What is Nano-ITX? (Explained)

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What is Nano-ITX

What is Nano-ITX?

Nano-ITX is another version of the Information Technology eXtended form factor of motherboards. Technically, like most others, this form factor is developed on the x86 industry standard architecture.

This is a later ITX version and comes with an even more compact size and configuration, making it smaller than Mini-ITX form factor.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Nano-ITX is a small form factor measuring just 12 cm by 12 cm or 4.7 inches by 4.7 inches.
  • It is built on x86 industry standard architecture but offers higher flexibility and usability.
  • These boards can be used in different small form factor devices and embedded systems used in several varied fields.
  • Equipped with a SODIMM slot, these boards usually come in four different variants and almost every necessary component, allowing it to offer a reliable performance.

Understanding Nano-ITX

Understanding Nano-ITX

Nano-ITX is a later version of the motherboard form factor released by VIA Technologies in March 2003.

This small form factor comes with reasonably good features and functionalities that support using it in small setups and low-cost devices.

These square boards are completely integrated and consume very low power, making them usable for several purposes where saving power is crucial.

In its small form, this board supports almost all of the basic features that a motherboard should have such as:

Read Also:  Balanced Technology Extended (BTX) Explained

It does not come with the legacy ports and, instead, features mini-PCI or Peripheral Component Interconnect.

These motherboards usually come with a Small Outline Dual In-line Memory Module or SO-DIMM slot and there are normally four specific variants available in the Nano-ITX motherboard product lines such as:

  • VIA EPIA N
  • VIA EPIA NR
  • EPIA NX and
  • EPIA NL.

These types of motherboards are manufactured by a wide variety of vendors and can be used with a wide array of different CPU platforms.

However, the smaller size of these boards does not offer much option for upgradability because there is not much room to install different components.

What is Nano-ITX

Nano-ITX Functions

The Nano-ITX boards being used in several devices can function as an effective solution that will boost performance, increase safety, and even take urban environments to the next level with the effective solutions offered by them.

In the field of transportation, use of it will enhance the safety as well as the efficiency of the vehicles.

With the support of advanced technology, it can also prove to be a better and more productive industrial solution providing support for automation, agility, construction equipment safety, and manufacturing productivity.

Also, it offers convenience, safety and economic vitality by functioning as a smart and innovative city solution that will change the urban environment.

What is It Used for?

The low power requirements and reasonably high performance of the Nano-ITX boards allow it to be used in small form factor computers and embedded systems.

Typically designed for using in smart and small digital entertainment devices, these boards can offer reliable performance when used in devices including, and not limited to:

  • Set-top boxes
  • Network equipment
  • DVRs
  • Car computers
  • Media centers and other small computers and thin devices.
Read Also:  ATX & Mini ITX Motherboards: 7 Differences

The power-efficient nature of these small boards also makes them usable in other embedded systems such as:

  • Media controller
  • IoT gateways
  • Medical devices
  • Outdoor environment digital signage
  • Automated test equipment and more.

What is the Size of Nano-ITX?

The Nano-ITX motherboards are square shaped and typically measure 120 mm by 120 mm or 4.72 inches by 4.72 inches.

Conclusion

Nano-ITX is designed to be used in small computers and embedded systems.

The features and rich functionality offers quite reliable performance despite its smaller size.

It can be used in several smaller applications due to its small form factor and power efficiency.

About Taylor

AvatarTaylor S. Irwin is a freelance technology writer with in-depth knowledge about computers. She has an understanding of hardware and technology gained through over 10 years of experience.

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