Hardware maker Xi3 is showing off their new “next unit of computing” (NUC) models based on the Intel’s fifth-generation Core “Broadwell” processors at their CES booth this week. NUC machines are tiny form-factor computers which eschew legacy connectivity in favor of cooler, quieter power efficiency compared to tower or older style desktop machines. The Xi3 offerings include four different models, for enterprise and consumer customers, including the Xi2 NUC Elli 5 and 5 Pro, and the Xi3 NUC Leon 5 and 5 Pro.
The Xi3 NUC Leon 5 is an Intel Core i5-based model intended for consumers. It includes 128GB to 512GB of solid-state M.2 storage, depending on customization. The Intel HD Graphics 6000 provides two video ports, a mini DisplayPort v1.2 and a mini HDMI v1.4a port. On the front and back are two USB 3.0 ports each, as well as Bluetooth 4.0 and Intel Wireless Display. Pricing starts at $620 for pre-orders.
The Xi3 NUC Lear 5 Pro is an enterprise-focused version of the Leon 5, which can be pre-ordered starting at $650. Along with most of the features included with the Leon 5, the Lear 5 Pro has two internal USB 2.0 ports, wireless card support, Intel vPro Technology, and Intel security features AMT v10.0 and TPM v2.0.
The Xi3 NUC Elli 5 and Elli 5 Pro are i3 models designed for consumer and enterprise customers, respectively. They both include between 128GB and 512GB of solid-state M.2 storage, and a Intel HD Graphics 5500 with the same two video ports and two USB 3.0 ports on the front and back. The difference between the Elli 5 and 5 Pro are the two USB 2.0 ports provided internally via header. The Xi3 NUC Elli 5 and the Xi3 NUC Elli 5 Pro can be pre-ordered for $520 and $540 respectively.
