAndyxX** · 09-01-2005, 05:31 PM

Originally Posted by 0l33l

The opposite is true!

Actually, not it's not. I tested this, with an AMD and P4 system. Then I called OPUS which they also tested the AMD vs. P4 and found the AMD requires more power.

**0l33l** · 09-01-2005, 05:36 PM

Originally Posted by XxAndyxX

Actually, not it's not. I tested this, with an AMD and P4 system. Then I called OPUS which they also tested the AMD vs. P4 and found the AMD requires more power.

Maybe on a certain rail that the opus doesn't have enough juice on. But AMD takes less power.

**XxAndyxX** · 09-01-2005, 05:48 PM

Originally Posted by 0l33l

Maybe on a certain rail that the opus doesn't have enough juice on. But AMD takes less power.

I wonder why they didn't say that? Maybe they didn't want their PS to sound inferior. From all the charts I've seen, it appeared that AMD used less wattage, but in a real life circumstance I noticed AMD needed more power, but you're probably right it's just on certain rails.

So to the original poster, if you are using an OPUS, I would go with a P4 or some type or mobile processor. For other power supplies, you'll have to research what works best.

**0l33l** · 09-01-2005, 05:53 PM

Originally Posted by XxAndyxX

I wonder why they didn't say that? Maybe they didn't want their PS to sound inferior. From all the charts I've seen, it appeared that AMD used less wattage, but in a real life circumstance I noticed AMD needed more power, but you're probably right it's just on certain rails.

So to the original poster, if you are using an OPUS, I would go with a P4 or some type or mobile processor. For other power supplies, you'll have to research what works best.

Glad we can agree

I'm waiting for DragonBTV's 300w PSU to come out. Then I'm going to build a a64 machine

**StreetStyleTT** · 09-01-2005, 11:30 PM

alright well a moblie processor will do. I am looking them up and reading up on them right now. As far as power consumption. My car has 2 batteries (optima gel) with a upgraded alternator and a well grounding system throughout the car. Power shouldnt be too much of an issue...but again you guys know best as I am very new to this aspect of the industry.

this is what I am thinking...i built my sound system/power system to be able to push a 1500watt system. But after building the system we ended up using only 1200...that leaves me with 300watts that I had expected to use for the system that I now have extra.

What motherboard and processor would you recommend? I hear p4 systems take too much power and too much heat? I was looking to the VIA boards but then they seem rather inferior to the AMD systems. I wouldnt mind running a AMD moblie system. What would you guys recommed......a motherboard and a processor. Also would I need a pcmcia slot for the wireless internet or can I use a usb card instead?

Thanks for the help guys, your really saving me a huge headache. I am enjoying leearning about these systems and am really trying hard. I am just put in a really tough position. I went to check out the car today and got into a huge arguement with my audio sponsors and honestly I feel if things are going to be done to my level of acceptance then I have to take it upon myself to put together everything.

Thaks again,
Street