Question 1

Does this come with windows?

Accepted Answer

No. This is a barebones system, meaning that you need to buy storage (in this case, a M.2 form factor SSD) and RAM, and you'll either need to buy Windows or download one of the versions of Linux. It also does not use an optical drive, so you'll either need to buy an external usb optical drive, or put the Windows/Linux install stuff on a USB drive.

Question 2

Doest the product come with a power adapter or does it have to be purchased separately?

Can I install Linux (preferably Ubuntu) on this unit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, running Ubuntu 14.04 server edition works perfect right out of the box. The previous NUC generation computers also runs Ubuntu perfectly. No drivers needed, but I haven't tested the IR receiver and bluetooth since it's setup for as a server.

Question 3

Do I need to order an SSD card to make this usable upon receipt?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will need an M.2 ssd (and ram sticks). Samsung has one of the best m.2 ssd currently, the XP941 series.

Question 4

Can I install Windows 7 or is it 8 only?

Accepted Answer

If you have a Windows 7 disk, by all means, yes. Win 7 is now available only as an OEM disk. If you want the full retail version of an MS OS, it will be Win 8/8.1. Windows 10 will be here in July. Microsoft is going to be offering a free upgrade to Windows 10 for Win 7 and 8 users.

Question 5

Can you use the display port and HDMI for dual monitors? Don't want to mirror them, but span the desktop.

Accepted Answer

Yes you can. I have a couple of these that have one monitor through the HDMI port, a second monitor through the mini displayport, and a third monitor through an hdmi to USB 3.0 adapter and everything works great.

Question 6

Is this Fan less unit? It has any noisy parts like fan?

Accepted Answer

No, it does have a laptop-style exhaust fan out the back. But you can use Fanless cases to make it one. I use one from Akasa - simply remove the main board from the plastic case, remove the fan, add thermal to the processor, and install in case. The fanless case is designed to touch the processor directly. 0 noise and huge temp drops.

Question 7

Is the MB RAID compatible?

Accepted Answer

The PCH supports Intel Rapid Storage Technology, providing both AHCI and integrated RAID functionality. The RAID capability provides high-performance RAID 0  and 
1 functionality on all SATA ports. Other RAID features include hot spare support, SMART alerting, and RAID 0 auto replace. Software components include an Option ROM for pre
-boot configuration and boot functionality, a Microsoft Windows compatible driver, and a user interface for configuration and management of the RAID capability of the PCH.

Note: Intel Rapid Storage Technology / SATA RAID is only supported if an M.2 SATA SSD module is used with the onboard SATA interface. Cannot get RAID with M.2 PCIe SSD module and onboard SATA interface.

Question 8

What is the thickness of this unit? It only lists the length/width.

Accepted Answer

Just under 1.25 inches, including the height of the rubber feet.

Question 9

Does this support PCIE m.2 or SATA m.2 drives?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it supports both the older SATA or the newer PCIe M.2 Key Type M SSD Card (22x42, 22x60 or the most popular 22x80 size). Highly recommend the Samsung Pro 950 or 960 Pro/EVO

Questions & Answers