What's the smallest computer form factor reasonable for use as a Mach controller?
I've got a couple of ongoing Mach projects (don't we all?). For each I'd like to piece together an inexpensive embedded PC. The selection is a balance of cost, size and performance. The affect of integrated video has been the hardest for me to gather info on so far. I've read rumors of success and tales of caution with few details.
Evidently, there are issues with Mach if the motherboard uses shared system memory for integrated video.
The MicroATX based computers are most appealing to me. I've pieced together a BOM for a more-than-decent system for ~ $200. Playing it safe and assuming a separate video card increased expense and size. Expense increased by about ~$50 for the video card (and 90° riser card). Size and hassle of dealing with a whole additional card is a big deal for an embedded system.
There are some very attractive deals for “bare bones” DIY microATX systems that could be a great resource to all of us -- if only there were a way to definitively know the compatibility of a motherboards integrated video.
Some questions and issues that came up during my component selection:
- Is a less-expensive PCI video card sufficient or should these be avoided in favor of AGP?
- Is it possible to identify the video memory sharing strategy employed by a motherboard?
(does knowing the motherboard’s chipset help?)
I'll compile and summarize any results if the response and interest is sufficient.
- Ted
PS. ... trying to figure out how to cleanly attach my current working BOM