CarPC Project: Mid-Project Testing
I figured before I get carried away it would be good idea to hook things up again and test them. I want to make sure that the following were working: HDD LED, Reset Switch/LED, Front USB ports and 120mm LED fan.
In the photo below you can see the fan and LEDs are working. It’s a good thing I decided to test at this stage because I found that the latching LED switch definitely does not work well as a reset switch. I am replacing it with a 22mm diameter momentary button with LED. It will look identical only it will be momentary type vs. latching. I also was able to successfully test the new USB ports I mounted on the front panel.
CarPC Build: Beginning Stages
I started the beginning stages of my build. I mounted the mobo (motherboard) in the case so that’s set. It took a while figuring out an optimal position to place the case on the console. I decided that I needed to screw the mounting brackets backwards to allow for more space. I also decided to mount the case with the cables up rather than to the back or front. The arm rest has another mini storage area that will provide sufficient coverage and space without having to worry about crimping or over bunching the cabling in a tight space. I had to modify the arm rest storage as well.
Regarding the holes that I drilled…The ABS plastic is quite tough and the Dremel was having some dramatic moments so I figured I would drill holes around the bin then afterwards perform cutting and cleanup with the Dremel.
Repurpose EEEPC Atheros Wifi Card
Since my EEEPC is no longer functioning I decided to start recycling some of its parts. I am going to start with the Atheros Mini PCI Wifi Card to use with my CarPC project. However, I will need a Mini PCI to PCI adapter for my Intel D945GCLF2D board. At least it will put the PCI slot into use because otherwise I was not going to be using it. I found the adapter card displayed below at embeddedworks.net.
Why I Chose the INTEL D945GCLF2D Mini ITX for My CarPC
I am currently using an EEEPC 2G Surf as my CarPC and wanted to upgrade to something newer while still maintaining a small footprint and affordability. I am a member of the MP3Car forums which is great place for CarPC/Mobile Infotainment enthusiasts.
I learned about the Zotac IONITX A-U through one of the other members and started researching that Motherboard. The things that impressed me about the mainboard was that it featured: Learn more »
