Suggested use of these computers

[The Stigenator]

I got two of these low powered computers and I dont know what to do with them currently.

1. Xi3 - X5A computer http://xi3.com/x5a-modular-computer.php

1.8ghz AMD Dual Core 3400e processor.
2gb ram
32GB SSD
20W PSU
DVI/DisplayPort (doesnt seem to work on Display Port)
6 usb, 2 esata, audio in / out
OS : Windows 7 Pro

2. Intel NUC DC3217IYE http://www.intel.com/content/www/us/en/motherboards/desktop-motherboards/desktop-kit-dc3217iye.html

Core i3 @ 2.2ghz,
4gb ram (installed, max 16)
180gb mSSD (installed)
wifi installed
2 HDMI, 5 USB2.0
no OS as yet.


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I am wondering what to do with the machines. The Xi3 does not have enough SSD space to run Windows 7 Pro, its got like 6 gb left of the 32 after installing base OS and a few small things. It does have an esata port so technically i could use it as a low powered NAS or something else. Maybe a rouge server somewhere.

The Intel NUC has HDMI and more space, more suited to windows 7 and can be hooked to the TV. XBMC is an option but I dont have a network full of movies and stuff and I just usually netflix from the PS3.


So the question is what should I use these machines for?

Any suggestions. I put the Intel NUC at FS/FT but there were no biters on it. The only thing I can think of is build my own webserver and send it to colo some where, or something.

 

[pete1229]

You could always find a charity in your area that is in need of a simple system and donate them.

 

[aigomorla]

lolol wanna sell me the top one to me for cheap?



i was following on the top machine.
Its suposidely modular entirely.
So id swap out one of the parts for it, for a dual ethernet board which they have, and run firewall box.
(however... ur asking what can u do...)
As you said, you could make it into a NAS, and have it stream content to PS3 also.
You can get a external eSATA HDD box... and load up freenas or some other nas software which has DLNA and all sorts of other plugins so your ps3 could stream off it.

The NUC... i love that little guy to death but it has very limited applications.
It cant play straight blue ray 1080p rips without major tweaks so its half useful as a htpc.

It does stream web content really good, but as you said you have a PS3.

I REALLY REALLY WISH intel put a second ethernet nic on that NUC.
then it would be a really awesome box... instead we got a second HDMI.. for god knows what reason.
like somone is really going to dual monitor that tiny box.

But if you do torrents and Nbz's you could convert the NUC to an always on torrent / nbz box / ftp box.
Low power means you wont feel bad for it being on all the time.