The demise of the desktop computer industry can be attributed to several factors including the ubiquity of laptops, mobile technology and rise of cloud computing. Traditional desktops can be heavy, expensive and largely immutable, especially when compared to the highly modifiable models of the Xi3 Corporation. Xi3 says it aims to design universal, energy-efficient and cost-effective modular computers.
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"This concept of built-in obsolescence is a real problem," David Politis, Xi3's chief marketing officer, said in the project's Kickstarter video. "It fills our landfills, it uses more natural resources and at the end of the day, it's more expensive."
The Xi3 team decided it was time to create a "more powerful computer." The initial X5A model is powered by a Dual-Core 64-bit, x84-based processor running at 1.85GHz with 2GB of RAM -- and packed into a grapefruit-sized cube. The fully functional PC is encased in less than 5% of raw materials used to make a traditional desktop computer. The first Xi3 Modular Computer was unveiled at the 2011 International CES Trade Show.
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Xi3 is now seeking support on Kickstarter to launch its new entry-level model (X3A) and the advanced high-performance model (X7A) with a Quad-Core 64-bit, x86-based processor, recommended for gamers and power users. Consumers can currently buy a fully customizable Xi3 Modular Computer with their choice of finish, modules, internal/external drives, mounting options and operating system.
The new Xi3 modular computers are expected to ship to Kickstarter supporters in 2013. The three models are priced between $500 and $1,000. These green machines are said to last six to ten years. As of Saturday, the company has raised nearly $12,000 of its initial $250,000 goal, with 28 days to go on the crowdfunding platform.
Are you interested in the super compact and highly modifiable Xi3 Modular Computer models? Tell us in the comments.
This story originally published on Mashable here.
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