If you are not able to find an answer to your question on our site, please, e-mail us at info@carcpu.com.

Q. What is CarCPU ™?
A. CarCPU is a DBA name and a trademark of QuadProg, INC. It is intended to be recognized and be synonymous with easy to install, yet very powerful computer systems designed for in-car use

Q. What makes CarCPU ™ Different?
A. There are many PC manufacturers, assemblers and resellers that claim their PC is made to be used in a vehicle, they even offer nice looking task screen software to quickly switch between tasks, adjust volume and turn off the computer. The key, however, is how well is the system designed to be used in a vehicle. We have taken a little different approach. No, we do not provide our end-users with a fancy-looking screen software, but rather functionality, realized through hardware. Our complete systems come with a small IR remote and programmable software to quickly do most of those functions, and then some.  Windows operating system can switch tasks easily as it is; there is no actual need for any extra software, except for looks. “The Power-off button is so convenient”, some may say, but why is there a need for one? The answer is simple, not all of the systems turn off automatically; they require the end-user to push the power button every time the car is shut-off so that the system would power down and save the battery.

Q. How difficult is it to install a complete CarCPU ™ System?
A. Our goal is to make system installation as easy as installing an aftermarket CD-Changer in a car.  Our system takes 3 power wires as input: Constant 12V, ACC (Accessories) and ground.  The rest is simple, just plug in cables.

Q. Do you provide installation instructions?
A. Yes, CarCPU ™ System comes with installation instructions. We also provide e-mail support - support@carcpu.com.

Q. Is there more capable system available at this time?
A. So far we have not found anything even close to what our system is offering.

Q. Can I play audio CD's?
A. Yes, you can. Current operating system supports direct audio digital extraction, providing distortion free sound.

Q. Can I play DVDs?
A. Yes. The system provides software as well as hardware support. (Please observe local traffic laws regarding watching TV/DVD while driving).

Q. Can I play MP3 CDs?
A. Yes.

Q.  If I make the system to stay powered up even when the car is off, will it drain my battery.
A.  No.  The power supply has a protection built in against such occasions.

Q. Why is the price so high.
A. Only high quality components were used to create a complete system, justifying the price.

Q.  I do not need some of the components as I have some spare ones laying around.
A.  Please, email us.  We can provide you with a quote on a customized system.

Q.  How does auto power-up/shut-down work?.
A.  By default the system is configured to turn off automatically, following complete soft shut-down procedure, whenever the ignition is turned off.  When the ignition is turned on, the system will initiate boot-up process after a 5 sec delay.  In other words, it operates the same way a car stereo does, without a need of an input from the end-user.

Q. I am concerned with current high speed processors and memory generating heat. How is that addressed?
A. The custom enclosure was designed for easy air-flow.  The top cover supports 2 fans, CPU and System.  One of the sides, also has another fan mounted.  All of the fans are activated and speed controlled based on the readings from 3 different points in the system.  Constant software monitoring of the fan and temperature functions provide extra peace of mind.

Q. I have read on another manufacturer's website that there may be computer related audio noise reflected in the audio system.  How does your system perform?
A.  When properly installed, our system does not interfere with audio functions.  In fact, we have utilized latest technology audio adapter that can be placed close to your AUX input or amplifier for better sound reproduction due to shorter cables.  The Signal To Noise specification  for the audio adapter is an outstanding 102Db ("Elite" System Only).

Q. I am planning on feeding the sound signal directly into my AMP.  Are there any issues?
A. The system is designed to completely replace your head unit, providing complete volume control, as well as 2-Volt signal output for better sound clarity (Elite System Only).

Q. Can your system be interfaced with my OEM/Aftermarket stereo?
A. Yes, that is possible by different means.  The best way is to utilize AUX input, if your stereo has one.  If not, it is possible to use an FM modulator as an option, which would feed FM signal at a programmable frequency into your stereo.

Q. I plan to remove my OEM head unit, which has an amplifier built in, do I need to buy an amplifier to use your system?
A. Yes, you do.  The system only provides sound output which is intended to be interfaced with an amplifier, an AUX input of a stereo, a FM modulator, or a Tape Adapter.

Q. I have seen a number of mobile computer systems on the market, what makes your system special?
A. If you pay close attention, you will see that most, if not all, systems were made by the same manufacturer and are being resold for profit.  Unlike the rest, we are not buying a product and reselling it, but we have designed our own, intended to be most thought-through unit, as well as a complete system, on the market.  You, as a consumer, may benefit from our extensive experience in the computer as well as mobile field.  In fact, our designers have more than 10 years of computer hardware experience, as well as degree and experience in computer science.  Being a car enthusiast and an audiophile is our hobby.  When the above mentioned traits were put to work, the end results was a well-integrated car computer system made to compete against Mobile PCs, as well as high-end head units.

Q.  I am a computer knowledgeable person and I think I can build a comparable system myself.
A.  You are more than welcome to.  However, you have to consider the price of hardware and the amount of time it will take you to complete such an endeavor, as well as the price of manufacturing many custom components.

Q.  How can I synchronize my data?
A.  Please, click here for information.

Q.  When should I expect to receive my system after I place an order?
A.  It takes 2-4 business days to assemble the system, to manufacture power harnesses and to install drivers and software. After the system is tested, we ship it out UPS Ground and e-mail tracking numbers to you. Please, allow 1-5 business days for transit time (depends on your location).

Q.  What is the audio signal voltage output and what is the advantage of high voltage output?
A.  High voltage audio output has become a great marketing point.  However, one needs to look further than numbers to understand what the advantage and application is.  With most common audio setups, the headunit supplies audio signal to the external amplifiers over RCA wires that may run over a long distance parallel to other wiring.  The further wires have to run, the more signal degradation, as well as noise accumulation, will occur.  One of the ways to decrease this effect is to increase the audio signal voltage output.  In other words, the noise still stays; it’s just not as noticeable as it is not amplified as much.  A big advantage of using an external audio adapter, such as Sound Blaster Audigy 2 NX is that its audio wiring doesn’t have to run through the whole vehicle.  The adapter itself gets all of sound data digitally and only then converts it into analog signal.  Since it can be installed right next to the amplifier unit, analog audio noise will be extremely low due to short audio cables, giving it a huge advantage over traditional high voltage output headunits.