Modern computers can have a wide variety of sizes and form factors. However, we will tell you about the most compact ones. We are talking about mini-PCs and so-called single-board computers.
Which Devices Are Considered To Be Mini-PCs
Mini-PCs are highly compact computers. They have the size of a small box.
Once these devices were considered simply budget machines for standard use, they all used the most energy-efficient hardware possible. They hardly created any noise, as they had no active cooling.
The problem is that the potential of any computer depends primarily on its cooling system. The better it is, the more productive the “hardware” that is installed in it.
IMPORTANT: It is clear that a powerful cooler needs a lot of space. Otherwise, it will not be able to fit in the compact case of a mini-PC. That’s why most of these computers are limited to an energy-efficient processor, which can be cooled even by a passive radiator. But nowadays, there are a lot of mini-PCs. There is a lot to choose from.
Single-Board Computers
Some devices stand apart from large, expensive, high-performance machines in computers. These are miniature single-board computers the size of a bank card. There are new series of powerful and reliable Okdo rock single-board computers available developed by OKdo in today’s market.
Due to their small size, single-board computers, in skillful hands, are able to turn into control units for almost any technique. Here are some great reasons to get to know single-board computers better.
You Want To Automate Something In Your Home
If you’ve wanted to automate something for a long time but have yet to learn how, single-board computers can be a great help. Using such devices, you can automate everything from lighting or door closing control to pet feeders or flower watering systems. Whole communities of enthusiasts create programs for single-board computers and post detailed instructions on implementing this or that project. You won’t have to program anything if you find a ready-made manual that suits your purposes.
You Want To Create Something Exclusive
With Raspberry Pi or Arduino, you can create unusual projects such as digital photo frames, vintage game consoles, and tablets. In general, single-board computers can help you get your hands on exclusively, unlike anything else, electronic gadgets. A Raspberry Pi-based tablet may not outperform an iPad, but you’ll know that yours is the one and only.
You Want To Start Learning Programming
If you want to start learning programming but need help figuring out where to start, creating simple programs for single-board computers can be the first step. For example, based on the Raspberry Pi, a project for a moving robot can be controlled using internet-connected devices. The control program for this robot is written in Python.
You may not find a ready-made program for automating this or that process on the Internet, and you will have to adapt someone else’s development for your needs. Having a specific practical task in front of you will help you understand basic programming capabilities faster.
You Want To Introduce Your Children To Electronics
There are special Arduino-based kits aimed at beginners. These kits allow you to conduct familiarization experiments with constructing electronic circuits and create simple controlled robotics. If you doubt children can master such technology, check out the following video. You will be confident about the usefulness of Arduino for the younger generation.
You Want To Give A Gift To An Engineer
It is not only children who will be glad to have an Arduino-based constructor. Adult engineers or programmers will also be delighted with such a kit. If you don’t know what to give a friend who loves electronics, remember about a single-board computer.