Latest news with #miniPC
Gizmodo
3 days ago
- Business
- Gizmodo
Forget About $2000 MacBooks, This Mini PC (i7, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) Now Costs Peanuts on Amazon
Smart shoppers know you don't have to pay more than $1000 for a big desktop computer anymore. If you know what to look for and can spot a good deal, you can build a top setup yourself—or, even easier, just get a ready-to-use, super-powerful little computer like the GMKtec mini PC which is on sale for a big discount on Amazon right now. The GMKtec mini PC featuring a turbo up to 5.0 GHz Intel Core i7-1195G7 processor, 32GB DDR4, and spacious 1TB NVMe SSD is now available for the affordable price of $409, which is a massive 36% discount from its original price of $639. This is not typical for this style of promotion and Black Friday or Prime Day apparently have come early. See at Amazon Slim, Powerful and Efficient GMKtec has become one of the top mini PC brands with a reputation for making slim, powerful and efficient computers that are best-sellers at Amazon. Their designs are renowned for squeezing high-end hardware into tiny, energy-efficient packages that are perfectly suited to home, office or even commercial application. The model currently available for sale at Amazon is a classic example of this philosophy: it's tiny enough to take almost anywhere, but its performance is as good as that of much larger and more expensive desktops. This mini PC boasts an 11th generation Intel Core i7-1195G7 processor which a true powerful processor with four cores, eight threads and a turbo boost clock speed of a whopping 5.0 GHz. This processor is significantly faster than several of its counterparts, like the i7-10810U, i5-12450H, and i5-8259U and is ideal for resource-intensive tasks like video editing, light gaming and business software. Despite its impressive performance, the system sips power with a typical consumption of just 35W. The GMKtec Mini PC comes loaded with 32GB of dual-channel DDR4 RAM which supports smooth multitasking but can also be expanded up to 64GB for future-proofing. Storage is equally impressive with a 1TB NVMe SSD (PCIe 3.0) that can be upgraded to a whopping 2TB plus an additional M.2 2242 SATA slot for even more expansion. Graphics performance is another strong suit thanks to the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7 96EU GPU. This chip delivers rapid HD video across everything from 4K video playback to casual gaming and it is able to power up to three independent 4K monitors simultaneously. The mini PC also features dual-band Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 for rapid wireless connectivity and a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port for lightning-fast wired networking. It also included two HDMI outputs (4K @ 60Hz), a USB Type-C (4K @ 60Hz), and a few USB 3.2 ports. Peripherals, external storage, and numerous monitors can easily be connected all from a device that can be fitted within your palm. The quality of the construction is outstanding, and the system is designed for hassle-free operation so it is a great choice for home offices or classrooms. With capabilities like these for so little money, there is no denying it: the days of pricey desktops are over and the age of smart, small form-factor computing has arrived at last. See at Amazon
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Bosgame M5 mini-PC with Ryzen AI Max+ 395 features a mysterious performance switch
When you buy through links on our articles, Future and its syndication partners may earn a commission. Bosgame M5 mini-PC features an AMD Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor Integrated Radeon 8060S Graphics, up to 128GB of RAM, dual PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSDs There's also a performance switch, but what it actually does is a mystery for now A new mini PC featuring AMD's high-end Ryzen AI Max+ 395 chip has surfaced, but this one didn't come from a major brand like HP, Dell, or Lenovo. The Bosgame M5 AI Mini Desktop has quietly gone up for pre-order, priced at $1,699 (a saving of $1,000 off its usual MSRP of $2,700), and it's raising some interesting questions about AMD's rollout strategy for its powerful Strix Halo processor line. The compact M5 comes with integrated Radeon 8060S Graphics and includes support for up to 128GB of RAM, dual PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD slots, a USB 4.0 front port, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.4. A dual-fan cooling setup and three heat pipes aim to keep thermal performance under control. As Notebookcheck observes, the M5 has already appeared in Geekbench results. The listing shows a single-core score of 2,852, which is in line with expectations, but a lower-than-average multicore score of 16,044. This likely points to early firmware or software issues, as the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 typically averages around 21,000 in multicore tests. One curious detail about the M5 is the inclusion of a "performance switch" button, shown briefly in Bosgame's promotional material. It's unclear what this toggle actually does. It might be linked to TDP profiles, fan curves, or some kind of AI workload optimization, but for now we have no idea. The Bosgame M5 AI Mini Desktop includes dual USB4 Type-C ports, multiple USB 3.2 and USB 2.0 ports, full-sized HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 outputs for multi-monitor setups, and a 2.5Gbps RJ45 LAN port for stable wired networking. A full-size SDXC card slot offers convenient media transfer for photographers and videographers, while dual audio jacks ensure flexible sound input and output. Check out our list of the best mobile workstations for any budget And these are the best mini PCs you can buy right now Minisforum's NAS packs a Ryzen AI HX 370, up to 96GB RAM and 154TB storage
Geeky Gadgets
23-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
How to Set Up Home Assistant on a Mini PC for a Smarter Home
Have you ever felt like your smart home setup is more chaotic than convenient? With countless devices, apps, and cloud services vying for your attention, managing it all can feel overwhelming. Enter Home Assistant—a powerful, open source platform that puts you back in control. But here's the twist: while many people turn to the Raspberry Pi for their Home Assistant setup, it's no longer the best option. In fact, a mini PC offers superior performance, better value, and greater scalability, making it the smarter choice for 2025 and beyond. In this learning tool, Paul Hibbert of Hibbert Home Tech will guide you through the process of setting up Home Assistant on a mini PC, proving that you don't need a Raspberry Pi to create a seamless, privacy-focused smart home. By following this guide by Paul Hibbert , you'll unlock the potential of a mini PC to transform your smart home experience. From replacing the pre-installed operating system with Linux to configuring Home Assistant for your devices, this step-by-step walkthrough will empower you to build a system that's faster, more reliable, and future-proof. Along the way, you'll discover why mini PCs are not just an alternative but a leap forward in smart home technology. Whether you're frustrated by the Raspberry Pi's availability issues or simply looking for a more robust solution, this guide will show you how to take control of your smart home like never before. Because sometimes, the best tools are the ones you didn't expect. Home Assistant on Mini PC Why a Mini PC is Better Than a Raspberry Pi While the Raspberry Pi has been a popular choice for Home Assistant setups, recent challenges have made it less practical for many users. Mini PCs, on the other hand, offer several distinct advantages that make them an excellent alternative: Enhanced Performance: Mini PCs are equipped with more powerful processors, larger memory capacities, and better overall hardware, making sure smoother performance even in complex smart home environments with numerous devices. Mini PCs are equipped with more powerful processors, larger memory capacities, and better overall hardware, making sure smoother performance even in complex smart home environments with numerous devices. Cost Efficiency: With the rising prices of Raspberry Pi boards, mini PCs often provide better value for the hardware you receive, making them a more economical long-term investment. With the rising prices of Raspberry Pi boards, mini PCs often provide better value for the hardware you receive, making them a more economical long-term investment. Improved Availability: Mini PCs are widely available from various manufacturers, eliminating the frustration of sourcing hard-to-find Raspberry Pi models. Mini PCs are widely available from various manufacturers, eliminating the frustration of sourcing hard-to-find Raspberry Pi models. Scalability: Mini PCs offer greater flexibility for future upgrades, allowing you to expand your smart home system without worrying about hardware limitations. By choosing a mini PC, you're laying the groundwork for a more robust, scalable, and efficient smart home system. Preparing Your Mini PC for Installation Before installing Home Assistant, you'll need to prepare your mini PC by replacing its pre-installed Windows operating system with Linux (Ubuntu). This process involves creating a bootable USB drive and configuring your mini PC for the installation. Follow these steps to get started: Download Ubuntu: Visit the official Ubuntu website and download the latest version of the operating system. Ensure you select the version compatible with your mini PC's architecture (usually 64-bit). Visit the official Ubuntu website and download the latest version of the operating system. Ensure you select the version compatible with your mini PC's architecture (usually 64-bit). Create a Bootable USB Drive: Use a tool like Rufus or Balena Etcher to create a bootable USB drive. These tools are user-friendly and designed specifically for this purpose. Use a tool like Rufus or Balena Etcher to create a bootable USB drive. These tools are user-friendly and designed specifically for this purpose. Disable Secure Boot (if necessary): Some mini PCs come with Secure Boot enabled, which may prevent the installation of Linux. Refer to your mini PC's manual for instructions on how to disable this feature if required. Once these steps are complete, your mini PC will be ready for the installation process. Ensure you back up any important data on the device, as the installation will overwrite the existing operating system. Home Assistant Setup Guide 2025 Watch this video on YouTube. Browse through more resources below from our in-depth content covering more areas on Home Assistant. Installing Home Assistant on Your Mini PC With your mini PC prepared, you can now proceed with the installation of Home Assistant. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth setup: Boot from USB: Insert the bootable USB drive into your mini PC and restart it. Access the boot menu (usually by pressing a key like F12 or Esc during startup) and select the USB drive as the boot device. Insert the bootable USB drive into your mini PC and restart it. Access the boot menu (usually by pressing a key like F12 or Esc during startup) and select the USB drive as the boot device. Install Ubuntu: Follow the on-screen instructions to install Ubuntu on your mini PC. This process will erase the existing Windows operating system, so double-check that you've backed up any important files. Follow the on-screen instructions to install Ubuntu on your mini PC. This process will erase the existing Windows operating system, so double-check that you've backed up any important files. Install Home Assistant: Once Ubuntu is installed, open a terminal and follow the official Home Assistant installation guide. This typically involves downloading the Home Assistant image and setting it up as a supervised or containerized installation. By completing these steps, your mini PC will be transformed into a dedicated Home Assistant hub, ready to manage your smart home devices efficiently. Configuring and Customizing Home Assistant After installing Home Assistant, the next step is to configure and customize it to suit your specific smart home needs. Here's how to get started: Access the Home Assistant Dashboard: Open a web browser on any device connected to the same network and navigate to the local web address provided during the installation process. This will take you to the Home Assistant interface. Open a web browser on any device connected to the same network and navigate to the local web address provided during the installation process. This will take you to the Home Assistant interface. Set Up Your Profile: Create a user account and configure basic settings, such as your location, time zone, and preferred units of measurement. Create a user account and configure basic settings, such as your location, time zone, and preferred units of measurement. Integrate Devices: Add your IoT devices, such as smart lights, thermostats, cameras, and sensors, to Home Assistant. Many devices can be integrated automatically, while others may require manual configuration. Add your IoT devices, such as smart lights, thermostats, cameras, and sensors, to Home Assistant. Many devices can be integrated automatically, while others may require manual configuration. Customize the Dashboard: Organize your dashboard by adding widgets, creating groups, and setting up automation rules. This allows you to control and monitor your devices more efficiently. Organize your dashboard by adding widgets, creating groups, and setting up automation rules. This allows you to control and monitor your devices more efficiently. Enable Privacy Features: Home Assistant prioritizes local control, but you can further enhance privacy by disabling unnecessary cloud integrations and securing your setup with strong passwords and encryption. These steps will ensure your Home Assistant setup is fully operational and tailored to your preferences, providing a seamless smart home experience. Key Considerations for a Successful Setup Before proceeding with the installation, keep the following important points in mind: Data Backup: Installing Home Assistant will permanently remove the Windows operating system from your mini PC. Ensure you back up any important files or data before starting the process. Installing Home Assistant will permanently remove the Windows operating system from your mini PC. Ensure you back up any important files or data before starting the process. Hardware Compatibility: Verify that your mini PC meets the minimum hardware requirements for running Ubuntu and Home Assistant. This includes sufficient RAM, storage, and processing power. Verify that your mini PC meets the minimum hardware requirements for running Ubuntu and Home Assistant. This includes sufficient RAM, storage, and processing power. Learning Curve: While the installation process is designed to be beginner-friendly, some technical knowledge may be required. Take your time to follow the instructions carefully and consult online resources if needed. While the installation process is designed to be beginner-friendly, some technical knowledge may be required. Take your time to follow the instructions carefully and consult online resources if needed. Future Updates: Regularly update Home Assistant and its integrations to ensure optimal performance and security. The platform's active community frequently releases updates and new features. By addressing these considerations, you can avoid potential issues and ensure a smooth and successful setup experience. Media Credit: Paul Hibbert (Hibbert Home Tech) Filed Under: Hardware, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
14-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
SteamOS Minisforum EM780 is the Ultimate Mini PC for Gamers
What if you could hold the power of a desktop PC in the palm of your hand? The Minisforum EM780, the smallest Ryzen-powered mini PC to date, is rewriting the rules of compact computing. With an AMD Ryzen 7 7840U APU at its core and preloaded with SteamOS, this device is a bold leap forward for gamers, multitaskers, and professionals alike. It's not just about size—it's about delivering serious performance in a form factor that defies expectations. Imagine running modern games, editing videos, or juggling demanding tasks on a device smaller than a hardcover book. The EM780 doesn't just promise portability; it redefines what's possible in the mini PC space. In this project, ETA Prime explores how the EM780 combines innovative hardware the loaded with the gaming-optimized SteamOS to deliver a seamless, desktop-like experience. From its Radeon 780M integrated graphics to its advanced cooling system, the EM780 is designed to punch well above its weight. Whether you're curious about its gaming benchmarks, intrigued by its thermal efficiency, or wondering how it stacks up against competitors like the Steam Deck, this deep dive will uncover what makes this mini PC a standout. It's a story of innovation packed into a tiny frame—one that might just change how you think about portable computing. Minisforum EM780 Overview Hardware Specifications: Power in a Compact Package At the heart of the Minisforum EM780 lies the AMD Ryzen 7 7840U APU, an 8-core, 16-thread processor capable of reaching speeds up to 5.1 GHz. This processor is paired with Radeon 780M integrated graphics, built on the RDNA3 architecture, making sure smooth performance for modern games, multimedia tasks, and productivity applications. The device is further enhanced by 32GB of LPDDR5 RAM, clocked at 6400 MHz, which provides the speed and bandwidth necessary for demanding workloads. Additionally, the inclusion of a 1TB M.2 SSD offers ample storage space with fast read and write speeds, making sure quick load times for games and applications. The EM780's hardware configuration is designed to deliver a desktop-like experience in a form factor small enough to fit in the palm of your hand. This makes it an excellent choice for users who need a powerful yet portable computing solution. SteamOS: Optimized for Gaming The Minisforum EM780 comes preloaded with SteamOS, a Linux-based operating system tailored specifically for gaming. Built using the Steam Deck recovery image, SteamOS is optimized for seamless performance and usability, offering a streamlined interface that prioritizes gaming. The operating system supports customization through tools like Decky Loader and CSS Loader, allowing users to personalize themes, layouts, and settings to suit their preferences. SteamOS also provides access to the extensive Steam library, allowing users to enjoy a wide range of titles optimized for the platform. Its compatibility with Proton ensures that even Windows-based games can run smoothly, broadening the range of playable games. This adaptability makes the EM780 a versatile choice for both casual gamers and dedicated enthusiasts. SteamOS Ryzen Powered Mini PC Build Watch this video on YouTube. Check out more relevant guides from our extensive collection on AMD Ryzen 7 7840U APU that you might find useful. Performance: Compact Yet Capable Despite its small size, the Minisforum EM780 delivers impressive performance across a variety of tasks. The AMD Ryzen 7 7840U, with its 35W maximum TDP, strikes a balance between power and efficiency. During intensive workloads, the device maintains CPU temperatures below 83°C, thanks to its advanced cooling system. This ensures consistent performance without thermal throttling, even during extended gaming sessions or demanding multitasking scenarios. The EM780's performance is further enhanced by its integrated Radeon 780M graphics, which use the RDNA3 architecture to deliver smooth visuals and responsive gameplay. Whether you're editing videos, running virtual machines, or playing modern games, the EM780 proves to be a reliable and capable device. Gaming Performance: Punching Above Its Weight The Minisforum EM780 demonstrates its gaming prowess by delivering solid performance across a variety of modern titles. By using FidelityFX Super Resolution (FSR), the device achieves smooth frame rates while maintaining visual quality. Key benchmarks include: Spider-Man 2: Runs at 900p with low settings and FSR frame generation, maintaining a steady 60+ FPS. Runs at 900p with low settings and FSR frame generation, maintaining a steady 60+ FPS. Cyberpunk 2077: Achieves 1080p at medium settings with FSR balanced, averaging 63 FPS. Achieves 1080p at medium settings with FSR balanced, averaging 63 FPS. Borderlands 3: Delivers over 100 FPS at 900p with low settings in most scenarios. Delivers over 100 FPS at 900p with low settings in most scenarios. Doom Eternal: Provides smooth and consistent gameplay at 1080p with low settings. Provides smooth and consistent gameplay at 1080p with low settings. Shadow of the Tomb Raider: Runs at 900p with low settings, averaging 58 FPS. Runs at 900p with low settings, averaging 58 FPS. Elden Ring: Struggles to maintain 60 FPS at 900p with low settings but remains playable. Struggles to maintain 60 FPS at 900p with low settings but remains playable. Oblivion Remastered: Averages 41 FPS at 900p with low settings, with improved performance at 720p. These results highlight the EM780's ability to handle modern games effectively, particularly when FSR is used to enhance performance. While it may not rival high-end gaming desktops, its compact size and efficiency make it a compelling option for gamers seeking portability without sacrificing capability. Thermal Management and Power Efficiency The Minisforum EM780 excels in thermal management, thanks to its advanced cooling system. Even during extended gaming sessions or heavy workloads, the device maintains consistent performance without overheating. The cooling system operates quietly, making sure that the device remains unobtrusive in any environment. The adjustable TDP is another standout feature, allowing users to fine-tune power consumption based on their needs. Whether you prioritize maximum performance or energy efficiency, the EM780 provides the flexibility to adapt to different scenarios. This makes it an ideal choice for users who value both power and sustainability. How It Compares to Other Devices When compared to other portable gaming solutions, such as the Steam Deck or ROG Ally X, the Minisforum EM780 stands out for its superior hardware and versatility. While the Steam Deck offers unmatched portability, the EM780's desktop-like functionality and higher specifications make it a more powerful alternative. Its adjustable TDP and efficient cooling system give it an edge in scenarios requiring sustained performance, such as video editing or running resource-intensive applications. The ROG Ally X, on the other hand, focuses on handheld gaming, whereas the EM780 bridges the gap between portability and desktop performance. This makes it a more versatile option for users who need a device capable of handling both gaming and productivity tasks. Design and Usability: Small Yet Mighty The Minisforum EM780's compact design is a testament to modern engineering. Despite its small size, it delivers desktop-level performance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Its portability ensures seamless integration into various setups, whether you're working from home, gaming on the go, or setting up a media center. The device's minimalist design and robust build quality further enhance its appeal. It is easy to transport, set up, and use, making it an excellent choice for users who need a powerful yet portable computing solution. Whether you're a gamer, a professional, or a casual user, the EM780 offers a versatile and reliable experience. Media Credit: ETA PRIME Filed Under: Gaming News, Hardware, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
Geeky Gadgets
13-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
Transform a Cheap Chromebox into a Mini PC Powerhouse
What if the limitations of a device weren't the end of its story but the beginning of something fantastic? Imagine taking a compact, seemingly restricted Chromebox—designed for basic tasks—and turning it into a versatile, energy-efficient mini PC capable of running virtual machines, hosting servers, or even powering a media center. The Acer CXi3 Chromebox, with its modest specs and low power consumption, might not scream potential at first glance. But with the right tweaks, including flashing its firmware, this unassuming device can be unlocked to achieve far more than its original design intended. The process isn't just about upgrading hardware; it's about rethinking how we use technology and pushing the boundaries of what's possible. In this guide by Hardware Haven, learn how to repurpose an Acer CXi3 Chromebox into a powerful tool for lightweight computing and specialized projects. From overcoming the challenges of resetting a managed device to the intricate steps of flashing UEFI firmware, this guide offers a roadmap for tech enthusiasts eager to experiment. Along the way, you'll learn about the device's upgrade potential, like expanding its RAM or adding storage, and discover creative applications that make the most of its compact form factor. Whether you're looking to build a cost-effective media server or explore virtualization on a budget, this project is a testament to how resourcefulness can breathe new life into overlooked hardware. Sometimes, the most rewarding innovations come from working within constraints. Repurposing an Acer CXi3 Chromebox Device Overview The Acer CXi3 Chromebox is a compact and energy-efficient device originally designed for lightweight computing tasks. Its specifications include: Intel i3-8130U CPU , a dual-core processor with sufficient power for basic workloads , a dual-core processor with sufficient power for basic workloads 8GB of DDR4 RAM , which can be upgraded to a maximum of 32GB , which can be upgraded to a maximum of 32GB 64GB SSD, providing modest storage capacity This device supports hardware upgrades, including RAM expansion, additional storage via M.2 slots, and SSD replacement. It also features a variety of connectivity options, such as USB 3.0 ports, HDMI 1.4b, Ethernet, and a USB-C port that doubles as a power input. Its small form factor and low power consumption make it an attractive option for basic computing tasks or specialized projects, such as media servers or lightweight virtualization. Preparing the Device and Overcoming Challenges Acquiring a Chromebox like the Acer CXi3 often means dealing with restrictions, especially if it was previously managed by an organization, such as a school. To prepare the device for repurposing, you must first address these limitations. The initial steps include: Resetting the device using recovery instructions to restore factory settings using recovery instructions to restore factory settings Testing power input options, such as USB-C or a standard 19V adapter, to ensure compatibility Unlocking a managed Chromebox can be challenging, requiring patience and attention to detail. Once the device is reset and functional, it is ready for the next stage: flashing the firmware. Time to Hack a Chromebox Watch this video on YouTube. Here is a selection of other guides from our extensive library of content you may find of interest on mini PC systems. Firmware Flashing Process Flashing the firmware is the most critical step in transforming the Chromebox into a versatile mini PC. By replacing the stock firmware with UEFI firmware, you enable the installation of any UEFI-compatible operating system. The process involves: Disabling firmware write protection by physically removing a specific screw on the motherboard by physically removing a specific screw on the motherboard Downloading and installing UEFI firmware from trusted resources like While the procedure is straightforward for those with technical experience, it carries inherent risks. Improper execution can result in bricking the device, rendering it unusable. To minimize risks, carefully follow the instructions provided by reliable sources, ensure you have the necessary tools, and understand the steps before proceeding. Performance and Practical Applications Once the firmware is successfully flashed, the Acer CXi3 Chromebox becomes a capable mini PC suitable for a range of lightweight computing tasks. Its low power consumption, averaging 1.5–2 watts at idle, makes it an energy-efficient choice for continuous operation. Some potential applications include: Running virtual machines using platforms like Proxmox for testing or lightweight development using platforms like Proxmox for testing or lightweight development Hosting a Minecraft server with tools like Crafty Controller for small-scale gaming communities with tools like Crafty Controller for small-scale gaming communities Setting up a media server using software like Jellyfin to stream content across devices Despite its versatility, the device has limitations. For instance, the HDMI 1.4b port restricts 4K video output to 30Hz, which may not be ideal for high-resolution media playback. However, for tasks that do not require intensive graphical performance, the Chromebox proves to be a cost-effective and efficient solution. Benchmarks and Comparisons Performance benchmarks, such as those from Geekbench and Cinebench, highlight the Acer CXi3 Chromebox's strengths and weaknesses. It excels in lightweight workloads but struggles with resource-intensive tasks. When compared to alternatives: Raspberry Pi: The Chromebox offers better idle power efficiency, upgradeability, and overall performance The Chromebox offers better idle power efficiency, upgradeability, and overall performance More powerful mini PCs: While it falls short in multi-threaded performance, it remains a cost-effective option for specific use cases These comparisons emphasize the Chromebox's niche as a budget-friendly solution for targeted applications, particularly where energy efficiency and upgrade potential are priorities. Upgrade Opportunities One of the standout features of the Acer CXi3 Chromebox is its upgrade potential, which allows users to tailor the device to their specific needs. Key upgrade options include: Expanding RAM up to 32GB for improved multitasking and performance up to 32GB for improved multitasking and performance Adding additional storage via M.2 slots to accommodate larger files or multiple operating systems These enhancements open the door to creative applications, such as building a network-attached storage (NAS) system or setting up a clustered computing environment. The ability to power the device via USB-C further increases its versatility, making it suitable for deployment in various scenarios, from home offices to portable setups. Challenges and Limitations While repurposing the Acer CXi3 Chromebox offers numerous benefits, it is not without challenges. Key drawbacks include: Complexity of the firmware flashing process: Mistakes during this step can permanently damage the device Mistakes during this step can permanently damage the device Limited performance: The device is not suitable for resource-intensive tasks, such as high-end gaming or video editing The device is not suitable for resource-intensive tasks, such as high-end gaming or video editing Compatibility issues: Other Chromebox models may have different hardware configurations, requiring additional research These challenges highlight the importance of thorough preparation, technical knowledge, and a clear understanding of the risks involved before embarking on this project. Exploring the Possibilities Repurposing an Acer CXi3 Chromebox demonstrates the potential of affordable hardware for innovative and practical applications. By unlocking its firmware, this compact device can be transformed into a functional, energy-efficient mini PC capable of running virtual machines, hosting servers, or performing other lightweight tasks. While the process requires technical expertise and careful planning, the results can be highly rewarding for those seeking a cost-effective solution for specific computing needs. This project serves as a testament to the value of resourcefulness and ingenuity in maximizing the utility of existing technology. Media Credit: Hardware Haven Filed Under: DIY Projects, Guides, Hardware Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
