Acer Debuts New Chromebox CXI Series

Acer has unveiled its latest line of devices running the Google Chrome operating system (OS). The Acer Chromebox CXI series are compact devices that the company touts as "ideal for education."

The first two Acer Chromebox models are the CXI-2GKM and CXI-4GKM, with 2 GB and 4 GB of memory respectively, both of which will be available in late September. The Chromebox CXI  has a compact (6.51 x 5.12 x 1.3-inch) chassis that can stand upright or be mounted on a VESA display stand.

  Acer's CXI series will be available beginning late September.
Acer's CXI series desktops will be available late next month.		  

As with other Chrome devices, users log in to the Chromebox CXI with their Google account, and once they are signed in, they can surf the Web with the integrated browser; send and receive email with Gmail; create documents, spreadsheets and presentations with Google Drive; and install apps from the Chrome Web Store.

Data is encrypted automatically by the Chromebox's TPM 1.2 chip, and the verified boot defender is designed to protect against online threats. The Web-based Google Management Console enables IT staff to deploy apps to virtually any number of devices simultaneously, and the operating system and apps are updated automatically on a regular basis. According to Acer, the Chromebox CXI is also Citrix certified, so schools can use it "to deliver virtualized remote desktops and applications through a single platform."

Key features of the Chromebox CXI include:

  • Intel Celeron 2957U processor based on the Intel Haswell micro-architecture;
  • Up to 4 GB of DDR3 1600 MHz memory;
  • Intel high-definition graphics;
  • 16 GB solid state drive;
  • 802.11a/b/g/n Wi-Fi;
  • Bluetooth 4.0;
  • Gigabit Ethernet;
  • Four USB 3.0 ports, including two powered USB ports for charging smartphones and tablets;
  • SD card reader that supports up to a 32 GB SD card;
  • HDMI and DisplayPort video ports;
  • Combo audio jack for connecting a microphone and headset;
  • LAN port;
  • VESA mount kit;
  • USB keyboard and mouse;
  • Kensington lock to secure device to a desk or mobile cart; and
  • 65 W AC adapter.

The Acer Chromebox CXI will be available late next month in the United States and Canada. Further information can be found on Acer's site.

About the Author

Leila Meyer is a technology writer based in British Columbia. She can be reached at [email protected].

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