Anall-in-one computer (also called anAIO orall-in-one PC) is a type ofpersonal computer that integrates the computer's main components, such as theCPU,monitor, andspeakers, into a single unit. It occupies a smaller footprint than adesktop computer with atower form factor, and also requires fewer external cables.[1][2][3]
Some advantages of the all-in-one computer compared to other form factors include being easier to set up, a reduced physical footprint, ease of transportation, and the option to interface with the computer viatouchscreen (a now-common fixture on all-in-ones).[4][5] Some disadvantages include generally being more expensive than desktop computers, a lack of customizability—most of the internal hardware such as theRAM and theSSD, especially in post-late-2010s machines, issoldered onto the system board—a lack of upgrade paths for theCPU, RAM, andtechnology of the display, and the difficulty of repair.[6][7][8] The slim design also allows for minimal airflow, which can make them prone to overheating.[9] Having more powerful processors and graphic cards causes overheating which leads to inefficiencies.[10]
This form factor was popular during the early 1980s for personal computers intended for professional use such as theCommodore PET,[11] theOsborne 1,[12] theTRS-80 Model II,[13] and theDatapoint 2200.[11] Many manufacturers ofhome computers likeCommodore andAtari included the computer'smotherboard into the same enclosure as the keyboard; these systems were most often connected to atelevision set for display.[14] Apple has manufactured several popular examples of all-in-one computers, such as thecompact Macintoshes of the mid-1980s and early 1990s, theMacintosh LC 500 series in the mid-1990s, theeMac from 2002 to 2006, and theiMac series since 1998 to the present.
Since the early 2000s, some all-in-one desktops, such as theiMac G4, have usedlaptop components in order to reduce the size of the system case.[15] By the mid 2000s, many all-in-one designs have usedflat-panel displays (chieflyLCDs), and later models have incorporated touchscreen displays, allowing them to be used similarly to a mobiletablet.[1]
Like most laptops, some all-in-one desktop computers are characterized by an inability to customize or upgrade internal components, as the systems' cases do not provide convenient access to upgradable components, and faults in certain aspects of the hardware may require the entire computer to be replaced, regardless of the health of its remaining components.[16] There have been exceptions to this; the monitor portion ofHP's Z1 workstation can be angled flat, and opened like avehicle hood for access to internal hardware.[17]
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