Bryley Basics: Intel® Compute Stick

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Intel released its Compute Stick; essentially, a low-end PC that can fit into the palm of your hand or mount onto a USB port on a monitor (as shown below where the Compute Stick is mounted at the top-left of the monitor). It sells for under $150.

Due to its small size and low-power use, it can be used in these (and other) areas:

  • Thin client
  • Digital signage
  • Conference room
  • Machinery control

It can be controlled remotely through a Bluetooth-enabled keyboard/mouse. There is also an Android-based application that enables control through your smartphone.

Highlights:

  • Windows 8.1, 32-bit in current version*
  • Atom™ processor with 2Gb RAM
  • Integrated 802.11bgn wireless
  • USB 2.0 with a Micro SD slot
  • Must be powered externally

*Also available with Ubuntu 14.04 LTS.

We put it through its paces and found it slow, but adequate for low-end tasks. Its best feature is the small size, which can fit most anywhere.

Windows 10 Intel Compute Stick