Re: [Gumstix-users] Need advice about internet kiosk project

[dima Q <di...@gm...>]

I think you should make a PC prototype first, then find a small pc - I tried
99-dollar mini-pc (200MHz), it ran firefox and flash, did sound fine, but
was too slow for youtube (about 1fps), so perhaps you should
consider something a bit faster - either one of those 300-dollar home PC's
or Via mini-ITX.

Unless you are going to make thousands of these, I would not bother with
embedded components - whether gumstix or displays, instead stick to off-the
shelf components and car entertainment displays.

As far as mobile networks are concerned you need to decide what your
bandwidth requirements are, namely whether you need 3G - that alone will
influence your choice of modem more than anything.

A radical alternative is to use a smartphone that already plays flash, has
mobile data and a screen, and sprinkle a bit custom software on it. There
are many choices, although a bit pricey :)

Good Luck
d.

On 8/22/07, Mark Arnold <ma...@le...> wrote:
>
> Any guidance for the best hardware and OS for this project is appreciated.
>
> I'd like to assemble a cellular internet kiosk device capable of running a
> full web browser with Flash player support.  It will have no other mission
> in life other than to download and display web pages with Flash content over
> the cell networks: no custom apps are planned.
>
> It should satisfy these requirements:
>
> 1.      small and economical so as to be embedded in varied enclosure
> types and sizes
> 2.      able to run on wall power, no battery required
> 3.      no moving parts
> 4.      must have an embedded OS capable of running a full browser with
> Flash support.  I expect this will be embedded Linux due to cost and
> compatibility with Firefox and Flash Player, but I'm no Linux expert.  WinCE
> could also be an option if a full browser and/or Flash player support is
> available.
> 5.      should support audio embedded in the web pages and Flash movies
> but not required
> 6.      must be remotely controllable through FTP, telnet, etc. for
> updates
> 7.      must be able to interface with different cellular networks
> (Sprint, Verizon, etc).  This could be through onboard cellular hardware or
> perhaps through USB or PCMCIA add-on hardware
> 8.      should be able to interface with 802.11 wireless networks but not
> required
> 9.      must include or be able to interface with a PDA sized display,
> 3x5" etc. (size is flexible)
>
> What do you suggest is a good approach to putting together this
> device?  Does Gumstix have products you recommend I consider?  The Verdex
> with Goliath board may be a good option, but I'm concerned it may end up
> being larger than I want and have more functionality than I need.
>
> Any thoughts are much appreciated!
> Mark
>
>
>
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