Monday VIA Technologies said it's currently demoing the ultra compact ZOTAC ZBOX mini-PC featuring its new x86-based VIA Nano X2 dual-core processor at Computex 2011 in Taipei, Taiwan. The device, best suited for tight spaces and entertainment systems, is nearly palm-sized, measuring just 12 x 12 x 4-cm.
"The ZOTAC ZBOX is a great example of the kinds of innovations in form factor design that are possible on our low power VIA Nano X2 dual-core processor platform," said Richard Brown, Vice President of Marketing, VIA Technologies, Inc. "It provides an excellent solution for home and officer users seeking a premium computing experience in an ultra compact size."
Announced earlier this year, VIA's dual-core Nano X2 processors are now available clocked at 1.2 GHz and 1.6 Ghz, built using the 40-nm fabrication process. The chips also feature native 64-bit software support, VT CPU virtualization technology, and VIA PadLock hardware security. It's also pin-to-pin compatible with VIA Nano, VIA C7, VIA C7-M and VIA Eden processors, facilitating easy upgrades of existing designs.
"VIA Nano X2 processors leverage a multi-core architecture to offer up to twice the performance in multi-thread optimized applications, while staying within the same signature [single-core VIA Nano] low-power envelope," the company previously stated.
As for the actual ZOTAC ZBOX device, little is known about what this VIA-flavored version offers outside what's shown in press images including the SD card reader, four USB ports (2.0 and 3.0), HDMI output, Ethernet, eSata, DisplayPort and other connections. Additional details regarding this unannounced mini-PC should arrive sometime this week.
