MSI Cubi PCs are little doers with full-sized performance

Not all PC buyers need big, gaming RGB beasts. Business and industrial applications are often better served by functional PCs that take-up little (expensive) desk space; can be completely hidden behind screens; that are powerful but also power efficient; and which come with green credentials that your own organisation can inherit. If you’re a user or an IT manager that this resonates with, then you will want to check out the latest and greatest Cubi NUC mini PCs from MSI.

Originally developed by Intel, tiny NUC (Next Unit of Computing) PCs transformed the world of business computing by allowing small computers to be used in new and innovative ways. They could be discreetly (and securely) VESA-mounted on to the back of monitors which meant that expensive office desk space was freed up, cable clutter was banished and customer-facing businesses (like shops, hotels and restaurants) could use them on counter tops without defiling their stylish spaces. Being mounted on the rear of displays also transformed screens into relatively inexpensive smart panels and this has become a foundation of modern digital signage.

They were often cheap, but could be underpowered for some applications and this could be exacerbated by the thermal issues inherent in older silicon, and heat-build up derived from the lack of ventilation in the small chassis. But, this has now changed.

MSI’s new Cubi NUC PCs utilise 14^th-Gen Intel processors which provide all the power you need while minimising heat-related stability problems. They are available in multiple SKUs and you can even build your own barebones system from just $529. The best news is that, if you buy one (or more) before the end of 2024, MSI will throw in a $50 gift card and a free 1TB SSD. Here’s what you need to know…

Introducing the new MSI Cubi NUC 1M

The latest versions of the Cubi NUC 1M are available with 14^th-Gen Intel Core 3, 5 and 7 processors, and that enables you to tailor performance to your application or budget. Each has the following specs: Windows 11 Home or Pro; a 0.826-litre, VESA-mountable chassis; two, DDR5 SODIMM slots; Two Thunderbolt 4 ports (one supports Power Delivery-in, up to 100W); dual 2.5GbE LAN ports; dTPM support for hardware-based encryption; four USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports; a microSD card reader; two HDMI ports which, along with the Thunderbolt ports, provide support for up-to four displays; a 3.5mm audio jack; a Kensington lock socket for security; Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 wireless connectivity; and an extendible power button so you don’t have to reach into awkward places. Meanwhile, MSI’s AI Engine application optimises user experience without manual configuration.

The new Cubi NUCs also have a modular design which enables the simple upgrading of components using the removable chassis cover. As such, you can easily access the two, dual-channel DDR5 SODIMM slots; two M.2 SSD slots (size 2280 and 2242); or replace the latter with a 2.5-inch hard drive.

All have passed rigorous 24/7, MIL-STD-1916 reliability tests and rated at an impressive 246,000 hours MTBF (Mean Time Between Failure) to provide peace of mind for all stakeholders. Tests include electrical-based PCBA checks; vibration and drop tests; temperature and humidity tests; I/O port-life tests; and power tests among others.

Saving power and boosting your green credentials

Whether you’re using one NUC or managing a fleet of them, power supply and consumption will be a consideration for most purchasers and MSI has you covered. MSI’s Power Link technology allows Cubi NUCs to be conveniently powered by a compatible display, so you don’t need to fret about additional power sockets.

MSI’s Power Meter application facilitates one-click power saving, carbon emission calculation and electricity cost estimation.

Meanwhile, green credentials include the chassis being created by using 42.9 percent post-consumer recycled plastic; EPEAT Silver and Energy Star certifications; and packaging made from FSC-Certified, recycled (and completely recyclable) wood pulp. MSI’s factory has also embraced solar power to reduce its TCO2e by over 60 percent since 2021 and now 92 per cent of its energy is sourced from wind farms. These are all credentials that your own organisation can cite in its own ecological statements.

Get your Cubi NUC now for a big bonus

MSI’s Cubi NUCs are available right now, with the latest 1M models starting at around $500 and the earlier 12M models available from just $279. Whatever your requirements, there’s a model to suit you. Buy now and get a free $50 gift card and 1TB SSD!