Intel's Next Unit of Computing

We recently attended the quarterly Intel Channel Conference. The nice thing about attending these conferences is the constant reminders as to what Intel processors are capable of. More importantly though, we get firsthand view of what the next generation of computers will be. Early in the year, we were introduced to Intel's Ultrabooks, this final quarter of 2012, we meet what they call the NUC or as Intel calls it the Next Unit of Computing.

It definitely is Intel trying to put out the PC version of Apple's Mac Mini. Despite the small size, they won't be powered by Atom CPU but by Core i3 and Core i5 processors. They boast of being small yet powerful, energy efficient and can compete with the performances of regular-sized desktops. They won't take up much desk space and you can use the VESA mounting bracket and have your own version of an AiO desktop.

The CPU will be directly integrated onto the main board. The power supply is an external AC adapter. It uses SODIMM memory and SSD (solid state drive). Based on the video we can see from Intel's website, the SSD seems smaller for this one, probably a 1.8" size.

In the next picture, we put it side by side with  a desktop just for you to understand the scale and difference.

For I/O ports, we have a couple of USB ports and another on the other side for a total of three. It uses HDMI for video and sound output instead of a VGA and sound ports. You will have to look for a monitor with HDMI interface. And lastly, an Ethernet port. A WLAN is an option for wireless connection. One model will have a Thunderbolt port. I will explain what that means below.

I am not sure what the market reception will be for this machine as it will still be more expensive than a regular desktop and some people may be expecting more power and options. Still, the NuC means a clone substitute to branded AiO desktops who want one. It is also perfect for those believe in its advantages and want a certain aesthetic to the office. It has been suggested by the presenter that one use is for video/audio marketing purposes. This is where the Thunderbolt port comes in.

The Thunderbolt port wasn't properly explained but I researched it to be a way of daisy-chaining peripherals. That means you can chain together several monitors to give a bigger display for your video presentation. This will also mean a cheaper substitute to more expensive LFD (large format display) systems. I say substitute because nothing beats a real LFD system.

Intel is definitely breaking away from the mold of being simply a CPU manufacturer and introducing new PC technologies to define the next trend just as it did with the SSDs and Ultrabooks. What will the next year hold?

Anyone interested in the NUC can contact us for pricing and orders.