14 DAY TRIAL // Zotac's ZBOX line of mini-PCs has proven to be quite popular among HTPC enthusiasts and users in search of a small form factor system, and recently the company has expanded its lineup to include a new ZBOX unit based on VIA's Nano X2 processor.
This new mini-PC is called the ZBOX Nano VD01 and is built around a VIA Nano X2 U4025 processor which is paired with a VX900H media system processor.
The Nano X2 U4025 is one of the VIA's first dual-core processors to hit the streets and has an operating frequency of 1.2GHz and a TDP of just 18W, making it well suited for being used in SFF systems.
When combined with the VX900H chipset that Zotac has opted for, the Nano X2 processor is capable of handling all sort of high-definition video formats, including Blu-ray, MPEG2, H.264, VC-1 and streaming Internet content.
Both DisplayPort and HDMI ports are available for connecting the VD01 to an external monitor or HDTV, and Zotac's creation also includes a 6-in-1 card reader, an eSATA port, a pair of USB 3.0 ports, onboard 802.11n WiFi and Bluetooth 3.0 as well as a Gigabit Ethernet port.
Users have the option of choosing between two ZBOX Nano VD01 units, one including a 320GB 5400RPM hard drive and 2GB of system memory, and the other coming as a barebone solution.
What this means is that customers will have to buy, and install, their own hard drive and SODIMM DDR3 memory, but otherwise the two SFF systems are identical.
“Zotac is pleased to expand its mini-PC lineup with the addition of a VIA platform,” said Carsten Berger, marketing director, Zotac International.
“The VIA Nano X2 with VX900H chipset enables us to deliver an affordable energy-efficient mini-PC that is ideal for digital media consumption and home server use with the Zotac ZBOX Nano VD01 series,” continued the company's rep.
Sadly, Zotac hasn't revealed any information regarding the release date or the pricing of the ZBOX Nano VD01.