would like to build kiosk/atm like fairly mobile computer

[jahman]

anyone ever run across info about building a custom kiosk like setup?

i have been noodling an idea for a real estate company - to be able to set up a kiosk in local highly populated area.

here are the design specs:

• durability - initial thoughts are to have a 17" lcd behind lexan or something like that, with the computer down below.
• power (need to consider power options if i dont have a nearby plug)
• security - through cheapness (not the end of the world if it gets ripped off) and simple vandalism prevention
• internet access. 2 options - a local last mile isp (clearwire) or just use a sprint broadband phone/cable card

would love to hear thoughts or see any links people might have come across.

[Thermo]

The way to control theft and damage is to lease them.

Read this to get started.

[wh666-666]

True thermo, it really depends how good your idea is, how much money you want to make etc etc. Be aware of the legal minefield if you do it yourself or lease to others.

When I used to work for an ATM company shopping centres were the best spots for them. High traffic volume of customers passing by, the majority tend to be very secure and sealed off late at night, with shops already in a centre the infrastructure including phone lines and power are already there and it was ideal because it was in a targeted customer area.

To be honest though, for a real estate company kiosks doesnt seem a feasible option as the amount of business it will generate compared to the outlay wont be much at all.

[PriMaTe]

I don't really think it would work. No one would want to conduct serious business at a little kiosk where there are a million people walking by, you want a quiet office to talk and negotiate. I don't think people decide to buy/sell a house just because they saw a kiosk, if they want to do it they will seek out a company. No one will take a kiosk seriously.

If you used it as some sort of advertising center to get people to sit down with you at an office then that could work.