Dashwerks, Inc - Updates and News

This is how the car evolved to a higher form:


	Last update (2008-05-09 21:12:10):

We're making some long overdue updates to the site.


	Last update (2005-07-09 19:09:20):

Well, we're excited to welcome our newest member to the DashPC Family.

More updates to come...


	Last update (2005-06-09 17:09:45):

Well, we've started work on porting DashPC to the Mac Mini.

Much thanks to Mike Hooper, of Carnetix, for the gratious loaner Mac Mini.


	Last update (2005-06-04 22:04:49):

A good friend of mine is running for the QUEST FOR ANTONIA Contest. You can see her website here. If you'd like to do us a quick favor, please help us by please voting for her.


	Last update (2005-05-24 17:24:31):

It looks like Google Maps isn't responding to our XSLT requests right now. The "Where is the Car?" Maps won't be working until this comes back online.

This seems to be affecting everyone using the gmaps code - not just us.


	Last update (2005-05-16 22:16:20):

We just added a little mapping toy to the site. You can now track the Linux Car in real-time.


	Last update (2005-04-07 01:07:15):

We released a new version of DashPC today. It's primarily bug fixes, code cleanup, etc. You can download it here.


	Last update (2005-03-24 16:39:00):

Just stumbled across this site, while doing some carputer research - not sure what to think about it yet, though.


	Last update (2005-03-20 00:06:17):

Thanks to everyone that came out to the Atlanta carputer meetup. It was a fun time and it was great meeting all of you guys. There were some very impressive installations and fabrication / factory integrations. Our thanks to J. Uhl and his team for allowing us to use the General Motors Center in Alpharetta. We'll post pictures to the site soon - stay tuned.


	Last update (2005-03-19 01:28:17):

Reminder: Tomorrow, Saturday, March 19th at 2pm EST, we'll be demo'ing the Dashwerks Jetta at the carputer meetup at the GM Training Center in Alpharetta, GA (North Atlanta Suburbs). The address of the meet is: 6395 Shiloh Road, Alpharetta, 30005.

Rain or Shine, we'll be there demo'ing the VW prototype car; so come on out if you want to see some amazing car/computer integration. For more information - click here to read about the meet.


	Last update (2005-01-27 18:27:51):

The DashPC Linuxcar can be seen in a great new book about carputing: Geek My Ride: Build the Ultimate Tech Rod. The book is coming out in April 2005 and can be PRE-ORDERED from Dashwerks for $10 less than the cover price!


	Last update (2005-01-26 15:12:19):

Carputer Cartoon


	Last update (2004-12-15 23:15:36):

On Sunday December 19th, we'll [probably] lightly demo the Dashwerks Jetta at the Atlanta mp3car meet. Details can be found here. We'll be demonstrating the DSSC Startup/Shutdown Controller in action and we'll have DSSC units on hand for sale.


	Last update (2004-09-02 22:02:04):

We'll be holding a developers conference on IRC on Tuesday, September 14th at 22:30 (10:30PM) EST. We'll [probably] host it on irc.efnet.net in the #dashpc channel.


	Last update (2004-04-12 18:12:22):

We just received confirmation that the latest batch of DSSC boards have shipped from our vendor. They will be on sale sometime next week.

Please Note: We will have a very limited quantity available next week. We expect to do a much larger production run in about 3 weeks.


	Last update (2004-04-07 19:07:29):

Tonight we added a picture of our rearview / back-up camera installation in the back of the Volkswagen Jetta. The only step remaining is to drill out the badge, water-seal it, and re-mount it on the vehicle.


	Last update (2004-03-02 18:02:54):

A new version of DashPC is now available. It's very alpha code, and it needs a lot of work. Feel free to download it by clicking here.

To build it:
untar it (tar xvfz filename.tar.gz)
cd dashpc[hit tab key]
./autogen.sh
./configure
make
make install
dashpc &

We're in need of developers for it, so if you'd like to help with the project, please download it and let us know what you think.


	Last update (2004-02-19 20:19:20):

The Dashwerks DashPC™ (Dashboard PC) was featured as the "Creme de le Creme" Car PC installation at the 2003 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) by VIA technologies in January [2004].

Video footage of the event can be found here (sorry only WMV format right now).

NOTE: This is the video footage from the VIA event that featured the DashPC™. The DashPC™ itself isn't shown.

Thanks VIA!


	Last update (2004-02-09 14:09:51):

The website will be down for a few hours tonight while we upgrade our server. We apologize for any inconveniences.


	Last update (2004-01-26 16:26:10):

The DSSC™ circuit boards have come back from the production house and will be available on the site for purchase shortly. The final size of the controller is: 117mm (4.6") X 101mm (4.0") X 26mm (1").


	Last update (2004-01-23 14:23:21):

We added a couple of new screenshots of the new DashPC software this afternoon. They can be found on the pictures page.

Also, before you ask, I'm using an Internet Explorer Icon on one of the screenshots since it's pretty universal and I just wanted to demonstrate the themeable capabilites of the new interface. Clicking that button actually spawns Mozilla.


	Last update (2004-01-20 15:20:13):

Some of you have recently inquired about the new DashPC software. The software is currently being re-written for a new interface and some new features. The version that is currently available on sourceforge (via the Files link on this site) is very obsolete. Please email me if you're interested in the most recent version of the software. It's still very beta, and much of the functionality hasn't been completed. If you're interested in beta-testing / co-developing the new software, please contact me via e-mail.


	Last update (2004-01-20 14:20:04):

The new version of the DSSC™ (startup/shutdown controller) went into a production run today. We should have the new boards in a couple of weeks. The completed product will be available immediately thereafter. The price for the completed circuit is going to be $69 and the kit will sell for $49. In the near future we will be selling the pre-programmed PIC chip and circuitboard as a pair. However, at this time we're not sure what the pricing will be.


	Last update (2004-01-13 18:13:39):

On this night we added a few pictures of the forthcoming DashPC™ infotainment unit installed in the 2003 Ford Expedition.

Also, for those of you that are wondering - the VW Jetta prototype vehicle was wrecked on Christmas Day by the driver of another vehicle. We will still use it as a prototype vehicle, however, in it's current form it is undriveable. We're contemplating trading the vehicle in for a new VW Touareg, or just making payments on the Ford Expedition.


	Last update (2004-01-02 20:02:43):

Ok, we've added a "Route Registration" feature to the new DashPC software for our Dutch users. Now, using DashPC™ a vehicle computer and a GPS/OBDII device, you can generate your Route Registration automatically! In addition, the route registration output can be uploaded via Bluetooth or WiFi (802.11) to a home computer or PDA for filing purposes.


	Last update (2004-01-02 14:02:27):

The site has been down for the past few days due to a server relocation. We aplogize for not being accessible during this time.


	Last update (2003-12-25 18:25:03):

Merry Christmas everyone!!! My wonderful girlfriend got me a 40Gig iPod for Christmas. It's a GREAT device, and I highly recommend it. If you don't have an iPod, you should at least install iTunes. It's the most kickass MP3 / CD / etc. application around (for Win, Mac, etc). I was using it for a few months before I got my iPod, and when coupled with an iPod it's an AWESOME combo. Please don't take our praise lightly - it takes a lot to impress the Dashwerks group. We're really impressed with iTunes (and the iPod) though. I've never really been an Apple fan, but I've always liked the Mac's that I've used. Recently, however, I've started to really appreciate the beauty of the Apples.


	Last update (2003-11-10 18:10:22):

DashPC 2004.2.0 is coming soon.


	Last update (2003-11-03 11:03:49):

Happy Halloween!


	Last update (2003-10-30 14:30:56):

We've been playing around with Framebuffer code quite a bit lately. It's interesting, but we're not sure if it offers a significant enough performance increase. Although updates to this portion of the website haven't been very plentiful lately, we've been working on quite a few new advances. The next version of DashPC (both hardware and software) will be pretty amazing. The new interface is like MythTV on steriods and it features transparent(alpha) icons, video, etc. In addition, we'd like to make it work with MythTV modules/plugins, eventually. Stay tuned for updates.


	Last update (2003-10-26 13:26:12):

Unfortunately, due to a scheduling issue, we were unable to attend PhreakNIC 7 this weekend. Our apologies to those whom wanted to see the vehicles this weekend.


	Last update (2003-10-17 21:17:15):

2 updates tonight:
We just obtained a 12 function joystick style remote. We're going to use it to control the dashpc interface remotely via joystick. We'll add more details as we develop the joystick protocol and integrate the changes into the new DashPC code.

Also, we found an interesting link for recovering bad HDs in Linux. It can be found here. Specifically, this site deals with bad sectors and recovering drives that have failed because of them. Since the most likely failure of a hard disk drive in a car, is a sector read/failure I've posted the link here.


	Last update (2003-10-06 00:16:40):

I finished the Slackware 9.1 upgrade tonight (which was much easier to configure than I expected). I also finished upgrading to kernel 2.6. Alsa was automatically configured and all my modules now work perfectly (powermate, via-rhine, etc.). I also had to make a slight modification to Todd Johnson's XMMS powermate plugin to get it to work with my powermate. On my system it's /dev/input/event2 and it's hardcoded in his code as /dev/input/event0. I made a quick change, recompiled the module and it now works perfectly.


	Last update (2003-10-04 16:04:53):

I upgraded the dashpc to Slackware 9.1 this weekend. Partiticularly for a few bug fixes and the new Bitstream TrueType Fonts.


	Last update (2003-09-30 18:30:14):

I've been very interested in reducing my boot time lately after doing some research on booting linux faster. I just started tweaking, but at present I'm at 32 seconds. Here's the general breakdown:

0 - 10 seconds = POST [motherboard / BIOS] (10 total seconds)

10-17 seconds = Linux kernel (7 total seconds)

17-22 seconds = INIT and startup scripts (5 total seconds)

I'm going to use a great new technique that uses make and the (-j) flag and a modified Makefile to load all the services in parallel instead of in series like a normal boot. Hopefully, I'll be able to shave a few more seconds off of the boot time here. Also, I haven't really stripped the kernel down yet so that should save me quite a few more seconds. Finally, the new linux kernel 2.6.0 has an embedded flag that allows stripping the kernel of all unbuilt code. This will probably offer a HUGE improvement and should bring my kernel time down to almost nothing. At this point, I'm most concerned with my POST/BIOS boot time and my X startup time.


	Last update (2003-09-29 23:29:21):

One of the dashpc members pointed out this link: Software tweak boots Linux in under 200 mS. It's a great link to information about the potential of a linux kernel that can boot in approx. 200 milliseconds!!! For those of you that have been thinking about moving to Linux, but still aren't convinced; I doubt you'll EVER be able to find this kind of functionality with any other operating system. Thanks for the link!!!


	Last update (2003-09-26 20:26:04):

I added a D-LINK DWL-120+ USB WiFi 802.11b card to the car tonight. I modded the antenna connector to work with the homemade antenna that I already installed in the car.

Update: 2003-09-26 22:16: I can' t get the D-LINK DWL-120+ to work in Linux. It uses the Texas Instruments (TI) chipset, and the vendor won't provide the protocol. Avoid D-Link if you use Linux.


	Last update (2003-09-17 20:17:51):

I added a picture of the car to the pictures page. You can find it here.

I haven't added many updates lately, but I've been working on quite a few new things. I'll post details as I make things happen.

Also, I'll be adding a search function to the site in the near future. Hopefully, this will allow you all to find more specific information more easily.


	Last update (2003-09-02 12:02:06):

I had a novel idea this morning. It occurred to me that part of my boot up time is spent while the 2.5" notebook hard disk spins up to speed. I figure that I can probably shave a few more seconds off of my boot time by spinning the drive up when the car is unlocked by my remote control. In this way, the drive will be spinning at speed (by a separate power supply) by the time the motherboard POST begins the IDE detection routine. I'm going to experiment with it more tonight. I'll post details if it's something worth persuing.

Update (2003-09-02 17:55:00): Hrmm, well it appears that the 2.5" notebook HD won't spin up until the IDE channel tells it to do so. Most ordinary 3.5" drives spin up when power is applied to them. I'm guessing that this is a feature of the low-power notebook drive.


	Last update (2003-08-27 18:27:30):

I upgraded the car to Slackware 9.0 last night. I also installed the distributed net client. The distributed.net client is a peice of software that uses unused computer cycles to help crack encryption keys and solve massively parallel research projects. Maybe if I get some free time I can write some quick code that will tell me how many keys I try to crack per mile. Also - There will not ever be a dashpc distribution. We may release a demo CD/.iso in the future, however, I've decided that I'm not willing to maintain a full distribution. It's a tremendous amount of work in itself. I give much respect to all of the distribution maintainers for all of their hard work.


	Last update (2003-08-24 15:24:36):

The ALE presentation was a blast. Thanks to everyone who attended.

Also, this weekend I worked on creating a macro that puts the car windows up when the speed goes above 70 MPH (since I usually do it myself anyway).


	Last update (2003-08-21 15:21:03):

For those in the Atlanta area, I'll be doing a demonstration / presentation of the dashpc vehicle and software at tonights Atlanta Linux Enthusiasts (ALE) Northwest meeting at 8 PM EST.


	Last update (2003-08-18 12:18:15):

I wrote a new module for the dashpc software this weekend. It can control the windows, doorlocks, and trunk using the relay board. A temporary screenshot can be found here.
I also installed my WiFi antenna and added a picture in the pictures section of the site. Thanks to Todd Johnson for building the antenna.


	Last update (2003-08-15 18:15:30):

I took apart the sunroof power switch last night (and burned the hell out of my finger in the process). Unfortunately, it's not a simple switch like I had hoped. At any rate, I'm trying to control the sunroof via the DashPC software. I'm using a relay board to interface the DashPC with the sunroof controls, door locks, power windows, etc. I'll take pictures once the installation is completed, and I'll post them here.


	Last update (2003-08-06 18:06:30):

The board design is finished. It will be going to the production house in a couple of days. It will be coming back from the production house in about 3 weeks.


	Last update (2003-08-04 13:04:14):

The circuit board is almost finished. It currently measures in at 4.6" by 3.9" an about 3 / 4" tall. I'm interested to know if people would like to have the circuit in a completed form, a kit form, or just a component form. All 3 forms will be available eventually, but you can vote for what you'd prefer: here


	Last update (2003-08-02 13:02:58):

I added a new pictures of the new DashPC software interface. It has an aqua-like theme, and some custom icons. There's a GPSdrive picture and a picture of some slashdot internet browsing. You can view the pictures here.


	Last update (2003-08-01 17:01:10):

It looks like Griffin Tech. has re-released the "black" annodized PowerMate. It can be found here.


	Last update (2003-07-23 16:23:37):

I just found a cool new keyboard customization app. called linEAK. It's a much easier way to program the multimedia (granny) keys to load apps, control volume, etc. You can see a screenshot of it here.


	Last update (2003-07-19 14:19:33):

I just found a new GPS mapping package: GPSilon. It's a Java app, so it will work on any platform. Some screenshots can be seen here.


	Last update (2003-07-15 21:15:12):

Holy SHIT!!! I just tried out kernel 2.4.21 (from 2.5.67) and I'm booting in 27 SECONDS! That's a _huge_ improvement. I haven't tweaked my startup on 2.4.21 yet, and I don't have sound working, but I used the same .config file from my 2.5.67. I'm very happy about this, and once I get the hibernate code working (I finally have the patch that fixes the pse checking problem on the VIA Epia), I'll be down to just a few seconds. I'll post more details as I make them happen.


	Last update (2003-07-15 19:15:32):

I will be donig a formal presentation of the DashPC vehicle and software for the ALE (Atlanta Linux Enthusiasts) group in August. Anyone in the Atlanta, GA, US area is welcomed to attend. The presentation will be on August 21st in the Northwest Atlanta area.


	Last update (2003-07-10 10:10:53):

Well damn, it looks like suspend-to-disk/hibernate isn't available for the VIA C3 processor because it doesn't support PSE.

Update: (18:21:00 EST)
I found a patch that will allow the EPIA to work with suspend! Once I get it all cleaned up, I'll post a link and instructions on using it here...


	Last update (2003-07-07 20:07:32):

I should've posted this a long time ago, but I missed it somehow. Anyway, I've been having some problems with the Morex 60Watt DC Power supply that came with the Casetronic EPIA case. I think that the EPIA is trying to draw more power than the Power supply can provide. It enters the startup phase, but then just chokes. I've got a PCI card installed in the EPIA board and a few USB devices. In addition, I'm using a 40A relay with the startup/shutdown circuit. In the interim, I'm using an inverter and a standard ATX power supply.


	Last update (2003-07-05 19:05:17):

After fighting with SWSUSP trying to get Linux to hibernate nicely on the VIA EPIA-M, I finally found a useful solution. In order to get suspend-to-disk/hibernate working with the VIA EPIA you need to comment out the "panic(...)" line from the linux/include/asm-i386/suspend.h file. Apparantly, the EPIA's CPU doesn't support PSE and the linux kernel (2.5.67, and probably others) checks for it in the suspend.h file. By commenting out this line, you can get suspend-to-disk/hibernate working in Linux.

Update: Ok, now I'm getting a kernel panic for some reason - I'll post the resolution once I get it figured out.


	Last update (2003-07-03 18:03:12):

I've decided to add a new feature to the DSSC circuit. It's a software change, so it won't add any time to the wait for it. I've decided to add a serial input to it, so that an adjustable delay can be sent to the circuit to extend the time until the unit shuts down. The purpose is basically to allow the option of providing a software interface to the circuit in addition to the normal valet switch function. The valet switch will have to be hard wired in order to work properly. The new function will allow for a dashpc screen that will let you just hit a button in order to add an additional delay. It's kind of hard to explain, but it will basically allow you to hit a button called, "20 MINUTES" or something similar; and after you turn your car off, your dashpc will stay on for 20 MINUTES until the circuit forces it off.

Update update: (2003-07-03 19:12:24)
There's a very good possibility that voltage monitoring may make it into the first revision of the circuit. I can't say for sure if it's an option, but based on the current status of things, it's very likely that we'll be able to include a fixed voltage monitor into the circuit. This will help prevent dead batteries in the event that the valet switch is kept on indefinately, or the key is kept in the ignition with the car turned off for too long a period of time. I'll post more as I know more.


	Last update (2003-07-01 20:19:00):

Circuit Update: I've been trying to bring the cost of the DSSC startup/shutdown circuit down to a reasonable level before making it available. At present, the cost of the circuit will probably be: $46.96 USD for the completed circuit; $29.25 USD for the full kit; and about $10-$15 USD for the circuitboard, programmed PIC, and schematic (and the component list). I've been working hard to make the circuit both very available and very affordable. Please let me know if you have any questions or concerns about the circuit. I'm not going to say when it will be available; however, we are in the very final phase of development. As such, we're asking that the community let us know if there are any more questions/concerns/etc...


	Last update (2003-06-28 00:00:00):

Last weekend, I fried my Motherboard and CPU on my main desktop workstation at home. It's not the dashpc (thank God), but it was a pain in the arse none-the-less to have to remaster my desktop machine. Because of this, I haven't worked on the DashPC this past week.


	Last update (2003-06-11 22:11:02):

I gave the website a quick little facelift [again] tonight. It's not quite finished yet, but it's getting there. Much thanks to my great high-school buddies Samson Cranford and Steve McCain for their help in designing the new images (and [forthcoming] flash). They are with-out-a-doubt the best graphic designers that I know. Thanks guys!


	Last update (2003-06-08 20:08:08):

Some video footage from PhreakNIC 6 is now available over at hacksec.org. Among the videos is some footage of the VW and GM dashpc vehicles. Click here to download the video. It's 51 Megs, so a fast connection is pretty necessary. A RealAudio version is here. . We've come a long way since that video was taken back in November of 2002. We're probably going to be a PhreakNIC 7 this year, so if you're near Nashville, Tennessee, USA come on by! There are also some pictures from the event here and at Todd's website here. Also, here's a neat picture that someone took of my car, and here's a cool one of Todd's Grandamp.


	Last update (2003-06-08 00:08:08):

A friend of mine has built a great mini-itx case: A cigar humidor! Pictures can be seen
here (German website). Also, please vote for it on the poll over at Epicenter.de.


	Last update (2003-05-31 19:31:34):

Well, unfortunately, the startup/shutdown circuit is way behind schedule again. I'm NOT making any more projections on when it will become availabile for sale. It _IS_ forthcoming [soon], but it's not coming this month, or likely next...

In other news, I'm moving into a new place next month and I [finally] have my own garage, a dedicated office, and I'm saving about $200 USD in the deal. I'm very excited, and hopefully this will bring about a rapid increase in development of the DashPC software and the demo vehicle.


	Last update (2003-05-24 17:24:05):

I spent the morning working on the new forward camera fiberglass mount. I added quick preview picture to the pictures page. After the fiberglass dries, I'll sand it smooth, and drill out the camera opening. I haven't started on the rear bumper cameras, but I'm planning on doing that in the coming months. I figure it'll be trivial to modify the transmission shifter with a pressure switch. The end result will be to have the display switch to the rear camera(s ?) when the car is put into reverse. The plan is to use a toggle switch set for the reverse position on the gearshift, and when it's toggled "on" it will send the dashpc code a signal, and it will switch the display. I'll post more as it develops.


	Last update (2003-05-12 20:04:00):

One of the forum members, Tom, posted this link in the forums and I figured I'd post it here: http://www.xmradio.com/xmpcr/ It's a USB XM Radio receiver (Sirius is better, in my opinion). None-the-less, it looks like a promising little unit, however, there currently isn't any support for it for Linux. If you'd like to see some Linux support for it, please click here (middle click if you have tabbed browsing), ask for support for Linux (don't forget to mention the product - the XMPCR - in your message).


	Last update (2003-05-09 01:03:00):

Good news and bad news tonight for those that are waiting for the DSSC circuit. The good news is that I have the final schematic, the code, and the prototype works great (there are a few quirks that I'm working on, but I'll post more about that later). The bad news is that I just finalized everything _tonight_. It's probably going to take me a week or two to do the PCB layout. Once I have that finished, the unit will go into production and about 3 weeks after that you guys can have at it. Soooo.... we're still a few weeks off, but we're definately in the home-stretch.

Also, here's a fun picture taken during PhreakNIC 2002, in Nashville, TN. of the current Dashwerks crew (picture courtesy T. Johnson). I'm the guy pointing at the DashWerks logo on the train.


	Last update (2003-05-01 00:00:00):

Apparently, there are a few "scam artists" on eBay that are trying to sell products by using my copyrighted pictures. One such member is: indashpc. This user has sold _1_ product (a 32 Meg CFcard) and is trying to pose as me by saying that the pictures are of HIS car installation. I've contacted him about his violation of my copyrighted pictures; and I'll post more news as this situation develops. Much thanks to Andy for pointing this out to me. In the future, if anyone would like to use my pictures, please just let me know. If you'd like to use them for a legitimate purpose, I'm very considerate, and I'll likely let you use them.


	Last update (2003-04-25 00:00:00):

Believe it or not, we're actually on schedule for the startup/shutdown circuit. I've got the linux driver already written (for the people that don't use ACPI). If anyone from the Windows crowd would like to write a windows driver (in C with source), I'll give you credit for the code. Basically, all that's needed is a daemon that listens on a user-defined serial port for the letters "SHUTDOWN" (less the " symbols) and when received makes a call to the SHExitWindowsEx function of the SHELL32.DLL. I'm not a windows programmer (anymore) or I'd write the driver myself. Email me with code or questions.


	Last update (2003-04-21 00:00:00):

I added a couple of pictures of the new EPIA-M board and the casetronics case. I modfied the case a little bit. I added some screw terminals and put the startup/shutdown circuit prototype inside the case. The entire unit just needs 3 connections: GND, B+ (battery 12v), and ACC (accessory line). The other screw terminals are for the delayed turnon of the LCD and AMPs. Click on the pictures link, and sort by DATE to see the new pics.


	Last update (2003-04-09 19:39:53):

April 23rd has been designated as "Contact Your Favorite Software Vendor Day". If you care about Linux, and want to help spread the joy, you're asked to call your favorite software vendor and ask them when they're going to port their application to Linux. Post on your Blogs, and email your local LUGs (Linux User Groups).


	Last update (2003-04-03 00:08:03):

We're not sure where all of the traffic is coming from, but the site has been getting a steady smack all day. Anyone care to share what site you linked from?


	Last update (2003-04-02 19:54:20):

A friend of mine sent me a minimal Dashpc based distro a few weeks ago, and I figured I'd share it with you guys. It's optimized for solid-state devices, it's small enough to fit within a 128 Meg CFcard, and it has all of the necessary libs to run DashPC. It's still very beta, but after I've cleaned it up some, I'll post it here ... Stay tuned !


	Last update (2003-04-01 11:44:13):

Tonight I found a great new suite that lets you "hop" IP networks regardless of your interface's stability. From their website: it provides IP mobility across multiple networks, ensuring that all active TCP sessions will be maintained upon client migration. No client-side software or alteration to the IP stack is required. It sounds pretty interesting. I'll post more details as I learn more.


	Last update (2003-03-30 00:00:00):

Ok, we're moving forward with the circuit design. Within a couple of weeks we should have the final design finished, and a few weeks after that the circuit will be available. As things stand, the price will probably be around $49 fully assembled. I will probably sell them as kits for $39 (just parts). And I will probably sell the programmed PIC's alone for 5-10 bucks or so.

NOTE: These prices are very preliminary right now. They are subject to change. They could be higher, or they could be lower. For your benefit, your price will directly reflect what the components cost me / us.


	Last update (2003-03-20 00:00:00):

On behalf of the "The DashPC group": We support our troops 100%. War is never right; and it's not always wrong.

Regardless, our hearts are with our troops and ultimately with a peaceful resolution of the situation in Iraq. Our hearts are with the Iraqi civilians and the American soliders. Let's hope that the Iraqi military surrender peacefully, and therefore expedite the liberation of Iraq and it's people!


	Last update (2003-03-19 00:00:00):

For those of you Redhat users (or other distro's that use mingetty) that want to configure your boxes for autologin, I have a copy of the mingetty-0.9.4+redhat-7.0+autologin.tar.gz file. The only other site on the web that I could find that had it has disappeared. So, it looks like this is currently the only place out there to get it. As such, I put up a Goooogle mirror of the original site here.


	Last update (2003-03-10 00:00:00):

Spring is almost here! The weather has been great here in the ATL for the past week. Within a few weeks, I'd like to get back into "hacking" the car.

Also, I was just browsing around, and Darkangel's site reminded me that we didn't include the "theme-selector" code (that Fred Schade [and others] - thanks guys!) submitted. I'll get the tightest code into CVS within a week or two, and we'll do a file release immediately after. Keep in mind that the "themes" are just standard GTK themes, and if you're "testing" the dashpc code on a desktop machine it will change your theme universally. We'll probably add a function that will save your existing ~/.gtkrc file for backup purposes. We'll just have to see what develops.

Also, I fixed the "forum powered by Yabb" image as per s3minol3's request. I changed the dashpc.com title image (above) for no good reason.


	Last update (2003-02-28 00:00:00):

We did a file release of the Dashpc code this afternoon on Sourceforge. Carlos did all the work, so he deserves the credit. It's not quite as complete as we wanted, but we're not finished with it either. You can find the files here.


	Last update (2003-02-19 12:49:00):

Much thanks to Frank Schade (?) for giving us the code to change themes! It'll be integrated in the next file release. We'll try to have it in CVS pretty soon.


	Last update (2003-02-17 00:00:00):

Are there any C programmers out there? We need a little help... Can anyone port this code over to C for us? This program just opens up the /root/.gtkrc file and changes the font line and selects a random theme from the /usr/local/themes directory. We'll list you in the release notes for doing the port for us, and we'll do what we can to make it up to you.

If you port the code, please email it to us here. Thanks!!!


	Last update (2003-02-10 21:06:00):

Ok, we made a preliminary commit to the CVS tree. The bit-bangers out there can pull it down and scope some of the new features. The rest of you guys will have to sit tight until we finish what we've got and do a file release (tarball). We're working on several things (the circuit, graphics, etc) right now, so I'm not going to try to predict when we'll post it. Much thanks to Carlos Mora for all of his hard work on the latest release!!!


	Last update (2003-02-08 15:33:00):

We're working on a new version of the dashpc code. We're going to try to release it on Monday.


	Last update (2003-02-01 13:56:00):

Our hearts are with the 7 great Astronauts and thier families in the wake of this tragedy.


	Last update (2003-01-30 16:13:00):

Developers Conference in IRC tonight at 8PM CST. Chat channel irc://irc.freenode.net#dashpc.


	Last update (2003-01-25 09:25:57):

I've added another picture of the new circuit. You can see it here. The only major difference is that each relay has it's own LED and the serial port has been added.


	Last update (2003-01-19 04:07:54):

I gave the site a little bit of a facelift tonight. The goal is to give the entire site a more cohesive look and feel.


	Last update (2003-01-15 17:52:00):

I finally have a picture of the new startup and shutdown circuit. You can see the prototype circuit here. At the bottom of the picture, you can see the serial header (there will also be a DB9 connector under it). It can be powered by either a DC adapter, or straight wires (into the headers at the bottom). There are currently 3 relays, and 5 adjustable "timers". The LED can be used to "tune" the timing in a development environment. There's a "valet" override for deactivating the unit or overriding the timers. The Master power relay is not mounted on the board, it's controlled by one of the terminal blocks. This unit will work with serial drivers to provide a clean shutdown, or it can (simultaneously) toggle a motherboard ACPI jumper. I will provide Linux drivers, however, Mac and Windows drivers won't be available until someone writes them. :) The adjustably timed relays can be used to turn on LCDs, AMPs, or whatever. I don't have an availability date yet, however, I'd like to have it available by March.


	Last update (2003-01-14 19:33:00):

Here's a little update on the startup / shutdown circuit (which I've dubbed the "DSSC"): The current prototype measures in at 3.5" x 5" and it's less than 1" tall with the on-board relays. The final unit will likely be smaller (but probably the same height).


	Last update (2003-01-12 15:38:00):

Well, after fighting with my soundcard all weekend, I decided to move the soundcore to the ALSA drivers. Moving to Slackware wasn't easy, but I learned a hell of a lot about how Linux works by making the change. I finally got everything how I like it, so now it's time to move back into the tweak / feature add phase...


	Last update (2003-01-11 00:08:00):

Car Cam: The car cam has been put on hold for a while. It's not a terribly difficult component, however, it's not a very useful one either. I'll probably get back to it in the spring or summer of 2003.

Parallel doorlock / window controller: I stopped development on this portion of the project due to the weather. It's pretty damn cold out these days (even in Hotlanta), and I haven't had an opportunity to install the controller in the car. It should be trivial to run a set of wires from the driver's door controller back to the trunk. Another issue putting this part of the project on hold is the startup/shutdown circuit. It's required for this, since most BIOS'es toggle most (if not all) of the parallel ports bits at boot time. The new circuit has an output designed to turn on "after" this BIOS sequence. Without it, the doorlocks, windows, sunroof, etc would activate insanely everytime the car is started; and that's not a good thing. Once the weather gets better (and I have the new circuit), I'll get back to this portion of the project.


	Last update (2003-01-05 20:20:00):

Well, I officially changed my distro to Slackware 8.1 today. I've found that with Slackware, it will be much easier for us to "trim the fat" and decrease the boot time. Since I was loading my modules and my daemons from my .bash_profile anyway, it was an easy switch over to Slackware.

Also, the circuit prototype should be finished in just about one week. As such, I will have details about it on here in about 3 weeks, and the unit will be for sale about a month or month.5 from now.


	Last update (2003-01-02 14:02:27):

The new GPS unit arrived today. Looks like I might have to go out for a war-drive later tonight.


	Last update (2002-12-31 21:31:58):

Happy New Year!


	Last update (2002-12-29 16:29:05):

I ordered a new usb GPS unit last week. It should be here by Friday. I've been GPS'less for a few months now (since I sold the Earthmate). Todd's been doing some fun wardriving lately and he's mapped about 50 networks in the past week.

Also, I changed the control buttons on the left side of the webpage.


	Last update (2002-12-28 00:00:00):

Here's the latest on what we've been up to:

Startup / Shutdown circuit: The circuit is still under development. It will take about 3 to 4 weeks from the time the circuit prototype is "finalized", until it goes into production. The updated ETA is mid to end February 2003.
Car camera: I've removed the camera for the time being. I'll re-install it and start broadcasting it again in the next few months. Until then, it's on hiatus. The pictures weren't that exciting and they're not a big priority right now. It'll probably go back online with the ODBII statistics page.
ODBII statistics page: Still under development. I hope to dive back into ODBII development this weekend, thanks to Todd's latest progress on the ODBII front.
Internet Connectivity: Again, thanks to Todd's efforts, I don't have to go this alone. Todd has working roaming internet access using near-3G cellular technology. It was on my to-do list, but Todd has lifted the burden for us. Much thanks to Todd for all of this hard work and his continued efforts. I'll post links to his most recent how-to's once I get the links from him.
Sirius/XM radio Yes, we are also working on a great new Sirius (and XM if necessary) implementation for the project. Some of the list members and I had a good discussion about it, and we're currently working with some of the folks over at clubxm.com to bring a good Satellite radio solution to the dashpc's. It's a little farther down the road, but we should have something no later than mid-year 2.003k.


	Last update (2002-12-25 00:00:00):

Happy Holidays!!!


	Last update (2002-12-20 00:00:00):

I'm out of town on business until Dec. 23rd. I'll get back to working on the car more when I get back.


	Last update (2002-12-16 17:47:00):

I found a cool little app to control the "granny keys" (extra multimedia buttons) on my wireless keyboard. It's called hotkeys. Using it, you can control your keyboard's multimedia features like volume up, volume down, next track, prev track, etc. in linux.

Also, the new startup & shutdown circuit is still forthcoming. It's been delayed quite a bit (obviously), but I hope to have it available sometime in January 2003. In the meantime, the finalized specs for the circuit can be found here.

If you have any questions about the startup/shutdown circuit, please feel free to contact me.


	Last update (2002-12-11 00:00:00):