Israel's CompuLab, makers of the fit-PC range of energy efficient mini-PCs, has announced a new miniature computer powered by NVIDIA's Tegra 2 processing platform. The Trim-Slice computer is said to offer the rich multimedia capabilities and user experience of a full-size PC at only a fraction of the power draw. It benefits from a fanless design, Wireless-N connectivity, solid state memory and expansion via both a full size and a micro SD card slots.
The 5.1 x 3.7 x 0.6-inch (130 x 95 x 15mm) Trim-Slice is the company's smallest and most energy efficient model to date, having an average operational draw of just 3W. Within the rugged all-metal, nickel-plated housing beats the Tegra 2 heart, where a 1GHz Dual Core ARM Cortex A9 processor and an ultra low power, high definition GeForce graphics unit sit together on the same chip. Supporting players include 1GB DDR2 memory and 64GB of solid state storage, with expansion possible via the duo of media card slots.
Physical connectivity comes in the form of a foursome of USB 2.0 ports, a USB device port and an RS232 Serial port, as well as HDMI-out and dual head DVI. Getting online is made possible with Gigabit Ethernet and 802.11n wireless connectivity. In addition to line-in and stereo line-out jacks, the Trim-Slice also has 5.1 channel digital audio output capabilities courtesy of S/PDIF out.
CompuLab sees its high performance, low-power Trim-Slice unit being used to power infotainment systems, digital signage and IPTV, or as a gaming device or desktop PC replacement. There's also mention of the company offering more than one operating system working "out-of-the-box," but what will actually be running the show hasn't yet been announced.
Availability is expected to be some time in April, with final pricing yet to be decided. CompuLab's Irad Stavi says that it's likely to be "higher than a streamer, but lower than a tablet."
Trim-Slice will be available in several configurations, and will also be offered to OEMs for possible re-branding.
