Metis Compute Board: Six times the NPU AI performance of the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K for $592
The Metis Computer Board packs a punch in terms of AI performance (Image source: Axelera)
The Metis Compute Board is a fast mainboard that's supposed to stand out with its high AI performance. It should be suitable for various applications, but the manufacturer is mostly targeting professional customers.
The Metis Compute Board is a mainboard with an integrated SoC, the RK3588 to be more exact. This is a pretty well-known SoC in the SBC space and should work well with Linux-based setups. The chipset is paired with 16GB LPDDR4x RAM, while the Metis AIPU has its own memory.
According to the manufacturer, the NPU offers up to 214 TOPS, which is significantly faster than NPUs integrated into modern Intel processors like the Core Ultra 9 285K. This makes the Metis Compute Board particularly well-suited for AI-powered workloads, such as image recognition. For example, it could be used to analyze surveillance footage.
The board measures 6.7 x 6.7 inches, conforms to the Mini-ITX standard and operates on 12 volts. It also has a bunch of ports including HDMI 2.0 and DisplayPort, which can be used for 4K displays, but unfortunately not at 60Hz. Two Gigabit Ethernet ports are available as well, as are two M.2 slots, one of which could be used for a WiFi module. The remaining connectivity options include USB 3.1 Gen 1, USB Type-C and GPIO for sensors and actuators. The Metis Compute Board can now be preordered for $592, shipping is expected to start this June.
The board has two SATA connectors (Image source: Axelera)
An SoC and NPU are onboard (Image source: Axelera)
Editor of the original article:Silvio Werner - Senior Tech Writer - 14682 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2017
I have been active as a journalist for over 10 years, most of it in the field of technology. I worked for Tom’s Hardware and ComputerBase, among others, and have been working for Notebookcheck since 2017. My current focus is particularly on mini PCs and single-board computers such as the Raspberry Pi – so in other words, compact systems with a lot of potential. In addition, I have a soft spot for all kinds of wearables, especially smartwatches. My main profession is as a laboratory engineer, which is why neither scientific contexts nor the interpretation of complex measurements are foreign to me.
Translator:Enrico Frahn - Managing Editor Accessory Reviews, Tech Writer - 5000 articles published on Notebookcheck since 2021
My fascination for technology goes back a long way to the Pentium II era. Modding, overclocking and treasuring computer hardware has since become an integral part of my life. As a student, I further developed a keen interest in mobile technologies that can make the stressful college life so much easier. After I fell in love with the creation of digital content while working in a marketing position, I now scour the web to bring you the most exciting topics in the world of tech. Outside the office, I’m particularly passionate about motorsports and mountain biking.
