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A plug computer is an external device, often configured for use in the home or office as a compact computer. It consists of a high-performance, low-power system-on-a-chip processor with several I/O ports (USB ports, ...) and typically runs any of a number of Linux distributions. Most versions do not have provisions for connecting a display and are best suited as for running media server, back-up services, file sharing and remote access functions, thus acting as a bridge between in-home protocols such as Digital Living Network Alliance (DLNA) and Server Message Block (SMB) and cloud based services. There are, however, plug computer offerings that have analog VGA monitor and/or HDMI connectors, which, along with multiple USB ports, permit the use of a display, keyboard, and mouse, thus making them full-fledged, low-power alternatives to desktop and notebook computers. The name "plug computer" is derived from the small configuration of such devices: plug computers are often enclosed in an AC power plug or AC adapter. Plug computers typically consume little power and are inexpensive. One manufacturer claims its $119 plug computer draws 1.2 watts and can cost $2 a year to run. == History == A number of other devices of this type began to appear at the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show. * On January 6, 2009 CTERA Networks launched a device called ''CloudPlug'' that provides online backup at local disk speeds and overlays a file sharing service. The device also transforms any external USB hard drive into a network-attached storage device. * On January 7, 2009, Cloud Engines unveiled ''Pogoplug'' network access server. * On January 8, 2009, Axentra announced availability of their ''HipServ'' platform. * On February 23, 2009, Marvell Technology Group announced its plans to build a mini-industry around plug computers. * On August 19, 2009, CodeLathe announced availability of their ''TonidoPlug'' network access server.〔(【引用サイトリンク】 title=CodeLathe introduces TonidoPlug )〕 * On November 13, 2009 QuadAxis launched its plug computing device product line and development platform, featuring the ''QuadPlug'' and ''QuadPC'' and running QuadMix, a modified Linux.〔(【引用サイトリンク】 title=QuadAxis Launches Plug Computers )〕 * On January 5, 2010, Iomega announced their ''iConnect'' network access server.〔(【引用サイトリンク】 title=Iomega's New iConnect Wireless Data Station: Share Files, Manage Torrents, Access Your Data Remotely, Backup Your PC and Mac And Much More for Only $99 )〕 * On January 7, 2010 Pbxnsip launched its plug computing device the ''sipJack'' running pbxnsip: an IP Communications platform.〔(【引用サイトリンク】 title=pbxnsip Demonstrate Sheeva Plug compatibility )〕 抄文引用元・出典: フリー百科事典『 ウィキペディア（Wikipedia）』 ■ウィキペディアで「plug computer」の詳細全文を読む スポンサード リンク
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