Pico-ITX is a compact form factor for motherboards that packs a punch despite its diminutive size. Introduced by VIA Technologies in 2007, this 10 cm x 7.2 cm marvel has revolutionized the world of small form factor computing.
The Pico-ITX Advantage
Despite its small footprint, Pico-ITX boards offer impressive capabilities:
- Integrated processor, memory, and cache
- Multiple I/O and video interfaces
- Support for various operating systems
- Low power consumption
- High reliability
Evolution of Pico-ITX
EPIA PX10000G: The original model featuring:
EPIA P700: An improved version with:
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Integrated power adapter
- Optional VGA and Ethernet daughter card
Pico-ITXe: Released in 2008 with:
- Upgraded VX800 chipset
- Enhanced VIA Chrome9 HC3 GPU
- SUMIT (Stackable Unified Module Interconnect Technology) support
VAB and EPIA Series
VIA offers two main series of Pico-ITX boards:
VAB Series: Focused on I/O connectivity, power efficiency, and cost-effectiveness.
- Models include VAB 1000, VAB 820, and VAB 600
- Features ARM-based processors and various connectivity options
EPIA Series: Emphasizes power efficiency and thermal management.
- EPIA-P910 model offers 1.2 GHz Eden X4 CPU and VX11H chipset
- Supports multiple display outputs and USB 3.0
Applications of Pico-ITX
The versatility of Pico-ITX makes it suitable for numerous applications:
- Car computers
- Small home servers
- Custom media centers
- Digital signage
- Industrial automation
- Medical devices
- Home theater PCs (HTPCs)
- IoT and embedded systems
Size Comparison
Pico-ITX is incredibly compact:
The Future of Small Form Factor Computing
Pico-ITX embodies VIA's "Small is Beautiful" philosophy, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in compact computing. As technology advances, we can expect even more powerful and efficient Pico-ITX designs, further expanding their applications in various industries.
From powering tiny desktops to driving complex industrial systems, Pico-ITX proves that great things truly come in small packages.