Azentek builds a PC for your car

boz · #1 (**permalink**) 08-01-2008, 07:17 PM

Azentek builds a PC for your car

The Atlas CPC-1000 bears is a late-stage prototype of the CPC-1200, which is scheduled to ship in April
(Credit: Azentek)

All of the core features we want in car technology--GPS navigation, Bluetooth cell phone integration, and audio and media playback--can be handled by a PC, so Azentek is offering two new in-dash PCs, the Atlas CPC-1200 and the Calypso CPC-1100. Both units are powered by an Intel Core Duo 1.66GHz CPU with 1GB of RAM, a 120GB hard drive, and a DVD-ROM/CDRW drive. But they both also have car stereo features, such as a 4 channel, 50 watt built-in amp, an FM tuner, and the ability to be upgraded with either XM or Sirius satellite radio. The Atlas CPC-1200 is a double DIN unit with a 6.5 inch screen, while the Calypso CPC-1100 is a single DIN unit with a motorized 7 inch screen.
Both car PCs use Windows Vista overlaid with a custom automotive interface designed by Azentek, which gives you easy access to such functions as navigation or audio playback. Azentek included CANbus ports so both units can receive data from your car, such as trip information. The front panels have ports for USB drives, SD cards, and an auxiliary jack. But with such a large hard drive you can maintain a huge music library in your car. Azentek doesn't skip on audio quality, using 24-bit digital-to-analog converters on the CD drive, which deliver superior sound, and a Dolby Digital 7.1 optical output. A car PC offers many advantages, such as a flexible and upgradeable platform for all sorts of applications. And anyone with a reasonable amount of computer expertise can hack it to add more functionality, while those who don't want to lift a finger can use the systems' built-in VoiceBox technology to deliver conversational voice commands to activate most navigation and music functions. The Atlas CPC-1200 and Calypso CPC-1100 look like car PCs that are ready for prime time. Azentek says that both units are scheduled to ship in April with a price tag of around $2,700

windows · #2 (**permalink**) 08-01-2008, 08:19 PM

Oooh I wish I had the money!

waveydavey · #3 (**permalink**) 09-01-2008, 08:24 AM

That is super sweet. Not sure I could get one on my bike though.......

windows · #4 (**permalink**) 09-01-2008, 09:12 AM

Side panniers Dave?

waveydavey · #5 (**permalink**) 09-01-2008, 09:23 AM

Cool idea. I could balance out the other side with a beer fridge......

windows · #6 (**permalink**) 09-01-2008, 09:32 AM

Exactly - oh what fun if the police pulled you in that condition

waveydavey · #7 (**permalink**) 09-01-2008, 10:30 AM

Actually a few years back after playing footy we had our last game of the season and because we'd won the league our manager brought a couple of cases of beer into the changing rooms. It was a lovely summer day and I was cycling home and I slung 2x4 packs (one over each side of the handle bars) one in the cage and was drinking one and cycled home. I got stopped by the Police and they advised I shouldn't drink and cycle or cycle in football boots, but that was it.

boz · #8 (**permalink**) 09-01-2008, 10:54 AM

Slightly off topic, I need a PDA mount for my motorbike but what I have seen so far is not great. I want to utilize the Sat Nav with my earbuds for speed camera warnings, it doesn't need to be waterproof. Anyone know of anything?

dmr54 · #9 (**permalink**) 09-01-2008, 11:38 AM

Only thing that springs to mind instantly is the Krusell range have you checked them out they have mounts for most things if I recall.

boz · #10 (**permalink**) 09-01-2008, 11:55 AM

Cheers Dave I have had a look at the main players in the market but none suit my needs! I need access to the screen, it needs to be shockproof and not pop out of it's holder if I hit a bump! Mounting a holder shouldn't be a problem I am sure I can fabricate something.