Via And Mini-Box Announce First Low Cost Personal Computer Kit For Cars

Via And Mini-Box Announce First Low Cost Personal Computer Kit For Cars

New Delhi September 30, 2005 – Chip maker VIA Technologies and US based Mini-box.com, a subsidiary of Ituner Networks Corp., today launched the VoomPCâ„¢ family of compact, high performance yet affordable x86 car Personal Computer kits to integrate navigation, communication, entertainment and information functionality while driving.

Based on low power VIA EPIA Mini-ITX mainboards, the x86 platform of choice for car PCs, the VoomPC is specifically designed for the ultra power sensitive conditions of in-vehicle applications.

With prices ranging from Rs 14,000 to Rs 19,000 (US $299 to $399) the VoomPC is ideal for automotive enthusiasts and vehicle manufacturers alike to integrate a wide range of GPS navigation, communication, entertainment and information functionality into private cars or vehicle-dependent professional service vehicles such as law enforcement, rescue and commercial transport, where access to data on the road is essential.

All the critical power issues of car PC systems have been addressed. The VoomPC integrates the intelligent Mini-box M1-ATX 12V power supply unit to prevent system damage from power surges and eliminate car battery drain by monitoring car battery levels, even when the car is turned off. The energy efficient VIA C3 processor with its highly effective heat dissipation enables the VoomPC to consume between 15-30 watts, less than the dimmest car parking lights.

“Car PCs have long been fraught with a multitude of power challenges. The VoomPC platforms solve those issues in one complete, highly affordable package,” said Richard Brown, Vice President of Corporate Marketing. “Leveraging the ultra low power profile of the VIA C3 processor, the VoomPC is a great example of how our VIA EPIA platforms are facilitating fast-emerging applications such as car PCs and bringing them within reach of a much wider market.”

Mini-box.comâ„¢ is a subsidiary of Ituner Networks Corp. Ituner Networks is a privately owned corporation, located in Silicon Valley, California. Ituner Networks Corporation, formerly known as Ituner Internet Broadcasting Services, was founded in 1996.

http://www.mini-box.com, while images of the system may be found at: http://resources.mini-box.com/press/voomPC/.