A mini computer for a TV is a small desktop PC that connects to the TV through an HDMI port. It outputs the desktop, streaming apps, video files and web browsing to the screen. It works as a media player, a signage display or a light office system.
Key Specifications to Check
When you choose a mini PC for a TV, check these points:
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Video output: An HDMI port connects the mini PC to the TV. Some models have more than one display output.
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Processor: Intel Core, Intel Celeron, AMD Ryzen and ARM Cortex processors are available in the range. A higher core count and clock speed help with multitasking and high-resolution video.
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Memory: 4 GB to 16 GB of RAM is available. 8 GB or more suits general use with several open apps.
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Storage: Solid-state drives (SSD) and eMMC storage are available, from 32 GB to 512 GB.
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Networking: Some models include Dual Band WiFi. Others have no WiFi and use a wired Ethernet connection. Dual LAN is available on some models.
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Operating system: Windows 11 Pro or Ubuntu Linux is available on most models. Thinux embedded Linux is available on the ARM-based model.
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Power: Each model ships with a DC adapter rated between 5V and 19V.
Comparison of Thinvent Mini PC Processors
| Processor | Cores | Max Frequency | Cache | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Intel Celeron N5095A | 4 | 2.9 GHz | 4 MB | Streaming, signage |
| ARM Cortex A55 | 4 | 1.9 GHz | 1 MB | Embedded, signage, low power |
| Intel Core i3-1215U | 6 | 4.4 GHz | 10 MB | Office, browsing, media |
| AMD Ryzen 5 7430U | 6 | 4.3 GHz | 16 MB | Media, multitasking |
| Intel Core i5-1335U | 10 | 4.6 GHz | 12 MB | Heavy multitasking |
| Intel Core 5 120U | 10 | 5.0 GHz | 12 MB | Heavy multitasking |
| Intel Core i7-1255U | 10 | 4.7 GHz | 12 MB | Demanding workloads |
| Intel Core Ultra 5 125U | 12 | 4.3 GHz | 12 MB | Demanding workloads |
Use Cases
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Streaming on the TV: The mini PC runs streaming apps and browsers in the living room.
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Digital signage: The ARM-based Micro 6 Pro runs Thinux embedded Linux for signage playback.
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Home office on a TV: A mini PC with 8 GB or more of RAM runs office apps on a large screen.
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Media server and playback: Models with more storage hold local video libraries.
Mini PCs in the Thinvent range are compact and fanless designs, so they run quietly beside a TV.
Thinvent Mini PCs for TV Use
Thinvent has mini PCs in the Aero and Treo series, plus the Micro 6 Pro. The Aero series uses Intel Core i3, i5, i7 and Core Ultra processors. The Treo series uses an Intel Celeron N5095A and AMD Ryzen 5 7430U. The Micro 6 Pro uses an ARM Cortex A55 processor with an HDMI port and Thinux embedded Linux. Choose a model by processor, memory and operating system to match your TV setup.
