9/28/06 – AOpen was one of the first companies to off a mini PC for the PC marketplace. The first model of MiniPC from AOpen had a few problems with noise issues but many of these have been solved in their latest version, the MP945-VXR. The system is sold as a bare bones kit or built out both from AOpen and many other third party companies. Let's take a closer look at what it offers ...
Processors:
The new AOpen MiniPC MP945-VXR is designed around the Intel 945GM chipset and supports the Intel Core Duo and Solo processors for notebook computers. This is a step up from the earlier versions that used the Pentium M line. This brings dual core processing to the product line with a good balance between performance and heat. Most users will opt for using the Core Duo processors although those on a budget can opted for the Core Solo.
Memory:
Due to the limited space inside the MiniPC MP945-VXR, the system can only hold a single notebook SO-DIMM DDR2 memory module. This restricts the memory to a maximum of 2GB from a single module. Due to the costs of the 2GB modules, most users will opt for a 1GB configuration that should do fine for most applications. The system supports up to the DDR2 667MHz or PC2-5300 speed.
Hard Drives:
Like most mini PCs, the MP945-VXR relies upon a Serial ATA notebook hard drive for its primary storage. Thanks to advances in drive technology, it is now possible to install up to 160GB of space in these small drives. This is perfectly acceptable for most applications but if the system is going to be used for a digital video recorder, space will quickly become an issue.
CD/DVD:
The AOpen MiniPC MP945-VXR has space for a single slender slot loading notebook optical drive. The standard system configuration tends to install a 8x DVD burner typically found in most notebook computers. Performance is less than a traditional desktop system but still acceptable for most applications.
Graphics:
The graphics capabilities of the mini PCs is their biggest problem. Just like all the other miniPCs, the AOpen MP945-VXR uses an integrated chipset graphics processor. This is fine for most general computing applications but it severely limits the 3D capabilities for things such as games. Those looking to make a media center out of the system can buy an optional mini PCI TV Tuner kit.
Audio:
Audio for the AOpen MiniPC MP945-VXR is supplied the the industry standard Intel HDA 7.1 audio. Unlike several other mini PC units however, the AOpen chassis includes three mini-jack connectors so that the system can actually drives a 5.1 surround sound speaker configuration. It also has the ability to output via a SPD/IF with a converter although there is no Dolby Digital Live support.
Ports:
Since internal expansion is pretty much impossible with a mini PC due to its small size, external peripheral ports are quite important. The MiniPC MP545-VXR is a step above many with a total of 5 USB 2.0 ports provided. In addition, a single FireWire port is included for external storage or connecting up a digital camcorder. The MI-945-VXR also includes an infrared receiver for a media center remote.
Software:
If purchased as a bare bones kit, the AOpen MiniPC MP945-VXR does not include any software applications. When purchased as a system, it will typically include either the Windows XP Home operating system or the Media Center Edition if it includes the TV tuner module. No productivity software is typically included with purchased systems.
Overall Impressions:
Probably the biggest thing going for the AOpen MiniPC MP945-VXR is the fact that it can be purchased as a bare bones kit. Consumers looking to put together their own mini PC have the ability to by the kit and then select the CPU, memory, hard drive and CD/DVD drive they wish to install in the system. Those who want custom built systems can also pay a system integrator to build the system to their desired configuration as well.
Another huge benefit of the newer MP945 chassis is the improvements to the cooling of the system. The previous MiniPC design was notorious for a fairly loud fan that was quite distracting during the computers operating. The new cooling design and fan are rated with a noise operation of 27dBA which is very quiet for a computer system.
One of the big problems with the AOpen MiniPC design has to do with its internal mini PCI slot. Only a single slot is available but two modules will likely be wanted by many consumers particularly using it as a media center system. Both the internal TV tuner and Wireless modules are designed for the mini PCI slot, but only one can be installed. It would be nice to see a future version of the MiniPC to have the Wireless built-in.
