Glossary A–ZLetter M
Mini PC
A mini PC is a full computer in a very small case, operated as a media player behind or next to a display.
It usually runs Windows or Linux with player software. It offers more computing power and more connections than a stick player or a simple box.
In screen networks, the mini PC is used where a lot of processing is needed: complex web content, several videos at once, multiple outputs, specialised applications or Office files. It can be fixed to the back of the display with a bracket. Via the network and remote maintenance, it can be managed like an ordinary office computer.
Operators should plan for the operating effort: operating system updates, virus protection, licences and restarts need attention, otherwise they interrupt playback. Devices with fans attract dust and can become noisy; fanless models are often more robust for continuous operation. A BIOS setting that restarts the device by itself after a power cut is important.