Minix has introduced a fanless new mini PC to its range powered by an Intel Celeron N4100 quad-core Gemini Lake processor and taking the form of the Minix NEO G41V-4, which is expected to launch from around $270. Minix is hoping to make the mini PC available in a few months time during November 2019.
Key Features and Specifications
Features of the Minix NEO G41V-4 mini PC include HDMI 2.0a, VGA, DisplayPort, 2 x USB 3.0 ports and 2 x USB 2.0 ports as well as a handy microSD card reader. Connectivity is provided by Gigabit Ethernet and wirelessly supporting Bluetooth 4.2 and 802.11ac WiFi. This array of ports and connectivity options ensures that the NEO G41V-4 can handle a variety of peripherals and network configurations, making it a versatile choice for both home and office use.
The fanless design of the NEO G41V-4 is particularly noteworthy. By eliminating the fan, Minix has created a silent operation environment, which is ideal for settings where noise can be a distraction, such as in a home theater setup or a quiet office. The passive cooling system relies on the efficient thermal design of the chassis to dissipate heat, ensuring that the mini PC remains cool even under load.
Comparing with the Neo G50C-4
Minix also unveiled the Neo G50C-4 mini PC earlier this year, offering a more powerful Intel Pentium Silver J5005 10 watt processor supported by Intel UHD 605 graphics with upgradable RAM from $300. Due to its extra power, the Neo G50C-4 does not include a fanless cooling system. Instead, it uses an active cooling solution to manage the higher thermal output of the more powerful processor.
The Neo G50C-4’s Intel Pentium Silver J5005 processor provides a significant performance boost over the Celeron N4100 found in the NEO G41V-4. This makes the G50C-4 more suitable for tasks that require more processing power, such as video editing, gaming, or running multiple applications simultaneously. The upgradable RAM option also adds to its flexibility, allowing users to enhance the system’s performance as needed.
However, the trade-off for this increased performance is the presence of a fan, which can introduce noise. For users who prioritize a silent computing experience, the NEO G41V-4’s fanless design might be more appealing despite its lower processing power.
Use Cases and Applications
The Minix NEO G41V-4 is well-suited for a variety of applications. Its compact size and silent operation make it an excellent choice for a home theater PC (HTPC). It can easily handle streaming high-definition content, browsing the web, and running media applications without generating distracting noise.
In an office environment, the NEO G41V-4 can serve as a reliable workstation for tasks such as document editing, web conferencing, and light multitasking. Its multiple connectivity options allow it to integrate seamlessly with existing office equipment, such as monitors, printers, and network storage devices.
For educational purposes, the NEO G41V-4 offers a cost-effective solution for computer labs and classrooms. Its robust connectivity and sufficient processing power can support educational software and online learning platforms, providing students with a reliable tool for their studies.
Source: Notebook Italia : FanlessTech : Liliputing
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