Free consultation: Find the perfect Mini PC for your needs

Did you know that you can book a personal consultation about our mini PCs on our homepage?

Whether it’s questions about upcoming projects or the selection of a suitable mini PC or RUGGED tablet!

Our sales staff are available to you on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 13:00 and 14:45.

You will find a selection of dates on our homepage under Company > Contact

or here:

New CPU for the NOVA R680E

The Intelยฎ Core โ„ข i5-12500T CPU is End of Life, which means for us – the NOVA R680E is getting an update!

The NOVA is therefore now equipped with the new Intelยฎ Core โ„ข i5-14500T CPU.

The Intelยฎ Coreโ„ข i5-14500T CPU is a newer generation and offers a higher number of efficiency cores (e-cores), resulting in better multithreading performance. In addition, the i5-14500T has a slightly improved clock speed and architectural improvements, which enables more efficient performance overall with similar power consumption.

Comeback of the NINETEEN – like before, only better

The NINETEEN Q670E with a height of 1.5 U is ideal for server applications and can also be used for deep learning, industrial monitoring and AI calculations thanks to the optional Nvidia RTX graphics card. With its 19-inch footprint, it is also a spo-comm control cabinet PC.

Technical highlights at a glance:

  • CPU: Intelยฎ Coreโ„ข i5-12500T (6x 2.0 GHz, max. 4.4 GHz)
  • GPU: Intelยฎ UHD Graphics 770 (integrated)
  • GPU: Nvidia RTX A2000 / 2000 / 4000 (optional)
  • RAM: up to 64 GB DDR5
  • SSD: up to 2TB M.2 NVME / up to 4 TB SATA (RAID 1)
  • Max. Resolution: 3840 x 2160 @ 60Hz (4K)
  • 4 independent screens
  • Dimensions (H x W x D): 68 x 424 x 298 mm
  • Ambient conditions: -0ยฐC to +60ยฐC at 10-90% non-condensing humidity

Connections of the NINETEEN Q670E:

  • 2x USB 2.0
  • 3x USB 3.2 Gen 2
  • 4x USB 3.2
  • 1x USB type C
  • 4x DisplayPort 1.4
  • 1x 2.5 Gbps LAN
  • 1x Gigabit LAN
  • 2x audio (line-in and line-out)
  • 1x PCIe x16

Deep learning vs. machine learning – what’s the difference?

Both machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) are based on algorithms that learn from data. The difference lies in the complexity and structure of the models:

  • Machine learning mainly uses flatter models such as decision trees or linear regressions. These often require manual feature engineering, i.e. experts have to extract relevant features from the data.
  • Deep learning, on the other hand, is based on neural networks with multiple layers (“deep neural networks”). These networks learn independently which features are important and can therefore recognize more complex patterns.

A simple example: While a classic ML model defines image features such as edges or shapes by hand, a DL model can extract these features independently from the raw data.

How does deep learning work?

The system is based on neural networks inspired by the structure of the human brain. These networks consist of “neurons” that are arranged in several layers:

  • Input layer: Receives the data (e.g. image or text)
  • Hidden layers: Perform calculations to recognize patterns
  • Output layer: Delivers the result (e.g. classification or prediction)

Each connection between the neurons has a weight that is adjusted during training to improve accuracy.

Use of deep learning on mini PCs

Mini PCs can also run complex deep learning applications thanks to powerful hardware and optimized software. We have put together a few examples:

  • Image and object recognition: With deep learning frameworks such as TensorFlow Lite or PyTorch, mini PCs can recognize faces or identify objects in real time. This is useful in surveillance systems or smart home devices, for example.
  • Speech recognition: Projects such as Jasper or DeepSpeech make it possible to recognize speech on mini PCs and convert it into text. This technology is used in voice assistants.
  • Predictive maintenance: In an industrial environment, mini PCs can analyze data from sensors and detect anomalies in order to predict maintenance requirements.

Deep learning on mini PCs offers numerous advantages, but also presents some challenges. The compact design of the mini PCs is an advantage, and the little helpers are also more energy and cost efficient than traditional servers.

However, there are challenges in terms of limited computing power and memory. However, special hardware such as AI accelerators (e.g. NIVIDIA Jetson Nano) can partially overcome these limitations.

Deep learning with spo-comm Mini-PCs

Our product portfolio also includes the odd mini PC that masters deep learning with flying colors. For example, our NINETEEN Q670E, which should not be reduced solely to its 19-inch size, but also to what’s inside it. The NINETEEN impresses with an Intelยฎ Coreโ„ข i5-12500T CPU, up to 65GB RAM and optional NVIDIA RTX graphics card. It also offers some special features, such as a PCIe slot for an additional graphics card, RAID network with multiple SSDs, iAMT, Wake on LAN and much more!

Conclusion

Deep learning is revolutionizing numerous industries and is becoming increasingly accessible, even on mini PCs. From image and speech recognition to industrial applications – the possibilities are almost limitless.

Whether in research, industry or the smart home sector – mini PCs make deep learning more tangible and affordable. With the right combination of hardware and software, (almost) no AI application stands in the way!

Company vacation and last delivery in 2024

As every year, our office will be closed over the Christmas holidays and New Year’s Eve from December 23 to January 6, 2025. We will be back for you from January 07, 2025!

Please note: Due to the inventory, the last possible delivery date is Thursday, 19.12.2023.

Price reduction BOX N6211

Our little digital signage wonder is now available from just โ‚ฌ440.00 base price!

The BOX impresses with its Intelยฎ Celeronยฎ N6211 processor, passive cooling, extremely low power consumption of only approx. 13 watts and numerous expansion options.

The high quality in combination with the dimensions of only 115 x 76 x 27 mm make the BOX N6211 a prime example of a spo-comm Mini-PC!

NINETEEN and NOVA are back!

The “N” in New and November currently stands for NOVA R680E and NINETEEN Q670E! The two well-known systems are back in the spo-comm product portfolio – now in an even more powerful design for a wide range of applications.

The NOVA R680E impresses with a wide range power input (8 – 48V), the extended temperature range of -10ยฐ to +50ยฐC and an Intelยฎ Coreโ„ข i5-12500T CPU with a performance of up to 6x 4.4 GHz. In addition, the device is shock-tested in accordance with IEC 60068-2 and, thanks to its anti-vibration design, can also withstand applications that occasionally get a little bumpy.

Our popular 19″ PC NINETEEN Q670E, which is especially designed for server applications, can now be optionally equipped with an NVIDIA graphics card! Thanks to a wide range of connections, hot swap, PCIe, iAMT, RAID and much more, it is equipped for a wide variety of applications.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact us!

What is a form factor?

It defines the physical size, layout and mechanical fastening of hardware components such as mainboards, housings and power supply units. It ensures that these components are compatible with each other, regardless of the manufacturer. In addition to the dimensions, the form factor also affects technical aspects such as the position of connections and the arrangement of mounting points.

Common form factors and their features

In computer technology, there are a large number of factors that are optimized for specific areas of application.
The best known include

ATX (Advanced Technology Extended):

  • Size: 30,5x 24,4 cm
  • Very good expansion options thanks to several PCIe and RAM slots.
  • Frequently used in desktop PCs and high-performance industrial applications.
  • Supports powerful power supply units and larger cooling systems.
  • Areas of application:
    • Workstations, performance-intensive applications such as image processing or simulations.

Mini-ITX:

  • Size: 17 x 17 cm
  • Compact design, energy-efficient and ideal for space-saving designs.
  • Often only one PCIe slot, but sufficient for many industrial applications.
  • Areas of application:

Nano-ITX:

  • Size: 12 x 12 cm
  • Even smaller than Mini-ITX, for minimalist and space-saving systems.
  • Often with an integrated processor and fewer expansion options.
  • Areas of application:

Proprietary form factors:

  • Size: Varies depending on manufacturer and application.
  • Customized solutions for specific requirements.
  • Optimized for extreme environments or specialized functions.
  • Areas of application:
    • Military technology, industrial automation, special IoT solutions.
Sizes of the main standards

What is the relevance of the form factors?

  • Compatibility:
    • Standardization makes it easy to replace components.
  • Efficiency:
    • Smaller versions, such as Mini-ITX, offer space-saving solutions for compact designs.
  • Flexibility:
    • Systems with common form factors are often easier to expand or repair.
  • Long-term availability:
    • Industrial devices often have to remain operational for years. A standardized form factor ensures that spare parts are available for longer.


These factors are of crucial importance for industrial applications. Systems must not only be powerful, but also robust, easy to maintain and reliable in the long term.

Applications in the industrial and embedded world

Mini PCs, which are used in control systems, monitoring solutions or production systems, benefit from optimized form factors. With the increasing spread of IoT and edge computing, the trend is moving towards even more compact integrated systems. Form factors such as Pico-ITX (10 x 7.2 cm) or fully integrated system-on-chip solutions (SoCs) are becoming increasingly important.

The focus here is on saving space, robustness and energy efficiency! As the space available for embedded systems is very limited, it is highly relevant that the PCs are as compact as possible. In addition, Mini PCs are often used in harsh environments where they are exposed to dust or moisture, among other things, which is why they rely on specially adapted form factors. The energy efficiency of Mini PCs is also particularly important for battery-operated or autonomous devices.

Overall conclusion

Form factors are one of the most relevant aspects of modern computer technology. They enable compact, efficient and powerful systems for industrial and embedded applications. The choice of the right factor depends on the specific requirements: Whether mini-ITX for space-saving designs or ATX for high-performance applications – the range offers the right solution for every challenge.

For companies operating in industry or in the IoT sector, it remains essential to keep a close eye on developments in this area and benefit from the progress made.

Our mini PCs are also available in a wide variety of form factors, so please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions!

Machine learning defined more precisely

Machine learning is an area of artificial intelligence that enables computers to learn from data and continuously improve themselves instead of being explicitly programmed. Algorithms are trained to recognize patterns and correlations in large data sets and to make the best decisions and predictions based on these analyses. This leads to automated knowledge generation, the identification of correlations and the application of these findings to unknown data sets for the optimization of processes and the prediction of future developments.

How does machine learning work?

To make machine learning effective, training by a human is required. There are various learning models that use different algorithmic techniques. A model is selected depending on the desired result and type of data, whereby a distinction is made between supervised, unsupervised, partially supervised or reinforcement learning. Within these models, specific algorithmic techniques can be applied according to the intended result. The algorithms are used individually or in combination to ensure accuracy in the processing of complex and unpredictable data. This development process is iterative and is often repeated several times until the desired quality level is achieved. Once the learning process is complete, the trained model evaluates unknown data in order to make improved decisions. The main goal is for the computer to learn autonomously and adapt its actions without human intervention.

Types of machine learning algorithms

Supervised learning uses known data, recognizes patterns and learns from a training data set. It aims to accurately predict a target variable, such as when forecasting electricity consumption or assessing the risk of investments.

Unsupervised learning visualizes large amounts of data, performs cluster analyses and independently detects hidden patterns or groups. It is not suitable for precise predictions, but requires an assessment based on more flexible factors, suitable for the desired business application.

Semi-supervised learning combines supervised and unsupervised learning, uses sample data with target variables and unknown data. It is used in areas such as image or object recognition, where a small amount of data with target variables and a larger amount of data without target variables are used.

Reinforcement learning interacts with the environment and learns a strategy for solving a problem through a cost function or reward system. In contrast to other methods, it does not require sample data, but develops an optimal action strategy in simulation steps.

Areas of application for machine learning

The areas of application of machine learning can be assigned to the individual learning methods. Unsupervised learning is therefore ideal for dimension reduction (recognizing structures, compressing information, big data visualization, etc.) and cluster analysis in the form of market and customer segmentation or recommendation systems. Supervised learning is used for classifications such as text and object recognition or forecasts (demand, weather, sales, customer values, etc.). Reinforcement learning is ideal for autonomous driving, game AI, traffic control, robotics and also for personalization and advertising.

Machine learning and spo-comm Mini-PCs

Of course, our spo-comm product portfolio also includes mini PCs that are suitable for machine learning. We are talking about our mini PCs that are equipped with a dedicated graphics card. The KUMO VI and the QUADRO P1000 are therefore suitable for machine learning, as is our new addition, the NOVA R680E. Even our new 19″ rack PC, the NINETEEN Q670E, can be used in machine learning, provided it is equipped with a suitable graphics card.

If you have any questions about our spo-comm Mini-PCs, please do not hesitate to contact us!

General Purpose Input/Output?

The abbreviation GPIO stands for “General Purpose Input/Output” and describes a universal interface that can be found on many computers and microcontrollers, including Raspberry Pi, industrial PCs and embedded boards. The pins can be configured as inputs or outputs to receive or output digital signals. Unlike specific interfaces such as USB or HDMI, GPIOs are very flexible and are suitable for a wide range of applications – from measuring a sensor signal to controlling a motor. The pins are particularly relevant in embedded technology, as they create an interface to the outside world and allow the computer to interact with its environment.

More detailed information about the interface here!

GPIO vs. DIO: The differences

While GPIO focuses on the general flexibility in the configuration of pins as inputs or outputs, DIO, or “Digital Input/Output”, refers to digital signals that are processed as binary values (high/low). DIO pins are therefore mainly specialized in detecting or switching digital states. In comparison, GPIO usually also includes analog signals and allows finer control over voltage levels and adaptation to different requirements in some applications.

The pins can have different states: either “High” (1) or “Low” (0). These states correspond to electrical signals that can be controlled by a software interface. The advantage is that the pins can be programmed to act as either an input or an output. This process is explained here for beginners.

The inputs receive signals, for example from a button or a sensor. Outputs, on the other hand, control external components such as LEDs or relays. This flexibility is particularly valuable for embedded and industrial PCs, as they can be programmed for a wide range of applications.

Possible applications for industrial and embedded PCs

The possible applications in industrial and embedded systems are diverse and include areas such as

  • Automation:
    The interface can be used to control and monitor robot arms or conveyor belts. This allows industrial processes to be automated efficiently and safely.
  • Smart Home and IoT:
    They allow you to control and monitor smart home devices such as light switches, thermostats and surveillance cameras.
  • Sensor technology:
    Embedded systems that work with sensors use GPIO to record data. Typical examples are temperature, humidity or motion sensors that are connected to the PC via GPIO.
  • LED and display control:
    Many embedded PCs use GPIO to control status LEDs or small displays that show the operating status, error messages or other information.

Special features of Windows systems

Some mini industrial PCs run on a Windows basis. In this context, the GPIO interface is controlled by special drivers and the operating system, which provides additional stability and security features. For developers who want to use GPIO under Windows, the official Microsoft site is a highly recommended resource. Here you will find instructions for configuring and programming GPIOs under Windows.

Advantages of GPIO in Mini PCs

  • Flexibility and adaptability:
    This is a universal interface that can be used in a variety of ways – from simple signals to complex control systems.
  • Cost savings:
    Instead of requiring a separate interface for each external device, several devices can be connected and controlled via GPIO.
  • Compactness:
    GPIO reduces the need for additional interfaces and thus enables compact designs – ideal for industrial environments with limited space.

What do you need to look out for?

  • Working safely with voltage:
    As the pins are sensitive to voltage fluctuations, the correct voltage (usually 3.3V or 5V) should be ensured.
  • Use of protective diodes:
    Voltage surges can occur in industrial environments. The use of protective diodes or resistors protects the pins from overvoltage and extends their service life.
  • Use of suitable software:
    Simple Python programs enable direct control of the GPIO pins. Many platforms offer SDKs and APIs to make programming easier.

GPIO is one of the most valuable interfaces for industrial and embedded PCs and opens up a wide range of applications. The flexible input and output pins offer an easy way to communicate with external devices and control a wide range of functions. It plays a particularly important role in industry, where flexibility and adaptability are required.

If you are looking for a robust, versatile system for industrial or IoT applications, mini industrial PCs with the general purpose input/output interface are the ideal choice.
Thanks to the numerous possible applications and their adaptability, they are perfect for individual and specific requirements. Of course, our spo-comm Mini-PCs are also equipped with GPIO. If you are interested or have any other questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

What is PCI and PCIe?

The PCI interface (Peripheral Component Interconnect) was developed in the 1990s as a standard for connecting various expansion cards to a computer system. It enabled efficient communication between hardware components. However, as technological development progressed, the original PCI interface became a bottleneck for modern, high-performance devices.

This is where the Express version comes into play. PCIe (Peripheral Component Interconnect Express) is a further development of the previous technology, which offers much higher data transfer rates and better scalability. While PCI once worked with parallel data buses, PCIe relies on serial data transmission and offers several “lanes” that can be used in parallel. This leads to a drastic improvement in the speed and efficiency of data transmission.

Of course, you will also find one or two PCIe interfaces in our spo-comm product catalog. In addition to this port, our NOVA R680E offers some other interesting features!

Advantages of the interface for mini PCs

  • Higher data transfer rates
    Mini PCs benefit from the high bandwidth of the PCIe interface. Whether connecting a graphics card or an NVMe SSD for lightning-fast data storage, this connection is now the standard for fast, stable connections. The latest version, PCIe 5.0, enables data rates of up to 32 GT/s (gigatransfers per second) per lane, giving Mini PCs unprecedented performance.

    Outlook: It will be even more powerful with the upcoming PCIe 6.0 version, which is already within reach and promises transfer rates of up to 64 GT/s.
  • Flexibility and scalability
    The interface has a modular structure. This means that there are different configurations, such as x1, x4, x8 or x16, which support different numbers of data channels. Mini PCs, which are usually designed to be compact, can thus be flexibly adapted to different requirements without having to compromise on performance.

  • Compatibility and future-proofing
    Another advantage of PCIe technology is its backwards compatibility. This means that older devices with this interface can also be operated on newer PCIe slots. This makes the interface a future-proof solution that is ideal for mini PCs, as these are often in use for many years.

The next generation of data transmission

The next stage in the evolution of the PCIe interface is imminent with PCIe 6.0. This new version not only brings twice the data transfer rates of PCIe 5.0, but also more efficient error correction methods and even lower latency. For Mini PC users who need maximum performance in the smallest possible space, this is an absolute game changer. The newer version will make it possible to transfer even more data in less time, which is a clear advantage especially in data-intensive applications such as 3D graphics processing, machine learning and high-performance computing.

PCIe as a key technology for Mini PCs

The PCIe interface is undoubtedly one of the most important technologies for modern Mini PCs. It provides the necessary bandwidth, flexibility and future-proofing to meet the demands of today’s hardware. From powerful graphics cards to lightning-fast NVMe SSDs, the right PCIe interface can significantly boost the performance of your Mini PC.

What is a watchdog function?

It is an essential monitoring function that continuously monitors the operation of a system to ensure that it is running properly. If the system fails or hangs due to an error or a software or hardware problem, the device will be restarted or put into a safe state. The name “Watchdog” says it all: like a watchdog, it monitors the entire operation of the system and reacts immediately if something goes wrong.

How a watchdog works

A watchdog controller continuously monitors the system’s activities. The process works as follows:

  1. Regular check: The system is checked at regular intervals to ensure that it is running properly. This can be done by receiving a “heartbeat signal” – a regular signal from the operating system or software that informs the watchdog that everything is OK.
  2. Error detection: If this signal is not received within a certain time frame or an error is detected, the controller interprets this as a problem.
  3. Response: The watchdog responds to this error message by restarting the system or taking another predefined action, such as activating a safe system state.

This little companion is particularly useful in areas where a system failure could have serious consequences, such as in industrial plants, medical devices or automation technology.

Why is the watchdog function important for Mini PCs?

Mini PCs – including our spo-comm computers – are particularly in demand in areas such as industrial automation, IoT (Internet of Things), machine control and media technology. These applications not only require high computing power, but also exceptionally high availability. This is where the watchdog function comes into play. It ensures that the Mini PC can be operated reliably without failures, which is crucial for the smooth running of processes.

In many cases, a system failure can lead to costly downtime or, in the worst case, cause security breaches. Especially in automated systems or in environments where people depend on the functionality of devices, the watchdog function can save lives and protect companies from major damage.

Watchdog in practice: Applications

  • Industrial automation: In production lines or automated production lines in which machines and devices run around the clock, it ensures that all systems remain stable and react immediately in the event of a system error.
  • IoT devices: Many IoT applications, whether in vehicles or smart cities, require constant monitoring. It ensures that these devices continue to work reliably even after a malfunction.
  • Medical devices: It is also of great importance in medical devices where failures could have serious consequences. For example, the failure of a mini PC in a medical device can be rectified quickly and safely.
  • Digital signage: In areas such as digital advertising or information transmission, the watchdog ensures that content is displayed on screens without interruption.

Advantages of the little helper

  • Increased system stability: Continuous monitoring means that errors are detected at an early stage and the system can be restored quickly.
  • Automatic troubleshooting: The watchdog function automatically takes care of troubleshooting without the user having to intervene.
  • Reliability in critical applications: In many areas, such as industrial automation or healthcare, downtimes are unacceptable. The watchdog ensures that these are minimized.
  • Lower maintenance costs: As the watchdog detects and rectifies errors at an early stage, less manual intervention is required. This saves time and costs for maintenance work.

An indispensable security feature for mini PCs

The watchdog function ensures reliable Mini PCs and ensures that they run stably even in demanding applications. It continuously monitors the system and ensures that errors are rectified quickly before they lead to major problems. For companies that use mini PCs in safety-critical or high-availability applications, the integration of a watchdog is therefore a valuable investment.

Curious about robust, flexible and durable Mini-PCs? Contact us and discover the variety of spo-comm Mini-PCs.

Relocation of the spo-comm website

We have been working diligently on improving our website for some time now. In September, the move was finally on the agenda. Visually, everything looks as familiar as ever, although the one or other attentive visitor will certainly notice a few little things. Nothing will change for you in terms of use.

If you already have a spo-comm account, we ask you to reset your password once in order to continue to guarantee the usual security. We explain how this works in this article.

NEW – the RUGGED T1000

The RUGGED T1000 really is THE high-end mini PC in our product range. Thanks to the extended temperature range, a wide range power input and passive cooling, the system is the perfect companion in the vehicle and outdoor sector. The RUGGED T1000 can be optionally equipped with numerous expansion modules that enable a wide range of applications: There are virtually no limits to the RUGGED. We mention further features in the article on the RUGGED T1000.

End of life for BRICK and NINETEEN

“Time to say goodbye”: Two of our tried-and-tested systems are leaving the spo-comm product catalog. The BRICK i3 7100U is saying goodbye, but without BRICK nothing works for us, which is why we have of course already provided a replacement. The BRICK i3 N305 proves to be a worthy successor, it shines with an extended temperature range, passive cooling, compact dimensions and much more. It also now comes with stylish spo-comm branding.

Our 19″ PC, the NINETEEN Q370, is also leaving our product portfolio after many years of loyal service. Psst: The successor is already in the starting blocks!

In short: This is ARM

ARM is an architecture for microprocessors based on the RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computing) principle. Because ARM processors work with a simplified instruction set architecture, they are more energy efficient compared to traditional CISC (Complex Instruction Set Computing) processors. ARM processors are designed to consume less power, making them ideal for mobile devices, embedded systems and IoT applications.

How does ARM technology work?

The functionality of the ARM architecture is based on a minimalist design approach in which only the most necessary instructions are implemented directly in the hardware. This allows the processor to work more efficiently as fewer transistors* are required to perform tasks. Fewer transistors result in lower power consumption and less waste heat, which makes the ARM architecture particularly attractive for devices that require a long battery life.

ARM processors use a pipeline architecture in which different stages of an instruction are processed simultaneously, enabling high speed with low energy consumption. In addition, these processors often have a modular design so that they can be adapted to the specific needs of a device, which further increases their flexibility and versatility.

*Transistors “serve as contactless switches and for the amplification and control of electrical signals.” – conrad.de

ARM technology in mini PCs and embedded systems

The use of ARM processors in mini PCs and embedded systems has increased significantly in recent years. The use of ARM processors enables these devices to work efficiently and save power, making them ideal for the various application areas of Mini PCs.

Embedded systems are computers that are integrated into more complex systems and perform special tasks. Typical areas of use include machine control or IoT applications. ARM processors are perfect for such applications due to their flexibility, scalability and energy efficiency. They enable the continuous further development of embedded systems to perform even more complex tasks while remaining compact and energy-efficient.

Advantages of ARM for mini and embedded PCs

  1. Energy efficiency: ARM processors are known for being particularly energy efficient, which extends battery life and reduces power consumption.
  2. Compact design: The minimalist design of the ARM architecture means that devices can be compact and lightweight without having to sacrifice performance.
  3. Scalability: ARM processors are customizable, so they can be scaled and optimized as needed.
  4. Costs: ARM-based devices are often cheaper to manufacture, which is reflected in lower prices.