Intel evolves the desktop PC

Intel has launched a tiny desktop PC powered by ultrabook technology which will be sold exclusively through the Australian and New Zealand channel.

Linked gallery: Unboxed: Intel's Next Unit of Computing

The Intel Next Unit of Computing (AKA ‘NUC’) is an ultra-compact PC that can be highly customised to suit the requirements of almost any industry.

It comes with a third generation Intel Core processor (up to i7), integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 and dual SO-DIMM connectors for memory expansion up to 16 GB.

Available in business (DC3217YE) and consumer (DC3217BY) flavours, the NUC is being pitched by Intel as a new computing form factor characterised by its small size and quiet operation.

Measuring 4x4x2in, the NUC is not much bigger than most external hard drives, making it an ideal desktop for space-deprived work environments.

The unit boasts decent connectivity for its size, including three USB 2.0 ports, two HDMI outputs, dual mini PCIe slots and Gigabyte LAN. A Thunderbolt version for consumers is also available.

Both models are sold as bare-bones and board-only configurations for resellers to build upon. There are no plans to take the device direct to market.  

According to Intel’s national reseller channel manager V.R Rajkumar, NUC resellers could, for example, "approach the car industry with an NUC entertainment system that runs off the car battery."

"Or they can sell touch-enabled Windows 8 systems with their own branding by putting the NUC in the back of a panel.

"It's really going to give the channel new windows of opportunities where they are not currently playing."

The Intel NUC is available now.