As you probably know, desktop computers have been around for a while, longer than any other type of personal PC. Over the past 35 years, they have diversified significantly, lending themselves to all kinds of high-performance computing-related use cases. These range from advanced data analytics to gaming and video playback. The type of desktop computers that are designed for this type of computing definitely deliver what they promise and more. However, they are plagued by the following problems:
- High price. Conventional desktop computers are not very affordable when it comes to models that can handle high-performance computing. The ability to accommodate multiple hard drives, RAM chips, and all kinds of specialized cards makes their motherboards large and expensive.
- High energy consumption. Desktop computers are starved for electricity as they have to handle these cumbersome motherboards and often at least a couple of big fans as well.
- Noise level. As a result of the aforementioned fans, desktop computers tend to be quite noisy, particularly during warmer days.
- Large size. Of course, the desks are quite large, which makes them difficult to move, and they usually take up a large part of the desk.
So while desktop machines can offer high performance, this comes at a price, making them a not-so-attractive solution for many people, especially those on a budget. Minicomputers, on the other hand, could fix most of all of the above disadvantages. Specifically, they are:
- Cheap. These PCs are as simple as possible, making them efficient in all respects. This translates to lower cost, even with high-quality parts like solid-state drives. Today, you can buy a mini computer for less than $ 400 at certain stores.
- Very ecological (low energy consumption). Minicomputers generally consume no more than 20W, with most models consuming around 15W and some of them as low as 12W. This equates to a small carbon footprint and large electricity savings over time.
- Be quiet. Modern mini computers do not have fans and their parts do not have moving components, making them as quiet as your smartphone or tablet. This is due to the state-of-the-art heat sink technology they employ.
- Compact in size. By using laptop technology, minicomputers can deliver a great deal of computing power by making use of very small parts. This makes them light, compact, and easy to move.
In addition, the minicomputers are:
- Fast when it comes to memory storage. Minicomputers are based on solid state drives, a technology that is the fastest available when it comes to storage (significantly faster than MMC memory). This enables fast overall performance and high reliability.
- Easy to update. Mini-computers are like desktop computers when it comes to upgrades. Just lift the lid and change the part you want. Everything is just a couple of screws away and does not require advanced knowledge to achieve it.
- Sure. Mini-computers are often mounted on monitors, usually hidden from view. This, along with the fact that they are easy to place in a hidden place (for example, inside a keyboard tray) makes them quite safe from thieves.
All of this makes minicomputers a great choice for high-performance computing and a great investment overall.