Very energy efficient 12 volt computer system

[fos]

I am in the process of building an energy efficient TinyCore based computer. I intend for the entire system to run off 12 volts so I can use a deep discharge truck battery as a backup power supply.

I purchased a Mini-ITX Via C7 motherboard. I would have preferred a Pico-ITX motherboard but the cost was over twice as much with very little improved energy efficiency. I am using a Logic Supply PicoPSU which is very efficient. I expect to place the operating system (TC) and files on a USB thumb drive. I may eventually purchase either a conventional hard drive or a flash based hard drive when the price and long term reliability improve. Emphase flash drives are getting pretty good but are still expensive per GB.

The main computer will be very efficient. The Comcast cable modem will use a lot more energy than the computer!

I would like suggestions for an energy efficient monitor, preferably 12 volt. I have seen a few mobile LCD units but they are pretty expensive.

Any ideas or suggestions to improve my super low power system?

Jeff

[fos]

I found this 11" VGA monitor (http://www.qualitymobilevideo.com/lcdm11w.aspx) that consumes 6.8 watts at 12 volts. It is worth consideration.

[uteck]

I was watching Systm (http://revision3.com/systm/) about making a UPS from a car battery. He was talking about using deep cycle batteries, but I can't remember if he recommended them, or said not to use them.

[Leon]

A car battery will be fine if it is kept fully charged and only drawn down occasionally. A deep cycle battery is intended to discharge and be recharged, although it has a finite life limit.

[fos]

I have used deep discharge batteries for amateur radio use. They work best if maintained at full charge and only run down infrequently. I will probably purchase one of the marine batteries that are designed for trolling motors. They survive discharge cycles better.

I did find a company that sells lithium ion backup batteries. I first saw them on naval ships several years ago. The Navy reduced their backup battery system in both weight and size by a substantial margin. The only problem is the cost. I don't have the US governments deep tax payer pockets.

I am setting this system up for the severe weather season. My cable internet system actually stayed online during last years tree week outage due to hurricane Ike. I just didn't have the means to access it. The Comcast modem draws almost two amps at 12 volts!

I now have a 5000 watt generator but I don't want to run it continuously during an outage. I would like to run it long enough each day to charge my backup batteries and maintain the refrigerator cooling.

I also have a couple of 12 volt solar panels but they are qrp level. I have a regulator that can maintain the batteries properly via the solar panels, as well.

This is mostly an experimental project. I like to tinker. I purchased the motherboard from ebay for $35. I am going to fabricate the case with plexiglass, stand offs, and expanded metal.

Jeff

[uteck]

You should check out the giant hamster wheel episode of systm where they power a laptop by jogging inside a giant hamster wheel.
Not ideal for power outages, but if you set the kids electronics to run from a battery that is only charged by running in the wheel, you can prevent your kids from becoming fatty-mcfat-fats.

[jpaulb]

You should check out the giant hamster wheel episode of systm where they power a laptop by jogging inside a giant hamster wheel.
Not ideal for power outages, but if you set the kids electronics to run from a battery that is only charged by running in the wheel, you can prevent your kids from becoming fatty-mcfat-fats.

That should be the standard power source for TV's.