Netbook CarPC running XBMC

**BrAd1150** · 04-13-2011, 12:45 PM

I have an Acer Aspire One that I would like to use as my CarPC. It is currently running Ubuntu 11.04 and has XBMC installed. For power I am using a 400 watt inverter, with the OEM charger plugged in (temporary until things get set up). I want to have the netbook set up so it is headless, as I plan to use a XBMC remote app on my Android phone over wifi to control it. I need some advice though. I would like the laptop to wake up when I turn the power inverter on, run XBMC automatically, and go into standby/suspend when I turn the inverter off. I would also like the option of removing the netbook to use normally when I need it.

EDIT: I started from scratch on the OS portion. I installed Ubuntu 10.10 Server, gdm, and xbmc-standalone for a minimal setup, with XBMC starting automatically. All that is working fine, all I need is some advice on the power management. Basically I want the laptop to Hibernate on battery power and wake on AC.

**leo_bergamo** · 04-18-2011, 07:51 PM

I recommend not using the netbook as the base for your setup. I actually have the same netbook as you and I had attempted to use it once. It worked out but I disliked the fact I had to install and remove the netbook each time I used my vehicle. I went back to a more traditional setup and now use a Via mini-ITX motherboard installed inside an aluminum case tucked away out of sight.

**raggedrebel92** · 04-19-2011, 01:49 PM

Originally Posted by leo_bergamo

I recommend not using the netbook as the base for your setup. I actually have the same netbook as you and I had attempted to use it once. It worked out but I disliked the fact I had to install and remove the netbook each time I used my vehicle. I went back to a more traditional setup and now use a Via mini-ITX motherboard installed inside an aluminum case tucked away out of sight.

I agree. I too tried using a netbook (Lenovo s10-3t with broadcom hack), and didn't like the results. I think one of the big tricks is desktop bios'es have the "wake on power resume" / "wake after power failure" option, and thats how I control my carputer to boot. A simple switch sends power, the mobo detects 12v and turns on.

I also would recommend changing your mind on an inverter. There not good for your battery and can be tricky.

**leo_bergamo** · 04-19-2011, 03:05 PM

Originally Posted by raggedrebel92

I agree. I too tried using a netbook (Lenovo s10-3t with broadcom hack), and didn't like the results. I think one of the big tricks is desktop bios'es have the "wake on power resume" / "wake after power failure" option, and thats how I control my carputer to boot. A simple switch sends power, the mobo detects 12v and turns on.

I also would recommend changing your mind on an inverter. There not good for your battery and can be tricky.

Trust me I went through a lot of trial and error but was able to get and inverter to play nicely. I use a 400w so it is not to overly demanding.