2011-02-21

Navisurfer II serves up Ubuntu in a fresh way


Have you gone the extra mile to install Ubuntu on every device you possibly can, even your kitchen toaster? When you get yourself a shiny new car, is the first thing you do customize it? Then the Navisurfer II is just what you need to “pimp your ride”.

The Navisurfer II UBU-3G is a car PC that embeds into the dashboard of your vehicle. Notable features are HSDPA modem, Broadband TV & Radio, touch screen, GPS with Software & Maps. If you guessed Ubuntu 10.10 fuels the magic, then you my friend deserve chocolate.


Specifications

  • Processor: 1300 MHz (Intel Celeron M)
  • Hard Drive: 250 GB
  • Memory: 2GB DDR2
  • GPS receiver/GPS antenna (included) Navit Navigation System)
  • Double DIN
  • 3G HSDPA BroadBand Connection – Internet Radio & TV
  • Customized Ubuntu 10.10 for in car use
  • Bluetooth Connection (built in)

Connections

  • 3 x USB 2.0
  • 2 x PS2
  • 1 x Mic-in
  • 1 x Line-in
  • 1 x Line-out
  • 1 x Serial Port
  • 2 x DC 12V input
  • 2 x AV-in (Monitor only)
  • 1 x Rear View Camera auto switch



The OS is a customized version of Maverick; no Unity. It looks like a very odd quadrupole Gnome gnome panel with a launcher on the desktop. First, the right/left sides of the UI seem be dressed up panels. Second, there are two panels one on top the other at the bottom. And yes, why the cheap Gnome panel fish is there by default confuses me too. All defaults in 10.10 are include along with additions such as AMSN, Miro, the fish, etc.

The UI could use some work, a few rough edges and inconsistencies are visible just in this screen shot. Why Unity or even UNR wasn’t used is the question we should all be asking.

Installation


For those who know a little something about car audio systems, The Navisurfer II is a double DIN unit that works with 12V / 24V car batteries with adapter. If you don’t know, you can always learn how to change out a cars radio.

All-in-all, the entire setup should cost you only 300$.

For more information visit the official website.

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