Intel unveils ultra small form factor PC

Friday, 6 June 2014 00:37 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

By Shabiya Ali Ahlam

Global chip giant Intel on Wednesday introduced to the local market its newest product, the Next Unit of Computing (NUC), an ultra small form factor PC. The NUC is a 4x4 inches PC that weights less than 500g. While majority are used to having PCs that weighs at least five kilograms, the NUC has a smaller footprint than a wireless model, providing the advantage of mobility. Since Intel’s newest product range brings the latest technology in just a small package, the NUC can serve as home theater PC, media server, gaming machine or even as personal cloud storage. The device is equipped with Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 automatically allowing processor cores to safely run faster that the base operating frequency, Intel Rapid Start Technology and Intel Smart Connect Technology for quick start up and ensuring the user is up-to-date at all times. Intel EM Country Business Manager Indika de Zoysa pointed out that even though small, the device can drive digital signage, kiosks, and power other applications in a tight space. “Anything a tower PC can do, the Intel NUC can do that too in four inches real estate. The NUC has all what is needed to power a customer’s digital potential, that is to browse social media, check emails and video chat, all while keeping the office uncluttered,” said Zoysa. He added that the sleek and small Intel NUC packs more features into an even slimmer form factor and that this fourth generation computing device provides a flexible, customisable engine to drive. “Intel’s NUC’s presence with Intel inside is the manifestation of Intel’s commitment to always produce technologies that make life easy and affordable for more productive and better living,” noted Zoysa. The Intel NUC comes complete with Intel HD Graphics 5000 to ensure a brilliant HD experience, Intel Quick Sync Video for fast video encoding, and DisplayPort 1.2 for driving 4k displays. This is coupled with a stereo/mic jack along with four USB 3.0 ports and an infrared sensor for the remote control. The Intel NUC comes in two forms, the board and the Kit. The Intel NUC board comes with a 4x4 inches mother board with a soldered on processor that will have to be integrated into a case, whereas the Intel NUV kit comes with a 4x4 inches motherboard soldered on processor, enclosure around the board, a power brick, VESA mounting bracket, wireless antennae that integrated in to the chassis and an Intel brand sticker. It also has an option for a power cord. – Pix by Daminda Harsha Perera