Intel Compute Stick (or Similar)

Lpgcs on 07/11/2018 - 06:40
Last edited 07/11/2018 - 06:41

Hi,

Just seeking some advice on the Intel Compute Stick.

1) Are they reliable - is it a 'normal' USB drive or something better
2) Can additional programs be installed (Office - either MS or freeware clone, paint.net.. imagine Skype is already there)
3) Are they a pain with updates

Thanks,

PS: no need to flame, if I knew I wouldn't be asking. Others may also benefit from this.

Computing

Comments

  • shertiger on 07/11/2018 - 07:43

    1 not just a USB stick. It's a mini computer.
    2 yes like any other computer you can install software.
    3 updates are easy and automatic with win 10

    Only issue I've observed is below par 2.4ghz wireless performance. 5ghz works better.

    • dcep on 07/11/2018 - 10:42

      i think 32gb is a pain with win10 when there are major updates.

      • Davo1111 on 07/11/2018 - 12:08

        it wasnt a big deal on mine, but i also put all my stuff on an external sd card

  • [Deactivated] on 07/11/2018 - 08:21

    Be careful how hard you push an HDMI connector into a USB port.

  • Davo1111 on 07/11/2018 - 12:03
    1. The port sticking out on them is HDMI - not usb. You plug them into the screen directly, then power them off a separate power cable.
    2. yes, they are a standard pc running windows 10. boots into windows. Keep in mind they are small, so the interface is small. Expect 2 usb ports/sd card etc. So if you have a keyboard and mouse, then all your usb ports are gone
    3. Exactly the same as any PC/laptop. It's a bit of a pain if you have to reformat windows with a usb image, but otherwise it's all fine.

    It's just a standard low power PC that runs windows. you wont expect blistering power. I dont think they've updated them in a while. IMO the normal solutions are for when you need a windows version of a raspberry pi/need an alternative to a tablet in the kitchen etc/need a Point of Sale (POS) device etc etc

    The other way to describe it. Get a very cheap laptop and hdmi cable. Remove the screen, cd rom, keyboard, ethernet, everything but 2 usb ports. What you have left over is what a "compute stick"

  • pgcs on 10/11/2018 - 08:02

    Thank you… it's mainly intended for OS travel - laptops are getting to be too much trouble with security.

    "The interface is small" - means it's difficult to see on a reasonable sized (32" or so) TV?

    • Davo1111 on 10/11/2018 - 17:24

      no, by interface i mean there are a limited number of inputs and outputs. (i.e. 2 usbs).

      At minimum you've still got to carry a power cable, hdmi extender, and a mouse. (keyboard optional)

      Just get yourself an ultrabook or chromebook (or a tablet). Marginally bigger and has way more functionality. Plus you're not screwed if the hotel has a non compatible screen

  • pgcs on 14/11/2018 - 16:10

    Fair enough.

    Thanks all.

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