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[nextpage title=”Introduction”]
All-in-one computers, also known as AIO, are systems built inside the same case as the video monitor, designed to remove clutter from your desk. The problem so far is that parts for all-in-one computers are not standardized, meaning that each manufacturer uses its own design and choice of components, which may not be compatible with an all-in-one from another manufacturer. To solve this problem, Intel is leading the industry in creating a standard for all-in-one components. This way, parts designed for one system will fit in another, making the life of AIO manufacturers easier. This standard also allows users to build their own all-in-one computers from scratch.
One of such systems that follows Intel’s guidelines is the Loop LP-2150, which is a “barebone” all-in-one computer with a 21.5” screen (hence the model number). We will take a look at this system to see exactly what are the new standards proposed by Intel. This system consists only of the LCD screen and the chassis where the computer will be built, which includes a memory card reader, two USB ports, audio jacks, a pair of speakers, the Wi-Fi antenna, and the electronics for the video monitor. The system also includes a stand and an external power supply. All other components must be bought separately.
Let’s first take a look at the exterior of the Loop LP-2150 and, on the next page, what makes this all-in-one different from other ones available on the market today.
Figure 1: Loop LP-2150
Figure 2: Loop LP-2150
Figure 3: Loop LP-2150
Figure 4: Loop LP-2150
Opening the Loop LP-2150 is very easy, as there are only five screws on its back.
Figure 5: Location of the screws
[nextpage title=”The Motherboard and CPU Cooler”]
The components that received a new standard were the motherboard and the CPU cooler.
For its do-it-yourself all-in-one computer standard, Intel is proposing a new Thin Mini-ITX standard. The main differences between the new Thin Mini-ITX form factor and the standard Mini ITX are the following:
- Use of only half the height, by cutting the maximum height allowed for the connectors on the rear panel. This allows the all-in-one computer to be thinner.
- A header to allow the LCD panel to be connected directly to the motherboard.
- A DC-DC converter circuit to allow the external power supply to be connected directly to the motherboard.
- Memory modules are installed parallel to the motherboard, allowing the all-in-one computer to be thinner.
The motherboard shown in Figures 6 and 7 is an Intel DH61AGL.
Figure 6: The Thin Mini-ITX motherboard
Figure 7: The Thin Mini-ITX motherboard
As for the CPU cooler, Intel standardized its size and the location of its screws. The blower shown comes with the Loop LP-2150. The cooler shown in Figure 8 is an Intel HTS1155LP.
Figure 8: The CPU cooler
[nextpage title=”Building a System”]
Thanks to its very organized interior, building a system with the Loop LP-2150 or future all-in-one computers using the same concept is very easy – in fact, easier than building standard desktop computers. Click here to watch a video of how to build a system using the Intel Loop LP-2150.
Figure 9: The Loop LP-2150 “unpopulated”
Figure 10: System built inside the Loop LP-2150
As you can see, this all-in-one computer supports a slim optical drive and a 2.5” storage device.