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Need help selecting Windows computer for Eddie Robot — Parallax Forums

Need help selecting Windows computer for Eddie Robot

W9GFOW9GFO Posts: 4,010
edited 2012-01-31 08:07 in General Discussion
I'm trying to find a small, netbook sized Win7 computer that will go on an Eddie Robot.

Requirements:

Win7
Dual VGA output or VGA + HDMI or Dual HDMI
WiFi
Small
Good if it can run off 12VDC

I haven't come across a netbook with dual VGA.

An embedded computer might be better but I don't know where to look for them.

A small tower would also work but I want to avoid using an inverter.

Comments

  • icepuckicepuck Posts: 466
    edited 2012-01-29 17:53
    this should give you some ideas...
    http://www.mini-itx.com/
    http://www.mini-box.com/site/index.html
    http://www.mini-itx.com/store/default.asp?c=0&currency=2
    -dan

    here's one that is even smaller..

    http://www.via.com.tw/en/initiatives/spearhead/pico-itx/
  • RobotWorkshopRobotWorkshop Posts: 2,307
    edited 2012-01-29 18:22
    W9GFO wrote: »
    I'm trying to find a small, netbook sized Win7 computer that will go on an Eddie Robot.

    I haven't come across a netbook with dual VGA.

    Do you need the dual video for a second monitor or to duplicate what is on the screen? If you just need an extra screen you may want to look at some of the USB video cards to add an extra display. It may be an option since I don't recall seeing any notebook/laptop systems with dual video ports.

    Robert
  • W9GFOW9GFO Posts: 4,010
    edited 2012-01-29 18:28
    It needs to run two external monitors at the same time. I just found out that the monitors have both VGA and HDMI inputs so as long as both can be used at the same time it will be okay.

    Also, I am wondering if a SSD is a necessity since the robot will be in constant motion.
  • Adam WieslerAdam Wiesler Posts: 81
    edited 2012-01-29 21:01
    I'm pretty sure one of these would be nice, even has wifi, and I think it can drive 2x digital monitors.

    http://www.mini-itx.com/store/?c=65#AT5IONT-I

    Also, here are a bunch of "vechicle" powersupplies that should work.

    http://www.mini-itx.com/store/?c=10#int

    As for the SSD, I would get one, however a 2.5 inch HDD in a proper enclosure would probably be fine.

    EDIT: Oh, and I think that motherboard is also solid-state, which is a big plus. Most netbooks aren't, they usually have fans in them I think.
  • RDL2004RDL2004 Posts: 2,554
    edited 2012-01-30 08:51
    You could use pretty much any small ITX or mini-ATX motherboard that has built-in video and a PCI Express x16 slot, then add a second, cheap video card. Something along the lines of an nVidia GT210 or ATI 5450, These cards run around $30-35 and are very capable and available fan-less.

    I have one of these in an HP Microserver and it works nicely.

    Link to PowerColor 5450 at NewEgg

    I got mine on sale for $24 and free shipping :)

    I also agree with the idea of SSD and a fan-less motherboard, just from a reliability standpoint.
  • Rick BrooksRick Brooks Posts: 67
    edited 2012-01-30 15:08
    W9GFO

    If you are planning on running RDS4 do not try anything any less than the minimum requirements. I went the minimum, Panasonic CF-74, Intel Core 2 Duo at 2 GHz and 4 Gig of RAM. I am also using a port replicator for the CF-74 to get more USB ports. That setup is barely adequate.

    The Kinect needs to be plugged into the highest speed USB port (it will not work on the replicator ports) and the Xbox remote unit needs full power USB to run.

    The laptop battery is good for an hour or two on Eddie. If needed, I have an adaptor to charge the laptop from Eddie’s batteries.

    Rick Brooks
  • Mark_TMark_T Posts: 1,981
    edited 2012-01-31 08:07
    W9GFO wrote: »
    It needs to run two external monitors at the same time. I just found out that the monitors have both VGA and HDMI inputs so as long as both can be used at the same time it will be okay.

    Also, I am wondering if a SSD is a necessity since the robot will be in constant motion.

    If there's a lot of vibration it might be wise - alternatively anti-vibration mounts could help protect the machine.
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