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Windows 7 Media Center coming to embedded devices
We love Windows 7 Media Center, but at the end of the day we'd never give one to our mom and expect it to just work the way an embedded DVR like a TiVo or a Moxi would. But dependability isn't the only concern about using a PC as a DVR, there is noise and how it looks in the living room to consider as well. The compromise before us might just be a thing of the past as Microsoft has announced that Windows 7 Embedded has been released to manufactures and includes many of the great features of the regular Windows 7 family, like Windows Media Center. At this point there aren't any announcements from manufactures leveraging these new found features, but in the press release Microsoft is certainly bolstering the broadcast TV and other media features in a set-top box. AOpen is the only manufacturer mention by name that we're familiar with, which also makes good small-form-factor PCs, but that won't stop us from dreaming of the best, easy to use and dependable whole house DVR ever. Update: Video of Media Center on an embedded device in action after the jump.
AOpen's Ion-powered XC Mini GP7A-HD puts the 'choice' in 'nettop'
There's a decent chance you North Americans in attendance won't ever see the likes of AOpen's XC Mini GP7A-HD, but for those in places where having a say on what innards are shoved into their next nettop (we're lookin' at you, Japan), this mini PC is apposite to fill quite the void. Boasting only a small frame, NVIDIA's Ion graphics technology and space for a multicard reader, it's up to the buyer to slap in a Core 2 Duo processor, up to 4GB of RAM, a 2.5-inch HDD or SSD and a DVD burner or Blu-ray drive. You'll also find six USB 2.0 sockets, an HDMI port and a VGA output, and while gigabit Ethernet is included, it looks as if the WiFi module is on you. Mum's the word on pricing, but we're guessing it'll be as close to nothing as NVIDIA will allow.
AOpen rolls out XC Encore OE700 media PC
It's been a little while since AOpen last popped up on our radar, but the company certainly hasn't stopped cranking out tiny media PCs in the interim, and it looks like it might have a winner on its hands with its new XC Encore OE700 model. While the core specs of your choice of Core 2 Duo processor and up to 4GB RAM aren't exactly anything remarkable, the system does employ a number of measures to ensure it stays as quiet as possible, including a Smart Anti-Vibration System that dampens hard drive noise, and a new case design dubbed SNSS (or Smart Noise Suppression System) that promises to keep all the other noises in check. You'll even get a home theater-friendly VFD display and, of course, a Media Center compatible remote control -- assuming you live in Japan, that is, as there's still no indication of a release 'round these parts.[Via Electronista]
AOpen intros Santa Rosa-based miniPC Duo
Given all the buzz surrounding Intel's new Santa Rosa platforms for laptops, it seemed like it was only a matter of time before some company would get the bright idea of re-purposing it for use in a pint-sized desktop PC. From the looks of it, AOpen is the first to go that route (though we somehow doubt it'll be the last), recently introducing its Santa Rosa-based miniPC Duo MP965-VDR. While complete specs are still a bit light, you can expect much of what we've been seeing in Santa Rosa laptops as of late, including Intel's 965GM chipset, support for the latest Core 2 Duo processors, 802.11n WiFi, and an Intel Turbo Memory cache card to speed things up a bit further. Still no word on pricing or availability, unfortunately, though we wouldn't expect AOpen to hold out too much longer on that.[Via 64-Bit Computers]
Compubeaver case mod: the PC-stuffed beaver
Granted, we were admittedly taken aback when an off-kilter modder shoved a PC into a cow enclosure, but cramming a full-fledged computer into an actual animal takes things to a whole 'nother level. Animal activism aside, this bizarre creation obviously utilizes a stuffed beaver in order to house the components of a fairly respectable PC, and while we can't be sure, we're guessing the 2GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor, 160GB hard drive, 1GB of RAM, Panasonic DVD writer, and AOpen motherboard are all enjoying their stay in the now-empty stomach region, while the 80-millimeter Tornado fan is chillin' right on the beaver's backside (shown after the break). Of course, mere text alone can't fully describe just how freakish this thing really is, so be sure and hit the read link for a barrage of construction photos if you dare.[Via Wired]
Rock Box melds MCE jukebox with beer cooler
Talk about one-upping. No sooner than the cutesy soccer ball cooling station graced our eyes, MCE Integrations is upping the ante quite substantially with its latest cooler / jukebox hybrid. Partnering with Icehouse, this brew-lover's dream come true sports the tried and true jukebox allure, a built-in cooler for keeping the stash on ice, a flipout touchscreen HDTV, and an Aopen Mini PC to run the show. Current models are still running Windows MCE 2005, but the company promises that we'll see Vista Home Premium loaded on them later this year. Although we don't expect the Rock Box to be hitting any mainstream retailers in the near future, those looking to add yet another novelty to their game room or recently opened pub can snag the baseline unit for around $6,500, and for those abstaining from alcoholic intake, the cooler can be replaced by a subwoofer for some serious (and sober) room-rattling action.
AOpen's MP945-VDR miniPC gets Vistad
AOpen's miniPC has come a long way since their first-gen crack at a miniature PC. The new MP945-VDR miniPC Duo builds upon the MP945-VXR platform by slamming the Vista OS, dual-channel DDR2 memory (4GB max), 6x USB 2.0 ports, and a beefier power supply into an all black chassis. Otherwise, nothing else has changed -- choice of Core 2 Duo procs, DVI and S/PDIF digital out, gigabit Ethernet, 802.11 b/g WiFi(optional), Bluetooth (optional), integrated Intel GMA 950 graphics, a mini PCI slot, DVD±RW optical drive, and choice of 2.5-inch SATA disk -- which isn't a bad thing.[Via Impress]
AOpen and Mitsubishi unveil Windows XP-powered CAR PC
While most folks (and automakers) would be completely satisfied with a svelte in-car navigation system with Bluetooth and MP3 playback, Mitsubishi is looking to shove a full-featured, Windows XP-powered computer in your dash. The company's CAR PC, which was co-developed by AOpen, looks like your average NAV option at first glance, but behind the plastic lies a 1.5GHz Intel Celeron M370, 512MB of DDR2 RAM, 40GB hard drive, DVD / CD drive, Windows XP Home, and a SiRF Star III GPS receiver. Additionally, it sports a 7-inch 800 x 480 resolution LCD, voice activation functionality, and the ability to hit up your email and hold a Skype conversation thanks to 3G connectivity. No details were mentioned concerning price or hard availability dates, but it should start hitting Taiwanese cars soon, with China and America to get the goods in the future.[Via AkihabaraNews]
AOpen's XC cube EZ/EU965 brings couples together
AOpen has a new flagship XC cube in the works with this, their EZ/EU965 (white/black) PC. Having come a long way from their noisy, Mac mini clone, their latest is dubbed "Vista Ultimate ready" after adopting Intel's G965 Express chipset. Inside, you'll find room for a Core 2 Duo, up to 4GB of DDR2 memory running at up to 800MHz, a single PCI Express x16 slot for graphics, 3x SATA connectors , HD-audio 7.1ch, and 6x USB 2.0 ports. That just edges-out their previous top-ender -- the EZ495 -- but not without a lot of bitch slapping and ratted hair. No price or ship date announced, but judging by that picture up there, buying one will make you as content as a Hindu cow.[Via 64-bit-computers]
AOpen XC Cube EZ945 announced, cubic cuteness abounds
It's been nearly two months since we've heard from our friends over at AOpen, the company last heard 'round these parts for its rather well-executed Mac mini knock. Well, AOpen's announced its new XC Cube EZ945, another cubical device that supports Core 2 Duo and the Core 2 Extreme chips -- but beyond that, it will "fully burst out all 64bit processing ability!" It's also got gigabit Ethernet, four SATA2 slots, eight USB 2.0 ports, three FireWire ports, one PCI-E x16 slot and one PCI slot, and supports 7.1 audio. Unfortunately, we've got zero pricing nor a release date for this little guy, but we'll be sure to "fully burst out all" when we do get it.[Via TG Daily]
DosPara's Super Mini 2 -- take that, Apple
Many have tried, but few have conquered the Mac mini when it comes to keeping slim and looking fit. Lucky for us -- or at least our Japanese friends -- DosPara seems to have managed both feats, and they even tossed in some Core 2 Duo action in there, just to show off. We couldn't really ask for much better specs on this little 1.7-inch thick dynamo. Beyond the 1.66GHz T5500 C2D processor, the box runs a dual-layer DVD burner, gigabit Ethernet, 802.11a/b/g WiFi, a 4-in-1 card reader, DVI and S-Video outs, and a TV tuner on the WMCE version. The 512MB of ram and 80GB HDD aren't quite as exciting, but we'll live. Unfortunately, the price isn't so hot, at 122,580 Yen ($1,043 US) for the base version and 139,980 Yen ($1,191 US) for the WMCE unit. Still, we like what we see, and we think we'll have to wish Apple and AOpen better luck next time.[Via Akihabara]
AOpen opens the door to Core 2 Duo miniPCs
AOpen, creator of the Mac mini-mimicking miniPC, is the latest PC manufacturer to announce that it'll be using Intel's notebook version of the Core 2 Duo processor, this time in its ultra small form factor PCs. From now on, the company's MP945-X, -VX, and -VXR PCs, along with a range of Series i975 and i945 motherboards, will all support Core 2 Duo. If you bought one of these products before this announcement and fancy getting in on the Core 2 Duo action, then all you need to do to add support is grab a new BIOS and set of drivers from the official site. UK-based miniPC reseller Evesham has already offered up some shots of a Core 2 Duo T7200 (2GHz, 4MB cache) and Windows MCE '05-equipped model which also has a built-in digital TV tuner, 1GB of RAM, a 100GB 2.5-inch hard drive, along with a bundled remote control. Finally, the DVI port at the back runs off an integrated graphics chip, which isn't much of a surprise considering the machine's diminutive 50 x 165 x 165mm dimensions, although the £799 incl. VAT price tag doesn't make us feel any better about it.[Via TrustedReviews]
The Mini koobox: AOpen's MiniPC in disguise
What do you do when you're a maker of just another mini PC? Relaunch under a new name of course. Calling itself the "first small form-factor Linux machine on the market" (which isn't even remotely true) the Linspire Mini Koobox is just the AOpen MiniPC running Linspire's flavor of Linux, all bundled up and shoved out the door of Mirus Innovations. Unfortunately, this ain't the Core Duo MiniPC CNET was so impressed with, this dog brings a 1.5GHz CeleronM 370 proc, 256MB DDR2 RAM, a 40GB, 5400RPM disk, slot loading DVD combo drive, and the usual suite of USB 2.0, Firewire, and media-outs. In fact, this is nearly the same box AOpen was touting last year only this time without the Mac mini, ehem, inspired dress. Priced at $400, they throw in speakers, a mouse, and keyboard this time and maybe even a little whine.[Via PRNewswire]
SFGate reviews Mac impostors
I know Macs, sir, and you are no Mac. That's what I would say to the Gateway Profile 6SB, which looks just plain awful, if I were ever to find myself debating one (which is unlikely at best).However, that hasn't stopped the SFGate.com from reviewing two Macs (the Mac mini and the iMac) along side two PC's that look Mac-esque (the Gateway and a AOpen MiniPC).Not to ruin the end of the article for you, but the Macs win out.[via MacDevCenter]
First International's slim, VIIV-powered GE2 multimedia PC
Ever since the Mac mini made its much-heralded debut, new small form-factor multimedia PCs have been popping up seemingly every day, so a new company called First International (FIC) has its work cut out for it if it hopes to top the likes of AOpen, Blueado, and Hi-Grade with the super-slim, VIIV-powered GE2 revealed at Computex. Not surprisingly, the specs on this machine closely match other models on the market, so features like a Core Duo processor, integrated graphics, slot-loading DVD burner, WiFi and Bluetooth 2.0, optional TV tuner, and DVI and S/PDIF outputs will probably sound quite familiar by now. Since neither pricing nor release date are known at this point, all we can hold onto is FIC's promise that the GE2 will be shipping "very soon."
AOpen MiniPC Duo MP945-V reviewed
CNET put AOpen's MiniPC Duo MP945-V through their usual tough testing regimen and came away mightily impressed, saying it's "the clone that comes closest to the nearly flawless Mac Mini." They especially dug the speedy Core Duo processor, multiple video output options, and the fact that it's not much bigger than a Mini. On the downside, at $899 it's more expensive than a Mini, it only has two USB ports, doesn't have a remote control, and doesn't include much bundled software. They also list the fact that it's bring your own keyboard, mouse and monitor as a negative, although that apparently isn't a problem for the "nearly flawless" Mac Mini. Go fig.
Next-gen AOpen MiniPC unveiled
It seems that the engineers over at PC manufacturer AOpen have been studiously reading the reviews of the first generation of their Mac mini ripoff homage, the miniPC, as the latest version is promising to eliminate the loud whine that made its predecessor almost unusable. The company has just formally announced the Core Duo-powered version of what is now called the MiniPC (with the capital "M" presumably meant to further differentiate the box from its Apple counterpart), which is essentially the same machine that was being shown off at CeBIT 2006, except with a black case that makes it look less like an external DVD burner. Besides Yonah CPU support and a slight bump in RAM speed, the MiniPC model MP945-VXR sports nearly identical specs to the MP-915 (version one), although you do get a built-in mic and the Media Center Edition version of Windows XP. The price this time around, however, is decidedly less "mini," with AOpen claiming a MSRP of $955 -- compared to only $500 for the 915 -- whenever the new model hits stores.[Via Reg Hardware]
