14 DAY TRIAL // Usually we would use the term AiO, all-in-one PC, to refer to a computer shaped like a monitor, but the new series of “panel PCs” from Micro-Star International are too different for that, to say the least.
MSI itself calls the newcomer MS-9A6 Panel PCs instead of all-in-one computers. Mostly because they are not intended for consumer use at all.
Instead, they are made for ATM machines, digital signage, point-of-sale (POI for short), kiosks, and various other automation platforms.
In fact, they may do best in industrial automation, seeing as how they have IP65 front panels, meaning that they have a better than average resistance to water, dust, and other harmful elements.
Other than that, the MS-9A61/9A62/9A63 is/are fairly low-key, performance-wise. Then again, Micro-Star International calls them “powerful all-in-one HMI panel PCs,” and it does have a point that the things are better than many of their peers, even if they can't hold a candle to PCs.
Also, their touch technology is prone to wear. Resistive touch panels are like that (5-wire resistive touch panels in this case). Fortunately, styluses aren't used much in supermarket cashier stands and the like, so it should still last until the store is due a general equipment replacement/upgrade.
Speaking of the display, the MS-9A61/9A62/9A63 has a TFT LCD of 15, 17, or 19 inches, respectively (with wide viewing angles, through the specific angles weren't stated). You even get a second display if you need it.
Inside the panel PC you will find a mini-ITX motherboard of under 35W TDP. An Intel Cedarview 1.86 GHz central processing unit is installed on it. On that note, there is an SSD or HDD available as well.
This is actually where customization comes in: you have a lot of options for storage, from mSATA and SATA DOM SSDs/HDDs to mSATA units.
Other assets include a high contrast ratio for the LCDs, a lockable power hack (secures the adapter connection and prevents damage from awkwardly hanging or snaggable cables), and an optional stand (or open-frame panel PC). DC-in 12V power cables provide the electricity.
Costs were not specified, which makes sense since the order size of MSI MS-9A6 Panel IPCs, the urgency of delivery, and the hardware configurations allow for too wide a range of possible price tags. Marketing-wise, it can be more harmful than helpful to include this info in the press release, since specific numbers can give the wrong impression.