CES 2017: ASUS Introduces VivoPC X VR-Ready Mini PC

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If you want to play VR PC games in your living room, but don't want to build your own tiny computer, this might just be the solution you've been looking for.
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Jumping on the virtual reality bandwagon, ASUS have just unveiled a compact VR-ready Mini PC. This little desktop computer - known as the VivoPC X - is powered by a 7th Generation Intel Core processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics. Although it is not branded as such, based on its design it definitely has a bit of the Republic of Gamers DNA as well.

Since size is important for a computer that will probably reside in a living room, the VivoPC X measures in at 11" x 10" x 3", which places it on equal footing with the most recent versions of modern gaming consoles.

The soldered processor is a brand new Intel Core i5-7300HQ. This mobile Kaby Lake part has four cores/four threads, a base frequency of 2.5GHz, and Turbo capabilities up to 3.5GHz. There is 8GB of DDR4 system memory that is likely soldered to the motherboard, a 512GB M.2 SATA SSD, room for a 2.5" storage device, onboard 802.11ac Wi-Fi connectivity, and four USB 3.1 Gen 1 plus two USB 2.0 ports for gaming peripherals and controllers.

Processor aside, the heart of this little gaming computer is desktop-class GeForce GTX 1060 GPU - were unsure if it's the 3GB or 6GB version - which has two HDMI 2.0 ports and a DisplayPort. It also supports G-SYNC for compatible monitors. Based on all of these specs, the VivoPC X has been deemed Oculus Ready, which should ensure a smooth VR experience.

The ASUS VivoPC X will be available March 2017 for $799 USD.

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• Processor: Intel Core i5-7300HQ
• Chipset: Intel HM175
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060
• Memory: 8GB DDR4 2133MHz
• Storage
• Up to 2TB SATA hard drive (7200RPM)
• 512GB M.2 SATA SSD
• Connectivity
  • 4 x USB 3.1 Gen 1
  • 2 x USB 2.0
  • 1 x 3-in-1 audio jack
  • 1 x RJ45 LAN (Gigabit)
  • 2 x HDMI
  • 1 x DisplayPort
• Wireless: 802.11ac Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.1
• Operating system: Windows 10
• Power supply: 230W adapter
• Size: 2.99 x 10.23 x 11.02 inches

Full press release below:

Las Vegas, USA (3 January, 2017) — ASUS today announced VivoPC X, an elegant and compact desktop PC designed for immersive VR experiences. VivoPC X is powered by a 7th Generation Intel® Core™ processor with NVIDIA® GeForce™ GTX 10 series graphics, and is fully compatible with the latest VR headsets. Its compact 5-liter chassis can be placed anywhere in the home, and has extensive connectivity features including four USB 3.1 Gen 1 and two USB 2.0 ports for VR peripherals and controllers. VivoPC X is designed for general consumers who are looking for a VR-ready PC that meets the hardware demands of VR tasks and entertainment.

VR-ready desktop PC

Powered by a 7th Generation Intel Core i5 processor and featuring NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics, 2133MHz DDR4 memory and a 512GB M.2 SATA SSD, ASUS VivoPC X has the performance required for a wide range of VR-based entertainment. Users can take virtual tours, watch 360° videos or stream blockbuster movies in 4K UHD. VivoPC X is Oculus Ready, having passed the stringent tests set by Oculus to ensure users get the very best VR experience.

The NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1060 graphics card is one of the most advanced gaming graphics cards ever created. It is powered by the new NVIDIA Pascal™ architecture, and delivers up to three times (3x) the performance of previous-generation graphics cards to provide users with superior energy efficiency and innovative new gaming technologies for breakthrough VR experiences.

VivoPC X supports 4K UHD (3840 x 2160) displays and features NVIDIA G-SYNC™ for smooth and fast visuals. G-SYNC synchronizes the display’s refresh rate to the GeForce GTX graphics card to eliminate screen tearing, and minimize display stutter and input lag. This results in instantly-rendered visuals with greater levels of detail and more vibrant colors. In addition, gameplay is more fluid and responsive too.

VR-ready connectivity

ASUS VivoPC X is designed for hassle-free VR experiences, and meets the requirements of various VR headsets and peripherals. There are extensive connectivity options including four USB 3.1 Gen 1 and two USB 2.0 ports to cater to a VR headset, tracker, controller, keyboard and mouse. VivoPC X has two HDMI ports and a DisplayPort for connections to HDTVs or G-SYNC-enabled monitors respectively.

ASUS Sonic Suite

ASUS VivoPC X features Sonic Suite — a unique mix of hardware and software designed to deliver immersive audio to complement the VR experience. Sonic Suite includes Sonic Studio and Sonic Radar to enhance the gaming experience. Sonic Studio ensures high quality in-game audio, as well as improved streaming and audio recording for perfect voice pickup and noise reduction. Sonic Radar helps gamers detect opponents through an on-screen overlay that shows the relative position of gunshots, footsteps and other in-game sound effects.

Compact 5-liter chassis

The 5-liter chassis makes ASUS VivoPC X no bigger than a gaming console. VivoPC X has a sleek, space-saving design that blends in with the modern home, and can be placed under the desk or beside a HDTV. It has stylish design elements including raindrop-inspired side vents and an eye-catching red strip across the chassis.

Inside, VivoPC X has an efficient thermal design to ensure smooth and stable performance. An axial fan draws in air through side vents and circulates it through the system to cool internal components before expelling it out of exhaust vents. And for additional cooling, a specially designed heat pipe helps draw heat away from the processor.