Currently, thanks to ongoing miniaturization, it is possible to purchase even smaller HTPC-type devices, which can serve as, for example, a very energy-efficient computer.office-related.For testing, I chose a product from the company MeLE, which I hold in high regard. Since the beginning of this year, they have offered box PC models PCG03, PCG09, and since May, the PCG01 dongle. The tested modelMeLE PCG03It has a quad-core Intel Atom processor and runs on a licensed version of Windows 8.1.

Is it worth stocking up onMeLE PCG03, you will find out in thistest.

Our department withequipment testsHe had already seen several Mini PC devices, but their main system was Android. For multimedia applications or occasional internet browsing, this system may be sufficient for an average user. However, it is necessary to return to the roots, when the idea of placing fairly powerful components in smaller cases was popular. Such Mini PCs were called HTPC (Home Theater Personal Computer) and usually had Windows installed with the Media Center extension or stripped-down Linux distributions most often based on the XBMC program (now Kodi). Using Windows or Linux in such a small computer also allowed it to be used for other purposes, e.g., document editing or even application development. Many people built their own sets by selecting components that fit into a compact case.

Currently, thanks to ongoing miniaturization, it is possible to purchase even smaller devices that are the essence of HTPC, but also work well as, for example, a very energy-efficient office computer.

For testing, I chose a product from the company MeLE, which I hold in high regard. Since the beginning of this year, it has offered box PC models PCG03, PCG09, and since May, the PCG01 dongle. The tested modelMeLE PCG03It has a quad-core Intel Atom processor and runs on a genuine version of Windows 8.1.

MeLE PCG03 Specification

Packaging and contents of the set

The box made of thin corrugated cardboard looks quite nice. It is kept in a dark tone with a mostly matte finish, but partially also glossy and decorated with a delicate gold embossing on the model name. On the top, there is a photo of this Mini PC, an Intel Inside badge, and round pictograms. The device specifications are placed on the side, and on the back panel, there is a photo of the back of the case with a description of the connectors.

In a box measuring 22.5 x 16.5 x 7 cm, upon opening, we see an additional cover with a description of the place for accessories. The main device is placed in the upper compartment. Below it, the rest of the accessories – quite modest.

The set includes:

1. DeviceMeLE PCG03 MiniPC

The casing has a rather interesting design. The whole is a rectangular prism with rounded side edges. The casing is mostly made of matte plastic, but with a cut-out and seemingly embedded glossy area that appears to be transparent – although the interior of the device is not visible through it.

At the front, there is only a small LED that glows bright blue (during normal operation) or red (in standby). The left side features a physical power button, a slot for a full-size SD card (which is completely recessed), and one of the three USB ports. The back is made of metal and houses the remaining ports: power, VGA, HDMI, RJ-45, two full USB ports, and a mini jack for headphones or speakers. There is also a provision for theft protection – a Kensington Lock. Additionally, there is a permanently mounted Wi-Fi antenna about 11 cm long, which can be tilted and rotated sideways as well as upwards.

On the right side, we have nothing, so there is also the possibility of placing the Mini PC on this panel. The bottom is made oformade of metal, whichalso constitutes part of the passive cooling systemThere are large rubber feet attached underneath, which serve their purpose well. The manufacturer also placed the model designation here. In this part, we have four threaded holes that allow for mounting on the wall or, for example, on the back of a television.

The casing is decorated with a sticker featuring the Intel Atom Inside hologram.The whole assembly fits very well and looks nice under a TV or monitor.

2.External power supply

3.IInstruction in English

Launched