Big Potential In a Small Package
With the popularity of single board computers (SBCs) initiated by the Raspberry Pi, many companies and organizations have set out to create their own SBCs, catering to different groups, from hobbyists to educators. In this article, we’ll be looking at the ultra-high-end spectrum of boards, a place where LattePanda’s Alpha 864s thrives.
This little machine is compatible with both Windows and Linux and isn’t your average Raspberry Pi competitor! The 864s contains a 2.6-GHz dual-core Intel m3-8100Y processor as well as 8 GB of LPDDR3 RAM, making it extremely capable for an SBC. However, all these great specs come with a very hefty price tag of over $400!
Without further ado, let’s see what this board is made of.
Features
The LattePanda Alpha 864s comes packed with many unique features that set it apart from some competitors:
- Compatible with two desktop OSs: The 864s is compatible with two popular desktop operating systems, Windows and Linux, which opens up a whole new world for this SBC. This allows the user to pick and choose how they want their system to feel.
- eGPU support: The 864s already has Intel HD Graphics 615, but it also provides eGPU support for those who want to make their SBC even more powerful. This furthers LattePanda’s claim that it’s the “ultimate hackable computer”.
- Fast processor: The Intel Core m3 is the perfect chip for this SBC, as it has low power consumption and delivers excellent performance. For an SBC, it’s important to minimize power intake to keep components from overheating. Especially with high-end SBCs that run more complicated programs, this can be a game-changer. This chip is the one used in 2017 MacBooks, so it’s proven to be a worthy processor.
- 4K display compatible: 4K compatibility brings so much more to an SBC, as the experience of actually using the machine feels more like a PC or laptop. Playing 4K videos and games with stunning graphics will look and feel amazing.
- Arduino compatible: The LattePanda is also compatible with Arduino to power your projects. Through the 50 embedded pin headers, it’s possible to connect your Arduino directly to the 864s. Since the 864s’ co-processor is the Arduino Leonardo, anything compatible with Arduino will work with this SBC.
The Bottom Line
This panda packs a lot in terms of features and specs, and it’s truly one of the ultimate Windows and Linux machines out there. The combination of the low power high-performance processor, the ability to run two types of OSs, and the fact that the computer is an SBC, all makes the LattePanda a great little machine for both hobbyists and pros.
With Bluetooth 4.2, Gigabit Ethernet, and 802.11ac Wi-Fi (which is up to three times faster than 802.11n Wi-Fi), any data transfers, online games, and browsing will be silky smooth.
On the hardware and software side, there’s really nothing more you’d want. The single significant con is the price: At over $400, it can be a big deterrent for many customers.
Specifications
A spec sheet won’t truly define how good a board is, but it’ll help you better grasp what it can do:
- CPU: Intel m3-8100Y
- Co-processor: Arduino Leonardo
- Graphics: Intel HD Graphics 615, 300-900 MHz
- Memory: 8 GB LPDDR3 RAM
- Storage: 64 GB eMMC
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi 802.11AC 2.4G & 5G, Dual-Band Bluetooth 4.2, Gigabyte Ethernet
- Display: 4K HDMI Output, Type-C, DP Support
- OS Support: Windows 10 Pro, Linux Ubuntu
- Dimensions: 115 x 78 x 14 mm
For more detailed information, visit LattePanda’s website.
Where to Buy
Interested in buying one for yourself? Keep in mind that there are two versions of the 864s: one that doesn’t come with Windows and one that does (with the latter being a bit more expensive). Both options are included in the retailers listed:
Lead image source: ExplainingComputers via YouTube
License: The text of "LattePanda Alpha 864: Review the Specs" by All3DP is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.
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