Database Users

Lack of Ports

I may be stuck with my a500 for a while unless someone starts releasing accessories. when I travel my usual set up is as follows. I hook my hdmi cable from the dedicated port on my tablet to the hdmi on the TV. then hook up my Belkin multi usb port to the dedicated full sized usb port on my tablet. then I plug my external hard drive to to one port and my mouse and keyboard into the other. now I can sit back in bed and control my tablet from the bed, surf the net play games and watch movies. I have searched but have not found any adapters that allow usb and hdmi at the same time. I really want the note but use this combination when on the road. any suggestions?
TIA

flexte said:
I have searched but have not found any adapters that allow usb and hdmi at the same time.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Why not use this (other than the price of course)?
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http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-EAD-T...id=1349641390&sr=8-1&keywords=allshare+dongle

BarryH_GEG said:
Why not use this (other than the price of course)?
http://www.amazon.com/Samsung-EAD-T...id=1349641390&sr=8-1&keywords=allshare+dongle
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank that should solve the Hdmi out issue. now i guess i just need a usb adapter to connect my hard drive, keyboard and mouse. I can use my belking usb 7 port to add more usb connections. I just hope that the note can handle all of those connections without issues. anyone tried hooking up multiple usb ports? I guess this solution adds another 150 tot eh price of my device. the biggest thing i will miss is easy file sharing with a usb stick. When on business trips or even vacation I can get large files by just plugin in my usb stick. seems technology is making things harder for me.

flexte said:
Thank that should solve the Hdmi out issue. now i guess i just need a usb adapter to connect my hard drive, keyboard and mouse. I can use my belking usb 7 port to add more usb connections. I just hope that the note can handle all of those connections without issues. anyone tried hooking up multiple usb ports? I guess this solution adds another 150 tot eh price of my device. the biggest thing i will miss is easy file sharing with a usb stick. When on business trips or even vacation I can get large files by just plugin in my usb stick. seems technology is making things harder for me.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as i know, external harddrives need external power to work with the galaxy note, someone correct me if im wrong, think youl find some info here about it, if you've not seen it already
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1899348

banderos101 said:
As far as i know, external harddrives need external power to work with the galaxy note, someone correct me if im wrong, think youl find some info here about it, if you've not seen it already
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1899348
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
yes they do and the one I hook up to my a500 works just fine. All of my external drives are powered. I just wanted to make sure there were no restrictions with the note.

flexte said:
keyboard
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
$29.99 after $40 off.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...ords&cm_mmc=KNC-GoogleAdwords-_-pla-_-NA-_-NA
mouse
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A little pricey ($49.99) but an excellent BT mouse. I have this one.
http://www.jr.com/sony/pe/SON_VGPBMS15U_SL_B/

BarryH_GEG said:
$29.99 after $40 off.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...ords&cm_mmc=KNC-GoogleAdwords-_-pla-_-NA-_-NA
A little pricey ($49.99) but an excellent BT mouse. I have this one.
http://www.jr.com/sony/pe/SON_VGPBMS15U_SL_B/
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
thank you! to everyone that posted these suggestions. Looks like i will have to spend about another $200 to get the note setup like my A500 but it may bee worth the investment. off to best buy to check it out in the AM.

BarryH_GEG said:
$29.99 after $40 off.
http://www.newegg.com/Product/Produ...ords&cm_mmc=KNC-GoogleAdwords-_-pla-_-NA-_-NA
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can also get that same keyboard on Amazon for $25.25 with free shipping.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004L9MBH6/ref=s9_simh_gw_p147_d0_i1?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=center-2&pf_rd_r=0287VD1TN9BETQNMF2PY&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=1389517282&pf_rd_i=507846

flexte said:
yes they do and the one I hook up to my a500 works just fine. All of my external drives are powered. I just wanted to make sure there were no restrictions with the note.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So, you're able to power your external harddrive with the tabs battery and dont have to, like with my adapter, have to connect your harddrive to the mains power? Is that assumption right?
If so, and if its not a bother can you provide info on the adapter you use please mate, im sure others like me would appreciate it i.e. model or product web link

banderos101 said:
So, you're able to power your external harddrive with the tabs battery and dont have to, like with my adapter, have to connect your harddrive to the mains power? Is that assumption right?
If so, and if its not a bother can you provide info on the adapter you use please mate, im sure others like me would appreciate it i.e. model or product web link
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
no its a misunderstanding. Of course the external hard drive has to be hooked up to wall power. I even had a problem hooking my usb stick directly to my tv's usb without choppy video. When ever and where ever i travel there are always enough outlets to plug in my hard drive and tablet. The only thing that I am waiting on is a good solution to hook up my tablet to the tv's hdmi while having an exteranl hard drive mouse and keyboard attached. the above suggestions may work. After reading the reviews on the wifi hdmi adapter it seems video playback may be a concern. most of the business men i know use a usb stick to take files off their work pc if they need to bring them home or take them on a business or vacation trip. cloud storage isn't always viable because sometimes the files are large and internet connection is not always available and sometimes way to slow. having the full sized USB makes the task a whole lot easier. carrying info in a micro usb card for file transport doesn't work well because it is too easily misplaced. Anyway I am just weighing the positives and negatives and the solutions have been very helpful.

flexte said:
no its a misunderstanding. Of course the external hard drive has to be hooked up to wall power. I even had a problem hooking my usb stick directly to my tv's usb without choppy video. When ever and where ever i travel there are always enough outlets to plug in my hard drive and tablet. The only thing that I am waiting on is a good solution to hook up my tablet to the tv's hdmi while having an exteranl hard drive mouse and keyboard attached. the above suggestions may work. After reading the reviews on the wifi hdmi adapter it seems video playback may be a concern. most of the business men i know use a usb stick to take files off their work pc if they need to bring them home or take them on a business or vacation trip. cloud storage isn't always viable because sometimes the files are large and internet connection is not always available and sometimes way to slow. having the full sized USB makes the task a whole lot easier. carrying info in a micro usb card for file transport doesn't work well because it is too easily misplaced. Anyway I am just weighing the positives and negatives and the solutions have been very helpful.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Cheers, was getting my hopes up there
As far as connecting to the tv wirelessly, if the tv in the the hotel you frequent are smart tv (wifi) capable, then you can stream your media over wifi using dlna apps on the market like imediashare, theres a few others, but if you want to mirror everything thats on your tab wirelessly, then it looks like the screencast hub is your solution assuming your ok with the price,.
Maybe a usb to hdmi adapter might work in your situation assuming you have enough usb ports for all you devices, and thats assuming a usb to hdmi adapter would even work on our tab

Just use one of the portable wireless HDDs. No more problems iwth connecting it to the Note or any other device as long as it has WiFi.

Szadzik said:
Just use one of the portable wireless HDDs. No more problems iwth connecting it to the Note or any other device as long as it has WiFi.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
looks like wireless is going to be my only real choice. I wanted to stick with wired because there would be no connectivity issues just plug and play. So wifi from my hdd to my tablet and then wifi from my tablet to my tv. hope that works. and Bluetooth for my mouse and keyboard.

flexte said:
looks like wireless is going to be my only real choice. I wanted to stick with wired because there would be no connectivity issues just plug and play. So wifi from my hdd to my tablet and then wifi from my tablet to my tv. hope that works. and Bluetooth for my mouse and keyboard.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
In your situation, getting a wifi harddrive with a usb connection, for usb sticks, would solve the usb stick problem, and would be future proof for other devices with wifi, but no usb port, although, im just assuming here, that there is such a thing as a wifi hd with a usb port,. If money is no concern and indeed if there is such a thing as a wifiHD with usb port i mean theres gotta be...... right?), might be worth it, gd luck

I also own a a500 and recently bought note 10.1.
I must tell you the difference in performance and screen colors and contrast is pretty big from one to another.
Even though I must say all those add ons to get what we had from default on a500 is kind of dissappointing.
For hdmi you have two ways...the dongle, which is WiFi based....that is if you go to a cabin for a weekend with no WiFi outside your city....it won't work. Or you have the adapter which unfortunately works only if it is also connected to to AC which in my opinion also limits the portable function or idea of a tablet...I mean it is like doing the same connections you can do with your notebook....
So tough choice there, maybe consider as I....having both.
Same thing here with usb otg adapter.
Acer did sacrifice thickness over having standard usb and mini hdmi ports but it really did the trick.
Kind of mad here with Sammy as you may say....good luck and if you find new ways of having less accessories please let me know!!!
Enviado desde mi GT-N8013 usando XDA Premium HD app

" For hdmi you have two ways...the dongle, which is WiFi based....that is if you go to a cabin for a weekend with no WiFi outside your city....it won't work."
Is'nt the screencast dongle a direct to tv connection?

banderos101 said:
In your situation, getting a wifi harddrive with a usb connection, for usb sticks, would solve the usb stick problem, and would be future proof for other devices with wifi, but no usb port, although, im just assuming here, that there is such a thing as a wifi hd with a usb port,. If money is no concern and indeed if there is such a thing as a wifiHD with usb port i mean theres gotta be...... right?), might be worth it, gd luck
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No USB-in on WiFi HDD, just a normal HDD, no idea what you are talking about.

Szadzik said:
No USB-in on WiFi HDD, just a normal HDD, no idea what you are talking about.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Was thinking out loud mate
If i were gonna get a wifi hdd, id check for ones with additional benefits, i.e. a usb port (host), so if i have anything on a usb stick, i can connect that to the wifi hdd aand transmit it over wifi via wifi hdd........thing is, i have no idea if there is a wifi hdd product out there that has a host usb port, my brief search showed nothing, would be a nice feature though

flexte said:
yes they do and the one I hook up to my a500 works just fine. All of my external drives are powered. I just wanted to make sure there were no restrictions with the note.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've had *terrible* luck trying to connect drives to the Note 10.1... this is probably the single 'failure' the Note has in general.
There are two different problems at work. First, the USB port only sources 100ma. That makes it fine for most keyboards, mice and *some* USB memory sticks (but not all), but forget anything that needs more power. Worse, even devices that ARE self-powered will draw more than 100ma just to drive their USB connection and that trips the Note's 'overcurrent' warning causing it to shut down the USB port.
Weirdly, even if you go through a powered USB hub, you still get this behaviour... that doesn't even make sense.
The bizarre thing is - if you connect in just the right sequence with just the right timing - you sometimes *can* get it to work, so it's not that the Note isn't capable of handling the USB load - Samsung's software is purposefully tripping on devices by enforcing the USB current limit too tightly (well or I have a defective Note or USB dongle - but I've tried several and they all seem to work this way).
The other problem is that there doesn't seem to be integrated support for NTFS (or exFAT, from what I can see), so you're stuck with FAT32. I've switched all my USB keys over to NTFS as I work with large files regularly. It also doesn't seem to support things like USB ethernet dongles.
Ironically, this is one place where the Asus Prime really shines - you can hang almost anything on the USB port and it'll work fine and the dock, because it has a big battery built in, seems to handle heftier devices quite well. It even supports NTFS out of the box.
---------- Post added at 01:32 PM ---------- Previous post was at 01:26 PM ----------
mantrajt said:
For hdmi you have two ways...the dongle, which is WiFi based....that is if you go to a cabin for a weekend with no WiFi outside your city....it won't work. Or you have the adapter which unfortunately works only if it is also connected to to AC which in my opinion also limits the portable function or idea of a tablet...I mean it is like doing the same connections you can do with your notebook....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you're confusing WiFi and WAN. If the dongle is WiFi based, you can bring a pocket WiFi access point and connect all your devices to it. Where you are isn't really relevent since it's not connected to the internet through cable, DSL or cellco. These pocket access points are *tiny*.
Here's an example of one:
http://www.dlink.com/ca/en/home-sol...350-wireless-n-pocket-router-and-access-point

Looks like I will have to stick with the a500 nd get the small note 2 for stylus use. The a 7 inch note would be perfect.

Recommend a Android Stick Setup Intended to Be Used As Replacement for PC

I need to replace my parents 7 year old Windows PC with a new one. I was thinking of getting a Android stick instead since their uses are limited to Skype, Hangouts, Facebook, occassional browsing and YouTube. Besides, at least my mom has become pretty familiar with her Android phone.
What I have in mind is this:
Buy a monitor with HDMI port or DVI. The monitor will have built in speakers as well. Connect the stick to it.
Attach a USB hub to the stick.
Attach webcam, keyboard and mouse to the hub. Alternatively, attach keyboard and mouse to the USB ports in the monitor (if available). I don't want to use bluetooth because they will find recharging the keyboard/mouse difficult.
My questions are:
How effective this setup will be for the above mentioned purposes? The reason I ask this is because most people seem to be using Android stick primarily as a media player.
I tried hooking up two tablets to my TV, neither of them gave full screen. Will I face such problems with the stick? Do I need to look for any specific monitor resolutions or aspect ratios?
If I attach keyboard and mouse to the monitor's USB port, will it work?
Are there any sticks which will support touch screen monitors out of the box?
Will it play the sound through monitor out of the box?
In case I have to use bluetooth, can I pair both keyboard and mouse at the same time?
Do I need to shutdown the stick just like a PC or will a simple mains switch off be enough? Or can I leave it running all the time without worrying about the power consumption?
Please recommend a good stick for this purpose.
Am I overlooking something? Will I need any extra components?
I will most likely be telling them over the phone on how to set up the whole thing. So any kind of tinkering with software (like rooting or some form of modding) will not be possible.

unni_kmr said:
I need to replace my parents 7 year old Windows PC with a new one. I was thinking of getting a Android stick instead since their uses are limited to Skype, Hangouts, Facebook, occassional browsing and YouTube. Besides, at least my mom has become pretty familiar with her Android phone.
What I have in mind is this:
Buy a monitor with HDMI port or DVI. The monitor will have built in speakers as well. Connect the stick to it.
Attach a USB hub to the stick.
Attach webcam, keyboard and mouse to the hub. Alternatively, attach keyboard and mouse to the USB ports in the monitor (if available). I don't want to use bluetooth because they will find recharging the keyboard/mouse difficult.
My questions are:
How effective this setup will be for the above mentioned purposes? The reason I ask this is because most people seem to be using Android stick primarily as a media player.
I tried hooking up two tablets to my TV, neither of them gave full screen. Will I face such problems with the stick? Do I need to look for any specific monitor resolutions or aspect ratios?
If I attach keyboard and mouse to the monitor's USB port, will it work?
Are there any sticks which will support touch screen monitors out of the box?
Will it play the sound through monitor out of the box?
In case I have to use bluetooth, can I pair both keyboard and mouse at the same time?
Do I need to shutdown the stick just like a PC or will a simple mains switch off be enough? Or can I leave it running all the time without worrying about the power consumption?
Please recommend a good stick for this purpose.
Am I overlooking something? Will I need any extra components?
I will most likely be telling them over the phone on how to set up the whole thing. So any kind of tinkering with software (like rooting or some form of modding) will not be possible.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have a Minix X7, which is my first android mini pc.. here's my thoughts regarding your list:
1. If you connect the mini pc (stick or otherwise) using HDMI cable to the monitor, you will have audio through the monitor.
2. If you buy a mini pc instead of a stick, you wouldn't need an additional usb hub (see X5 or X7)
3. You will need to use a logitech webcam (at least to use stock roms on Minix)
4. For browsing, Facebook, and Skype, the X7 will handle that easily, on a wired/wireless connection
5. Full screen works fine (either 1080p or 720p)
6. I have never used a touch screen monitor, but this thread has some guidance (http://www.freaktab.com/showthread.php?1802-Touchscreen).. a little more involved than plug-and-play
7. The X7will pair both a keyboard and mouse via bt at once, though I would recommend using the usb ports if you are setting it up at a desk
8. My X7 almost never gets shut off. Usually just shut off the monitor and let it stay on. The power consumption is minimal, especially when not being used.
Also, as far as a recommendation, I find the X7 to be pretty good. You'd probably be ok with an X5 if they aren't planning on using it as a media center and want to save some $$$. A lot of the cheap sticks are made by manufacturers who do not provide updates or product support, but since the end of July, Minix has come out with 3 firmware updates, and another one is almost ready. (They would have released update 005 except Rockchip released an update to their code and Minix want to integrate it prior to their next release, as it improves video playback).
On the negative side, the firmware does still have occasional glitches. Although my X7 has been up for days on end, every once in a while it just freezes up, and i have to pull the power cable, plug it back in, and turn it on. Also, the X7 had some early issues with SD cards, but if you don't plan on using an SD card, that shouldn't be an issue.
If you believe an android device will do everything your parents need in a PC, I think it's a great idea. Low power consumption (4W vs the 160-220W of my HTPC), low heat, no noise, low price, and decent reliability.
One more thought, if you wish to root/update firmware, etc, get the device shipped to you, then ship it to your parents. It'll take a few more days, but you can set it up and make sure everything suits their needs prior to delivery..

Mike_77 said:
I have a Minix X7, which is my first android mini pc.. here's my thoughts regarding your list:
1. If you connect the mini pc (stick or otherwise) using HDMI cable to the monitor, you will have audio through the monitor.
2. If you buy a mini pc instead of a stick, you wouldn't need an additional usb hub (see X5 or X7)
3. You will need to use a logitech webcam (at least to use stock roms on Minix)
4. For browsing, Facebook, and Skype, the X7 will handle that easily, on a wired/wireless connection
5. Full screen works fine (either 1080p or 720p)
6. I have never used a touch screen monitor, but this thread has some guidance (http://www.freaktab.com/showthread.php?1802-Touchscreen).. a little more involved than plug-and-play
7. The X7will pair both a keyboard and mouse via bt at once, though I would recommend using the usb ports if you are setting it up at a desk
8. My X7 almost never gets shut off. Usually just shut off the monitor and let it stay on. The power consumption is minimal, especially when not being used.
Also, as far as a recommendation, I find the X7 to be pretty good. You'd probably be ok with an X5 if they aren't planning on using it as a media center and want to save some $$$. A lot of the cheap sticks are made by manufacturers who do not provide updates or product support, but since the end of July, Minix has come out with 3 firmware updates, and another one is almost ready. (They would have released update 005 except Rockchip released an update to their code and Minix want to integrate it prior to their next release, as it improves video playback).
On the negative side, the firmware does still have occasional glitches. Although my X7 has been up for days on end, every once in a while it just freezes up, and i have to pull the power cable, plug it back in, and turn it on. Also, the X7 had some early issues with SD cards, but if you don't plan on using an SD card, that shouldn't be an issue.
If you believe an android device will do everything your parents need in a PC, I think it's a great idea. Low power consumption (4W vs the 160-220W of my HTPC), low heat, no noise, low price, and decent reliability.
One more thought, if you wish to root/update firmware, etc, get the device shipped to you, then ship it to your parents. It'll take a few more days, but you can set it up and make sure everything suits their needs prior to delivery..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That is a great wright up of x7 I love mine and agree 100 % with what you have said here. I've tried the uab sticks they don't work as well plus no heat on the x7 that thing is built well to last. I have set p.o.s. (point of sales) systems up in the past using the x5 cheap and fast browsing experience.
Good luck hope your parents are happy with what ever you end up doing.
Sent from my SCH-I535 using Tapatalk 4

I have MK808b (dual core with 1GB RAM), and using it as a media center, but also as a PC for browsing INTERNET. It is connected to pc monitor with HDMI, and works perfectly in full HD resolution.
I can't find any reason not to use it as a replacement for PC, especially if you use cloud storage services.

Mike_77 said:
I have a Minix X7, which is my first android mini pc.. here's my thoughts regarding your list...
6. I have never used a touch screen monitor, but this thread has some guidance (http://www.freaktab.com/showthread.php?1802-Touchscreen).. a little more involved than plug-and-play
One more thought, if you wish to root/update firmware, etc, get the device shipped to you, then ship it to your parents. It'll take a few more days, but you can set it up and make sure everything suits their needs prior to delivery..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks very much for this detailed reply. Really appreciate you taking time to write all these.
I have dropped the idea of using touch screen, since they seem to be 3 times the cost of a regular monitor (in India).
Regarding the shipping, I am in US now and parents are in India. I am not exactly sure if customs will cause any problems. That's why I am thinking of ordering from eBay India itself. Only problem is eBay India seller is charging around $204, probably because this is a new device.
dincdoes.me said:
Good luck hope your parents are happy with what ever you end up doing.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If this works as expected for the above purposes, I am the one who will be more happy. In the last 2 years, I have spent a lot of hours through LogMeIn remote desktop updating and maintaining the PC. Where my parents stay, there are scheduled powercuts for 1 hour per day for atleast half of the year, and power comes and goes every now and then even otherwise. This inconsistency in power was another reason that made me lean towards the mini PCs. Besides, my mom, who is the primary user of the PC, has become more familiar with Android (through her phone), and she likes playing the games a lot as well.
draskome said:
I have MK808b (dual core with 1GB RAM), and using it as a media center, but also as a PC for browsing INTERNET. It is connected to pc monitor with HDMI, and works perfectly in full HD resolution.
I can't find any reason not to use it as a replacement for PC, especially if you use cloud storage services.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What resolution is your monitor?
Cloud storage will be a problem, since the internet at my parents house is only 512 kbps.
I am thinking of getting the X7 or X5 mainly because of the software updates, since I won't need to purchase any hub and since I can use my existing Logitech C310 webcam.
I have few more questions regarding the X7:
1. How responsive is the keyboard and mouse? Can I expect a response similar to a normal Windows PC?
2. If I use a monitor that has a resolution between 720p and 1080p (something like 1360x768 for example), will the device handle it properly or will it look odd (like stretched)?
3. Will it get updated automatically? I saw one video in YouTube in which he was manually flashing it using some Windows utility. Is that the only way to update?

I have two devices.
First device is a 70 dollar single core tablet with a broken touch screen. It was to expensive to fix it so I turned it into a server.
1. it runs Servers ultimate pro running a WebDav server, PHP/MySQL server for RSS feeds and a home site for the family, ddns updater and an FTP server.
2. it is running a surveillance app that sends an email to me the moment anything moves in the camera shot.
3. runs a PocketMine-MP server
4. runs an app to auto stop and start apps dring certain times of the day.
All this is remotely accessible VIA webkey.
Second device is an iMito MX1
1. it has a 7 port hub attached.
2. a HD webcam for Skype.
3. two harddrives (a 1 TB driver for media storage and a 720GB for internal memory replacement)(more on that in a min)
4. plays netflix, red box, youtube, Vevo, crackle and XBMC... to name a few
5. has 32 games loaded up with a Logitech F710 wireless controller VIA an app for onscreen touch.
6. Logitech full sized KB and Mouse.
I use this thing for web browsing, shooting vids and pics over to it from my phone for family sharing(DLNA)
The 750gig harddrive is currently the SDCARD but the internal one(NAND). The internal NAND is no longer used and the harddrive is where the OS stores the app's file to SD and the apps extra downloads. This has allowed me to download 15 games that contain 1+gig of extra data each.
All this has replaced two PC's in my house running 24/7. My electric bill has dropped 100+ dollars a month and the house has become quieter.
Let me tell you that two PC's(one was a server and the other a media center) running at full speed just to watch a movie took 280 watts of power. My new setup only consumes 24 at peak! Plus less heat and fan noise! I changed over around a year ago and never looked back or miss my old setup.
If you plan on running one fore a PC replacement I recommend a quad core. Sometimes the browsers can get a bit poky and that is due to the slower CPU. Also Webkey a must for remote management. This one FREE app has saved me more times then I can could. It has tons of functions and features but it's best feature is the remote control. It is just like setting in front of the device but just a tad slower. It is not a perfect app but it is the only remote app that I have found to work time and time again.

unni_kmr said:
What resolution is your monitor?
Cloud storage will be a problem, since the internet at my parents house is only 512 kbps.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
My monitor is 24" 1080p, and it's perfectly suitable for the purpose
For the office documents, 512kbps is quite enough, but not for pics, videos....

unni_kmr said:
Thanks very much for this detailed reply. Really appreciate you taking time to write all these.
I have dropped the idea of using touch screen, since they seem to be 3 times the cost of a regular monitor (in India).
Regarding the shipping, I am in US now and parents are in India. I am not exactly sure if customs will cause any problems. That's why I am thinking of ordering from eBay India itself. Only problem is eBay India seller is charging around $204, probably because this is a new device.
What resolution is your monitor?
Cloud storage will be a problem, since the internet at my parents house is only 512 kbps.
I am thinking of getting the X7 or X5 mainly because of the software updates, since I won't need to purchase any hub and since I can use my existing Logitech C310 webcam.
I have few more questions regarding the X7:
1. How responsive is the keyboard and mouse? Can I expect a response similar to a normal Windows PC?
2. If I use a monitor that has a resolution between 720p and 1080p (something like 1360x768 for example), will the device handle it properly or will it look odd (like stretched)?
3. Will it get updated automatically? I saw one video in YouTube in which he was manually flashing it using some Windows utility. Is that the only way to update?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm glad to share my experience. I was a bit hesitant to buy one originally, but have been more than happy with my purchase.
I bought mine from http://www.aliexpress.com/item/MINIX-NEO-X7-Android-TV-Box-RK3188-Quad-Core-Mini-PC-1-6GHz-2G-16G-WiFi/1086507000.html# shipped DHL for only $3 more, and had it delivered in 3 days to Hawaii from China.
Updates are kind of a pain until they implement OTA updates, which they say they're going to do. That's why I recommend shipping to you first, and then you can send to your parents. I understand the customs issue though.. tough decision on that one.
I use mine on a 55" 1080p tv, and the picture quality is outstanding. The picture does not looked stretched or odd any any way. I believe it will detect the correct display settings and you can set the resolution you desire in /settings/display/resolution (trying to remember exact menu it's under)
The keyboard and mouse is just as responsive as a windows pc. There are a couple of times there is a bit of lag, but that is just a function of how much stuff is running. Even when you experience lag, it isn't anything significant.
There is a working version of CWM that will allow you to flash updates like an Android phone, but you will have to use the pc utility to install CWM (available on freaktab.com) Once CWM is installed, you can package the update files into a zip that is premade other than your update files, and it'll update for you.
There is a lot more information on freaktab.com. I alternated between that and minixforums.com for a while when trying to decide which android mini pc to buy. After weeks of research, I decided the wait for the X7 was worth it, and haven't regretted my decision since.

Thanks very much for all the replies. Sorry that I didn't reply for a long time. I tried ordering Minix Neo X7 from the AliExpress link. But they rejected my payment due to security concerns (I used an US credit card and gave India adress which probably raised some red flags). Then I ordered from eBay India. Waiting for it to be shipped.
I also came across another interesting product that could have satisfied all my requirements. Its the ViewSonic VSD220. Its a touch screen monitor with speakers, web cam, USB ports and is a Android mini PC. The only down side was that a YouTube review said its processor is not upto the mark.

unni_kmr said:
Thanks very much for all the replies. Sorry that I didn't reply for a long time. I tried ordering Minix Neo X7 from the AliExpress link. But they rejected my payment due to security concerns (I used an US credit card and gave India adress which probably raised some red flags). Then I ordered from eBay India. Waiting for it to be shipped.
I also came across another interesting product that could have satisfied all my requirements. Its the ViewSonic VSD220. Its a touch screen monitor with speakers, web cam, USB ports and is a Android mini PC. The only down side was that a YouTube review said its processor is not upto the mark.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I think you'll get better performance out of the X7. Have you read all the info, etc on minixforums.com? Also, starting with FW006, they are supporting SDCard firmware updates (theoretically, though I haven't tried it)

reddragon72 said:
I have two devices.
First device is a 70 dollar single core tablet with a broken touch screen. It was to expensive to fix it so I turned it into a server.
1. it runs Servers ultimate pro running a WebDav server, PHP/MySQL server for RSS feeds and a home site for the family, ddns updater and an FTP server.
2. it is running a surveillance app that sends an email to me the moment anything moves in the camera shot.
3. runs a PocketMine-MP server
4. runs an app to auto stop and start apps dring certain times of the day.
All this is remotely accessible VIA webkey.
Second device is an iMito MX1
1. it has a 7 port hub attached.
2. a HD webcam for Skype.
3. two harddrives (a 1 TB driver for media storage and a 720GB for internal memory replacement)(more on that in a min)
4. plays netflix, red box, youtube, Vevo, crackle and XBMC... to name a few
5. has 32 games loaded up with a Logitech F710 wireless controller VIA an app for onscreen touch.
6. Logitech full sized KB and Mouse.
I use this thing for web browsing, shooting vids and pics over to it from my phone for family sharing(DLNA)
The 750gig harddrive is currently the SDCARD but the internal one(NAND). The internal NAND is no longer used and the harddrive is where the OS stores the app's file to SD and the apps extra downloads. This has allowed me to download 15 games that contain 1+gig of extra data each.
All this has replaced two PC's in my house running 24/7. My electric bill has dropped 100+ dollars a month and the house has become quieter.
Let me tell you that two PC's(one was a server and the other a media center) running at full speed just to watch a movie took 280 watts of power. My new setup only consumes 24 at peak! Plus less heat and fan noise! I changed over around a year ago and never looked back or miss my old setup.
If you plan on running one fore a PC replacement I recommend a quad core. Sometimes the browsers can get a bit poky and that is due to the slower CPU. Also Webkey a must for remote management. This one FREE app has saved me more times then I can could. It has tons of functions and features but it's best feature is the remote control. It is just like setting in front of the device but just a tad slower. It is not a perfect app but it is the only remote app that I have found to work time and time again.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Your guidance would be greatly appreciated. What would you reccomend for luanchers or either installing a new system on the Tronsmart T428. I just can't stand using the android with my wifi keyboard w built-in mouse. The android pop-up keyboard takes up half of my projector screen when it pops up even with null keyboard installed. When selecting a link if a similar page ops up there is no scroll bars on the right letting you know to scroll down or if ytou are still on the smae page waiting for stuff to upload. i guess I'm looking for more of an Ubuntu 10x or windows experience. Traditional keyboard and mouse vs touch screen. NOw that I think about it I bet I have to get hulu plus to watch anything on this bc it acts like a tablet.

My RKM v5 Mini pC TV Stick Review

Hi all as you may have noticed by now im a tv box/stick addict & this RKM v5 rely has got my full attention.
Many thanks to Michelle at RKM for sending me the RMK V5 an easy & trouble free transaction
Mod Edit: Selling site link removed.
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Whats in the box
User manual
Short HDMI lead (good quality)
2.5 AMP power unit with a propper English plug so no adapter needed
Male to male usb lead for firmware updating
V5 tv stick
The RKM v5 TV Stick comes with the Rockchip Quad Core 1.8ghz CPU,quad core mail-T764 and 16GB of Ram,it Offers 4K2K UHD video play back, android 4.4 pre loaded it also came pre rooted.Supports LAN 100M/1000M network,Bluetooth 4.0 ect ect full spec below.
Hardware specifications:
The first thing you notice when you open the box is what good quality item this is the stick itself feels nothing like any other tv stick, This device has quality written all over it.There is also a decent power adapter a 2.5 amp unit witch is also very good quality (Not cheap rubbish)you will not be disappointed at all.
First boot OMG this is the fastest booting stick/box i own at 18 seconds to home screen.Once its booted your at the home screen witch is a unique RKM launcher witch i rely like very eye pleasing & not too busy.My v5 came with software dated 23/12/2014 & it ran very well, I then noticed there was a newer software available to download hear.
http://www.rikomagic.com/en/download/do_1.html
I soon downloaded that & flashed it that's also a very easy process as there is a step by step guide in the user manual (iv not seen this before)The system storage is set out as 2GB internal storage & 11.5GB nand witch is just about right.
Home screen RKM launcher
App Draw RKM launcher
Display options are plentiful
So now im on the latest software dated 12/01/2015 and i can not complain at all this little device is so snappy & responsive its unreal,.Theres no useless apps installed its quit light off the ground..There's a nice file explorer, quick office,It also comes with kodi 14.0 witch runs great tested with (navi x) im no xbmc expert so i cant tell you much about that sorry apart from it seems to work fine with no freezes ect my usb logitek c270 webcam works fine, 1TB external non powered samsung hard drive works fine & iv played some games also work fine.
AnTuTu score of 35405
Boot up time of 18 seconds
Shut down time of 2 seconds
Another AWESOME featour with the v5 is after you have shut it down & you want to turn it back on, All you need to do is select the corect HDMI port on your tv & the v5 will boot i rely like this it means theres no need to keep turning it off & on at the mains.
Inside this beast (You can see the recovery button at the top right)
Nice sized aluminium heat sink
Conclusion: This is the best rockchip device I own & iv been more than impressed by the RKM V5
Great for the main TV in the house or to put in your bag & take it with you on your travels.
Get it here
Aliexpess Online store:
Mod Edit: Selling site link removed.

Is it pre-rooted? Thinking about getting a stick to use with my AppRadio 3 and the app needs root access.
Also, can it get power off the USB port? Since I would be installing it in a car with one 12v power port, a DC only power supply would be a problem.

Hesster said:
Is it pre-rooted? Thinking about getting a stick to use with my AppRadio 3 and the app needs root access.
Also, can it get power off the USB port? Since I would be installing it in a car with one 12v power port, a DC only power supply would be a problem.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yes it come's pre rooted but its powered by a round power plug

The past few days iv been using the RKM v5 quite a lot to stream movies from the net with xbmx (kodi) & navi x & iv not had any trouble with it at all the more I use this thing the better I think it is.No over heating it runs perfect I think it rely helps that it comes with a good power adapter, Well done to RKM for this a lot of manufactures get this wrong & send them out with a cheap power adapter.I rely love this RKM

Does V5 supports HDMI-CEC?

Mefa2 said:
Does V5 supports HDMI-CEC?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi there.The FW im using right now don't have the HDMI CEC but asked the question to the RKM FW engineering team & im told the new FW does have the HDMI CEC im downloading it now will install it latter & let you no about it..

blinkone said:
Yes it come's pre rooted but its powered by a round power plug
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I got v5 this morning, and am using it with Anker AC/DC 5 port USB power adapter.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app

blinkone said:
Hi there.The FW im using right now don't have the HDMI CEC but asked the question to the RKM FW engineering team & im told the new FW does have the HDMI CEC im downloading it now will install it latter & let you no about it..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thank you! Can't wait to get to know about it!

RKM V5's ethernet v4 MAC address is vary, isn't it?
I want to set a static IP address to follow V5's MAC address on my router.
How can I do this?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app

Bluetooth mouse often doesn't work.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app

My V5 has frozen after several hours since power on.
Too many apps installed?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app

milmake said:
My V5 has frozen after several hours since power on.
Too many apps installed?
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Check your power adapter that's the first thing to try.
Are you on the latest FW?

I'm thinking of buying an android stick to watch tv on kodi. Can you tell me how good this one is for that?
Something else, after googling a bit I still can't find the price anywhere, how much does it cost?

Domangus said:
I'm thinking of buying an android stick to watch tv on kodi. Can you tell me how good this one is for that?
Something else, after googling a bit I still can't find the price anywhere, how much does it cost?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi this stick rely is Awesome for kodi the wifi is strong & it has an Gigabit Ethernet Port too..your looking at around £70 /£75

blinkone said:
Hi this stick rely is Awesome for kodi the wifi is strong & it has
an Gigabit Ethernet Port too..your looking at around £70 /£75
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks I've already sentido an email to aliexpress to ask the price

blinkone said:
Hi there.The FW im using right now don't have the HDMI CEC but asked the question to the RKM FW engineering team & im told the new FW does have the HDMI CEC im downloading it now will install it latter & let you no about it..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Any news on this please? What is the firmware version that has it included?
cheers.
Are you able to watch Google movies on this stick? Mine just gives an error.

On my v5, Google Play movie works.
Sent from my Nexus 7 using XDA Free mobile app

landscape and portrait
Can you please see if this stick will work in portrait mode ? I'm working on a home arcade and would like to use android for a digital pinball game instead of windows. Most of the boxes / sticks I've looked at won't work but I've read that rooted ones will display in portrait mode. Thanks for any help
Fred

fredww said:
Can you please see if this stick will work in portrait mode ? I'm working on a home arcade and would like to use android for a digital pinball game instead of windows. Most of the boxes / sticks I've looked at won't work but I've read that rooted ones will display in portrait mode. Thanks for any help
Fred
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hi you should be able to set portrait mode on any tv stick/box as long as your rooted by just Changing the ro.sf.fakerotation to false and ro.sf.hwrotation to 180 and after the reboot, its should be on Portrait you can use a build prop Editer like this https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.jrummy.apps.build.prop.editor&hl=en
Any RK3288 tv stick/box is easy to root with a root update zip and also any amlogic s802 is also easy to root the same way

OK so is there one that's idiot proof cause I really dont wanna screw it up.
Fred

Other than the price, why get a Nexus Player instead of MyGica 1800e or MINIX x8-h?

They both have 2 GB of RAM and support more encoding such as H.265 so what does the Nexus player offer over those?

DonDizzurp said:
They both have 2 GB of RAM and support more encoding such as H.265 so what does the Nexus player offer over those?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
well those are not android tv boxes they are just android boxes made to be a "media box" they will have pretty **** remote support in apps so u will have to use a mouse and keyboard for most apps where with the nexus player it is made for a remote and all the apps(in the androidtv store) work with it. i dont know about u but when im in bed the last thing i want is to use a mouse to play crap from netflix.

pbanj said:
well those are not android tv boxes they are just android boxes made to be a "media box" they will have pretty **** remote support in apps so u will have to use a mouse and keyboard for most apps where with the nexus player it is made for a remote and all the apps(in the androidtv store) work with it. i dont know about u but when im in bed the last thing i want is to use a mouse to play crap from netflix.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Both of those boxes have 2GB of RAM, support more video encoding, have microSD slots, have at least 2 USB ports, have standard composite support, have WiFi and Ethernet, and allow you to easily use a keyboard/mouse remote (1800E already comes with it in the box)
I'd much rather use a handheld keyboard than have to move from letter to letter on screen using a basic remote. I really don't see how your argument would convince anyone the Nexus Player is the better option.
Other than the fact that it's a Google product, has the gaming controller option, and allows for casting, I don't see any reason to pick a Nexus Player over the other options on the market.

DonDizzurp said:
Both of those boxes have 2GB of RAM, support more video encoding, have microSD slots, have at least 2 USB ports, have standard composite support, have WiFi and Ethernet, and allow you to easily use a keyboard/mouse remote (1800E already comes with it in the box)
I'd much rather use a handheld keyboard than have to move from letter to letter on screen using a basic remote. I really don't see how your argument would convince anyone the Nexus Player is the better option.
Other than the fact that it's a Google product, has the gaming controller option, and allows for casting, I don't see any reason to pick a Nexus Player over the other options on the market.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
i dont use the onscreen keyboard that much and would much rather prefer to use a remote for navigating the apps. last i checked the nexus player could play x265 so im not sure how those offer more. nexus devices have never had an sd card slot so it doesnt bother me too much. it bothers me even less because i have all my media on a network drive(it seems most of the other users are doing the same or similar) so i dont have to have a couple tb of media on every device. as for the usb ports it has otg support for you to plug stuff into if u want that, you just need an otg cable which are cheap or if you dont want to buy one they are real easy to make. i would like to have more outputs for video but hdmi is pretty standard at this point so not really a negative. i hate using wifi especially for media but the nexus player has not had an issue yet and its pretty far from the router. the thing with wifi is sure the 2.4 band sucks but the 5.0 band works really well. if you want ethernet you can get an ethernet to micro usb adapter and plug it in but from what i have seen it doesnt need it.
you can use a keyboard and mouse with the nexus player if you want. i have used stuff like those other boxes and the player is far easier to use(just ask the wife). also if you care about this kind of crap(i dont really but some do) the player has the newest ver of android where those boxes are on kitkat. what it all comes down to is how you like to use stuff and what you want to use it for. im looking for a good media box that is easy for my family to use without needing a mini bt keyboard with track pad(track pads suck, especially small ones). or use a mouse. as for the game controller u could use a game controller on the other ones as they are android boxes and there are controllers for them. i actually use the red samurai 2 controllers from gamestop instead of the official game pad on my nexus player as they are cheap and work great. oh for searching the nexus player has voice search so you dont really need to type crap in.
what i see a lot on this site is people who buy devices without knowing what it really is or knowing what it is and knowing its not what they want but buying it and then looking for a way to make it what they originally wanted. a good example is the fire tv section. its full of people who buy them and want to put stock android on it pretty much the entire point of the fire tv devices is the amazon instant video support(best i have found). if you dont want to use amazon instant video then dont buy the damn things. or you look at the lolirock thread(im not bashing it) its full of people who bought the nexus player which is an android tv device and wanted a device with normal android on it. they should have just bought one of the boxes you listed as that is what they really wanted. i think dhackers cm12 hits the sweet spot as it gives you another choice in fw without changing what the device was supposed to be. when i said the thing about them buying devices and looking for a way to change it into what they really wanted im not talking about rooting and roming. im talking about taking a phone and looking for a rom so you can use it as say a tv device, or buying an android tv device when what you really wanted was just an android box to plug into your tv, or buying an android box when you really wanted and android tv box. a lot of people will ***** when they cant find a way to turn the device into what they originally wanted but for some reason didnt buy. there is nothing wrong with wanting full control over their devices but you should buy the device closet to what you want. would you buy a samsung device when what you want is the htc setup? im going to say no you wouldnt. just like you dont see a reason to buy the nexus player i dont see a reason to buy those other boxes as they dont fit MY needs and that is what it all really comes down to.
tl;dr
know what it is you are buying and buy what you want not something that is sort of what you want and then try to make it what you really wanted in the first place.
remember sort of you isnt you
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so why would a sort of device be the device you really wanted.

pbanj said:
i dont use the onscreen keyboard that much and would much rather prefer to use a remote for navigating the apps. last i checked the nexus player could play x265 so im not sure how those offer more. nexus devices have never had an sd card slot so it doesnt bother me too much. it bothers me even less because i have all my media on a network drive(it seems most of the other users are doing the same or similar) so i dont have to have a couple tb of media on every device. as for the usb ports it has otg support for you to plug stuff into if u want that, you just need an otg cable which are cheap or if you dont want to buy one they are real easy to make. i would like to have more outputs for video but hdmi is pretty standard at this point so not really a negative. i hate using wifi especially for media but the nexus player has not had an issue yet and its pretty far from the router. the thing with wifi is sure the 2.4 band sucks but the 5.0 band works really well. if you want ethernet you can get an ethernet to micro usb adapter and plug it in but from what i have seen it doesnt need it.
you can use a keyboard and mouse with the nexus player if you want. i have used stuff like those other boxes and the player is far easier to use(just ask the wife). also if you care about this kind of crap(i dont really but some do) the player has the newest ver of android where those boxes are on kitkat. what it all comes down to is how you like to use stuff and what you want to use it for. im looking for a good media box that is easy for my family to use without needing a mini bt keyboard with track pad(track pads suck, especially small ones). or use a mouse. as for the game controller u could use a game controller on the other ones as they are android boxes and there are controllers for them. i actually use the red samurai 2 controllers from gamestop instead of the official game pad on my nexus player as they are cheap and work great. oh for searching the nexus player has voice search so you dont really need to type crap in.
what i see a lot on this site is people who buy devices without knowing what it really is or knowing what it is and knowing its not what they want but buying it and then looking for a way to make it what they originally wanted. a good example is the fire tv section. its full of people who buy them and want to put stock android on it pretty much the entire point of the fire tv devices is the amazon instant video support(best i have found). if you dont want to use amazon instant video then dont buy the damn things. or you look at the lolirock thread(im not bashing it) its full of people who bought the nexus player which is an android tv device and wanted a device with normal android on it. they should have just bought one of the boxes you listed as that is what they really wanted. i think dhackers cm12 hits the sweet spot as it gives you another choice in fw without changing what the device was supposed to be. when i said the thing about them buying devices and looking for a way to change it into what they really wanted im not talking about rooting and roming. im talking about taking a phone and looking for a rom so you can use it as say a tv device, or buying an android tv device when what you really wanted was just an android box to plug into your tv, or buying an android box when you really wanted and android tv box. a lot of people will ***** when they cant find a way to turn the device into what they originally wanted but for some reason didnt buy. there is nothing wrong with wanting full control over their devices but you should buy the device closet to what you want. would you buy a samsung device when what you want is the htc setup? im going to say no you wouldnt. just like you dont see a reason to buy the nexus player i dont see a reason to buy those other boxes as they dont fit MY needs and that is what it all really comes down to.
tl;dr
know what it is you are buying and buy what you want not something that is sort of what you want and then try to make it what you really wanted in the first place.
remember sort of you isnt you
so why would a sort of device be the device you really wanted.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Now THAT was a convincing post
Best part about your post is that I read it 10 minutes AFTER buying a Nexus Player haha. Currently updating to 5.1.1

one simple reason:
the nexus player decoder is buggy, often it outputs videos with grainy effect.

you get the unlocked bootloader and latest and greatest OS (support)

Z68 Tv box Review

The Z68 TV Box is a RK3368 Octa-core, Android 5.1 ,2.4GHz / 5GHz WiFi, 2GB RAM 16GB ROM,
Bluetooth 4.0, HDMI 2.0
Hi all,
In this review im going to be looking at the Z68 sent to me for review from Mod Edit: Selling site link removed.
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It Z68 arrived in 8 days via DHL with £4.69 tax's to pay so not too bad this time.
This thing has really surprised me on how well it works for a tv box from the cheap end of the market at about £40. All the tests in this review have been done using the stock FW the device was shipped with,I will be trying other FW once the review is done.
Quick facts
2GB RAM & 16GB ROM
The Z68 TV Box is has the new well known processor Rockchip RK3368
H.265/HEVC video decoding up to 4K and Gigabit Ethernet.
Android 5.1 Lollipop out the box
Fully Rooted
The RK3368 tv box's are the next new thing to have right now & it seem's such a long time since the RK3288 came along.
Internal Photos
In this photo you can see what they call a heat sink (1mm thick pice of aluminium)
Heat sink removed in this photo
Main Features:
● Comes with a RJ45 jack for 1000M Ethernet which provides a strong network extension.
● Android 5.1 Lolipop out of the box
● True 4K x 2K resolution which delivers best audio and video quality.
● Rockchip R3368 Octa Core up to 1.6GHz (Cortex-A53 64bit)
● Kodi supported. Kodi can be used to play almost all popular audio and video formats.
● Android 5.1, gives you access to over 800,000 apps including Facebook, Youtube, Picasa and more.
● Professional H.265 video decoding technology and 2.4G + 5.8G WiFi, offering a more stable WiFi signal to enjoy a higher quality video experience.
● 2GB RAM + 16GB ROM, 32GB maximum extended capacity gives you more space to download your favorite apps and caches to browse websites, play games, run apps, watch movies more smoothly.
● Bluetooth 4.0 connectivity: Easy pairing with most Bluetooth-enabled devices (computer,mobile phone, keyboard, and others).
● HDMI 2.0 connector: Connect directly to your TV with a HDMI cable and you will be all set to enjoy 4K x 2K Full HD multimedia experience.
● 2 x USB one of them is also the OTG port. Connect your mouse and keyboard to help you operate more convenient.
● Infrared remote control lets you enjoy wile no need to use the mouse & keyboard.
● Support Miracast, DLNA.
Z68 Device
It comes with just one launcher installed, The launcher3 (standered android launcher)
The device itself is a nice looking tv box at 10.5cm square with 4 little rubber feet that do a great job it does not slide around on the desk at all.Its a shame it only has the two usb ports though thats my only draw back as of yet.On a plus side the IR remote has good range & works well.Another bug iv found is within ES file explore the back ground is black so is the text,I think theres a fix for this i will hunt around for it. Google play store is installed & works on my device.
Storage
Display
On the front you will see a blue LED when the Z68 is powered on & a Red LED when its in stand by mode.Also on the front is the IR senser.
On the rear you will find the Power port,HDMI port,Ethernet port,& the SPDIF On the left hand side you will find the two USB ports(One of them is the OTG port) & the SD Card slot.
Wifi =Ethernet
2.4ghz + 5.8G Wifi which is strong but not picking up my neighbours wifi network (Some of my tv box's do) Iv not had a problem with the wifi single where ever iv placed the Z68 around the house its worked of full bars single strenth.
WIFI
ETHERNET
Bluetooth 4.0
Kodi.
The Z68 comes with Kodi 16 preinstalled with no addons.The speed of kodi is Nice & fast 3 seconds to load from the app screen,Iv been streaming 1080 from the web with no video stuttering that iv noticed & the device remained cool all the time.
Games
Iv tested beach buggy blitz with graphics set to high it played perfect as expected
I was using my ps3 controller with the sixaxis app
Also the tronsmart Mars G01 Game pad works well
Misc
Logitech c270 camera works fine
External powered 1T HD works fine
Tronsmart Mars G01 game pad works
32GB sd card works fine (64GB dont work)
Stock Firmware
http://chinagadgetsreviews.com/download-latest-android-lollipop-5-1-1-stock-firmware-nexbox-z68-tv-box.html
The Z68 gets warm but not hot even though there is no venterlation holes & NO real heat sink i was expecting this to overheat but no iv had it running 24/7 now for the past week streaming from my ip cam & all is working well no lock ups reboots ETC. It stays cooler than my my S905 tv box at doing the same job.
Antutu
Not a high Antutu score here
Antutu Video
Whats in the Box
1 x Z68 TV Box
1 x Power Adapter
1 x HDMI Cable
1 x IR Remote Control
1 x English Manual
Very Basic unboxing video
Mod Edit: Link removed for affiliate sales and selling site links.

What I'm wondering: does this box support the output of DTS or DD5.1 sound to my receiver?! That's what matters most to me...

vads1972 said:
What I'm wondering: does this box support the output of DTS or DD5.1 sound to my receiver?! That's what matters most to me...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Not out of the box as 90% of such kind of devices. You need to load firmware from other devices with same chip which support 5.1, not fully supporting all the z68 hw components though, and use modified versions of kodi to support rockchip rk3368.
Inviato dal mio ECOO_E04_3GB+ utilizzando Tapatalk

lzwfkv said:
Not out of the box as 90% of such kind of devices. You need to load firmware from other devices with same chip which support 5.1, not fully supporting all the z68 hw components though, and use modified versions of kodi to support rockchip rk3368.
Inviato dal mio ECOO_E04_3GB+ utilizzando Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So if I'm looking for a mediaplayer to play all sorts of videofiles (MKV, MP4, DVD-structure, etc.) with support for surround-sound, this is not the box I'm looking for. Any other suggestion?

vads1972 said:
So if I'm looking for a mediaplayer to play all sorts of videofiles (MKV, MP4, DVD-structure, etc.) with support for surround-sound, this is not the box I'm looking for. Any other suggestion?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Have a look at freaktab com forums, section tv players. As to the rockchip based android tv players the best supported seems to be nagrace, zidoo and ugoos devices. May be other chipsets such as amlogic are better or even an intel/windows based device.

Curious ,do you have HDMI-CEC and do device turn off complitely

armagani said:
Curious ,do you have HDMI-CEC and do device turn off complitely
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The device does not turn off by design. It hasn't got a physical power button and it will only go in stanby with the power on remote. The only way to put it off is to pull off the power cable.
I have not tested it with hdmi-cec cause the tv where i have it attached at the moment does not support cec.

Bought one works great, better than the Fire Stick I was using.

I just received this box and while it's mostly working fine I have stutter and audio sync issues using Netflix, HBO and to some extent YouTube. Plex and Kodi works perfectly though.
Anyone got an idea what could be causing it? Wifi speed is consistently strong, so I'm thinking it's some kind of HDMI issue. I've tried a different cable but that didn't help

I have been using this box for a few weeks now, and I've noticed that a firmware update is badly needed. Can anyone direct me to where I can get a firmware update for this box? It doesn't display 4k, doesn't detect USB drives, or allow access to them, "I've tried several". There are several other issues that I don't remember at the moment as well... Thanks for any help... Ohh yeah, and it would be great to run apps off the micro SD and not the 2x internal storage spaces, they filled up within the first few days...lol
Sent from my rk3368-box using XDA-Developers mobile app

+1 here
Ordered mine from the European warehouse of Gea*best( althoght they took 10 days to ship it, 2 more to arrive in Belgium).
Arrived and when I boot it up it works for about 4 minutes; then it locks up.
Unplug the power, plug it again and it locks up even before the launcher.
Any clue about where to get a firmware before send it back?
Thanks in advance.

nleitao said:
+1 here
Ordered mine from the European warehouse of Gea*best( althoght they took 10 days to ship it, 2 more to arrive in Belgium).
Arrived and when I boot it up it works for about 4 minutes; then it locks up.
Unplug the power, plug it again and it locks up even before the launcher.
Any clue about where to get a firmware before send it back?
Thanks in advance.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The Z68 Stock firmware can be found here http://chinagadgetsreviews.com/download-latest-android-lollipop-5-1-1-stock-firmware-nexbox-z68-tv-box.html
And a custom rom here from freaktab member cyber7
[URL="http://freaktab.com/forum/tv-player-support/rk3688-devices-aa/nexbox-z68/firmware-roms-tools-bh/563914-nexbox-z68-rk3368-beta-desktop-build-31-03-2016"]http://freaktab.com/forum/tv-player-support/rk3688-devices-aa/nexbox-z68/firmware-roms-tools-bh/563914-nexbox-z68-rk3368-beta-desktop-build-31-03-2016[/URL]

blinkone said:
The Z68 Stock firmware can be found here http://chinagadgetsreviews.com/download-latest-android-lollipop-5-1-1-stock-firmware-nexbox-z68-tv-box.html
And a custom rom here from freaktab menmer cyber7
[URL="http://freaktab.com/forum/tv-player-support/rk3688-devices-aa/nexbox-z68/firmware-roms-tools-bh/563914-nexbox-z68-rk3368-beta-desktop-build-31-03-2016"]http://freaktab.com/forum/tv-player-support/rk3688-devices-aa/nexbox-z68/firmware-roms-tools-bh/563914-nexbox-z68-rk3368-beta-desktop-build-31-03-2016[/URL]
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am cyber7 from freaktab and there is a very "lightweight" release for this box that strips it to a no-nonsense device you can use. Go have a look!

Thank you both for the reply! After this post and some more searching I found cyber7
Yesterday evening I opened the box and installed a motherboard chipset cooler I had around and the freezes stopped at least during the 25 minutes I had it running. The 1 mm aluminium "cooler" the chip brings is really for laughing...
That said I will try @aubreykloppers 's stripped down version soo: thanks man for your really good work. if it works good, i'll buy you the coffee

nleitao said:
Thank you both for the reply! After this post and some more searching I found cyber7
Yesterday evening I opened the box and installed a motherboard chipset cooler I had around and the freezes stopped at least during the 25 minutes I had it running. The 1 mm aluminium "cooler" the chip brings is really for laughing...
That said I will try @aubreykloppers 's stripped down version soo: thanks man for your really good work. if it works good, i'll buy you the coffee
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I hope it works for you!
The light release is very quick and runs without a "heat cooler"
I have been running mine (with Kodi and an active Launcher) for about 2 weeks non-stop and have no heat problems. That said, dispersing heat is never a bad idea, unless you are from Antarctica

after a few attempts a cant make the pc detect this or other older box I have from a friend. Is there a SD card method? I already went on the recovery but there is no option to flash from sd...

Just bought this box so I could stream Kodi to my TV, among other things. I tried the Leelbox prior to this, but it was kind of slow and prone to freezing up at times.
So I bought this box because of the better specs, and now I am having a hell of a time trying to navigate on this thing. In some apps, it's impossible to navigate because I can't even see where I'm clicking. I can't even get into the Play Store because it seems to be impossible to click the "accept" button. I have to install all my apps through the browser using Aptoide, and even then that's not a great workaround because, yet again, I can't even see where I'm clicking. Navigating this thing so far is a complete guessing game. I can't believe there's no "mouse" mode on this like the Leelbox had. I'd love to know how you were able to get into the Play Store. Any help or tips???

Use a normal pc usb mouse wired or wireless. Then buy an air mouse remote very soon.
Inviato dal mio ECOO_E04_3GB+ utilizzando Tapatalk

nleitao said:
after a few attempts a cant make the pc detect this or other older box I have from a friend. Is there a SD card method? I already went on the recovery but there is no option to flash from sd...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Damn... the cable I bought on ebay had 1 broken wire, that's why the box wasn't found by the computer...
After making a cable it was well found :victory: flashed and running.
and still freezing even with the super mega hiper light version... Should I flash it again?
@sethyboy13 - what @lzwfkv said

lzwfkv said:
Use a normal pc usb mouse wired or wireless. Then buy an air mouse remote very soon.
Inviato dal mio ECOO_E04_3GB+ utilizzando Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks, I figured that would have to be the case just looking at other people's videos of the box; they were all using mice. So I bought a cheap USB mouse from Walmart and no issues! I was able to sign in and access the Play Store, as well as use the browser normally. It's kind of annoying that a cursor mode wasn't included on the remote, but hey, I'm not complaining, especially since this box performs much better than the Leelbox for my needs. =)