What are Stealth Computers?
Stealth computers, also known as fanless or embedded PCs, are compact, silent, and rugged computing systems designed for deployment in environments where reliability, low power consumption, and minimal physical footprint are critical. They are called "stealth" because they operate without audible cooling fans, using passive heat dissipation. This design eliminates moving parts, a primary point of failure, making them ideal for 24/7 operation in industrial, commercial, and digital signage applications. Their small form factor allows for easy mounting behind monitors, under desks, or in confined control cabinets.
Key Specifications and Technical Details
The defining characteristics of stealth computers include their processor architecture, thermal design, and connectivity. They utilize a range of processors, from power-efficient ARM-based systems to high-performance Intel Core processors. Key specifications to consider are:
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Processor: Ranges from ARM Cortex (e.g., A53, A55) for basic tasks to Intel Core i-series (e.g., i3-1215U, i5-1250P) for demanding workloads.
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Thermal Design: Fanless, passive cooling for silent operation and enhanced durability.
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Memory (RAM): Typically from 2GB to 16GB, with onboard or DDR4 configurations.
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Storage: Utilizes reliable, shock-resistant eMMC or SSD storage, from 16GB to 512GB.
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Connectivity: Includes multiple USB ports, HDMI, Ethernet, and often dual-band WiFi.
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Operating System: Options include embedded Linux (Thinux™, Ubuntu), Windows IoT, or Windows 11 Pro.
Use Cases and Applications
Stealth computers are deployed across numerous sectors due to their robustness and versatility. Common applications include:
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Digital Signage & Kiosks: Powering interactive displays and information points in retail, hospitality, and public spaces.
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Industrial Automation: Serving as controllers for PLCs, HMIs, and machine vision systems on the factory floor.
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Thin Client & VDI: Devices like the Micro 5 Wifi Thin Client provide secure, centralized access to virtual desktops and cloud applications.
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Edge Computing: Processing data locally in IoT networks for smart cities, transportation, and energy management.
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Office & Workspace: Compact, silent mini PCs like the Aero series for general productivity and business software.
Comparing Processor Tiers in Stealth Computers
The choice of processor defines the capability and suitable application for a stealth computer. Below is a comparison of common tiers found in Thinvent's product range:
| Processor Tier | Example Model | Cores / Threads | Max Frequency | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level ARM | ARM Cortex A53 | 4 cores | 1.5 GHz | Basic thin client, digital signage, single-application kiosks. |
| Efficient Intel N-Series | Intel Processor N100 | 4 cores / 4 threads | 3.4 GHz | Lightweight desktop, multi-display signage, edge IoT gateway. |
| Mainstream Intel Core i3 | Intel Core i3-1215U | 6 cores / 8 threads | 4.4 GHz | General office productivity, multi-tasking, point-of-sale systems. |
| Performance Intel Core i5/i5-P | Intel Core i5-1250P | 12 cores / 16 threads | 4.4 GHz | Industrial automation, advanced graphics, data processing at the edge. |
Thinvent's Range of Stealth Computers
Thinvent offers a comprehensive portfolio of stealth computers designed to meet diverse global industrial and commercial needs. Our product lines are strategically segmented: the Micro series provides ultra-compact, ARM-based solutions perfect for thin client and lightweight embedded applications. The Treo and Aero mini PC series deliver a balance of Intel performance and fanless reliability in a small footprint for office and edge computing. For the most demanding environments, our Industrial PC (IPC) series features robust Intel Core processors with higher RAM and storage configurations, certified for rugged use. Across all lines, we provide flexible OS options, including our proprietary Thinux™ Embedded Linux, Ubuntu, and Windows variants, ensuring a perfect fit for any deployment scenario from simple digital signage to complex machine control.
