huhsler

For those of you intending to install an LCD screen and full-blown PC in your RX-8, how are you going to solve problems with processor (and PC) cooling? We just had 2 consecutive 80+ degree days and I just realized that most PC cooling is based on differential temperatures.

Well, if it's 90-100 degrees in the car, I don't think that "heat pipe" based mini-PCs are going to be able to handle it. Throw in a 3D card and PC card modules and you're in real trouble.

Any thoughts?

This is more than just an intellectual exercise, as I was planning on doing this too. Thanks.

Genom

I am going to be running a Peltier cooler myself.

titaniumgrey

turn up the AC ? lmao
Well anyways , most computers can handle alot of heat before they lock up. I wouldn't worry about it.

Japan8

I doubt the ambient temp in the car will be a stangnate 100F. Parked with the windows closed... it'd exceed that in Central FL. BUt on 95F day with your windows open and driving... the temps should be fine for the machine. Just be sure that your case has good ventilation...

huhsler

You see, that's the rub. I was looking at a Iwill ZPCg micro or one of Shuttle's mini's. Well, at my university, we worked on hybrid-electrics running off of a P4 1.4A full size. Remember that even after you open the windows and vent the car, the board and processor temps take some time to come down. Well, we did have some heat related lock-ups (whether due to board heating, drive heating, or processor heating...unknown).

We resorted to an insulated peltier (to reduce moisture) cooler (courtesy of Sharper Image's neckband cooler...lol) coupled with a full vent to keep temps down. If I'm putting my micro-PC under my passenger seat, venting might also be an issue.

It's also funny that I WAS considering running a directed port from the lower AC outlet to the PC! I didn't think it was feasible (how do I make it tight and add a switch to "undivert" it in winter?).

Although I do realize that your average P4 runs a max temp of 66-78 degrees, I was still wondering if people had concerns.

The ZPC is about 2 inches thick, so it should be good, I'm thinking...but better to throw this out there.

One final thought, any problems with the Lilliput or other head displays from heating? I remember my LCD engineering class discussing heat activation (remember the old Apple Newtons?).

Thanks much!

huhsler

Here's a useful link in case you're interested: http://www.heatsink-guide.com/maxtemp.htm

Kaliken

i wonder what you guys are doing that is going to require such a huge processor? If your are just looking for something simple and easy why not a mini-itx board. those are often passively cooled so heat is not a problem. (slap on a fan to get better convection and your set) They should be able to handle most of the applications I was thinking of doing such as mp3s simple lcd gps nav. I don;t expect to have software decoding of divx files or video games though..

jniamehr

I remember a gamer telling me about hydro cooling kits for pcs... maybe that would help?

huhsler

Nah, doesn't. Too much "osmotic evaporation" occurs in the resevoir...ie water source disappears in hot cars. Too complex anyway. It's a niche market even for desktops.

Japan8

Look... it'll basically be fine depending on case ventilation and location. Believe if you wish or not. Look at http://www.mp3car.com. MANY people running P4 or Athalon chips in their cars who have no heat problems.

Shocka

im wokring on one.. ill let u know if it works or not.

its my summer project. i am waitinf for 2 things now

1) some sorta fabricated piece to mount the screen (im looking at excentrics idea)

2) an aux input so i dont have to use an FM modulator (lets go OVERLOAD)