ECS has launched LIVA, a windows based mini-PC kit. It claims this is the world's smallest Windows-based mini-PC kit and proudly claims that it offers "all the features of much larger PCs," and is suitable for "modern digital living, general computing, casual gaming and basic applications".
Mini, and light to boot
This compact PC kit is really a full system that you self-assemble and all that is required is an OS. It is small enough to hold in the palm of your hand at 118 x 70 x 56 mm. It's also very light at 190g, that's the same weight as the Lenovo S860 smartphone, or just 5g heavier than the more widely known Nokia Lumia 920. For your OS to complete the 'kit' you only have Hobson's choice, according to the ECS website, Windows 8.1 (64bit) is it. Ubuntu support is said to be "subject to updated versions".
Key specifications
The fanless ECS LIVA mini-PC system has the following specifications:
- Motherboard: ECS BAT-MINI
- CPU / Chipset: Intel Bay Trail-M dual-core Silvermont processor runs at up to 2GHz in Turbo Mode
- Memory: 2GB low voltage DDR3L
- Storage: eMMC 32GB
- LAN: Realtek RTL8111G
- Wireless by NGFF (Next Generation Form Factor) Card: Wi-Fi 802.11a/b/g/n + Bluetooth 4.0
- Audio: Realtek ALC282(2CH) Combo Jack
- Other I/O Interfaces: 1 HDMI, 1 VGA, 1 USB 3.0, 1 USB 2.0
- Power: Connector is a 5V/15W Micro USB Port
ECS suggests that a LIVA mini-PC is a good choice as a secondary PC, like a media centre as it is silent and powerful enough for streaming, browsing and downloading. With great portability and an HDMI output you should be able to take this system anywhere with ease. It's probably best paired with one of those wireless keyboards with a built in track pad.
The guys over at TechPowerUp got their hands on an ECS LIVA mini-PC sample last month and showed readers how the kit is easily assembled, and gave the system a few tests and general workout. They found that the LIVA offered 'decent' performance, low power consumption and silent performance in a small light package. The only drawbacks were the meagre USB inputs, limited expandability and no Mic input (though the official spec currently lists an audio combo jack as being installed).
The ECS LIVA is expected to retail at under $200.
