Mini PC for Linux for $ 45

SolidRun has updated its line of miniature computers CuBox, put more powerful hardware and reduced prices. Instead of the two previous models for $ 120 and $ 160, four CuBox-i models are presented at prices starting at $ 45. All of them are capable of decoding 1080p video and consume less than 3 watts.

The CuBox-i case remains the same: it is a cube with a side of 5 cm (like a matchbox). Depending on the model, the cube is equipped with interfaces HDMI, S / PDIF, IR, eSATA, GbE, USB, WiFi and Bluetooth. It also runs Android 4.2.2, and various Linux distributions, including Ubuntu, Debian, and others. The acceptance of pre-orders for November has already begun.

Instead of the former Marvell Armada 510 SoC platform, the new CuBox-i are made on the basis of the Freescale i.MX6 SoC , which natively supports gigabit Ethernet.



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The four models are very different in their characteristics. The cheapest CuBox-i1 for $ 45 is equipped with a single-core i.MX6 Solo processor, a GC880 GPU and 512MB DDR3 RAM memory. There are 10/100 Ethernet, HDMI port, SPDIF output and IR receiver, two USB 2.0 ports. The kit does not include WiFi modules and Bluetooth 4.0.

Characteristics and cost of other models, see the table.



PCs are positioned as a development platform. It is assumed that users themselves will come up with a scope for it: it can be a thin client, a NAS, a VPN server, an XBMC-based TV extender, a replacement for a desktop computer, a portable device for presentations, etc.

In the video - playback of FullHD video in XBMC player on CuBox, with monitoring of power consumption.