1. Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your Topton Firewall Mini PC. This versatile device is designed for various applications including firewall, home lab server, and network appliance, supporting operating systems like Proxmox, ESXi, and pfSense.
The Mini PC features Intel 12th Gen Alder Lake-N processors (N100/N150/i3-N305/i3-N355), DDR5 memory, NVMe storage, and extensive network connectivity with 2x10G SFP+ and 4x2.5G LAN ports, or 8x2.5G LAN ports depending on the configuration.
2. Product Features
- Intel® 12th generation Alder Lake-N low-power eight core processor (i3-N305/i3-N355) or quad-core processor (N100/N150).
- Built-in PCI-E x8 slot x4 signal support Intel 82599ES 2x10G optical port (optional).
- Built-in PCI-E x8 slot x4 signal support for Intel i211/i210/i226 four-port network card (optional).
- Built-in PCI-E x8 slot x4 signal support split into 4xM.2 NVMe x1 signals (optional).
- 1 M.2 NVMe (PCIe 3.0 x1 signal) size 2280.
- 1xSO-DIMM DDR5 4800MHz memory slot compatible with 5200/5600MHz.
- HDMI+DP+Type-C three display support 4K@60Hz.
- MINI-PCIe slot (support WiFi/4G module of USB2.0 signal, optional).
- 1 TF slot supports data storage or partial system boot.
- The whole machine is made of all aluminum alloy shell, and the dual heat pipe turbo fan actively dissipates heat.
3. Setup Guide
3.1 Unpacking and Inspection
Carefully remove the Mini PC from its packaging. Inspect the device for any signs of damage during transit. Ensure all accessories are present.
3.2 Connecting Peripherals
Refer to the product interface diagrams for port locations.
- Power: Connect the DC-12V power adapter to the power input port.
- Display: Connect your monitor to the HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort (DP), or Type-C port. The device supports 4K@60Hz output.
- Network:
- For 2x10G SFP+ and 4x2.5G LAN models: Connect Ethernet cables to the ETH0-ETH3 ports for 2.5G LAN connectivity. Use SFP+ modules for 10G fiber connections.
- For 8x2.5G LAN models: Connect Ethernet cables to the numbered LAN ports (1-4 on the front, and additional ports on the rear if applicable for 8x2.5G configuration).
- USB Devices: Connect keyboards, mice, or other USB peripherals to the available USB 2.0 and USB 3.0 ports.
- Audio: Connect speakers or headphones to the audio jack.
- SIM Card: If using a 4G module (optional), insert the SIM card into the SIM slot.
- TF Card: Insert a TF card into the TF socket for additional storage or system boot.
3.3 Initial Power On
After connecting all necessary peripherals, press the On/Off switch to power on the device. The power indicator light should illuminate.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1 Operating System Installation
The Topton Firewall Mini PC supports various operating systems suitable for network appliances and virtualization, including Proxmox, ESXi, and pfSense. Installation typically involves:
- Creating a bootable USB drive with your chosen operating system.
- Connecting the USB drive to the Mini PC.
- Accessing the BIOS/UEFI settings during boot-up (usually by pressing DEL or F2) to set the boot order.
- Following the on-screen instructions to install the operating system on the NVMe drive or other storage.
4.2 BIOS Settings
The device uses AMI ER BIOS which supports auto power on, watchdog, and GPIO. To access BIOS settings, press the designated key (e.g., DEL or F2) repeatedly during startup. Here you can configure boot options, system time, and other hardware settings.
4.3 Reset Button
A reset button (RST) is provided for system reset in case of unresponsiveness. Use a thin, pointed object to press the button.
5. Maintenance
5.1 Heat Dissipation
The Mini PC features an all-aluminum alloy shell and a dual heat pipe turbo fan for active heat dissipation. Ensure adequate airflow around the device to prevent overheating.
5.2 Cleaning
Regularly clean the exterior of the Mini PC with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners directly on the device. Ensure vents are free from dust accumulation to maintain optimal cooling performance.
5.3 Component Upgrades
The Mini PC allows for upgrades to memory and storage:
- Memory: The device has one SO-DIMM DDR5 4800MHz memory slot, compatible with 5200/5600MHz modules.
- Storage: It supports one M.2 NVMe (PCIe 3.0 x1 signal) size 2280. Additionally, there is a TF slot for data storage or partial system boot.
- Expandable: The PCI-E x8 slot (x4 signal) can be used with various adapter boards, such as 2x10G SFP+ optical, 4x2.5G network, or 4xM.2 NVMe x1 signals.
When performing upgrades, ensure the device is powered off and disconnected from the power source. Refer to the product structure analysis diagram for internal component locations.
6. Troubleshooting
- No Power:
- Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the Mini PC and a working power outlet.
- Verify the power outlet is functional.
- Check the power indicator light on the device.
- No Display:
- Ensure the monitor is powered on and correctly connected to the Mini PC via HDMI, DP, or Type-C.
- Try a different display cable or monitor.
- Verify the correct input source is selected on your monitor.
- Network Connectivity Issues:
- Check that Ethernet cables are securely connected to the LAN ports and your network device (router/switch).
- Observe the network activity indicator lights on the LAN ports.
- Verify network settings within your operating system.
- For SFP+ connections, ensure compatible SFP+ modules are correctly inserted and linked.
- System Unresponsive:
- Press and hold the power button for 5-10 seconds to force a shutdown, then restart.
- If the system remains unresponsive, use the RST button with a thin object to perform a hard reset.
7. Specifications
7.1 Processor Parameters
The Mini PC is available with various Intel 12th Gen Alder Lake-N processors. Refer to the table below for detailed specifications:
7.2 General Product Parameters
Detailed specifications for the Mini PC are provided below:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Processor Brand | Intel |
| Processor Model | N100/N150/i3-N305/N355 |
| Processor Main Frequency | Depends on CPU |
| Memory Capacity | 1xSO-DIMM DDR5 4800MHz (compatible with 5200/5600MHz) |
| Hard Drive Capacity | Supports 1xM.2 NVMe (PCIe 3.0 x1 signal) size 2280, 1xTF slot |
| Graphics Card Type | Integrated Card (Intel UHD Graphics) |
| Display Output | 1xHDMI 2.0, 1xDP 1.2, 1xType-C (all 4K@60Hz) |
| Network Interface | 4xIntel I226-V 2.5G RJ45, optional 2x10G SFP+ |
| USB Ports | 1xUSB 3.0, 5xUSB 2.0 |
| Cooling | Active cooling of dual heat pipe turbo fan |
| BIOS | AMI ER BIOS (supports auto power on, watchdog, GPIO, PXE) |
| Power Consumption | 6-15W |
| Power Supply | DC-12V |
| Chassis Material | Aluminum alloy |
| Expandable Options | PCI-E x8 slot for 2x10G SFP+, 4x2.5G network, or 4xM.2 NVMe adapter boards |
| Size (L*W*H) | 131.7mm * 185mm * 60mm |
| Color | Black, Grey |
| Installation Method | Desktop style |
| Work Environment | -0°C ~ +70°C, relative humidity of 5% - 85% |
8. User Tips
- For optimal performance in a firewall or routing setup, consider installing a lightweight, purpose-built operating system like pfSense or OPNsense.
- When using for virtualization (Proxmox, ESXi), ensure sufficient RAM and storage are installed for your virtual machines.
- Utilize the multiple LAN ports for network segmentation and advanced routing configurations.
- The SFP+ ports are ideal for high-speed connections to a core switch or other 10G network devices.
- Regularly check for firmware updates for improved stability and security.
9. Warranty and Support
This product is certified with CE, FCC, and RoHS standards, ensuring compliance with relevant safety and environmental regulations.
For technical support, warranty claims, or further assistance, please contact your retailer or the manufacturer directly. Keep your purchase receipt and product serial number handy when seeking support.