Giada's i53 Mini PC, Small but Strong Nettop

If we'd been given only the list of internal specifications and nothing else, we'd have easily thought Giada's new computer fit the bill of standard desktop, but we'd have been wrong.

Instead, Giada has formally launched one of those very small personal computers, usually called nettops. The product name is i53 Mini PC. The default processor is the first clue that this is no ordinary small form factor personal computer. Whereas most nettops would make do with an Atom chip, this one has a Core series unit, and not just any weakling. A Core i5 proudly directs operations. That, of course, implies that graphics prowess stems from the built-in Intel graphics, and since this is the third generation of CPUs (Ivy Bridge), meaning GMA HD 4000. Moving on, whichever i5 CPU model ends up in the configuration, 4 GB of DDR3 RAM (random access memory) backs it up.

And thus we arrive at the rest of the spec sheet, with the hard disk drive (HDD) of 500 GB, Intel HD Audio with 5.1 channel surround sound, five USB ports (3.0/2.0), 802.11n WiFi, Bluetooth, video outputs (HDMI and VGA), Gigabit Ethernet and even a multi-format memory card reader slot. As for convenience, there are two major selling points here. The obvious one is size: the nettop has a very small case, with a weight of 1 kilo (2.20 pounds) and a thickness of 26 mm, or about one inch. The less obvious advantage is the remote control bundled with the i53 Mini PC, for remote boot-up, not unlike the ability of TVs. Verily, Giada calls its latest creation “an ideal home theater PC (HTPC)”, and we can't really begrudge it that claim, even though it's subjective. The computer does easily play full HD 1080P with clear sound after all. Giada ships the i53 Mini PC with Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP or a Linux operating system. The price is $520, or 424.76 Euro.

Giada i53 Mini PC
Image credits to Giada

Posted in: Hardware, Preview