Tag Archives: modular pc

This modular PC aims to repurpose and lessen our electronic waste

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New technologies being released every day promise a futuristic look that is years ahead of the current devices. But with the speed at which our technology evolves, the same devices begin to feel out-dated and due for a refresh within a couple of years. The Level is a modular Home PC concept that explores how users can be encouraged to retain their devices for a longer period of time, even after their primary use is over!

The modular and highly adaptable home computer’s flexibility centers around the building blocks that provide even the least experienced users to upgrade the aging hardware; The pyramid of blocks is neatly concealed within the aesthetically-clean casing. It isn’t just the extended life-cycle of the product that has been considered, but also the user experience has been explored in great detail; from adjustable articulation of the screen through to the intuitive and fuss-free user interface, it’s certainly a device we would love to see in our homes for years to come!

Designer: Louis Berger

Hands-on with Xi3’s ‘Piston’ modular PC at CES

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Remember when Xi3 announced a Kickstarter project for its modular computers late last year? Well, those machines are here today at CES, thanks in no small part to some lofty backing from Valve. We got a first look at its latest mini-PC, code-named Piston, tonight -- and though a more comprehensive demo is to come, we walked away with some impressions nonetheless. Of course, Valve wouldn't back this system if it didn't have some serious graphics chops. It's optimized to run Valve's Steam platform -- and specifically big-picture mode -- and to that end it packs a quad-core chip. Most specs remain vague, though the Piston apparently offers up to 1TB of storage. The package is tiny yet rugged, with an aluminum chassis that's made to resist heat (and that will certainly come in handy during gaming sessions). Xi3 is also touting the system's low energy consumption; it runs on just 40W. And it's somewhat future-proof, too, with a modular motherboard that lets you swap out components when newer tech becomes available. Our hands-on gallery will have to tide you over till we get a full walkthrough at Xi3's booth tomorrow.

Gallery: Xi3 Piston Modular Computer hands-on

Joseph Volpe contributed to this report.

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Xi3 goes the crowdfunding route for future X3A, X7A modular PCs (video)

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Xi3 goes the crowdfunding route for future X3A, X7A modular PCs

Xi3 has been one of the more inventive PC builders in the field, designing its Modular Computers in the belief that small, more upgradable desktops are the way of the future. The company is planning two new systems to further that dream, the X3A and X7A, but it wants our help: it's running a Kickstarter funding drive until October 28th to assist the development and garner some early adopters. Put down $503 or $603 and you'll get the entry-level X3A, a dual-core 1.65GHz (likely AMD E-450-based) PC with 4GB of RAM, a 32GB SSD and either Linux or Windows installed; splurge with $1,103 or more and you'll get the more performance-driven X7A, which jumps to a quad-core chip with a 3.2GHz peak speed, a Windows-loaded 64GB SSD and faster graphics. Assuming Xi3 makes its target, we should see the X3A and X7A arrive in January and February respectively, with Kickstarter supporters beating the larger herd by a week. Even existing owners are accounted for through a Primary I/O Board upgrade, due before the end of this year, that carries more Ethernet and USB 3.0 ports. Crowdfunding is an unusual approach to buying that next PC, without the certainties of shopping at an online store -- but we're also dealing with an unusual PC from the get-go.

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Xi3 goes the crowdfunding route for future X3A, X7A modular PCs (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Sep 2012 23:59:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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