Software-solution provider eXpd8 has decided to try its hand at the hardware market and has come up with an interesting nettop-like-system that it's calling the GreenPC.
The GreenPC, pictured right, takes after ASUS' Eee Box with its ability to mount onto the rear of any VESA-compatible display. Very convenient, and it makes for a clean and clutter-free setup - you'd barely notice it when attached to a 50in Plasma.
Unlike the ASUS Eee Box, however, eXpd8's GreenPC packs a fair amount of wallop - despite its "green" ambition. The system will be available in three distinct configurations; Pulse, Tempo and Cogent, and come equipped with Intel Atom, Intel Pentium and Intel Core 2 processors, respectively.
GreenPC Pulse, equipped with the 1.6GHz dual-core Intel Atom 330, is available with 2GB of RAM, a 160GB 2.5in hard-disk drive, a DVD burner and Windows Vista Home Premium for a reasonable €394 (£333).
It'll utilise on-board Intel GMA 950 graphics, and provide Gigabit Ethernet as well as four USB ports. Not a bad little solution, and one of the better-priced nettops currently available.
If you're in need of a little more oomph, say for 1080p video playback, Tempo or Cogent configurations may better suit. Cogent raises the bar with a 3GHz Intel Core 2 Duo processor (upgradeable to a Core 2 Quad), 3GB of DDR2 memory, a 320GB hard-disk drive and improved graphics courtesy of the on-board Intel GMA 4500.
Priced from €679 (£574), it's an expensive but surprisingly powerful solution. We wouldn't go as far as calling it particularly "Green", though.
Nettop-like systems are coming thick and fast, and they're starting to look rather useful. How do you feel about them? Are you considering one for the living room, or will you be sticking to full-blown PCs? Share your thoughts in the HEXUS.community forums.
Official product page: GreenPC.ie