Types of barebone computers
A barebone computer is an incomplete computer kit. It needs more parts to work fully, like a regular desktop. People who like building computers themselves, instead of buying ready-made ones, mostly use barebone computers.
The word ""barebones"" means the most basic parts of something. A barebone computer has the most basic parts needed to work as a computer. The exact parts can change depending on the brand.
Customers can choose a kit with just the frame, wires, and hardware. Or, they can pick one that also has a processor and motherboard. The processor is like the brain of the computer, deciding how fast it works. The motherboard connects all the different parts together so they can talk to each other. These two parts are very important for making a computer run.
Customers then get to pick their hard drive, memory, and computer programs. The hard drive is where all the pictures, videos, and documents will be stored. Memory helps determine how many things can be opened and used at the same time.
There are different types of barebone computers: mini PCs, notebooks, network-attached storage (NAS) devices, and desktop towers.
- Mini PCs: A Mini PC is a small PC. ""Mini"" means little. These PCs only take up a small amount of room on the desk. Because they are small, some people use their mini PCs instead of a TV. This way, videos and games can be watched on a bigger screen. It is also helpful for giving presentations at work or school.
- Notebooks: Some notebooks are small enough to fit inside a bag, so they can be taken anywhere. These notebooks are also called ""notebook computers"" or ""notebook laptops"" and are similar to barebone desktop kits.
- Network-attached storage (NAS) devices: Network-attached storage, or storage on the network, keeps important files on a computer. It backs up data so nothing gets lost. People can access network-attached storage from different computers.
- Desktop towers: The last type of barebone computer is a desktop tower. It stands upright on the floor. Barebone desktop kits allow users to customize their towers.
Features and Functions of Barebone Computers
- Customization: A major selling feature of barebone PCs is the ability to customize them according to user needs. Different components like HDDs, RAMs, processors, and OSs can be selected based on user preferences. Hence, customers will have customized PCs that suit their specific requirements.
- Compact Size: Due to the limited space within the chassis, any barebone PC is compact and space-saving compared to fully assembled PCs. This makes them convenient to store and use, especially in environmental workplaces.
- Parse-ready: Most barebone kits come pre-assembled, saving users the trouble of putting together the chassis themselves. Components that are usually pre-installed include the motherboard, CPU, and power supply. This offers users a partial assembled system that they can finish up easily by adding memory, storage, and the OS.
- Variety: Barebone computer kits offer a wide variety of options for users to choose from. There are numerous brands, models, and configurations to pick from. This gives users many choices for systems that suit their needs.
- Cost: Typically, barebone computers are more cost-effective than fully assembled systems. Users only pay for the parts that come with the kit and the cost of purchasing additional components separately.
- Cooling Solutions: Many kits are equipped with cooling solutions such as fan systems and heat sinks to prevent overheating when the system is running. Keeping the PC cool aids its overall performance and boosts its lifespan.
- Expansion Potential: Depending on the type, some barebone models may have expansion slots that allow the addition of extra components for upgrades.
Applications of barebone computer
Barebone computers offer versatility in usage scenarios that span different industries and applications.
- Gaming: Gaming enthusiasts may use barebone PCs to build systems that meet their preferred performance and aesthetic requirements. By assembling a barebone PC, gamers can customize the infrastructure to support high-speed CPU processing, increased memory capacity, and enhanced graphics while optimizing costs.
- Media centers: With its compact size and expandability, a barebone PC can be used to build a media center displayed in a living room. People can use it to stream videos, view pictures, listen to music, or even play games. It serves as a media hub that handles multimedia tasks.
- Office barebone computers: Office barebone computers can meet daily office needs after installation and configuration. They have the potential to handle tasks such as internet browsing, email management, document processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. Their performance is sufficient for most office applications.
- Home barebone computers: Home barebone computers may be more useful for leisure purposes. Users can customize their performance by choosing memory size, storage methods, and processors to meet requirements for playing online games, watching live broadcasts, or other entertainment tasks.
- DIY kits for barebone desktop PC: A DIY kit for a barebone desktop PC fully considers users' DIY needs. It usually contains relevant components and assemblies such as motherboards, chassis, power supplies, and cooled to facilitate users' self-assembly and installation. These kits also often come with instructions or tutorials to guide users in building their own PCs step by step.
- Mist computing: The barebone computer is an important enabling technology for mist computing, providing hardware on which applications can run and data processing can occur. Due to its customizability and portability, it is suitable for deployment in various mist environments, including endpoints requiring local computing capabilities and data processing functionality.
- IOT edge computing: Edge IoT computing needs reliable and performant computers at or near data collection points. Barebone mini PCs could fulfill that role by providing adequate processing power in a compact form factor. They can pre-process sensor data before sending it to cloud services for further analysis or storage.
- Educational Barebone Computer Kits: Educational barebone computer kits are designed to help students, beginners, or anyone who wants to learn more about computer assembly and operation. These kits usually have detailed assembly instructions, allowing users to step-by-step assemble computers themselves. Through this hands-on experience, users can learn about the functions, structures, and operating principles of various parts in a computer.
- Server farm: Barebone servers can be used to build a server farm that provides services such as website hosting, data storage, application processing, etc. Their performance and expandability allow users to customize configurations according to specific needs, including functions such as memory, storage, network interface cards, and backup power supply options.
How to choose barebone computers
When choosing a barebone computer for specific needs, there are a few things to consider. One of them is the
CPU (central processing unit), a crucial component for computer performance. Fortunately, barebone kits come with an installed CPU or allow customers to install it based on preferences. Some kits come with a CPU already installed, saving users time selecting a compatible one. Additionally, customers choose between AMD and Intel processors.
Another factor to consider when choosing a barebone kit is memory. Users can select the amount of memory they wish to have, depending on their personal or business needs. Additionally, different kits come with various memory types. The good thing about memory in a barebone kit is that it can be upgraded. Users can add more memory if they need to enhance performance and multitasking capabilities.
Also, consider storage when choosing a barebone PC. As mentioned earlier, storage is essential for the seamless operation of a computer. Acknowledging that different users have different storage needs is important. Some kits come with the storage type, while others allow customers to add it. Normally, customers can choose the storage types, such as HDDs or SDDs and the amount of space to store information.
Connectivity options are something else to consider when selecting a barebone computer. Different kits have diverse connectivity options, including USB ports, LAN ports, HDMI ports and, among others. These allow customers to connect various devices easily. Some also support wireless connectivity such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.
Lastly, the design of a barebone PC should be considered. Design is important because it affects airflow and thus PC performance. Designs vary depending on where the PC will be placed. For instance, if customers need a PC to place in a more crowded office space, they can go for a PC with a compact design.
FAQ
Q1: What is a barebones computer?
A1: A barebones computer is a partially assembled kit that includes the essential components like the case, motherboard, and power supply, allowing customization with RAM, storage, and the operating system.
Q2: How to choose a barebone kit?
A2: When selecting a barebone kit, consider the intended use, compatibility with additional components, build quality, support for upgrades, and included accessories.
Q3: What are the benefits of using barebone kits?
A3: Using barebone kits offers a cost-effective and customized computing solution, allowing users to choose specific components, provide a more personalized experience, and assemble with ease.
