Off-Topic > Off-Topic - Tiny Tux's Corner

Energy efficient monitor

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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

curaga:
This link might be of interest, he runs off entirely solar:

http://www.tectonic.co.za/?p=4335


I'm under the impression that a desktop lcd that takes 12V should only need a regulator to avoid spikes from the battery, and then it should just work.

fos:
That was a great link. Thanks

He mentioned all of the hardware except the monitor. :(

vinnie:
my economic 190w viseo (packard bell) consume range of 9-17 w

andrewphoto_andyp:
The monitor is the biggest drain on power.
Bigger monitor,more power.
Monitor backlight is still 'on' whether working in GUI or CLI.
Most monitors (approx. 96%,) use fluorescent tubes, the monitor inverter board usually converts up to 94V for the tubes.
My "Aspire One" is low-voltage L.E.D. backlight.
I would like a L.E.D. backlight for my mini-itx, but they are expensive.
Recently I configured a webcam security system (recording,) & once it was up & running I turned off the monitor.
I've got a cheap VuSys (£45 new of Ebay,) 14" widescreen, and the AC adaptor converts to 12V monitor input plug (the cheap VuSys has got a high grade Quanta panel inside.)
Replaced my car "starting/cranking" battery with "leisure" battery.
"Leisure" batteries not quite "deep-discharge" but good availabilty, never purchase a "starting" battery again.
I've been exclusively using cf/ide,sata adaptors for years now, just purchased D945GCLF2, boot LILO/GRUB failed so installed extlinux, see www.andrewjchapman.co.uk/extlinux_boot.htm
You can get "Aspire One" and other L.E.D. panels off Ebay, but the panel to motherboard cable availability may be a minefield.
Personally, I use monocrystalline cells to charge batteries, rather than polycrystalline or amorphous.

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