What is an Arm-based single board computer?
An Arm-based single board computer is a complete computer built on one circuit board. It uses an Arm processor instead of an x86 processor from Intel or AMD. Arm processors use less power and produce less heat, so these systems can run quietly and continuously in small enclosures, often without a fan. They suit kiosks, digital signage, embedded control, thin client desktops and light office work.
Key specifications
The Thinvent Arm range uses the Arm Cortex-A53 and Cortex-A55 processors. Both have 4 cores. The Cortex-A53 runs at up to 2.0 GHz. The Cortex-A55 runs at up to 1.9 GHz and includes 1 MB of cache. Memory options are 2 GB and 4 GB of onboard RAM. Storage is 16 GB or 32 GB of onboard eMMC. Every model runs Thinux, an embedded Linux operating system. Standard video output is HDMI, and some models add a VGA output through an adapter cable.
Comparison of Thinvent Arm models
| Model | Processor | Cores | Max Frequency | Cache | RAM | Storage | Video Output |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Micro 5R Thin Client | Cortex-A53 | 4 | 2.0 GHz | - | 2 GB | 16 GB eMMC | HDMI 2.0 |
| Micro 6 Pro Mini PC | Cortex-A55 | 4 | 1.9 GHz | 1 MB | 4 GB | 32 GB eMMC | HDMI |
Use cases
The Micro 5R Thin Client suits connected terminals that run one application. Its WiFi 6 and Bluetooth connect it to wireless networks and peripherals. It has a speaker output for audio applications. The Micro 6 Pro Mini PC suits tasks that need more memory and storage. Its dual antenna WiFi keeps wireless connections stable. Both models mount to a VESA bracket behind a monitor, which saves desk space. Keyboard and mouse sets are available for both models.
Thinvent products featuring Arm technology
Thinvent has Arm-based thin clients and mini PCs built on the Cortex-A53 and Cortex-A55 processors. Options include the Micro 5R Thin Client and the Micro 6 Pro Mini PC, with VESA mount, keyboard and mouse, and HDMI to VGA cable accessories. All run Thinux embedded Linux. Thinvent also supplies x86 industrial computers, thin clients and all-in-one PCs for applications that need Intel or AMD processors.