I was wondering if anyone could tell me of some SUPER COMPACT computer parts?
I am planning a project for an ultra compact, ultra portable PC that has a semi-modular design.
I am thinking of using a Mini ITX Mobo, but what about the graphics card? Is there a small graphics card that packs a good punch?
Also, does anyone know if I could put wireless capabilities into the case for mouse and keyboard?
Furthermore, does anyone know about a wireless monitor? I was thinking just a monitor cable cut and soldered to a wireless adapter and done the same in the case. What do you think?
Lastly, I want this to be SUPER SMALL. I think I can get it down to just a few inches and all you'd have to do is hook it up via power cable and wireless capabilities.
Do you guys think I could pack the following into this small package?:
-1GB Ram
-Wireless Internet Connection (Should I use wi-fi?)
-Graphics Card
For the other modules, I am thinking of the following:
-Capture Card
-All-in-one Disk Drive
-Harddrive
The modules need to be small and compact. For the harddrive, that's no problem; modded case, ultra small HDD. The disk drive is a little harder...does anyone know of a REALLY small disk drive? I think I have the CC covered.
Thanks!
PC Help (Please Read)
Moderator: Moderators
The idea of building a small portable PC has been discussed several times here (usually being known as a "PCp"). Theres a few threads about them in the past that have exceeded 5 pages, but so far, no one here has had any success with the project. Its pretty much been decided that you'd be better off buying something like a pre-built, super-small laptop or an OQO (or OQO 2).
I know I can do it, I just want to know what is super small. Most people didn't go for MODULAR I'm sure. If my plan works, you should have a single unit on your desk with several SMALLER units mounted on a rail below your desk. It will be cool if I find some SUPER SMALL PARTS to go in it...I don't know why CAPS is SO MuCh FuN...
It'll cost a ton for mediocre performance. Just go for a small laptop, search for tom61's PCp progress thread and read his troubles, that should convince you its not the way to go.Murdok09 wrote:I know I can do it, I just want to know what is super small. Most people didn't go for MODULAR I'm sure. If my plan works, you should have a single unit on your desk with several SMALLER units mounted on a rail below your desk. It will be cool if I find some SUPER SMALL PARTS to go in it...I don't know why CAPS is SO MuCh FuN...
You might be able to get a mobo that small, but it wont be cheap. I think triton got one off ebay(not mini ITX, can't really remember what i was) for about 150$,but he seems to lucky at that stuff.
And the CF card probably won't work, as it dies after too many cycles.
I wish I could try something like this, and I might when I get a job.
And the CF card probably won't work, as it dies after too many cycles.
I wish I could try something like this, and I might when I get a job.
Why is it that every time I post in a thread, it dies?
It won't be too much for mediocre performance. I'm not wasting my time trying to make it a "gaming mod" PC. I am going to work on a wireless VGA connection. It will have wireless keyboard and mouse. The case will be easily opened. The mini-ITX is only 150 at the right place. 1gb ram won't cost too much, along with a good video card. I am going to get a compact DVD burner/player and I am going to mod several USB hubs to get a 20 some USB hub, and I am going to buy a new external HDD and enclosure or adapt my current one. I figure the project will be around 300-400USD. Not too much for a nice PC that is small, portable, and cool.
The wireless VGA connection seems kinda hard to do with directly sending the VGA signal, the easiest way to do a wireless screen would be to have a screen with a slower motherboard on it (or an older laptop) and VNC it to a faster computer over a wireless connection. Then you could use it from any WiFi connection while the faster computer is at home.
It'll work, but I just checked the prices for wireless VGA stuff and you're looking at $100+. I still think an older laptop (possibly modified to suit your needs, like no keyboard since you'd use a separate wireless one) VNC'd to a faster desktop would be your best bet, plus it could still work on its own if you didn't have wireless access.Murdok09 wrote:I am wanting to use a standard lcd display. Do you think the wireless will still work?
So far I have chosen a 100GB external HDD and a mobo for just under 200 USD. Already this PC is better than most computers on the market (lower prices that is). I only now need a disk drive! Quick question: what kind of drive do I need? I have been looking at an external cd/dvd burner/player. Is this good/bad, what? I would like to be able to burn video and cds, but I don't think I need a DVD burner for this (special burning). Tell me what you think.
P.S. I have the capture card already, and I am going to buy and mod several cheap USB2.0 hubs to make an awesome hub (24 usb ports!).
P.S. I have the capture card already, and I am going to buy and mod several cheap USB2.0 hubs to make an awesome hub (24 usb ports!).
