ZOTAC ZBOX-CI325NANO-U Series Nano Fan-less Mini PC Instruction Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, and maintenance of your ZOTAC ZBOX-CI325NANO-U Series Nano Fan-less Mini PC. This barebone system is designed for silent performance, featuring a passive-cooled chassis that eliminates cooling fans for a quiet computing experience. It is ideal for web browsing, email, productivity tasks, and HD entertainment.

Please read this manual thoroughly before beginning installation and retain it for future reference.

2. Package Contents

Verify that all items are present in your ZBOX package:

• ZOTAC ZBOX CI325 Nano Mini PC
• Power brick & cable
• VESA monitor mount (with 4 screws)
• Mini Optical S/PDIF adapter
• Driver CD (external optical drive required for installation)

3. Product Overview

3.1 Front Panel

Image: Front view of the ZOTAC ZBOX-CI325NANO-U Mini PC, displaying the power button, card reader, audio jacks, USB 3.0 ports, and status LEDs.

• Power Button: Turns the system on or off.
• Microphone Input: Connects to a microphone.
• Headphone/mini-SPDIF Output: Connects to headphones or a mini-SPDIF audio device.
• 3-in-1 Card Reader (SD/SDHC/SDXC): For reading memory cards.
• USB 3.0 Port: Connects to USB 3.0/2.0 devices.
• USB 3.0 Type-C Port: Connects to USB Type-C devices.
• Wi-Fi LED: Indicates Wi-Fi activity.
• Hard Drive LED: Indicates storage drive activity.
• Power LED: Indicates system power status.

3.2 Rear Panel

Image: Rear view of the ZOTAC ZBOX-CI325NANO-U Mini PC, showing the antenna connector, USB ports, Ethernet ports, HDMI, DisplayPort, VGA, and power input.

• Wi-Fi Antenna Connector: Connects the included Wi-Fi antenna.
• USB 3.0 Port: Connects to USB 3.0/2.0 devices.
• 2 x 10/100/1000 Ethernet (RJ45): Connects to a wired network.
• 2 x USB 2.0 Ports: Connects to USB 2.0 devices.
• HDMI 1.4b Output: Connects to an HDMI display (up to 3840x2160 at 30 Hz).
• DisplayPort 1.1a Output: Connects to a DisplayPort display (up to 3840x2160 at 30 Hz).
• VGA Output: Connects to a VGA display (up to 1920x1080 at 60 Hz).
• Power Connector: Connects the power brick.

4. Setup Instructions

The ZBOX-CI325NANO-U is a barebone system, requiring user installation of RAM and a storage drive.

4.1 Installing RAM (Memory)

1. Unscrew the four thumb screws on the bottom panel and carefully remove it.
2. Locate the two DDR3L-1600 SO-DIMM slots.
3. Align the notch on the SO-DIMM module with the notch in the slot.
4. Insert the module at a 45-degree angle and push down until the clips on both sides secure it.
5. The system supports up to 8GB of DDR3L-1600 SO-DIMM RAM. Refer to the troubleshooting section for compatible RAM modules if issues arise.

4.2 Installing Storage (HDD/SSD)

1. With the bottom panel still removed, locate the 2.5-inch SATA 6.0 Gbps HDD/SSD slot.
2. Gently slide your 2.5-inch SATA drive into the connector.
3. Secure the drive with the provided screws (if any, typically included with the drive or ZBOX accessory kit).
4. Replace the bottom panel and secure it with the thumb screws.

4.3 Connecting Peripherals

1. Display: Connect your monitor to one of the video output ports (HDMI, DisplayPort, or VGA) on the rear panel.
2. Keyboard & Mouse: Connect your USB keyboard and mouse to any available USB ports.
3. Network: For wired internet, connect an Ethernet cable to one of the RJ45 ports. For wireless, ensure the Wi-Fi antenna is connected to the rear panel.
4. Power: Connect the power brick to the DCIN port on the rear panel, then plug the power cable into an electrical outlet.

4.4 Initial Power-On

Press the power button on the front panel. The power LED should illuminate, indicating the system is starting.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Operating System Installation

Since this is a barebone system, an operating system (OS) must be installed. The ZBOX-CI325NANO-U is compatible with Microsoft Windows 10 (32/64-bit) and various Linux distributions. You will need a bootable USB drive with your chosen OS installer.

1. Insert your bootable OS installation USB drive into an available USB port.
2. Power on the system and repeatedly press the appropriate key (usually DEL or F2) to enter the BIOS/UEFI setup.
3. Navigate to the boot options and select your USB drive as the primary boot device.
4. Save changes and exit the BIOS/UEFI. The system will restart and begin the OS installation process.
5. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the OS installation.

5.2 Driver Installation

After OS installation, drivers are required for optimal performance. A driver CD is included in the package. If you do not have an external optical drive, you can download the latest drivers from the official ZOTAC website.

1. Insert the driver CD into an external optical drive connected to the ZBOX, or download drivers from the ZOTAC support website.
2. Run the driver installation utility or install drivers manually as needed.

6. Maintenance

6.1 Cleaning

Regularly clean the exterior of the ZBOX with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using liquid cleaners or solvents. Ensure the ventilation holes are free from dust accumulation to maintain optimal passive cooling performance.

6.2 Firmware Updates

Periodically check the ZOTAC website for BIOS/firmware updates. Updates can improve system stability, performance, and compatibility. Follow the instructions provided with the firmware update package carefully, typically requiring a USB flash drive.

7. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your ZOTAC ZBOX-CI325NANO-U.

7.1 System Does Not Power On or Boot

• Ensure the power adapter is securely connected to both the ZBOX and a working power outlet.
• Verify that RAM modules are correctly seated in their slots. Improperly installed RAM can prevent the system from booting.
• Check RAM compatibility. Some DDR3L modules may not be compatible. ZOTAC tech support has provided a list of compatible modules:
  • ADATA AXDS1600GC4G9 (4GB DDR3L-1600)
  • Crucial CT51264BF160B.16FMD (4GB DDR3L-1600)
  • CRUCIAL CT51264BF160BJ-C8FER (4GB DDR3L-1600)
  • ELIXIR M2S4G64B8HG4N-D1 (4GB DDR3L-1600)
  • KINGMAX FSGF63F-C6K2B (4GB DDR3L-1600)

7.2 USB Port Issues (Random Ejection, Unstable Transfers)

• Some unpowered USB hubs may cause instability or random device ejection due to insufficient power delivery. If experiencing issues, connect USB devices directly to the ZBOX or use a powered USB hub.

7.3 System Overheating or Crashing

• The ZBOX-CI325NANO-U features passive cooling, meaning it operates without fans. It is normal for the exterior to feel warm during operation.
• Ensure adequate airflow around the device and that ventilation holes are not obstructed.
• Check BIOS settings. If 'turbo boost' is enabled and causing instability, consider disabling it in the BIOS.
• For prolonged heavy loads, some users have found success with adding a 3mm thermal conductive pad between the SSD and the chassis for improved heat dissipation.

7.4 Operating System Specific Issues

• For Linux distributions like Ubuntu/Debian, you might encounter a 'black screen' issue unless a graphical user interface (GUI) is installed.
• If using pfSense, issues with the memory card reader can lead to longer boot times.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, technical support, and driver downloads, please visit the official ZOTAC website or contact ZOTAC customer support directly. Keep your purchase receipt for warranty claims.