Single DIN carputer: OPUS v. Mini-Box PS

SiliconIce · 08-07-2003, 03:25 AM

I am planning to build my in dash computer in an enclosure that will mount in a single DIN slot.

The VIA board and a 2.5" HD would seem to mount no problem in an enclosure this size if using mini-box's snap-in PS board. (similar sized unit: http://www.mini-itx.com/projects/bantampc/) That recent car power PDF said "A fully built ITPS power sequencer" could be bought as well, though they don't seem to be for sale there yet. With this extra ITPS, it would seem that the mini-box setup could offer nearly the same functionality as the OPUS supply. Or am I missing something major here?

The OPUS supply is an attractive solution, but its size concerns me. Is it possible to mount this PS unit along with the VIA mobo in a DIN (approx 7x7x2 in.) enclosure? Its hard to tell from pictures if there would be clearance. The PS board would have to be mounted over the motherboard in order to fit in the DIN sized space. From pics it looks like it may be too large...perhaps someone with a unit can shed some light on whether this woudl be possible? In addition, a 2.5" HD would need to mount in this space above the board as well...tight fit is ok as long as it would fit

Thanks for any help you can offer!

[Whoops, I should specify that I will be using an EPIA M10000 board, as the component placement and HS/F parts on each board may be a factor as well)

paulpv · 08-07-2003, 04:47 AM

Ah, a powerful 1-DIN 12V powered PC!
"powerful" is the key word...there are 1 DIN (or smaller) PCs, but they can barely run Windows XP (a sad litmus test for "powerful").

Consider *NOT* trying to put the PSU inside the computer.
I have a hack that I am propose for the Travla C-134 on this page at my site:
http://www.swooby.com/z/navpc/computer.htm

It's a tight squeeze, and cooling might be an issue, but it might be worth checking out.

I also recommend some power options that might help you out:
http://www.swooby.com/z/navpc/

That PSU they use in the Bantam IS one of, if not THE, smallest PSUs on the market:
http://www.mini-box.com/pw-70a.htm
Even then, I think it is too large to make a 1-DIN ITX case possible.
So, definitely consider mounting the PSU externally.

I am looking in to a 2-DIN PC myself:

Pv

SiliconIce · 08-07-2003, 04:57 AM

Nice pics you had, would be even better to get a slimline DVD drive into the DIN size casing...probably not really possible, that would be packed, but looks like your Travla box would almost do it. But I'll still settle for just HD and internal powersupply

i want the device to be easily removed from the car.

I have seen the mini-box board, looks nice, but it doesnt have the car-friendly features of OPUS. However, the mini-box people mentioned that additional board that they don't (are not yet I guess?) selling that would improve things. Guess I can make one myself, but I'd rather have one I know works for something like power.

paulpv · 08-07-2003, 05:14 AM

I still say it is possible to do this...

...to this...

...and have a 1-DIN computer, but again it would require moving the power supply externally (which shouldn't be a big deal).

Pv

paulpv · 08-07-2003, 05:19 AM

Then again, these devices are pretty cool (but less powerful):
http://www.mini-box.com/m100.htm

Pv

SiliconIce · 08-10-2003, 06:21 PM

So...assuming I could build one of the ITPS devices, are there any advantages that the OPUS would provide over the mini-box supplies + the ITPS? (I don't really see any so that's why I ask)

stkdidy ntshidy · 08-11-2003, 02:48 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by SiliconIce

So...assuming I could build one of the ITPS devices, are there any advantages that the OPUS would provide over the mini-box supplies + the ITPS? (I don't really see any so that's why I ask)

its already designed for you?
its already built for you?
but you already mentioned that, so i don't see many advantages

Mikesz · 08-14-2003, 09:50 AM

why do you want a computer in your dash? Dont you want some type of display there?

mike

ccsnet · 08-14-2003, 07:22 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by paulpv

Ah, a powerful 1-DIN 12V powered PC!
"powerful" is the key word...there are 1 DIN (or smaller) PCs, but they can barely run Windows XP (a sad litmus test for "powerful").

Consider *NOT* trying to put the PSU inside the computer.
I have a hack that I am propose for the Travla C-134 on this page at my site:
http://www.swooby.com/z/navpc/computer.htm

It's a tight squeeze, and cooling might be an issue, but it might be worth checking out.

I also recommend some power options that might help you out:
http://www.swooby.com/z/navpc/

That PSU they use in the Bantam IS one of, if not THE, smallest PSUs on the market:
http://www.mini-box.com/pw-70a.htm
Even then, I think it is too large to make a 1-DIN ITX case possible.
So, definitely consider mounting the PSU externally.

I am looking in to a 2-DIN PC myself:

Pv

I like, who makes the case and where can I find it ?

Thanks

Terran

paulpv · 08-15-2003, 01:59 PM

Quote: Originally Posted by ccsnet

I like, who makes the case and where can I find it ?

Thanks

Terran

Casetronics - http://www.travla.com
It's model C-138.
It is not available yet, but it will be very soon.

I think it is a bit too wide to be a true 2DIN unit.
It may not be a problem for my car; I would need to get out a tape measure to be 100% sure.

Pv