While the Intel Compute Stick and Thunderbolt technologies are not completely new, they were either shown at CES for the first time or replaced with newer models. The Thunderbolt 3 is the Intel implementation of USB C which was launched at last year’s Computex. With the Thunderbolt controller the interface is fast enough to push up to 40 Gbs or as Intel says “two 4K displays”. So if you think Thunderbolt 3 is just a faster USB connection think again. Driving your monitor and your TV at the same time is not an issue for the connection, now that low cost computer maybe another question.
In terms of cables, Intel mentioned that there are some passive cables, which should come pretty cheap but limit the maximum speed to 20 Gbs. Then there is also the active type that achieves the 40 Gbs but will also come with a price as they contain some controller chips in the connector. As for the cable length, Intel said that the passive cables will go up to 6ft, while the active ones will cover up to 60m! In addition the cables will be able to provide up to 100W of power to attached devices. This will make small display installation pretty straight forward. One cable to do it all. This is not only a consumer product anymore but could also extend into the small professional installation space.
Intel has not published a roadmap for further speed improvements, bit I am sure it does exist at least internally. What electronic company does not have a roadmap for their latest and greatest technology? If they bump up the speed by a factor of two, they actually can drive a 8K display over one cable. I assume that that display will consume more than 100W though.
On the Compute Stick side Intel announced three new models. The difference is in the processors used in the respective models. There will be a low end version for $159 with Intel Atom x5 quad core processor, 32GB storage, WiFi, Bluetooth and two USB ports. Then there is the Windows 10 based $399 Intel Core M3 version with 64GB, WiFi, Bluetooth and three USB ports. The high end model comes with the Intel Core M5 processor and the same specification as the M3 version for $499. However the high end version does not come with any operating system. All Compute sticks plug into a HDMI input of a monitor or TV (a projector should work as well) and make it into a fully functional PC. Input devices can be attached via Bluetooth or USB cable. The stick is a nifty way to buy a TV and turn it into a large size monitor. – NH
Analyst Comment
The Compute Stick can also be used as a way to enable a professional large monitor as an intelligent Smart Public Display. (BR)
