Looking for a Quiet PC Desktop

[grantwood]

Hello,

I've been asked to develop a FileMaker point-of-sale solution for a client, and he wants it to run on Windows. I was initially wanting to have the client purchase a Mac mini, but oh well. Now, I know I can run Boot Camp, but I'll need a serial port for connecting a cash drawer, and I would prefer not to fiddle with serial-USB converters, so I was wondering if there exists a "PC mini", one that is similar in footprint and in noise level.

Thanks,
Sean

[turtle]

I think HP has a few small options. There isn't anything out there like the Mini though. USB-Serial isn't that bad of an option either. They work very well, especially for something that basic.

[Windowsrookie]

http://shuttle.com

[RichieB]

These (http://www.cappuccinopc.com/) folks have a bajillion small form factor PCs for sale, it seems. Don't know how their prices are though :\

[grantwood]

FWIW, I've asked the client if he might reconsider getting a Mac. I pointed him to this website:
http://www.apple.com/getamac/

I stressed the virus issue to him.

[Koodari]

I searched Google for "nano itx system windows" and the results look good.

For instance see http://www.logicsupply.com/

I'd go for a fanless nano-ITX system with a flash hard drive. Lots of memory so that it doesn't swap and waste the use cycles of the flash. Then no mechanical movement will occur inside the case so it's perfectly silent and very reliable. The ultimate would be an airproof case that would prevent dust from reaching the inside.

Hardware-wise, a fanless solid state solution is far superior to the Mac mini.

[sunrain]

Haven't used it, but this looks promising.

http://www.checkoutapp.com/