The Intel Compute Stick – Small in Size, Massive in Performance
Proving that size does not matter, the Intel Compute Stick packs a massive performance punch for something that’s no bigger than a chocolate bar. Utilizing one of its Atom processors, Intel has managed to stuff everything that a fully functional computer needs to run basic productivity tasks and then some, into a portable device that can fit into your pocket.
It’s all in the Specs
The Compute Stick is powered by a 1.3GHz Atom Z3735F with burst speeds up to 1.8GHz, has 2GB of RAM and 32GB of storage with a microSD card slot on its side which allows up to an additional 128GB of storage. It runs on a full version Microsoft Windows 8.1 with Bing as the default search engine and McAfee Antivirus Plus. It is also available with Ubuntu 14.04 LTS which has a 1GB RAM and an 8GB on board storage. Both devices have a USB port on the side which allows you to plug in external devices or a USB key. Bluetooth 4.0 is available and Wi-Fi b/g/n connectivity is also built in on both the Windows 8.1 and Ubuntu versions. The Stick is built to be used straight out of the box, just plug it into a display device through an HDMI port. The Stick does not have a built-in battery and cannot draw power from the HDMI device it is connected to, however there’s a Micro-USB charging port on the side or just keep it plugged in. A tech who does IT support in Sydney has given the Intel Compute Stick really high marks after a full week’s testing.
Little Stick. Big Performer.
The Intel Compute Stick is great for most basic productivity tasks, web browsing and media streaming and even a bit of image editing. If you’re into Minesweeper, there’s a review stating that the Stick runs the game flawlessly. What does this all mean in an everyday setting? Mobility. The same tech who does IT support in Sydney literally took the Intel Compute Stick on a test drive – taking it to onsite support runs and client meetings. And the results were pretty spectacular to say the least. Virtually everywhere there is an HDMI display device is a potential work area. Client presentations can be more robust, onsite IT support has the potential to be quicker and less problematic. Whilst the regular USB serves these purposes quite well, there’s just no processing power. The Intel Compute Stick is more than just storage; it’s more than just processing power. It is a full-pledged computer which you can easily carry around. It also takes away the problem of working in small office spaces without sacrificing workplace productivity and efficiency.
Additionally, you can also use any HDMI display device to utilize the Stick as a thin-client platform, transform your boring HDMI TV or monitor into a robust home entertainment computer and turn any HDMI display device into a fully-functional digital signage solution. The possibilities are endless and, most importantly – it is portability and power that packs quite a punch.
