ASRock Unveils Compact N100M and N100DC-ITX Motherboards — Latest Update
ASRock, the trailblazing global motherboard manufacturer, has set the stage ablaze with the much-anticipated launch of its N100M and N100DC-ITX motherboards. These revolutionary additions, meticulously crafted for small-form-factor (SFF) systems, are about to rewrite the rules of the game, powered by Intel’s mind-boggling Alder Lake-N processors, with a particular focus on the awe-inspiring N100.
Prepare to be captivated by the birth of Alder Lake-N, born from the depths of the Intel 7 node, once known only as the enigmatic 10nm SuperFin process. This marvel of technology, shedding its P-cores for a sleeker design, was initially aimed at entry-level mobile devices but has swiftly become the obsession of embedded applications. With a Thermal Design Power (TDP) ranging from 6W to 12W, these power-conserving processors are a force to be reckoned with. And ASRock’s N100M and N100DC-ITX harness the relentless power of the quad-core N100, armed with four lightning-fast E-cores, clocking up to a peak speed of 3.4GHz and backed by a 6MB L3 cache.
The N100M, a symbol of micro ATX motherboard excellence, stands tall, while the N100DC-ITX emerges as a mini-ITX marvel, both epitomizing the fusion of power and compactness. Embracing the modest needs of the 6W N100 chip, ASRock has woven its magic, implementing a passive heatsink to tame the inferno within, resulting in an unparalleled silent sanctuary. No more intrusive fans disrupting your computing experience. Instead, immerse yourself in the whisper-quiet elegance of the N100M and N100DC-ITX. Power surges through the veins of the N100M via a conventional 24-pin connector, while the N100DC-ITX flaunts its ingenuity with a DC jack compatible with 19V power adapters.
Memory, the lifeblood of computing, finds its home in these remarkable micro ATX motherboards. ASRock’s cunning choice of DDR4 memory support ensures that cost remains in check, as the world waits in anticipation for the arrival of DDR5. The N100 officially supports up to 16GB, but ASRock, never satisfied with mediocrity, pushes the boundaries, guaranteeing compatibility of up to 32GB on both the N100M and N100DC-ITX.
Embark on a visual odyssey like no other with the Intel UHD Graphics Xe engine, a revelation within the N100. Witness the staggering might of 24 Execution Units (EUs) in perfect harmony, reaching speeds of up to a mind-blowing 750 MHz. While the integrated GPU (iGPU) may not cater to gaming enthusiasts, its true prowess lies in encoding and decoding tasks. Prepare to be astounded as the N100 seamlessly handles 10-bit HEVC and VP9 encoding and decoding, and even AV1 decoding. The N100M delivers an array of connectivity options, including an HDMI 2.1 port, DisplayPort 1.4 output, and a D-sub port. Meanwhile, the N100DC-ITX offers an alternate configuration, with the omission of DisplayPort 1.4 output.
Expand your horizons with the singular PCIe 3.0 x16 expansion slot present in each best micro ATX motherboard, though electrically confined to x2. But ASRock doesn’t stop there. The N100M pushes the boundaries even further, offering an extra PCIe 3.0 x1 expansion slot, beckoning you to explore limitless possibilities. Built-in wireless connectivity may be absent, but fear not, for ASRock has graciously provided an M.2 socket (Key E) to accommodate a separate M.2 2230 wireless module.
Similarities abound in the symphony of innovation that ASRock has composed. Discover the power of an M.2 slot running at PCIe 3.0 x2, graciously accepting drives up to 80mm in length. Relish the convenience of two SATA III connectors, ensuring your storage needs are met with grace. A single Gigabit Ethernet port, powered by the esteemed Realtek 8111H controller, guarantees swift and stable connections. Immerse yourself in the auditory bliss of a 7.1-channel audio experience, delivered with precision by the Realtek ALC897 audio codec.
Prepare to be dazzled by the N100M’s rear panel, a testament to connectivity. Behold the marvels of a USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports, four USB 2.0 ports, and the timeless PS/2 combo port, catering to those who cling to tradition. The N100DC-ITX takes a different path, replacing the USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port with a resolute serial port, harkening back to a bygone era.
ASRock guards its secrets closely, leaving us in suspense regarding the pricing and availability of these tantalizing computer motherboards. But as whispers of their potential for energy-efficient, small-form-factor systems circulate, the tech community’s fervor reaches unprecedented heights. Brace yourself for the revolution, for ASRock’s N100M and N100DC-ITX are poised to shatter expectations and redefine the very essence of compact computing.
