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Intel's Compute Stick turns any HDTV into desktop computer (1 Viewer)

Wingnut

Footballguy
Pretty cool

Http://www.iflscience.com/technology/intel-s-new-gadget-turns-any-hdtv-desktop-computer

It was announced this week at the 2015 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) that Intel is ready to ship its new device that is capable of turning an ordinary HDTV into a functional desktop computer. Intels Compute Stick plugs right into the HDMI port on your TV, instantly turning it into a system running Windows 8.1 for only $149. The Compute Stick is due to be released in March.

The Windows-based Compute Stick boasts a quad-core Atom Intel CPU, 2GB of RAM, and 32GB of memory. There will also a less expensive, Linux-based version of the Compute Stick that will go for $89. This version isnt quite as powerful, with 1GB of RAM and 8GB of memory. Both models are enabled to support wireless Internet and Bluetooth. The Bluetooth can be used to connect the keyboard and mouse youll need to operate the computer.

The device itself is about four inches long, roughly the same size as a Chromecast. Just like the Chromecast, it needs to be powered via its mini USB port, though future versions of the Compute Stick may provide power through the HDMI port. There is also a USB port as well as a slot for a microSD card capable of providing up to 128GB of extra storage.

This probably wont be enough power for those who need a computer for gaming or photo editing, as its more on par with a tablet or netbook rather than a full laptop or desktop computer. This does make for a good secondary computer for ordinary daily activities such as word processing, checking social media, or streaming YouTube or Netflix (which has the added bonus of being on a much bigger monitor than the average desktop). Because the Compute Stick is easy to set up and carry around, it also makes a great option for individuals who frequently travel.

Beyond individual consumers, businesses can take advantage of the versatile Compute Stick as well. The device can function as an inexpensive thin-client, which could be advantageous for small or up-and-coming companies. Digital kiosks around the office or at trade shows can provide static or streaming content in HD resolution.

Matt Safford from Popular Science also points out that the Compute Stick could be a great solution for schools and impoverished areas around the globe who are forced to use outdated and slow computing equipment for economical reasons.

More details about the full capabilities of the Compute Stick will be available as the March release date draws closer.

 
Interesting, this is arguably the future where we all have computers in our pockets. This will merge with cell phone technology at some point.

 
So one could plug an external hard drive into it and watch any torrented legally downloaded media. Hmmmmmm.

 
So one could plug an external hard drive into it and watch any torrented legally downloaded media. Hmmmmmm.
With 32 gb of "storage space" and expandable micro sd slot, you wouldn't even need an external hd.This is a fantastic idea. I'm in.

 
Psychopav said:
So one could plug an external hard drive into it and watch any torrented legally downloaded media. Hmmmmmm.
With 32 gb of "storage space" and expandable micro sd slot, you wouldn't even need an external hd.This is a fantastic idea. I'm in.
Heck with wifi, you could use it to play media that were saved on your network if you had it at home.

Don't know SlingBox 100%, but couldn't you use this to see media on that away from home? Or Plex?

 
This feels like one of those ideas that are so simple yet brilliant. Curious how it plays out.

 
So for the price of a cheap laptop I could get this and tie up my TV

What if I want to watch the game while I'm making spreadsheets?

 
So for the price of a cheap laptop I could get this and tie up my TV

What if I want to watch the game while I'm making spreadsheets?
Use an actual computer?
So why would I need this thing then?

Maybe it's useful for some people but doesn't fit a need for me
It may be more useful for businesses. Being able to put computer-based media/programs on a TV display would be great, and fairly easy with this.

Beyond individual consumers, businesses can take advantage of the versatile Compute Stick as well. The device can function as an inexpensive thin-client, which could be advantageous for small or up-and-coming companies. Digital kiosks around the office or at trade shows can provide static or streaming content in HD resolution.

Matt Safford from Popular Science also points out that the Compute Stick could be a great solution for schools and impoverished areas around the globe who are forced to use outdated and slow computing equipment for economical reasons.
 

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