I’ve been working with desktops for years, every time there is some big advancement in laptops people say desktops are done, but it has yet to happen. Desktops are not done by any means, “they’ve just been boring” says the developers of the Xi3 Modular Computer Project. They want to change the way computers a built, serviced, and upgraded. They have taken their latest project to Kickstarter where they are looking to raise a quarter of a million dollars.
The Xi3 is a cubed-shaped machine that measures 4.73″ x 3.65″ x 3.65″. It uses a patented tri-board design instead of the larger single motherboard design you are used to seeing in desktops. Using this method the developers claim it is easier to repair, mod and upgrade.
The entry level model (X3A) will include a dual-core 1.65GHz processor, 4GB of DDR3 memory, 32GB-1TB of SSD storage, two USB 3.0 ports, four eSATA ports, four USB 2.0 ports, and a Gigabit LAN. This system should handle the everyday tasks of most users. For those looking to do some gaming they have the X7A Modular, which features a quad-core processor clocked at 3.2GHz, integrated graphics with up to 384 cores and 4GB or 8GB of DDR3 RAM. This setup is said to, “handle graphics-rich computer games like Crysis 2 with ease” and power up to 3 high definition monitors at the same time.
Are you interested? Right now on Kickstarter the X3A can be preordered for $500 and the X7A for $1000. They expect shipping to start in early 2013.
Source: Kickstarter | News Archive
