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Xi3 Corporation Announces Its ChromiumPC Modular Computer

By Joy Hou - on 23 May 2011, 9:24am

Xi3 Corporation Announces Its ChromiumPC Modular Computer

First Desktop Computer Running Google's Chrome Operating System

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah - Xi3 Corporation announced its ChromiumPC modular computer, the world's first desktop computer designed to run Google's Chrome operating system.

First disclosed by Xi3 Corp. in 2009, the ChromiumPC is a version of the company's Xi3 Modular Computer which was formally unveiled in 2010 and named by the Consumer Electronics Association as an Innovations Award Winner in the Computer Hardware category for the 2011 International CES trade show.

Modularity Explained for the ChromiumPC and Xi3 Modular Computer

Each Xi3 Modular Computer, including the ChromiumPC, is housed in an aluminum chassis that holds three small but interconnected boards (or modules), namely:

  • The Processor Module
  • The Primary I/O Module, and
  • The Secondary I/O Module

Taken in concert these three modules form the basis of what has been the classic motherboard, with the Processor Module housing the microprocessor and RAM, the Primary I/O Module typically housing the majority of the external communications ports, and the Secondary I/O Module typically housing Ethernet, video and power connections.

Unlike traditional computers, however, the Xi3 Computer Architecture makes it possible to change the so-called personality and/or functionality of an Xi3 Modular Computer, including the ChromiumPC.

This is done in eight easy steps:

Power down and disconnect the Modular Computer from all external connections
Remove the four screws from one of the honeycomb-shaped and chrome-plated sideplates
Remove the sideplate from the Modular Computer chassis
Slide the three interconnected modules out of the chassis
Remove one of the I/O Modules and replace it with a new I/O Module
Reinsert the three interconnected modules back inside the chassis
Reattach the sideplate to the chassis
Reconnect all external connections and power-up the Modular Computer

The ChromiumPC will be powered by a dual- or single-core 64-bit, x86-based processor, housed in a chassis measuring 4.0- x 3.656- x 3.656-inches and available in multiple colors, including a chrome-plated chassis. ChromiumPC pricing will be announced later this year, with additional specifications announced at that time. General availability for the ChromiumPC is expected in the second half of 2011.

General Availability of the Xi3 Modular Computer Slated for the 4th of July

More details about the General Availability of the Xi3 Modular Computer (5 Series model) will be available before the 4th of July.

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