Running M2-ATX with a Laptop

JeffTsai · 05-07-2006, 09:15 AM

Hey, I'm new here, but not new to CarPC's. However my project this time around is going to be based off a laptop rather than a box.

I know a few of you guys have messed around with the M1/M2 power supplies maybe you can answer a few questions for me.

First off, if you're wondering why I need a M2-ATX for a laptop...its to run the LCD, external HDD, and some power hungry USB devices(namely Audigy2 NX USB & USB powered DVDRW drive). I'm also going to solder a wire to the power switch of the laptop and run that to the J8 of the M2.

Anyways my question is, will the M2 unit have power output thru the 3.3,5,12v rails with only the car ACC on? Or does there need to be a motherboard connected and powered on for those power rails to come on. In my situation, there is no ATX board to hook into since I'm running the laptop.

Sidewalksalvage · 05-07-2006, 09:32 AM

As is, no. There is one wire on the ATX connector that needs to be shorted for it to believe the PC is on. On the connector the green wire must be connected to the ground for the whole board to operate properly. As long as this point is grounded, the board will completely operate.

The J8 connector probably will not do much. Its probably a better idea to use a relay with the USB off the laptop. The USB 5v line will turn the relay on which will short the green wire.

Good luck

-Luke

JeffTsai · 05-07-2006, 09:45 AM

Running the relay from usb power to the atx green wire makes sense.
lol...didn't even think of that one. Thanks for the suggestion.

I might buy a M2 just to test out, and that I will need it anways for my project. Any of you guys here try jumping the atx green wire to see if the 3.3,5,12v will power on?

W3bMa5t3r · 05-07-2006, 11:30 AM

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Sidewalksalvage · 05-07-2006, 02:38 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by W3bMa5t3r

Check out my sig :-)

Cant take full cred...thats where i got the idea from........

MikeH · 05-07-2006, 02:51 PM

JeffTsai

Quote:

its to run the LCD, external HDD, and some power hungry USB devices(namely Audigy2 NX USB & USB powered DVDRW drive). I'm also going to solder a wire to the power switch of the laptop and run that to the J8 of the M2.

You may want to take a look at the P1900. It should work well for you laptop application depending upon what voltage your laptop requires.