Mini PC packs Skylake, 4K & high-end VGA cards in the UK

Even in its small XPC cube form factor, the SZ170R8 presents users with a flexible mini PC able to be purpose-built for various applications. Its Intel sixth-generation Skylake processor and integrated video adapter supports as many as three displays natively, with a PCI-Ex16 slot to add full-sized graphics cards at lengths up to 267mm. Its Intel Z170 chipset supports CPU overclocking and up to DDR4-2133 RAM at a maximum capacity of 64GB. An 80 Plus Silver Certified Power Supply delivers an improved 500W in order to power enthusiast video cards and multiple HDDs.

The SZ170R8 includes a HDD bracket which houses up to four 3.5” HDDs and harnesses Intel Rapid Storage Technology with RAID 0, 1, 5, and 10 support for advanced storage applications. An additional PCI-Ex4 slot can be fitted with anything from sound cards to a RAID card for the ample amount of possible disk drives. Plus, it features an M.2 2280 Type M slot for adding a high-speed SSD as well as a half-size Mini PCIe for wireless adapters and more. Users can even choose to upgrade the Shuttle mainboard with a different Mini-ITX motherboard without needing to modify the chassis.

With the specifications and performance of a workstation desktop PC packed into a small form factor, some might be wary of cooling performance. Thankfully, the SZ170R8 employs Shuttle's proprietary I.C.E.2 heat pipe technology for outstanding cooling efficiency and low-noise footprint. The HDD bracket includes an independent cooler to maintain stable, long-term operation.

The SZ170R8 includes eight USB 3.0, two DisplayPort, one HDMI, one eSata, one Intel Gigabit LAN, and 7.1 channel HD Audio ports.