Aplug computer is asmall-form-factor computer whose chassis contains theAC power plug, and thus plugs directly into the wall. Alternatively, the computer may resemble anAC adapter or a similarly small device. Plug computers are often configured for use in thehome or office as compact computer.
Plug computers consist of a high-performance, low-powersystem-on-a-chip processor, with severalI/O hardwareports (USB ports,Ethernet connectors, etc.). Most versions do not have provisions for connecting adisplay and are best suited to runningmedia servers, back-up services, orfile sharing andremote access functions; thus acting as a bridge between in-homeprotocols (such asDigital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) andServer Message Block (SMB)) andcloud-based services. There are, however, plug computer offerings that have analogVGA monitor and/orHDMI connectors, which, along with multiple USB ports, permit the use of a display, keyboard, and mouse, thus making them full-fledged, low-power alternatives todesktop andlaptop computers. They typically run any of a number ofLinux distributions.
Plug computers typically consume little power and are inexpensive.
On January 6, 2009CTERA Networks launched a device calledCloudPlug that providesonline backup at local disk speeds and overlays a file sharing service.[1] The device also transforms any externalUSB hard drive into anetwork-attached storage device.[2][3]
On January 7, 2009, Cloud Engines unveiled thePogoplug network access server.[4][5][6][7]
On January 8, 2009, Axentra announced availability of theirHipServ platform.[8]
On August 19, 2009, CodeLathe announced availability of theirTonidoPlug network access server.[11]
On November 13, 2009 QuadAxis launched its plug computing device product line and development platform, featuring theQuadPlug andQuadPC and running QuadMix, a modified Linux.[12]
On January 5, 2010, Iomega announced theiriConnect network access server.[13]
On January 7, 2010 Pbxnsip launched its plug computing device thesipJack running pbxnsip: an IP Communications platform.[14]
Media related toPlug computers at Wikimedia Commons
