Many Chinese PC makers started offering “firewall mini-device” systems last year, which are basically fanless mini-computers with a set of high-speed Ethernet ports that allow users to build their own routers, Firewalls or other network systems, but the chip performance of these devices is relatively weak.
Models with 12th-generation Intel Core U-series chips are available now, and barebones models with Intel Core i3 processors start at $370.
Vendors Topton and Kingdel are selling “fanless soft router” systems. These small computers come with a choice of 15W Intel Core i3-1215U, Core i5-1235U, and Core i7-1265U processors.
The mini PCs are equipped with 6 Intel i226-V 2.5GbE Ethernet ports, making them very suitable for network applications (although they can also run desktop operating systems). There’s also an M.2 2230 slot inside that can be used to add an optional wireless card for WiFi, Bluetooth, and/or cellular connectivity.
These computers are designed for fanless operation, with an aluminum alloy chassis with fins to help dissipate heat as well as a copper heat sink and two copper heatpipes. Optional fans are also supported if you want to increase cooling performance.
Each model can be configured with up to 64GB of dual-channel DDR4-3200 memory and up to 2TB of PCIe 3.0 NVMe storage. But if users want to bring their own memory, storage and operating system, there is support for two SODIMM slots for memory and one M.2 2280 slot for storage and room for a 2.5-inch hard drive or SSD. There’s only room for a 2.5-inch drive or a fan, but not both, though.
Other features include support for up to three displays via DisplayPort 1.4a, HDMI 2.1, and USB Type-C ports, as well as two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports, two USB 2.0 Type-A ports, and a microSD card reader.
Available in black or gray, the computer measures 146 x 145 x 54mm (5.75in x 5.71in x 2.13in) and can be mounted on a wall, on a desk or on the back of a computer.
