Linux/Home automation software/Car PC components

[ArtMaybee]

Has anyone used any of the components designed for Car PCs or integrated PC components on their buses?

I'm thinking of building a setup to automate some things in a coach. The Car PC components are small, use 12 volts, and don't use much power. There are control boards already out there that will let you control multiple relays via software. There are free automation projects going on for linux that would allow for nice customizations. The same PC could be used for sharing media throughout the coach as well.
There are even ways to setup multiple remote panels to control your system.

I just think it would be nice to control many functions of the coach using one small low-power PC. The 12v power supplies for the Car PCs have settings which will shut them down in low power situations among other advanced features.

Maybe a lot of busnuts wouldn't be interested in this but I just wanted to share.

[ArtMaybee]

Something similar to what Marathon runs to control their coaches should be possible.

[Nick Badame Refrig/ACC]

Hi ART,

Welcome!

Xantrex is now networking their inverter systems with simple softwere so you can use a home laptop to monitor and control systems.

Inverter, gen start, tank monitors, voltages, and Somfy also has a module to control their shades and blinds. soon it will be endless and we

won't even have to be at the pilot's seat to drive....Not!

Marathon's systems are very intence, they have the power to change things from their home base..Kool... But, we don't need that much tech.

Other company's will soon follow this network like xantrex, They call it xanbus. and can be tapped via network plug.

With a little thought, you can build a simple network for your bus, maybe with a dedicated laptop....

Nick-

[ArtMaybee]

Thanks....

Yeah, the remote administration of the system would definitely be overkill. Though remote administration of the system would probably be one of the easiest parts of setting it up. As long as there is a connection to the internet, changes could be made to everything.
The interfaces on the other hand would be nice. Having network capable components available is nice.
That would definitely make life easier when trying to setup something like this.

Since I'm an IT professional, I couldn't build a coach without putting in computerized toys.

[Kiwi55]

Take a look at MP3Car.com
http://www.mp3car.com/vbulletin/

There are all sorts of CarPc projects and shareware. I use RoadRunner in my truck.
...Paul