New to SFF computers

[dullard]

I need a suggestion for a small computer. It needs to be powerful enough to run Windows XP properly (or later versions). It should either be a AMD or Intel processor. It needs to have at least one USB port. Other than that, I perfer cheap prices but money isn't really an issue.

How small can this go?

 

[Skott]

You can go as small as mitx. What exactly do you want to use it for? Work? Play? What?

 

[dullard]

You can go as small as mitx. What exactly do you want to use it for? Work? Play? What?

I simply want to learn how to do it. It seems like a fun project to work on. Start with a SFF motherboard, add on a touch screen monitor, and see where I can go.

Does mitx refer to the 6.7" x 6.7" mini itx? Is there anything smaller without going to Via? If I have to go to Via, what processors can run Windows well?

 

[Skott]

Yes, mini-itx. I'm not really into that form factor so I'll have to let those more knowledgeable talk about it with you but I know it will do what you have asked so far. I'm more into matx myself.

 

[jaydee]

Are you building or buying? Are you looking for smaller footprint, taller or bigger footprint deeper or wider and shorter? Very short, with square width and depth? Or as cubic as possible?

Running WinXP properly doesn't really take much, you could do it (arguably) with an Atom or Athlon X2 (Dell Zino for a pre-built).

Mini-ITX is definitely possible. I don't recall if it was on this forum or another, a week or so ago, someone was interested in attaching a small PC on the VESA mount on the back of an LCD monitor.

 

[Decembermouse]

There are many choices...

http://www.mini-itx.com/store/?c=2

VIA Eden is somewhat capable, I've heard. We have a few of them at work and do basic data management tasks with those machines.

 

[jaydee]

Thought of another question for the OP. A lot of times, low noise and low power go hand in hand with SFF, is this a concern at all for you?

Edit: check out this thread:
http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=2060350

 

[Zap]

A lot of times, low noise and low power go hand in hand with SFF

Not necessarily low noise. Some of the industrial boards and PSUs have noisy fans.