What Is a Mini PC?
A mini PC is a small desktop computer built on a compact board and housed in a chassis about the size of a hardcover book or smaller. It runs a full operating system, connects to standard monitors, keyboards and networks, and uses far less space and power than a tower desktop. Thinvent builds mini PCs with Intel and ARM processors for office, kiosk, digital signage, and embedded use.
Key Specifications
Thinvent mini PCs differ mainly in processor, memory, storage, wireless support, and operating system. The range covers three processor families:
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Intel Core i5 and i3 processors (12th, 13th and 14th generation) for multitasking and general business work. Models include the Core i5-1240P, Core i5-1335U, Core i3-1215U, Core i3-1315U and Core 5 120U.
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Intel N100 processors (12th generation, 4 cores, up to 3.4 GHz, 6 MB cache) for low-power desktop and light office tasks.
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ARM Cortex A55 processor (4 cores, up to 1.9 GHz, 1 MB cache) on the Micro 6 Pro for low-power embedded tasks.
Memory ranges from 4 GB to 32 GB DDR4 RAM. Storage ranges from 32 GB to 1 TB. The ARM model uses 64 GB eMMC storage with 4 GB onboard RAM. Wireless options include Dual Band WiFi and Dual Antenna WiFi, and several models have no WiFi. The Aero, Treo and Micro lines ship with Windows 11 Pro, Windows 11 IoT Value, Ubuntu Linux, Thinux Embedded Linux, or no operating system.
Comparison of Processor Families
| Processor | Cores | Max Frequency | Cache | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARM Cortex A55 | 4 | 1.9 GHz | 1 MB | Low-power embedded tasks |
| Intel N100 | 4 | 3.4 GHz | 6 MB | Light office and kiosk tasks |
| Intel Core i3-1215U / 1315U | 6 | 4.4 / 4.5 GHz | 10 MB | Business and multitasking |
| Intel Core i5-1240P / 1335U | 12 / 10 | 4.4 / 4.6 GHz | 12 MB | Demanding office and data work |
| Intel Core 5 120U | 10 | 5.0 GHz | 12 MB | Highest clock speed in the range |
Use Cases
Choose a low-power model such as the N100 or ARM Cortex A55 for digital signage, point-of-sale, thin-client replacement and light office use. Choose a Core i3 or Core i5 model for spreadsheet work, video conferencing, multiple open applications and development tasks. Models with 16 GB or 32 GB RAM suit heavier workloads and longer service life.
Thinvent Mini PCs With This Technology
Thinvent has Intel N100, Intel Core i3 and i5, and ARM Cortex A55 mini PCs in the Aero, Treo and Micro lines. Aero models use Intel Core processors with up to 32 GB RAM. Treo models use the Intel N100 with 4 GB RAM. The Micro 6 Pro uses the ARM Cortex A55 and includes a VESA mount option. Choose the processor, memory, storage, wireless option and operating system that match your deployment.
