Take That, iMac?: Build Your Own All-In-One PC
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- Hardware
- iMac
- Build Your Own
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Last response: in Photo reports comments
We've long envied the good looks of highly-integrated iMacs, even as we derided their lack of hardware flexibility and nasty price premiums. Well, now it's possible to build your own all-in-one using components of your choosing. Ready to save some money?
Take That, iMac?: Build Your Own All-In-One PC : Read more
Take That, iMac?: Build Your Own All-In-One PC : Read more
More about : imac build
clownbaby
September 20, 2012 4:26:44 AM
Anonymous
September 20, 2012 4:27:55 AM
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abhijitkalyane
September 20, 2012 4:47:45 AM
CaedenV
September 20, 2012 4:47:57 AM
razor512
September 20, 2012 4:57:50 AM
the stock intel boards are generally easier to hackintosh since the board in an actual imac is more or less a stock intel board with a custom PCB layout to fit their cases and a special DRM chip added. other than that, they have a few minor firmware changes which gives the board a more MAC style ID.
Score
3
A review of the screen quality would also be nice. I am betting at the price its TN.
very nice to see Intel make that cooler to help anyone looking to go super low profile/all in one.
Now if you could get a second loop monitor only. That would look very different at the office
very nice to see Intel make that cooler to help anyone looking to go super low profile/all in one.
caedenvThat looks great!Throw in an i3 Ivy bridge, 4GB of ram, and a small SSD and you would have the ultimate office machine. With the onboard video output exposed you can even hook up a 2nd monitor to this and have what would appear to be 2 tethered monitors without a PC...
Now if you could get a second loop monitor only. That would look very different at the office
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0
Yargnit
September 20, 2012 5:17:09 AM
I'd be curious if you could under volt a standard 77w Ivy bridge CPU enough to fit within the cooling capabilities of this unit? (Once the BIOS issues are solved anyways) Without being able to fit a discrete GPU, getting HD4000 in there vs 2000/3000 would at least open up some low end casual gaming if you could. And from what I recall the IB CPU'S under volt fairly well at stock frequencies.
Score
4
joytech22
September 20, 2012 5:24:51 AM
army_ant7
September 20, 2012 5:31:35 AM
I wasn't aware such a form factor existed and that consumers could directly buy parts like this. It's very nice that this is possible and it looks interesting to build! It's pretty similar to the internals of a laptop really...
Are some parts like the Wi-fi card OEM or are they really sold directly to the public?
Some peculiar things I just happen to notice:
1) Why does the first picture say "Casper" on it? The following pictures of the screen have "Loop" on them.
2) On Picture 8, it was said that "Intel’s DH61AG features one half-length mini-PCIe slot and one full-length interface, both of which we populate during the process of our build. " Is the full-length one the normal looking PCI-E slot on the board which is perpendicular to it? How was it populated?
3) How was the webcam plugged in? I'm guessing using some of the USB headers just like how I know MMC readers are plugged in.
With some of those questions, I may have just missed something. Sorry about that if ever, and I'll be looking forward to a reply.
Thanks for the article Chris, and I have a feeling that you'll be doing either or both the FX-Piledriver and the possible Desktop Trinity remake article once they come out. So I'll be looking forward to those.
Are some parts like the Wi-fi card OEM or are they really sold directly to the public?
Some peculiar things I just happen to notice:
1) Why does the first picture say "Casper" on it? The following pictures of the screen have "Loop" on them.
2) On Picture 8, it was said that "Intel’s DH61AG features one half-length mini-PCIe slot and one full-length interface, both of which we populate during the process of our build. " Is the full-length one the normal looking PCI-E slot on the board which is perpendicular to it? How was it populated?
3) How was the webcam plugged in? I'm guessing using some of the USB headers just like how I know MMC readers are plugged in.
With some of those questions, I may have just missed something. Sorry about that if ever, and I'll be looking forward to a reply.
Thanks for the article Chris, and I have a feeling that you'll be doing either or both the FX-Piledriver and the possible Desktop Trinity remake article once they come out. So I'll be looking forward to those.
Score
2
JOSHSKORN
September 20, 2012 5:59:33 AM
This is something I've been waiting for, for about two years. Two questions, though.
1. First of all, I missed the part about the graphics. Is it integrated?
2. With whatever graphics card or integrated graphics that was used, how would the gaming performance be?
I would LOVE for my next gaming machine to be something like this and just get rid of the desktop. The only problem I could foresee is limited USB ports. As it is, I personally need about 6-8. I don't own anything that uses USB 3.0 yet.
1. First of all, I missed the part about the graphics. Is it integrated?
2. With whatever graphics card or integrated graphics that was used, how would the gaming performance be?
I would LOVE for my next gaming machine to be something like this and just get rid of the desktop. The only problem I could foresee is limited USB ports. As it is, I personally need about 6-8. I don't own anything that uses USB 3.0 yet.
Score
0
JOSHSKORNThis is something I've been waiting for, for about two years. Two questions, though.1. First of all, I missed the part about the graphics. Is it integrated?2. With whatever graphics card or integrated graphics that was used, how would the gaming performance be?I would LOVE for my next gaming machine to be something like this and just get rid of the desktop. The only problem I could foresee is limited USB ports. As it is, I personally need about 6-8. I don't own anything that uses USB 3.0 yet.
Graphics is integrated, yes. Supposedly, Gigabyte has a version able to take dual-slot graphics cards, but I don't have it yet. As of now, gaming performance is going to be lackluster with HD Graphics 3000 or, given improved firmware, support for HD Graphics 4000.
Score
6
army_ant7I wasn't aware such a form factor existed and that consumers could directly buy parts like this. It's very nice that this is possible and it looks interesting to build! It's pretty similar to the internals of a laptop really... Are some parts like the Wi-fi card OEM or are they really sold directly to the public?Some peculiar things I just happen to notice:1) Why does the first picture say "Casper" on it? The following pictures of the screen have "Loop" on them.2) On Picture 8, it was said that "Intel’s DH61AG features one half-length mini-PCIe slot and one full-length interface, both of which we populate during the process of our build. " Is the full-length one the normal looking PCI-E slot on the board which is perpendicular to it? How was it populated?3) How was the webcam plugged in? I'm guessing using some of the USB headers just like how I know MMC readers are plugged in.With some of those questions, I may have just missed something. Sorry about that if ever, and I'll be looking forward to a reply. Thanks for the article Chris, and I have a feeling that you'll be doing either or both the FX-Piledriver and the possible Desktop Trinity remake article once they come out. So I'll be looking forward to those.
Very observant ;-)
We built up two systems, hoping to get Ivy Bridge support working after a motherboard swap. The first one appears on page one, and the other one appears throughout the rest of the story.
Both of the PCIe slots mentioned are mini--just different lengths. When you see the card-based SSD and wireless module, those both plug into the mini-PCIe slots. The standard slot remains unused.
The webcam is attached via USB header, yes.
Score
2
idroid
September 20, 2012 6:42:38 AM
Vorador2
September 20, 2012 8:11:27 AM
Looking at the Intel catalog, it seems that there's no possibility of installing a discrete graphic card, not even a laptop card. Such a shame since it's the only glaring fault in this build.
It would be interesting to make a similar build in the future based on the upcoming AMD Trinity architecture.
It would be interesting to make a similar build in the future based on the upcoming AMD Trinity architecture.
Score
0
Vorador2Looking at the Intel catalog, it seems that there's no possibility of installing a discrete graphic card, not even a laptop card. Such a shame since it's the only glaring fault in this build.It would be interesting to make a similar build in the future based on the upcoming AMD Trinity architecture.
I've asked AMD if they have any plans to support this form factor. Company representatives seemed interested, but not particularly sure if AMD would ever pursue channel-enabled all-in-ones. We'll almost certainly see Trinity-based tier-one boxes first.
Score
5
Menigmand
September 20, 2012 9:08:09 AM
Menigmand
September 20, 2012 10:13:12 AM
saudagar
September 20, 2012 10:33:32 AM
Menigmand
September 20, 2012 10:45:59 AM
Anonymous
September 20, 2012 11:05:18 AM
ojas
September 20, 2012 12:10:54 PM
cmcghee358
September 20, 2012 1:10:22 PM
Chris,
This seems like a quick and easy carry-over to a custom built laptop. Is there a chassis available in notebook?
Most of my friends love the idea of a custom built PC, then ask for a laptop. At which time I try and find them the best laptop and the perfect fit SSD to replace the HDD in said laptop. It's a hodge podge fix that always leaves me disappointed...
This seems like a quick and easy carry-over to a custom built laptop. Is there a chassis available in notebook?
Most of my friends love the idea of a custom built PC, then ask for a laptop. At which time I try and find them the best laptop and the perfect fit SSD to replace the HDD in said laptop. It's a hodge podge fix that always leaves me disappointed...
Score
2
halls
September 20, 2012 1:15:22 PM
Anonymous
September 20, 2012 1:22:37 PM
Couple of things I don't like.
1. There's no slot for a video card. Let's face it, the built in HD graphics just will not do, especially at 1080p.
2. And this is just for that particular motherboard, wasn't the H61 chipset the bugged Intel chipset that has SATA ports that slowly degrade with time? Even if that is a fixed revision, I would be very scared to touch that chipset. Of course, I could be wrong, could've been another corei chipset.
3. I remember this article being on here like 2-3 months ago... the same article.
1. There's no slot for a video card. Let's face it, the built in HD graphics just will not do, especially at 1080p.
2. And this is just for that particular motherboard, wasn't the H61 chipset the bugged Intel chipset that has SATA ports that slowly degrade with time? Even if that is a fixed revision, I would be very scared to touch that chipset. Of course, I could be wrong, could've been another corei chipset.
3. I remember this article being on here like 2-3 months ago... the same article.
Score
-2
Device Unknown
September 20, 2012 1:23:27 PM
I see no advantage to AIO anymore. Space constraints? You can get a VESA mounted Mini-ITX chassis AND FIT a full sized GPU in it at the same time. Also, manufacturers should consider making the monitors a little thicker to accommodate a broader array of hardware. I doubt anyone would notice .75 inch thicker monitor.
However some may just not like a little black box attached to the back of their screen.
However some may just not like a little black box attached to the back of their screen.
Score
1
classzero
September 20, 2012 1:33:40 PM
face-plants
September 20, 2012 1:46:12 PM
Excellent article Tom's! I have a few customers in mind already who'd love the small footprint of an all-in-one. They've stayed away from iMacs and proprietary all-in-ones from the regular suspects in the PC market until now but the flexibility of this build is great. I'll hold off until more powerful graphics are supported before getting one for myself but I'm definitely tempted.
Score
4
mayankleoboy1
September 20, 2012 1:55:36 PM
Isaiah4110
September 20, 2012 3:42:03 PM
abhijitkalyane said:
Nice build for a second surfing/media machine. If a similar mobo is available for AMD APUs, it could make a decent low-end gaming machine too. All in all, it is good to know that there are options to build an all in one DIY style.That's exactly what I was thinking. I was actually surprised to see an Intel CPU used here over one of AMD's APUs given the lack of ability to include any sort of discrete/mobile GPU and TH affinity for creating PCs with at least some gaming capability. I'm not by any means an AMD fanboy, but you can't really beat their APUs for gaming performance when you are completely unable to include a separate GPU.
Would this build be possible with an AMD APU system? If so, what made you decide to go the Intel route?
Score
1
Isaiah4110
September 20, 2012 3:44:53 PM
Menigmand
September 20, 2012 3:47:03 PM
Device UnknownI see no advantage to AIO anymore. Space constraints? You can get a VESA mounted Mini-ITX chassis AND FIT a full sized GPU in it at the same time. Also, manufacturers should consider making the monitors a little thicker to accommodate a broader array of hardware. I doubt anyone would notice .75 inch thicker monitor.However some may just not like a little black box attached to the back of their screen.
It's about 'visual real estate', design and less wires mostly. I found my previous computers tended to "take over" the room, and I dont have the luxury of a basement or other room that can be dedicated to gaming.
Score
1
Justposting27Couple of things I don't like. 1. There's no slot for a video card. Let's face it, the built in HD graphics just will not do, especially at 1080p. 2. And this is just for that particular motherboard, wasn't the H61 chipset the bugged Intel chipset that has SATA ports that slowly degrade with time? Even if that is a fixed revision, I would be very scared to touch that chipset. Of course, I could be wrong, could've been another corei chipset.3. I remember this article being on here like 2-3 months ago... the same article.
That'd be funny, since I just wrote it
Score
3
ram1009
September 20, 2012 4:04:43 PM
DigitalWarlord
September 20, 2012 4:41:14 PM
army_ant7
September 20, 2012 6:38:20 PM
Thanks for the reply Chris! And I very much appreciate compliments from people I admire! Just saying.
Anyway, I was thinking that you may have been referring to the mSATA slot, but based on what I've researched before, the mSATA slot is still incompatible with mini-PCI-E and thus different. But as I double-checked now, I found info about a router chip making them cross-compatible. Does this board have such that you can use a mini-PCI-E card where the mSATA SSD is placed? Thanks!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MSATA#mSATA
cangelini said:
Both of the PCIe slots mentioned are mini--just different lengths. When you see the card-based SSD and wireless module, those both plug into the mini-PCIe slots. The standard slot remains unused.Anyway, I was thinking that you may have been referring to the mSATA slot, but based on what I've researched before, the mSATA slot is still incompatible with mini-PCI-E and thus different. But as I double-checked now, I found info about a router chip making them cross-compatible. Does this board have such that you can use a mini-PCI-E card where the mSATA SSD is placed? Thanks!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MSATA#mSATA
Score
0
army_ant7
September 20, 2012 6:44:29 PM
Isaiah4110 said:
Would this build be possible with an AMD APU system? If so, what made you decide to go the Intel route?I think it's because only Intel CPU boards may be offered in this AIO form factor. It was mentioned in the article that other mo-bo companies make these kind of boards.
Plus Chris did say this:
cangelini said:
I've asked AMD if they have any plans to support this form factor. Company representatives seemed interested, but not particularly sure if AMD would ever pursue channel-enabled all-in-ones. We'll almost certainly see Trinity-based tier-one boxes first.
Score
0
rohitbaran
September 20, 2012 8:16:15 PM
spookyman
September 20, 2012 8:37:20 PM
RedJaron
September 20, 2012 9:46:36 PM
I really don't understand why AMD wouldn't jump on this format / form factor. Didn't they say their focus now is on the mid- to low end, especially mobile space? An AIO is basically a laptop is a slightly different shaped box, I would've thought they'd be the first to market with something like this. Unless they're focused more on OEM solutions instead of DIY?
Score
0
Isaiah4110
September 20, 2012 10:18:27 PM
RedJaron said:
I really don't understand why AMD wouldn't jump on this format / form factor. Didn't they say their focus now is on the mid- to low end, especially mobile space? An AIO is basically a laptop is a slightly different shaped box, I would've thought they'd be the first to market with something like this. Unless they're focused more on OEM solutions instead of DIY?Exactly what I had been thinking. The AMD APU seems like it would be a perfect fit for this type of system, unless you want to build strictly for web browsing and productivity software. Most recreational applications require more robust graphics processing power than Intel's CPUs currently provide.
However, I did notice AMD's APUs all have higher TPD than the Intel processors required for this build. The A8 line all require 100W TPD and you have to go down to an A6-3500 or an A4 to get a 65W TDP from AMD. I'm thinking they may not have reached a place where a single chip can provide that level of CPU and GPU capabilities without having a higher TDP yet. Higher power usage obviously = more heat and that could be why AMD has not released anything to allow this type of build yet?
army_ant7 said:
I think it's because only Intel CPU boards may be offered in this AIO form factor. It was mentioned in the article that other mo-bo companies make these kind of boards.Plus Chris did say this:
anusheri said:
I've asked AMD if they have any plans to support this form factor. Company representatives seemed interested, but not particularly sure if AMD would ever pursue channel-enabled all-in-ones. We'll almost certainly see Trinity-based tier-one boxes first.Thanks for bringing that post by Chris to my attention, army_ant7.
Score
1
K2N hater
September 21, 2012 12:00:54 AM
twztechman
September 21, 2012 1:03:52 AM
army_ant7
September 21, 2012 1:35:07 AM
Sorry to repost this, but it's just that you may have missed my reply above about if the full-length mini-PCI-E is cross-compatible with mSATA on this board, because in the Wikipedia link that I sent above, it says that they normally don't have compatible signaling or something like that. Just wondering. Thanks Chris!
Score
0
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