Click on the picture to enlarge.
Many people think that choosing a decent computer case is an easy task. Unfortunately, experience shows that this is far from the case. Many PC cases seem very interesting at first glance and offer good quality assemblies. But upon closer examination it is often discovered that appearance can be very deceiving.
The THG laboratory received four cases for mini-PCs, and the design of each case was positioned by the manufacturers as “completely new.” All models cost around 70 euros, which is quite expensive for a case of this size. After all, there is no hardware in these cases. You will have to buy the motherboard, power supply and all other components separately. By the time you complete your system, you'll have spent a lot more money.
At first glance, it seems that you have purchased a small and very stylish PC case that will decorate any LAN party. However, we found a number of shortcomings in each of the candidates presented in our review, which often go unnoticed when purchasing in a store, and even more so over the Internet. Such shortcomings are discovered only at home, when it is too late.
Some of the case samples that arrived at our laboratory seem more suited to being scrap metal at the nearest landfill than to being bestsellers. Not to mention the plastic doors, which we have been criticizing for a long time. Some cases rattled even when we simply unpacked them, without any hardware installed in them! In appearance, the drive bays appear to bend at just a glance, which in itself does not inspire confidence. We captured some of these shortcomings in the video, which is presented at the end of our article.
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Aplus Blockbuster II BM. Click on the picture to enlarge.
From the outside, the Aplus Blockbuster II BM case looks very compact and at the same time massive, although it weighs only 6.4 kg. There are two 5.25" drive bays accessible from the front, which are closed by plastic doors that open downwards. An optical drive can be installed here. When the disk tray is pulled out, the door swings down on two hinges. A return spring, similar to that used in a ballpoint pen, automatically closes the door.
Behind the third plastic door there is a 3.5" compartment into which you can install either an outdated drive or a more modern flash card reader. A little to the left there is another plastic cover, behind which the front connectors for USB, sound and FireWire are hidden. When the computer is running , the large power on/off button is illuminated in blue. The dimensions of the Blockbuster case are not only very tall, but also quite long, which is certainly limiting. possible options its placement. It’s worth thinking about whether you need such a bulky one in your living room. system unit?
However, a case of this size also has its advantages: it provides more wide choose components. With the exception of the motherboard, which must fit the micro-ATX form factor, you are, for the most part, free to use standard components. Just don't take a very tall cooler. It's better to choose a flatter but wider cooler, such as the Zalman CNP8700 LED or Coolermaster, which we used in our testing. Unlike giant CPU coolers, the above models fit well into the form factor of the Aplus Blockbuster II BM case.
At the back of the empty case, you can see the space for the motherboard I/O panel and the installation location for three fans. Click on the picture to enlarge.
The housing cover is secured with five screws. Apparently, the manufacturer forgot about the existence of thumbscrews, which would make life much easier for customers. After opening the case you discover a very successful interior. All edges and edges are treated to prevent cuts. Using two internal latches, you can tilt the upper part of the case to the side, which greatly facilitates the installation of hardware.
On the front behind the door there are audio connectors, USB and FireWire ports.
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The large front door for the optical drive must be opened manually. Otherwise the tray will not be able to move out. Click on the picture to enlarge.
The case, almost similar to the Aplus Blockbuster II model, was developed by TACens. The black “cube” looks quite stylish. The drive bays are behind a large door that hides almost half of the front panel of the case. You can’t immediately tell that there is a door in front of us. The rest of the front panel is designed in a simple business style. However, the illusion of belonging to a high class collapses when this large door opens, which is accompanied by a creaking and crackling sound. As it turned out, this door is made of cheap plastic. In addition, the TACens THECA case does not have an opening mechanism like the luxury OrigenAE 21ST. In other words, if you want to remove a disc from the optical drive, the tray will be locked. In the worst case, it could even damage the optical drive slide-out mechanism. This applies to both 5.25" bays.
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When you turn on the computer, the power button and company logo light up. Click on the picture to enlarge.
The front audio and USB ports are hidden behind the door.
At the bottom of the front panel of the TACens THECA case there is another, more “elegant” cover, behind which two front USB ports and audio connectors are hidden. There is no FireWire connector. The company logo and the name of the case are illuminated by LED indicators, and "THECA" lights up only when the drive is active, and "TACens" is constantly illuminated.
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Internal structure of TACens THECA and Aplus Blockbuster II BM
Same internal structure, different appearance. Click on the picture to enlarge. At first glance, it is obvious that the Aplus and TACens cases use the same internal layout. More precisely, they use the same chassis, so they appear to be made by the same supplier and differ only in the exterior design. We noticed the same feature when considering Midi Tower enclosures
. Apparently, the steel or aluminum structures come from the same manufacturer, and the company makes the front panel in-house (or maybe buys it from another company). The two parts are eventually joined together on an assembly line. This allows companies to offer their own customized models, although ultimately they are selling essentially identical models.
In this case, such similarity is not a disadvantage. Such “twins” are easy to test, describe and evaluate. To be honest, it saved us a lot of time. Both cases are models with a side-hinged top. When assembled, the upper part of the case contains the drives and power supply. The lower part houses the motherboard with the central processor, video card and memory. With the top folded down, it is much easier to access cables because all jumpers and connectors can be reached from either side. The only downside to this two-tier design is that it limits the height of larger CPU coolers. The same goes for video cards with complex and therefore large heat pipe cooling systems. However, for such long video cards as the GeForce 8800 GT, this is not a problem.
Once you slide the latches, you can fold the top of the case open. Click on the picture to enlarge.
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Five LEDs illuminate the large case fan. Click on the picture to enlarge.
Aplus products have been featured on the pages of Tom Hardware Guide more than once. The new case, called "Blockbuster Storm", is equipped with a huge fan that takes up almost the entire top panel. Thanks to this size, the fan can rotate very slowly and still provide good ventilation. In addition, the fan speed can be set manually. Hot air is blown out from the rear of the case by a 120mm fan. While other cases, such as the XClio Twin Engine, place a 250mm fan on the side or front, the Aplus design places the fan directly on the front. top panel housings. One drawback: you lose additional free space, since you can’t put anything on the case.
The fan rotation speed can be adjusted manually using a wheel. Click on the picture to enlarge.
Blockbuster Storm front connectors. Click on the picture to enlarge.
Large transparent windows are cut out on the sides of the case, which allows you to admire the insides of the computer even when the case is closed. Modders will love this as it puts all the accessories and interior lighting on display. On the front panel there is a small display that displays the temperature inside the case. The corresponding sensor is installed anywhere inside the housing.
...and behind. Click on the picture to enlarge.
What does a company do when it can't boast of anything new? It redesigns, renames or repaints its existing models. Apevia sent the X-QPack 2 case to our laboratory as a new model, but upon unpacking it, we recognized it as its predecessor - X-QPack, which was written about two years ago. Of course, we were curious to see what had changed.
Rear housing. Click on the picture to enlarge.
The outside of the X-QPack 2 has changed a bit compared to previous version. The individual elements are no longer connected as rigidly as before. The windows on the panels have disappeared; they are now only available as an optional upgrade. It was nice to discover that the wobbly carrying handle old version The housing was replaced with a more reliable and firmly fixed metal handle. This gives the new case a much more solid and confidence-inspiring appearance.
The interior is completely identical not only to the insides of the Blockbuster Storm case described in this review, but also to the previous X-QPack model. The internal aluminum parts shined as if Apevia had carefully polished every part before sending the case to our laboratory. Unfortunately, the new X-QPack 2 case still contains the same shaky components that we already criticized in article about the first X-QPack model. The video, the link to which you will find below, will clearly demonstrate this.
The Apevia case display can display two temperatures. Click on the picture to enlarge. .
Internal structure of Aplus Blockbuster Storm and Apevia X-QPack 2
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Second pair of buildings. Click on the picture to enlarge.
The internal structure has not changed either for the better or for the worse. Neither Aplus nor Apevia brought anything innovative to the design of their cases, but simply used their old layout. Each case can accommodate two 3.5" drives and one 5.25" drive. The motherboard must have a Micro-ATX form factor. As for the fans, the design of the cases is slightly different, but only externally. In the Aplus case, the 120mm fan is transparent and illuminated by three LED indicators. Apevia uses a blue fan without backlight. In addition, the X-QPack 2 is equipped with an 80mm fan on the front that draws cool air inside the case.
The motherboard tray slides out, making it easy to install components. Click on the picture to enlarge.
Both cases have a motherboard tray that can be pulled out of the case to mount components. This tray makes it much easier to install the motherboard, central processor, CPU cooler and memory. It also makes it much easier to route and connect power cords and cables to the front panel connectors. After all the components are firmly attached to the mounting tray, you just need to slide it, along with all the hardware, back into the empty housing. If everything is fine, then all that remains is to install and connect the power supply and drives.
Pre-installed case fan. Click on the picture to enlarge.
...and the Apevia case has a second pre-installed 80mm fan. Click on the picture to enlarge.
Test configuration
Our test platform for all HTPC cases. Click on the picture to enlarge.
| Hardware | |
| Motherboard | Gigabyte GA-8I945GMH-RH |
| CPU | Intel P4, 2.6 GHz |
| CPU cooler | Cooler Master CM12V |
| Memory | ExceleRAM EX2-2800Ps, 2x 1 GB, DDR2 |
| HDD | Maxtor Diamond MAX 10, SATA-II, 300 GB |
| Optical drive | Gigabyte GO-D1600D (DVD) |
| power unit | Hiper High Power 560 W |
| Video card | Gigabyte GV-RX30128D |
The power supply uses a modular cabling principle. Click on the picture to enlarge.
Technical specifications of Aplus Blockbuster Storm and Apevia X-QPack 2
The front panels are different, but the internal structure is the same. Click on the picture to enlarge.
| Manufacturer | Aplus | Apevia |
| Model | Blockbuster Storm | X-QPack 2 |
| Price | 70 euros | 78 euros |
| Micro-ATX | Micro-ATX | |
| Expansion slots | 4x | 4x |
| 5.25" bays (external) | 2x | 2x |
| 3.5" bays (external) | 1x | 1x |
| 3.5" bays (internal) | 2x | 2x |
| Front connectors | 1x IEEE1394a, 2x USB, 2x audio | |
| 3x | 2x | |
| 1x 250mm, 1x 120mm | 1x 80mm, 1x 120mm | |
| Height | 235 mm | 228 mm |
| Width | 285 mm | 284 mm |
| Length | 385 mm | 373 mm |
| Weight (without power supply) | 6.4 kg | 6 kg |
| Material | Aluminum + plastic | Aluminum + plastic |
| Other | Pull-out motherboard tray, two plexiglass windows, carrying handle, large top fan, display | Carrying handle, display |
Technical specifications of Aplus Blockbuster II BM and TACens THECA
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Again, different front panels, but the same internals. Click on the picture to enlarge.
| Manufacturer | APlus | TACens |
| Model | Blockbuster II BM | THECA |
| Price | 70 euros | 60 euros |
| Motherboard form factor | Micro-ATX | Micro-ATX |
| Expansion slots | 4x | 4x |
| 5.25" bays (external) | 2x | 2x |
| 3.5" bays (external) | 1x | 1x |
| 3.5" bays (internal) | 2x | 2x |
| Front connectors | 1 IEEE1394a, 2x USB, 2x audio | 1 IEEE1394a, 2x USB, 2x audio |
| Number of fan mounts | 3x | 3x |
| Pre-installed fans | 1x 80mm | 3x 80mm, 1x 120mm |
| Height | 247 mm | 233 mm |
| Width | 295 mm | 295 mm |
| Length | 385 mm | 348 mm |
| Weight (without power supply) | 5.70 kg | 5.70 kg |
| Material | Aluminum + plastic | Aluminum + plastic |
| Other |
TACens THECA. Click on the picture to enlarge.
| Weight | Category | Result |
| 25% | Equipment | 85% |
| 40% | Ergonomics | 75% |
| 20% | Design | 80% |
| 15% | Price | 75% |
| Overall result | 79% | |
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The display shows the temperature inside the housing. Click on the picture to enlarge.
| Weight | Category | Result |
| 25% | Equipment | 85% |
| 40% | Ergonomics | 80% |
| 20% | Design | 80% |
| 15% | Price | 75% |
| Overall result | 81% | |
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Aplus Blockbuster Storm case with an unusual top fan. Click on the picture to enlarge.
| Weight | Category | Result |
| 25% | Equipment | 90% |
| 40% | Ergonomics | 80% |
| 20% | Design | 80% |
| 15% | Price | 75% |
| Overall result | 82% | |
Conclusion
We weren't particularly impressed with any of the four mini PC cases we tested. None of the models showed the slightest hint of innovation. For example, the mechanism for the folding top of the TACens THECA and Aplus Blockbuster II BM cases is a very convenient solution, but there is nothing new here. Two years ago, Gigabyte already used exactly the same mechanism in its case CB91 .
Eat best ways invest the 70 euros that you would spend on buying one of the cases presented in this article. For example, a mini-PC (“barebone”) Gigabyte companies and Shuttle already come with motherboard, power supply and CPU cooler. Even though such cases cost more than 70 euros, you will even save money in the long run. Unfortunately, everything has quieted down on the barebone computer market; the Shuttle company, which created a certain niche of cases for mini-PCs, such as those presented in this article, is no longer making itself known so loudly. However, none of the candidates seems truly convincing to us.
The following videos show two negative features that we discovered during testing of the cases.
It is reported that the ASRock X300M-STX system based on a certain AMD hybrid processor of the Renoir family was tested in the popular 3DMark Time Spy benchmark. This processor has eight cores and sixteen threads and runs on a base clock frequency 3.5 GHz. The frequency of the built-in graphics processor is 1750 MHz, but its configuration is not specified. The system was equipped with DDR4 memory with a frequency of 3200 MHz.
CPU performance was rated at 8522 points, while GPU earned a score of 1182 points. For comparison, the Ryzen 7 4800HS mobile processor, which also has 8 cores and 16 threads, and Vega 7 graphics with a frequency of 1600 MHz, scores 7597 and 1092 points, respectively, in the same tests. In turn, the Ryzen 7 4800U, also with 8 cores and 16 threads, but Vega 8 graphics with a frequency of 1750 MHz, shows a result of 6061 points for the CPU and 1045 points for the GPU.
As for the ASRock X300M-STX system itself, then, apparently, it will be some kind of compact desktop PC, like the one released last year. Let us remember that it can be equipped with hybrid processors AMD Picasso, Raven Ridge or Bristol Ridge. The new product should offer higher performance with new processors.
Nettop Purism Librem Mini is built on the Linux platform
Participants in the Purism project announced a small form factor desktop computer, Librem Mini, using the Intel hardware platform and an operating system based on the Linux kernel.
The device is housed in a housing with dimensions of only 128 × 128 × 38 mm. Processor involved Intel Core i7-8565U Whiskey Lake generation, containing four cores with the ability to process up to eight instruction threads. The nominal clock frequency is 1.8 GHz, the maximum is 4.6 GHz. The chip includes an Intel UHD 620 graphics accelerator.
Volume random access memory DDR4-2400 can reach 64 GB: two SO-DIMM slots are available for installing the corresponding modules. There is a SATA 3.0 port for a 2.5-inch drive. In addition, a solid-state M.2 module can be used.
Provided Network Controller Gigabit Ethernet LAN. Optionally, adapters can be installed wireless communication Wi-Fi 802.11n and Bluetooth 4.0.
The set of connectors includes one HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort 1.2 interface, four USB port 3.0 and two USB 2.0 ports, a symmetrical USB Type-C port. The device weighs about 1 kg.
The computer will come with the PureOS Linux platform. The price will be from 700 US dollars.
The OnLogic ML510G-50 compact computer uses the Intel Coffee Lake platform
OnLogic has announced the ML510G-50, a small form factor computer suitable for commercial and industrial applications.
The new product is based on hardware Intel platform Coffee Lake. The top version includes a Core i7-8700T processor, which contains six processing cores with the ability to simultaneously process up to twelve instruction threads. The nominal clock frequency is 2.4 GHz, the maximum is 4.0 GHz.
The device can carry on board up to 32 GB of DDR4-2666 RAM. It is possible to install an M.2 solid-state drive with a capacity of up to 512 GB.
It is important to note that the computer is fanless and therefore does not produce any noise during operation. The ribbed surface of the case acts as a radiator to dissipate heat.
The new product can be equipped with Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2 wireless adapters. There is a two-port Gb LAN network controller.
Among other things, it is worth highlighting four USB 3.1 ports, two DisplayPort connectors, as well as standard audio jacks. Price starts at US$640.
The compact computer ECS SF110-Q370 is equipped with an Intel processor
ECS has announced the SF110-Q370 small form factor computer, built on the Intel hardware platform.
The device uses a ninth generation Core processor. An LGA 1151 chip with a maximum thermal energy dissipation value of up to 35 W can be used.
The amount of DDR4-2666 RAM can reach 32 GB. There are two SO-DIMM slots for installing the corresponding modules.
The computer can be equipped with a 2.5-inch drive with a SATA 3.0 interface and an M.2 2280 solid-state module.
The equipment includes a Gigabit LAN network controller, Wi-Fi 802.11ac and Bluetooth 4.2 or 5.0 wireless adapters.
Dimensions are 205 × 176 × 33 mm. The Windows 10 operating system or a software platform based on the Linux kernel can be used. There is no information about the price yet.
Chuwi AeroBox: mini PC powered by a mysterious AMD A9-9820 processor
The AMD A9-9820 processor was first announced almost a year ago, but AMD has never officially presented it. However, the Chinese company Chuwi recently introduced the AeroBox desktop mini-PC based on this hybrid processor.
The AMD A9-9820 processor apparently belongs to the Bristol Ridge family of chips. It has eight cores with Excavator architecture, which run on eight threads. The processor clock speed, according to Chuwi, is only 2.35 GHz. There is also integrated graphics Radeon R7 350, built on the third generation GCN architecture, the clock speed of which reaches 985 MHz.
The manufacturer positions AeroBox as an office system, which, according to him, is nevertheless capable of handling 4K video playback and modern games. About the latter, however, we have some doubts, but it should clearly cope with typical tasks for a mini-PC.
In addition to the mysterious processor, the AeroBox mini PC is equipped with 8 GB of DDR3 RAM, which can be expanded up to 32 GB. For data storage there is a 256 GB solid-state drive in M.2 format with a SATA interface. The user can independently install a 2.5-inch drive. There is also a gigabit network controller and a wireless module with Bluetooth support and Wi-Fi 802.11ac.
Unfortunately, neither the price nor the start date of sales of the compact desktop computer Chuwi AeroBox has not yet been announced.
Kontron 3.5"-SBC-VR1000 computer board uses the AMD Ryzen Embedded platform
Kontron has announced a single board computer called the 3.5"-SBC-VR1000: the product is suitable for use in commercial and industrial applications, in educational and medical fields, etc.
The new product is made in a 3.5-inch form factor. Hardware platform involved AMD Ryzen Embedded: V1605B, V1202B, R1606G or R1505G processor can be installed. The first of these chips contains four cores and Radeon Vega 8 graphics, the other three contain two cores and Radeon Vega 3 graphics.
The mini-computer supports up to 32 GB of DDR4-2400 RAM in the form of two SO-DIMM modules. There are two SATA 3.0 ports for connecting storage devices. In addition, a solid-state M.2 NVMe SSD module can be installed.
The product has two Gigabit Ethernet network ports based on Intel I210-AT and Intel I211-AT controllers. HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort interfaces are available for image output. In addition, there are USB 3.1 Type-A ports.
The single board computer is compatible with the Windows 10 operating system. Dimensions are 146 × 105 mm.
Mass production of the new product is planned to be organized towards the end of the second quarter. Unfortunately, there is no information about the estimated price yet.
Intel NUC Bean Canyon Lite: mini-computers on non-existent processors
A description of two new Next Unit of Computing (NUC) small form factor computers, devices from the Bean Canyon Lite family, has appeared on the Intel Corporation website.
In particular, the models NUC8i3BEHS and NUC8i5BEHS were announced. They use Core i3-8140U and Core i5-8260U processors that have not yet been officially presented. The first of these chips contains two cores with the ability to process up to four instruction threads; The clock speed varies from 2.1 to 3.9 GHz. The second processor combines four cores (up to eight threads) with a frequency of 1.6 to 3.9 GHz. The chips include an Intel UHD Graphics 620 graphics accelerator. The TDP indicator is 15 W.
Mini-computers allow installation of up to 64 GB of DDR4-2400 RAM in the form of two SO-DIMM modules. Inside the case there is room for one 2.5-inch drive. In addition, a solid-state M.2 module can be used.
For connecting to wireless networks Intel Wireless-AC 9560 and Bluetooth 5.0 controllers are responsible. A wired connection is implemented using the Intel Ethernet I219-V adapter.
Among the available interfaces we can mention USB 3.1 Gen2, USB Type-C, HDMI 2.0a ports. In addition, an infrared sensor is provided. It is said to be compatible with the Windows 10 operating system.
The embedded iBase SI-324-N system allows you to create a video wall
iBase Technology has announced the SI-324-N embedded system, which provides the ability to display images on four 4K displays at once.
The new product is suitable for forming video walls in various configurations: for example, 1 × 4, 4 × 1 or 2 × 2. Four digital HDMI interface 2.0.
The device is based on the AMD Ryzen Embedded V-Series hardware platform. The V1605B processor is used, which contains four cores with base frequency 2.0 GHz (upgrades to 3.6 GHz). Radeon Vega 8 graphics are used.
The system can use up to 32 GB of DDR4-2400 RAM in the form of two SO-DIMM modules. An M.2 connector is provided for a 2280 SSD.
The new product has a Mini PCIe connector and an M.2 connector for the 2230 module. It is possible to install a 4G/LTE modem and a combined Wi-Fi/Bluetooth wireless card.
The equipment includes a dual-port Realtek RTL8111H Gigabit LAN network controller. Available interfaces include two USB 3.0 ports, a USB 2.0 port and a standard audio jack.
Dimensions are 215.8 × 164 × 45 mm. Guaranteed compatibility with operating systems Windows systems 10 IoT Enterprise and Ubuntu.
Intel NUC 11 on Tiger Lake processors will not be released until the second half of 2020
Last January, Intel was preparing new compact desktop computers NUC 11 with Tiger Lake processors. And now, thanks to the resource FanlessTech it became known exactly when we should expect the appearance of these systems, as well as the new generation processors themselves.
The source obtained and published a fragment of Intel’s so-called “road map” dedicated to compact NUC systems. According to the document presented, the new compact NUC 11 desktop computers powered by Tiger Lake-U processors will become available during the second half of this 2020. However, we must be aware that the plans of Intel, like many other technology companies, may be interfered with by the coronavirus, so the release of new generation processors may be delayed.
On this moment All we can say with certainty is that NUC 11 computers powered by Tiger Lake-U processors will not be released until the third quarter. Around the same time as the new mini-PCs, and perhaps a little earlier, laptops with Tiger Lake-U processors will begin to appear. All this means that there is not much time left before the announcement of the 11th generation Core mobile chips.
Returning to the next-generation mini-PCs themselves, we note that Intel's plans include the release of two families of NUC 11 computers, codenamed Panther Canyon and Phantom Canyon. Panther Canyon systems are classic square-shaped NUCs (in the first image) and will be built on Core processors i3, Core i5 and Core i7 Tiger Lake-U generation with integrated 11th generation graphics.
In turn, the Panther Canyon family will feature larger and more powerful NUC 11 Extreme models. Tiger Lake-U chips of the Core i5 and Core i7 series will also be used here, but they will be supplemented by discrete graphics “from a third-party manufacturer.” These compact computers will be positioned as mini gaming PCs.
Zotac Magnus EN52060V: productive compact PC with laptop filling
Zotac has released a new compact desktop computer, the Zbox Magnus EN52060V, built on hardware, originally intended for mobile computers. The manufacturer is positioning the new product as a mid-price solution for users of creative professions and content creators or creators.
The Zbox Magnus EN52060V is based on a quad-core Intel Core i5-9300H mobile processor of the Coffee Lake generation. It is capable of eight threads, its base clock speed is 2.4 GHz, and the maximum turbo frequency reaches 4.1 GHz. The TDP level is 45 W. Responsible for processing graphics in the new product NVIDIA video card GeForce RTX 2060 with 6 GB GDDR6 memory. Unfortunately, we do not know whether the video card in MXM module format is used here, or whether it is soldered directly onto motherboard.
Zotac's new work mini PC can accept up to 32 GB of DDR-2600 RAM in two SO-DIMM slots, and is also equipped solid state drive M.2-2280s PCI interface e 3.0 x4 or SATA III and 2.5-inch SATA III drive. There is also a Killer 1650 wireless module with Wi-Fi support 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, and for wired network connections A pair of 1- and 2.5-gigabit controllers responds.
Unfortunately, neither the cost nor the start date of sales of the compact work desktop computer Zotac Zbox Magnus EN52060V has not yet been specified.
A laptop, in fact, is a well-coordinated computer “organism” in which certain processes are constantly occurring. All hardware components, every screw and detail are exactly what make high-quality and effective work on a laptop possible. Well, the filling of such a device is a whole different story! It is selected by the manufacturer according to the form factor of the laptop, that is, in accordance with the tasks for which it is designed.
However, as many users as there are requirements, ideas and desires. It also happens that existing models on the market do not satisfy the user’s needs, and there is nothing reprehensible in this. There are barebone systems especially for such clients - a very specific and controversial product, but certainly very interesting.
So, a barebone (from the English barebone - “bare” - naked, “bone” - bone) is a laptop intended for assembly by the user himself, taking into account his wishes. That is, relatively speaking, there is a base in the form of a body and some parts, and you can choose any filling! Of course, it is possible that for some, the ordeal of choosing a filling can turn into some kind of buffet: everything is in abundance, you want to take this and that, and also the same as your neighbor’s, because his food tastes better. But if you dig a little deeper, you will understand that filling the barebone base is a complex, resource-intensive job that should be approached with special care.
Difficulty of choice
What are these nuances connected with? First of all, with the fact that you are unlikely to find barebones in the nearest hardware store. It is usually purchased through online stores that specialize in this kind of thing. By the way, barebones exist not only for self-assembly of laptops, but also for desktop computers, all-in-one computers, you can even buy a server this way. In short, there is plenty to choose from.
When considering the feasibility of purchasing such a custom laptop, you should consider important points. In particular, keep in mind that no matter which model you choose, some components will already be built-in and you will not be able to change them. Usually we are talking about optical drive and the motherboard, less often – about the display. However, the user always has the right to choose a processor, video card, RAM, hard drive, wireless communications. All these components must be purchased independently, while carefully double-checking their compatibility with the laptop motherboard. Thus, by selecting certain components, the user can vary the final cost of the resulting laptop.
By the way, for maximum convenience of users there are special resources, for example, rjtech.com, which immediately offers a list of all components available for specific model. So, everyone can choose a 4th, 5th or even 6th generation chip, with an integrated video card or the most modern discrete one, with 8 GB or 64 GB of RAM, etc. Take, for example, the Clevo P650RE-C, which starts at $1,319. Instead of the basic Full HD screen, you can choose a screen with 4K resolution, which will cost an additional $200, an Intel Core i7-6820HK chip instead of an Intel Core i7-6700HQ - another $125, and the maximum possible amount of RAM for this barebone is 64 GB, but for such luxury will have to shell out $675. By the way, the most common brands that offer barebones for laptops are Clevo, MSI, Gammatech, Schenker and Eurocom.
Self-installation
In principle, filling the device yourself is not so difficult, provided that you already have experience in such matters. In addition, you need to arm yourself with several tools, including screwdrivers. different sizes, scissors for grabbing small parts, containers for storing screws. It would be a good idea to make sure that the barebone base comes with detailed instructions on assembly, because you need to be prepared for any outcome. After all the components are in place, all that remains is to install the operating system, and then all the necessary drivers.
Is the game worth the candle?
Without a doubt, barebones is a very interesting experience, but is it worth the effort? There is no clear answer to this question. On the one hand, the user has enormous possibilities for choosing hardware components: the performance of the laptop can be varied at will, and others specifications will depend solely on the wishes of the user and his ability to pay.
On the other hand, we must admit that assembling a “perfect” gadget in every sense will take a lot of time, and perhaps even nerves. If you fill the device yourself, there is still a risk of doing something wrong, damaging the part, etc. In addition, it is difficult to predict how reliable the manual assembly of laptop components will be. However, if you still decide to act, despite all the shortcomings, hesitations and delays, a long-awaited reward awaits you: looking at your laptop, you will be able to tell everyone “I made it myself!”
Barebone. This word, which is not very euphonious for us, has relatively recently entered the computer lexicon. A barebone system means a skeleton, the basis for subsequent assembly. personal computer. Despite the fact that “full-size” system units are also offered as barebone systems (remember, for example, sets from Genius, including a case, a mouse with a keyboard and speakers), this definition primarily refers to small compact “boxes”. Despite the fact that from the point of view of an overclocker such micro-cases are absolutely useless, the appearance of barebone systems all over the world was greeted with considerable enthusiasm and this is quite logical.
The identical gray boxes of computer cases are gradually becoming a thing of history, and the computers themselves are increasingly divided into several fairly different categories: an office computer, a gaming computer, a computer for surfing the Internet, etc. This is natural and the right direction of development, since versatility (of a computer in this case) is a big plus, but the highest results in any area can only be achieved through specialization. It is unprofitable to use a multi-ton truck to deliver pizza, but a scooter or minicar will do just fine in this role.
Today I propose to consider a barebone system from the company FIC - First International Computer, which bears its own name Condor.
First of all, the technical characteristics of the system. Condor is cute metal case volume of only 11 liters.
- Dimensions – 175.4 mm (W) x 223.1 mm (H) x 289.23 mm (D)
- Power Supply – 200W with PFC
- External compartments – one 5.25" and one 3.5"
- Internal compartments – one 3.5"
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A custom-sized motherboard is used (214.3 x 266.7 mm), based on the i865G chipset. The board meets the requirements of Northwood FMB2 and Prescott FMB1, which means that it is possible to install fairly powerful processors with current consumption up to 78A. Socket 478 processors with bus frequencies of 400/533/800 MHz and up to 2 GB of DDR 266/333/400 memory are supported.There is only one power button visible on the front panel.
Unusual design, compactness and expanded multimedia capabilities are the main criteria for the popularity of barebone systems. Read about how to choose the right devices in the new issue of the Guide.
Barebone systems owe their appearance, first of all, to the fact that many people have long been tired of standard gray cases, more appropriate in an office than in a home interior. The first to realize this was Apple, which began producing computers in cases with an unusual and attractive design. However, due to the stable demand for ordinary personal computers and the lack of non-standard components, other manufacturers were in no hurry to experiment with case designs. Subsequently, the demand for PCs began to fall, and barebone systems turned out to be one of the ways out of this situation for many companies. The unusual design, compactness and advanced multimedia capabilities were really able to attract new buyers. And this despite the fact that the cost of barebone systems is noticeably higher than the cost of standard cases!
A small digression that clearly illustrates the popularity of the compactness of barebone systems. Apple Company, which, in fact, was the founder of unusual computer cases, took advantage of the experience of barebone manufacturers and released a compact Mac computer mini, which is not inferior in design to the best representatives of barebone systems on the PC platform. Moreover, this computer has become the cheapest of Apple's desktop personal computers: in the USA it sells for only $500! True, this is not a barebone, but a ready-made computer, and Apple does not plan to supply systems for self-assembly. On the other hand, Macintosh computers traditionally have a lot of modifications, from which you can choose the most suitable machine.
What is a typical barebone system? The first idea can be obtained from the name - the word barebone can be translated from English as “skeleton”. In other words, a barebone system is the basis, a kit for assembling a personal computer. First of all, a barebone is a case of non-standard dimensions, usually with a smaller power supply, an original cooling system, and a proprietary motherboard. In some cases, the kit also includes an optical drive and HDD. Such systems go on sale precisely as a kit for assembly. However, many computer manufacturers, even such large companies as Fujitsu-Siemens, do not shy away from using third-party barebone systems to assemble personal computers under their own brand. Russian companies have also succeeded in this matter, so those who wish can choose a ready-made computer rather than engage in “technical creativity” on their own.
Contrary to popular belief, barebone systems can be used to build not only an ordinary home PC, but also a high-end, high-performance computer. Moreover, some companies produce specialized machines based on “skeletons”, “tailored” for specific tasks, for example, for use as a compact desktop sound studio. So don’t be afraid that by choosing a case with a stylish design you will limit yourself in system performance.
Currently, many companies are producing barebone systems. The pioneer in this market was the Taiwanese company Shuttle, which, in fact, made “skeletal” systems popular. Shuttle products have the largest range, and everyone can choose a model to suit their taste. All modifications have either a multi-format card reader or a compartment for a floppy drive. Other major manufacturers of barebone systems include MSI, Asus, Soltek and Elitegroup Computer Systems (ECS). The models of these companies are more focused on multimedia use than Shuttle products. Many barebone systems can be used as music centers or video sources, and in most cases, audio and video playback can be done without downloading operating system.
When choosing, you must first of all decide on the platform: the model you like externally may not support, for example, the Pentium 4 or Athlon 64, which you want to base your system on. Particular attention should be paid to the system logic set on which the motherboard is built: both performance and the possibility of using certain components or peripheral devices. Fortunately, without exception, all manufacturers of barebone systems provide their products with very detailed technical specifications and instructions regarding the components that can be installed in a given specific model.
The buyer of a barebone system should keep in mind that the expandability of such a computer is limited compared to a machine in a traditional case. Some particularly small models cannot be modified at all, and most compact models can only accept low-profile expansion cards, and the number of slots for them is limited. In some cases, due to a specific cooling system, processors with high heat generation cannot be installed in such cases; This is usually stated in technical description barebone systems.
Among the features of some models of barebone systems are built-in wireless adapters. local networks, digital audio outputs and audio inputs, allowing you to connect your computer to household audio equipment, as well as remote controls remote control. An unpleasant surprise may be the absence of some ports (for example, a parallel port on some Shuttle models), or the impossibility of installing a floppy drive. In many models for mounting the hard drive and installing hard disk will have to show enviable ingenuity and miracles of balancing act.
Of course, those who want to receive both a computer and music Center, it’s worth taking a closer look at systems with appropriate functionality. As a rule, such “skeletons” are also equipped with a large display and a built-in radio. If you plan to play computer games, you should choose models without a built-in graphics controller and with an AGP port. Unfortunately, it is not possible to install the most powerful video card in a compact barebone system, since due to high heat dissipation such cards are not low-profile. Therefore, you will have to choose only from entry-level and mid-level video cards. However, some models provide for the installation of full-size PCI cards. For example, in some modifications from Soltek, you can install a full-size PCI card, but you will have to sacrifice one of the optical drive bays: the drive will no longer fit here.
Finally, if you don’t have experience building even a regular desktop computer, it’s strongly not recommended to “build” a PC based on a barebone system. The fact is that due to the small dimensions in compact cases components are placed very tightly, and non-standard and intricate cooling systems can be very difficult to install. An inexperienced person can easily damage not only the barebone itself, but also expensive components, in particular the processor. If you still want to get a computer based on a “skeletal” system, it is better to contact computer stores or companies that assemble custom PCs.
In conclusion, I would like to warn you that a barebone system will cost you significantly more than a regular case: their price can range from a relatively reasonable 180 US dollars to an impressive 550 US currency units. Beauty requires sacrifice!
On the next page you can get acquainted with some barebone systems present on the Russian market.
Asus DigiMatrix
A typical multimedia model with an unusual appearance: the computer is “masked” as a high-end Hi-Fi component and comes with a remote control. The “stuffing” is not so impressive: a motherboard based on a not-so-modern SiS 651/962L chipset, support for Pentium 4/Celeron processors on the Northwood core (Socket 478) with a clock frequency of up to 2.66 GHz, two slots for DDR 333 RAM /266 up to 2 GB, SiS 315 graphics core using up to 64 MB system memory, a single-channel IDE 133 controller, to which a hard drive and a “laptop” DVD recorder are connected, and a six-channel sound controller. The complete absence of PCI slots and an AGP slot is depressing: you won’t be able to install any expansion devices. Among the advantages are a built-in TV tuner with support for high-definition television and the ability to receive radio programs in the FM range, a seven-format card reader, an S/PDIF digital audio output that allows you to connect to household audio equipment, a wireless LAN controller of the IEEE 802.11b standard (supports in software access point mode), two FireWire ports and as many as eight USB 2.0 ports. Power supply - external, power - 120 W. dimensions- 285 x 53 x 290 mm. The retail price is just as impressive as the appearance - the device costs about $575.
Advantages: compactness, attractive design, almost silent operation, built-in TV tuner and Wi-Fi controller, watching TV and listening to music without loading the operating system, remote control.
Flaws: outdated platform, low performance, inability to install expansion cards, very high price.
ECS EZ-Buddie D2S4-3
An aluminum barebone system of unusual design, reminiscent of a smaller traditional tower-type system unit. The system is fundamentally not multimedia and is not equipped with built-in tuners or a remote control. The device is built on the SiS 661FX+963 system logic and supports Pentium 4/Celeron processors based on the Northwood core (Socket 478, system bus 400/533/800 MHz, including with Hyper-Threading technology). The graphics controller is integrated and consumes up to 64 MB of system memory. The built-in display provides information about the operation of the system, including data on the processor temperature, the operation of the drives, as well as any malfunctions that have occurred. Overclocking enthusiasts will love that this can be done using the wheel on the front panel. The board has two slots for DDR 266/333/400 RAM up to 2 GB, an AGP slot, a PCI slot, a dual-channel ATA133 controller and a six-channel audio codec. The case has six USB 2.0 ports and two FireWire ports. There is one three-inch bay occupied by a six-format card reader and one vertical five-inch bay for installing an optical drive. The power supply is external. Overall dimensions - 262 x 162 x 301 mm. The approximate retail price of the system negates almost all of its shortcomings: it is about 200 US dollars - an absolute record among the devices presented in this review. By the way, ECS produces 18 modifications of this barebone system, including for AMD processors, while prices for these systems start at $180 - a very good option for those who are tired of a banal gray box, but who do not have excess funds.
Advantages: elegant case with pleasant blue backlight, good performance, upgradeable, overclockable by rotating the wheel on the front panel, low noise, extremely attractive price.
Flaws: built on the previous generation platform, external unit power supply, the vertical arrangement of the optical drive causes inconvenience, in particular, the inability to work with 8 cm disks, and the lack of support for promising interfaces.
MSI MEGA 865
Another very beautiful barebone system, oriented towards multimedia use and equipped with a remote control. The model is built on the previous generation Intel 865G system logic set with a built-in graphics controller (MS-6796 motherboard) and is designed for Pentium 4/Celeron processors with a clock frequency of up to 3.2 GHz (Northwood core, Socket 478, bus 400/533 /800 MHz). On system board There are two connectors for dual-channel DDR400 RAM up to 2 GB, a PCI slot, an AGP 8x slot, a mini PCI slot for installing laptop expansion cards, an ATA 100 connector, a Serial ATA connector, as well as a six-channel Realtek 655/658 audio controller with digital input and exit. The device has a modem, a 100-gigabit network controller, and the Deluxe modification additionally installs a mini PCI form factor wireless LAN adapter. The system is equipped with four USB ports 2.0 (two more are located on the motherboard, one is for the card reader) and two FireWire ports. The case can accommodate one five-inch and two three-inch drives. Additionally, a proprietary TV tuner designed specifically for this system is supplied. It is possible to play audio CDs, MP3s, listen to the radio and watch TV programs without loading the operating system. The front panel with a colorful large display contains slots for a six-format card reader. Built-in power supply, power 250 W. Overall dimensions - 202 x 320 x 151 mm. Estimated retail price is $350.00.
Advantages: luxurious design, high performance, expandable configuration, sound playback without loading the operating system, Serial ATA support, built-in modem, remote control, reasonable price.
Flaws: based on a previous generation Intel platform, too cramped in the case - if the relatively noisy cooling system fails, overheating and damage to components is possible.
Shuttle XPC SB83G5
A typical Shuttle "cube" based on the modern Intel 915G chipset for Pentium 4/Celeron processors on the Prescott core (Socket 775, bus 533/800 MHz). The lack of additional multimedia capabilities is also typical for the products of this company. Despite the built-in graphics accelerator Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900, it is possible to install a video card with an interface PCI Express x16. The proprietary FB83 motherboard has two slots for dual-channel DDR400/333 RAM up to 2 GB, a PCI slot, an ATA100 connector, two Serial ATA 150 connectors and a connector for a floppy drive. The case has one five-inch and two three-inch drive bays. The barebone system has a six-channel audio controller with digital S/PDIF ports, a gigabit network controller, two FireWire ports and four USB 2.0 ports. The device uses a proprietary Silent X cooling system and a built-in 250 W power supply. Overall dimensions - 310 x 200 x 185 mm. The approximate price in Russia is 400 US dollars.
Advantages: attractive appearance, modern platform, high performance, a set of promising interfaces, expandability, gigabit network controller, built-in power supply.
Flaws: Instead of a card reader, this model has an obsolete floppy drive and a relatively high price.
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