Until just recently, consumers have been forced into buying
desktop computers that have very little variation from model to
model. I'll be the first to admit that some of the better
manufacturers are doing a great job of making the boring old
"box" look very nice, but there are not many of them. Typically
these "out of the ordinary" computers systems are reserved for
hi-end gaming machines that start around $2,000.00. Why don't we
have computers that don't look like computers? Wouldn't it be
great to have a computer that fit into your home without looking
like a computer, or better yet one that you don't have to hide
under a desk or in cabinet? The answer to that question is
simple. Size. The sizes of the components that are in a desktop
computer are just too big to allow for any alternatives to the
"box". That is until now......
Over the past few years a new size mainboard has been on the
rise in the computer industry. The Mini-ITX form factor
motherboard is just 6 inches square. Just for reference, a
dollar bill is about 6 inches long. That is amazing! The
Mini-ITX mainboards began utilizing the VIA processors. For most
home users, this processor just wouldn't cut it against a
Pentium-based system. The industry obviously became aware of
this bottleneck and soon began producing the Mini-ITX mainboards
that support the Intel Pentium 4 processors.
At 6 inches square, the possibilities for new and unusual spins
on the old "box" are being realized worldwide. One of the main
uses for these mainboards is in car computers. That's right;
computer systems that mount inside of automobiles are already
being manufactured and sold. Most utilize touch screen
technology for ease of use (because you would have a hard time
with a mouse in your car!).
You can also find a desktop computer that will actually fit in
the palm of your hand! This particular model can be found at
www.cappucinopc.com. This site is what sparked my interest in
this relatively new technology.
After pondering the possibilities, my two neighbors and I
decided to create our own "out of the ordinary" desktop
computer. After about a year and endless tests and designing, we
now have the "Compucar". The Compucar is a desktop computer that
looks like a car. We utilize a Mini-ITX mainboard and a patented
chassis design to create something you can only find in O'Fallon
Missouri. We are currently found on the web at
www.compucarllc.com. This started out as a challenge to create
something different utilizing new and emerging technology and
ended up becoming a very unique business venture.
I believe that over the next few years, you will begin to see
very "different" looking desktop computers. I just wonder how
long it will take the big companies to start becoming a bit more
creative.
About the author:
Aaron Davis is a partner with Compucar, LLC. Compucar is
dedicated to providing a stylish alternative to your "everyday"
desktop.
www.compucarllc.com
