Full description not available
R**R
Budget computing. A reasonably decent value.
I was looking for a lightweight PC for a telemetry application. With a set of "must haves" in mind, I decided to give this unit a shot, especially since I didn't need a high performance hardware solution. The price sets an expected precedent here.The physical form factor is unassuming with a more utilitarian approach compared to others. No weird shape or wild colors, just a simple rectangular box that's easy to set on a surface or would lend itself to being mounted with a little modification. Input power is a simple 12VDC coaxial connector, to which an outlet-hung switching supply (included) provides the juice. Hobbyists should take note of the input voltage, as transitioning this unit to a common automotive type battery supply becomes easier than some of the other offerings out there which often require higher input voltages. This computer sips power compared to the typical desktop machine, which is worth considering if used in an "always on" application.Port-wise, there's generally what's needed to get the job done. The only video out is on an HDMI, which for the typical application (streaming video) is exactly what's needed. There are four USB 2.0 ports, making it possible to connect a mouse, keyboard and peripherals without the need to add an external hub. The RJ45 10/100 Ethernet port was on my list, as I don't believe in making something wireless unless it really needs to be. If wireless is on your list, there is a built-in 802.11 b/g/n chipset with external antenna. Most, if not all of the ports that would be used full-time are located on the back, keeping the front relatively uncluttered. The USB ports on the front, along with a headphone-style audio out are probably best situated for user devices such as the mouse and keyboard, if attached.The unit ships with Windows 8 already installed. This chews up a little over 15GB of the 32GB onboard storage once everything is updated. Expect to use external storage if your applications are either large or numerous. For a definite purpose machine, the remaining 16GB often will be enough to get the job done. The Intel quad core Baytrail T CPU delivers adequate horsepower for my application, which includes the telemetry software, a FTP webcam and Teamviewer, though I have to wonder how it would handle low compression HD video.As for the hang-ups, I'm not a big fan of the Windows 8 UI, but it starts up fast and probably works well for a platform such as this. No points off for the OS, as it isn't directly relevant to this box itself. The Ethernet proved to be a headache, as the port is nothing more than a USB to Ethernet device integrated into the main board. No issue with this aspect, but it proved to be flaky with the connection and the device in the device manager seemed to come and go at will. I opened up the bottom to check for a possible loose connection or bad solder joint but no such luck. There isn't an updated driver at this point, either so it looks like I will need to fall back to a wireless connection for now. So one of the main points that led me to consider this box (integrated Ethernet) turned out to be less than usable.There is nothing more than a warranty card in the box, no documentation whatsoever. For the tech savvy this isn't a problem, but something to be aware of prior to purchase.For a lightweight, but more than a thin client solution, this box may be an economical choice. It offers a turnkey solution in a compact and efficient package. If you're planning on doing something a little stronger, including making a video streaming box, I'd recommend one of the newer small format machines, such as the HP Stream. Not only are there more choices of usually stronger processors, but also these units tend to be a little more upgradeable with memory and storage devices as well.UPDATE 24Jan-2016: I took the plunge and let this box update itself to Windows 10. It took the update just fine...and I did it all through a Team Viewer remote connection (!). As with any Win10 upgrade, I had to go back in and turn off all of the sharing garbage. Other than that, the box is still running great, perhaps even a little better, though with a little more of the storage space chewed up. So yes, it will run Windows 10.
D**P
SO FAR SO GOOD!
This is third Windows box I tried this month. And I think this is the best one! The main difference between this and most other is that this unit is big. Many people think smaller box is better but I disagree. Most smaller box has overheating issue, read their reviews. And most of them need some sort of fan to keep it cool. However, this unit is size of adult man's hand with plenty of empty space inside. After running this for 4 hours watching netflix, the unit is just slightly warm, not even close to what other smaller unit was only after 30 min.First PIPO (funny name btw lol) I ordered had some loose part inside, tried to fix it since it's probably simple piece inside but could not open the case without breaking. so I had to replace it with a new unit.The only issue i had was windows store does NOT work on this one. Previous box also didn't work and not sure if that's because it's Bing version. The only difference is I use browser to watch netflix which isn't a big deal.Lastly, I love having USB port in the front. Super convenient!!! There's also two more in the back!
O**.
Great media consumption PC
Pretty happy with it so far. I have no complaints with overheating issues at all. Depending on what i am doing the PiPo the temperature hovers from around 50C to around 75C (CoreTemp). I have no issues playing YouTube videos at 1080p and even streaming google play movies or Netflix. I haven't had any issues displaying web pages either. There is the occasional hiccup when loading heavy websites. But, it is to be expected so i am not too surprised. There are some modifications you can make to lower the temperature but that may void the warranty so try at your own risk. I have had it for about a day now and it is perfect for emulating PS1 games, N64, and older systems. Emulating systems such as Gamecube and above will give you frame rates of about 18-27 depending on the game you are trying. It could be that i have yet to tinker and mess around with settings more. The only con i can think of was the unboxing. It came with an incorrect power adapter. I found out it was an European power adapter so after searching over at Walmart i found a converter for about 12 bucks and so far it works without any problems.
B**A
3 years later
I purchased this in 2015 and I still use this computer. I connect it to my tv via hdmi and purchased wireless keyboard and mouse for it and here I am 3 years later using it to write a review. I wish it was still in stock as I would gift it to family and friends who are looking for a pc. its affordable. I have not had any issues wit it
K**B
Great SOC Computer
Great little computer for digital signage. I am using these at my work to run Xibo clients to display video's and images. I also have one at home that I use to run a couple applications and I also use it to check the weather. It is amazing that it does not get hot and no noise from a fan. The case is made out of metal and is very durable.
C**O
Good value
I've seen a few complaints about the CPU/motherboard getting too hot, and it does idle at 50-60's and goes up to 70-90's with heavy use . I just bought a laptop cooling pad (Cooler master notepal xslim) for $15 and set the unit on top and it now idles at 30-40 and 60's with heavy use - worked well for me. This unit has good value, just wish they designed it better (insulation and fan) to keep the temps low, but it's an easy fix. Worth the purchase!
K**.
Wireless on this unit is horrible, it keeps disconnecting for no reason
Wireless on this unit is horrible, it keeps disconnecting for no reason. I bought 2 of these and both of them disconnect randomly so can't be a coincidence. Besides, all our other mini PC boxes don't have wireless disconnect issues. We use these boxes for TV monitor display mounted all over the office so the preference is to have wireless for convenience. But for these two boxes we own, we have no choice put to find a location where wired network connection is an option since the wireless is unstable on these boxes. Other than the wireless issue, the box performs well and I have no other complains.
Trustpilot
1 month ago
4 days ago