The first to come to market is the Core i5-based NUC5i5RYK that packs a Core i5 5250U processor clocked at 1.6GHz, capable reaching 2.7GHz with Turbo. The big news is that this CPU has a 15W TDP, 3MB cache dual-core Broadwell CPU that brings a better performance to the small unit of computing. We have been playing with Haswell Core i5 version with Windows 10 installed and the NUC is quiet and runs all the usual sofrware really fast.
The Core i5 5250U, Broadwell 14nm CPU, maxes out at 15W and a refreshing change is the yellow USB connector that behaves like the power charger for your mobile phone or tablet. Yes, it works even if the machine is turned off, we asked. There are two more distinguishing features from the previous generation, like removable covers and a new smaller power adapter.
The Core i5 based NUC5i5RYK replaces its Core i5 Haswell predecessor at the same price range, with Haswell units phasing out. Intel also told us that it is working on Core i7 version that should be ready for the end of the Q1 2015. There is also a taller NUC5i5RYH version that is taller, but it can host a 2.5 inch drive.
The Broadwell generation of NUC products also comes with Integrated AC Wireless and Bluetooth 4.0, an M.2 slot that can support 42, 60 and even 80mm SSDs. The machine has total of four USB 3.0 ports, 3.5mm audio jack, consumer infrared, mini DisplayPort 1.2, LAN connector and mini HDMI 1.4.
The Broadwell Core i5 NUC NUC5i5RYK measures 4.53" x 4.37" x 1.36" or 115mm x 111mm x 34.5mm and is tiny.
Intel partners can now put boards for NFC on top of the NUC, and this might be a good idea if you are running a business and want to use NUC for payments. Hauppauge came with a prototype of NUC with TV Tuner on top of it. This product is still in early development page but it shows that you should be able to differentiate various NUC products rather easy.
Intel has been busy with the next generation architecture codenamed Skylake and that will make to NUC too. We hope to see USB 3.1 on the future units but there will keep coming as Intel has been selling hundreds of thousands to business and home entertainment market for media PC.
