9/21/06 – Polywell Computers was one of the early system integrators to offer small form factor desktop PCs with its release of the MiniBox. While newer systems have come out that are smaller, the cube format offers a greater amount of flexibility in the system. Let's take a look at what they have to offer in their latest verion of the MiniBox...
Processor:
The MiniBox 430AM2 is based around a microATX version motherboard of the nForce 430 chipset allowing it to use the latest AMD desktop processors. Consumers have a wide range of choices to use with the system from the budget oriented Sempron 64, single core Athlon 64, dual core Athlon 64 X2 or the high end FX-62. Use the the higher end Athlon 64 X2 and FX-62 definitely give this an edge over most mini PCs.
Memory:
The latest AMD Socket AM2 platform uses the newer DDR2 memory controllers. Polywell offers a wide range of memory configurations for the MiniBox 430AM2 all using the PC2-5300 DDR2 memory speeds. Configurations from as little as 256MB all the way up to 4GB of memory are available. Users will typically choose either the 2x512MB of 2x1GB memory configuration for 1GB or 2GB of total RAM respectively.
Hard Drives:
Most small form factor cases limit the number of hard drives that can be installed into a system. Since the MiniBox 430AM2 uses a larger cube case design, it has the ability to fit up to a total of 4 desktop hard drives into it. Hard drive choices include drives from Western Digital including their high speed Raptor series or Seagate Barracuda including the 750GB model. All drives are based on the Serial ATA interface.
CD/DVD Drive:
In terms of the optical drive, Polywell offers three model DVD burners with the MinBox 430AM2. The default selection is a Sony 16x DVD+/-RW dual layer burner. Also offered as options are a Pioneer 16x dual layer burner of the Plextor Serial ATA based 16x DVD+/-RW dual layer burner. All of these drives are full size desktop drives that offer performance over the smaller slimline drives found in many mini PCs.
Graphics:
Most small form factor PCs tend to rely on integrated graphics processors and the MiniBox 430AM2 is no different. The main difference is the case has the space and slot to allow for a PCI-Express x16 graphics card to be installed. In fact, they offer even high end NVIDIA GeForce graphics cards such as the 7950X2 for performance 3D graphics in PC games. The base monitor is a 17” LCD screen with options for various different size screens and even multiple monitors.
Audio:
Audio wise the MiniBox 430AM2 uses an integrated High Definition Audio processor that allows up to 5.1 channel audio. The base speaker set that comes with the system is a simple amplified stereo speakers. Options are available for a wide range of Creative speaker systems and even a few Logitech speaker sets.
Ports:
Expansion is one of the biggest problems for small form factor systems. With the larger cube design, the MiniBox AM2 offers a wide range of ports and slots. The biggest plus is the internal slots included the PCI-Express x16 graphics slot mentioned above. In addition to this, it also has a PCI-Express x1 slot and a standard PCI slot. Externally, the case provides a total of six USB 2.0 ports, FireWire port and a 9-in-1 card reader. This gives users lots of options for expansion.
Software:
By default, the Polywell MiniBox 430AM2 only comes installed with the Windows XP Home operating system and a copy of Nero 7 Ultra Edition burning software. Users have the option of including a productivity software suite such as Microsoft Office or Works or even Corel Word Perfect and Lotus SmartSuite. For security, Norton Internet Security can be installed.
Overall Impressions:
One of the biggest drawbacks to the new batch of mini PCs is their size restricts users from upgrading components within it. This is why the older cube style form factor cases still retain a loyal following, particularly among those looking for higher performance from desktop grade components instead of relying on lower power and heat generating notebook parts. This is where the Polywell MiniBox AM2's greatest advantage comes into play.
By offering a wide range of internal components to be installed in the MiniBox 430AM2, Polywell is able to offer the system to a wide range of computer users. It can appeal to the low cost budget oriented consumers all the way up to desktop workstations. In addition, users have the ability to upgrade the components at a later time by either swapping a part out of adding in a new card or drive to the existing system.
The drawback to this level of flexibility is the size. While the system is still quite portable and even includes a carry handle, it still is quite a bit larger than a small mini PC such as a Mac Mini or the WinBook Jiv Mini. It is smaller than the average size desktop tower case and this can be a boon for those needing a few performance system but in a more compact format.
The other drawback is the price. It would be nice to see Polywell either offer a bit more in terms of the base features or reduce the pricing so that it could compete better with other small form factor PCs. Sure, its not as expensive as some of the prestige companies making portable LAN gaming platforms, but it is still above the average cost for an equivalent equipped desktop PC.
Manufacturer's Site
