Essential Intel NUC Accessories

The tiny gadget replaces the bulky CPU of a desktop computer. An Intel Next Unit of Computing (NUC) is in a barebones format, as the name suggests is a small box-shaped computer that has the ability to keep the entire system crammed into- which won't be more than a few inches. And as technology has advanced, people have started to move away from desktop computers that are often large and cumbersome devices.

The Intel NUC Mini PCs can fit into small spaces, these are sold as a barebones kit that needs to be assembled and customized according to your needs and preferences with Intel NUC products to get it working and set up a reasonable laptop or desktop that gives a commendable performance. Since you need to supply yourself with some accessories to make your mini Intel NUC in working condition.

However, the question here is what accessories will you need? Needless to say, it doesn't come with a keyboard, mouse, or a screen just like our standard desktops. It is small than you would be able to cobble together with a full stack of off-the-shelf accessories. So let's dive into what you need to get for the little box to make it a working PC.

The Essential Supplies: Intel NUC Products You Need

When you leverage an Intel NUC, you will realize that this small technology only comes equipped with a motherboard, integrated CPU, and power supply. With this also allows the laptop to shrink in size all the while increasing performance.

The remaining components, need to be purchased separately and the specifications are completely dependent on you. When it comes to the hardware, you can select any that fits your Intel NUC. And for the lid, typically it comes with M.2 slots and often accommodates a SATA storage device. If you are on the lookout to add more slots, there are many brands that sell replaceable chassis lids.

If you are new to the world of NUC, you would not probably know that the NUC series was the first to offer customizable, modular, and upgradable small computers. That is, depending on your budget you can go all out or also look for affordable alternatives. That being said, let's look into the accessories you need to have:

1. First, comes the storage. You will either have the ability to install 2.5 SATA and M.2 solid-state drive or just the latter depending on the NUC model. For instance, the high-end Skull-Crayon takes the M.2 SSDs while the others take 2.5 SATA. If your priority is high performance then M.2 is the wisest option you will choose. The 2.5-inch slot though can hold both, however, we recommend going for SSD because it's way faster than HDD.
2. A question of memory? Here comes the RAM. Intel NUC's come with two slots that can support up to 32GB of RAM. Depending on the system support, you can decide on the type of RAM you want to buy. In sum, your best bet is to buy a matching pair that offers the desired RAM. For instance, your requirement is for 8GB RAM, you need to get 4GB each, If you end up mixing and matching the size and type, your NUC might not boot up.
3. How will you connect your monitor? What about the cables or connectors? If you are buying a new Intel NUC, you should obviously be getting the required cables with it. For instance, Ethernet cable to connect to the Wi-Fi. If your NUC has a built-in Wi-Fi antenna you won't need to have it. Plus, you will need an HDMI cable to connect to your computer. You may need replaceable lids in different specifications.

This small PC will be able to handle your day-to-day computing tasks, however, the catch here is to continually upgrade your system with the right parts to ensure that your machine runs well.