The idea of the site is to enable as many people who want to, to take to the road and enjoy it as much as possible. And while the progress is slow, I think it's important to describe how to construct what I already have, as well as new things as they happen.
As changes to the onboard computer happen, this article will be updated.
The onboard computer, Tripstar is meant to handle HVAC controls, internet connectivity and security. That's a smaller job that a "modern" desktop; there's no need for a Pentium 4, for example, to get this much done. And that makes it a great add-on project for any RV'er.
The hardest part of the entire thing isn't in the programming or connectivity, or even heat dissipation. It's finding a proper mounting device. But there's hope: several odd-looking models of HPs (those that look kinda like jellybeans) have a natural slide-out mounting device that's just almost ready to go.
The difficult part is to locate something to hold up daughterboards while at the same time supporting the motherboard. But there are other options, if you have the money. In fact, some of them are quite nice, some really 'hacky'.
The makers of my power supply also have enclosures and ATX motherboards built for this purpose. I've not tried one due to the money, but they seem pretty good. This kind of enclosure means there's no space wasted in creating an enclosure, less heat problems, and you can mount it almost anywhere.
I chose not to go this way because when I started the design it wasn't available, and I anticipated the computer taking up more space than it does. In fact, before long, it'll be a tiny little thing I can almost walk around with. For example, these days a $300 netbook can almost do all of it!
