What Is a Mini PC?
A mini PC is a small computer that has a full PC architecture in a compact chassis. It runs a desktop operating system or embedded Linux, and it connects to a monitor, keyboard and mouse like a standard desktop. Mini PCs take up little desk or rack space, and they suit offices, kiosks, digital signage, factory floors and edge computing.
Thinvent mini PCs use processors from Intel and ARM. Intel models include the N95, N100, Core i3-1215U, Core i5-1240P and Core 5 120U. ARM models include the Cortex A53 and Cortex A55. Intel processors run Windows and Linux. ARM processors run Thinux embedded Linux. The processor sets the performance level, so choose the model that matches the workload.
Key Specifications
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Entry-level (ARM Cortex A53 and A55): 4 cores, up to 1.5 GHz (A53) or 1.9 GHz (A55), 1 MB cache, 2 GB or 4 GB RAM, 16 GB or 64 GB eMMC storage, one HDMI port, dual band WiFi on the Micro 5 and dual antenna WiFi on the Micro 6 Pro.
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Intel N-series (N95, N100): 4 cores, up to 3.4 GHz, 6 MB cache, 4 GB DDR4 RAM, 128 GB SSD. These models suit light office work, signage and kiosks.
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Intel Core i3-1215U: 6 cores, up to 4.4 GHz, 10 MB cache, 8 GB DDR4 RAM, 256 GB SSD. This model suits multitasking and business applications.
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Intel Core i5-1240P: 12 cores, up to 4.4 GHz, 12 MB cache, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, 512 GB SSD. This model suits demanding industrial and data tasks.
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Intel Core 5 120U: 10 cores, up to 5.0 GHz, 12 MB cache, 16 GB DDR4 RAM, 512 GB SSD, dual band WiFi. This model suits high-performance desktop use.
Comparison of Thinvent Mini PC Processors
| Processor | Cores | Max Frequency | Cache | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ARM Cortex A53 | 4 | 1.5 GHz | 1 MB | Thin client, embedded control |
| ARM Cortex A55 | 4 | 1.9 GHz | 1 MB | Embedded control, signage |
| Intel N95 | 4 | 3.4 GHz | 6 MB | Office, kiosk, light tasks |
| Intel N100 | 4 | 3.4 GHz | 6 MB | Office, kiosk, Linux systems |
| Intel Core i3-1215U | 6 | 4.4 GHz | 10 MB | Business and multitasking |
| Intel Core i5-1240P | 12 | 4.4 GHz | 12 MB | Industrial and heavy workloads |
| Intel Core 5 120U | 10 | 5.0 GHz | 12 MB | High-performance desktop |
Use Cases
Choose an ARM model for thin client access, embedded control and low-power signage. Choose an Intel N-series model for general office work, point-of-sale and kiosks. Choose a Core i3 or i5 model for industrial automation, machine vision, multitasking and software development. The Thinvent range includes both Windows and Linux options, with and without WiFi.
Thinvent Mini PCs
Thinvent has mini PCs and industrial PCs with ARM and Intel processors. The Micro 5 and Micro 6 Pro use ARM Cortex processors with Thinux embedded Linux. The Treo and IPC1 use Intel N100 processors. The IPC3, Aero and Core 5 120U models use Intel Core processors. The IPC5 uses the Intel Core i5-1240P. Each model is available with a range of memory, storage and operating system options.
The Thinvent range does not include AMD processors. Choose from the Intel and ARM models above.
