1. Introduction
Thank you for choosing the GMKtec Mini Desktop Computer. This compact yet powerful mini PC is designed to deliver exceptional performance for a wide range of applications, from daily computing tasks and business office work to gaming and home entertainment. Featuring the latest 12th Generation Intel Core i5-12450H processor, ample memory, and high-speed storage, it offers a responsive and efficient computing experience. This manual will guide you through the setup, operation, and maintenance of your new mini PC.
Image: Front view of the GMKtec Mini Desktop Computer, showcasing its compact design and front USB ports.
2. Package Contents
Please verify that all items listed below are included in your package. If any items are missing or damaged, please contact GMKtec customer support.
- GMKtec Nucbox M3 Core i5 12450H Mini PC
- Power Supply & Cable
- VESA Mount with Screws
- HDMI Cable
- User Manual
Image: All components included in the GMKtec Mini PC retail package, neatly arranged.
3. Product Overview: Ports and Features
Familiarize yourself with the various ports and features of your GMKtec Mini PC to ensure proper connectivity and optimal usage.
Front Panel
- USB 3.2 Ports (x2): For connecting high-speed peripherals like external hard drives or flash drives.
- Power Button: To turn the device on or off.
Rear Panel
- DC Port: For connecting the power adapter.
- HDMI 2.0 Ports (x2): For connecting displays, supporting up to 4K@60Hz resolution.
- Intel i225v 2.5GbE LAN Port: For high-speed wired network connection.
- USB 3.2 Ports (x1): Additional high-speed USB port.
- USB 2.0 Port (x1): For connecting standard peripherals like keyboards or mice.
- Type-C Port (DP/DATA): Supports DisplayPort output and data transfer.
- Audio-in/out Jack (3.5mm CTIA): For connecting headphones or external speakers.
Image: Detailed diagram illustrating the front and rear ports of the GMKtec Mini PC.
4. Setup Instructions
Follow these steps to set up your GMKtec Mini Desktop Computer:
- Connect to Power: Plug the power adapter into the DC port on the rear of the mini PC, then plug the other end into a power outlet.
- Connect to Display: Use the provided HDMI cable to connect your monitor or TV to one of the HDMI ports on the rear of the mini PC. If using multiple displays, connect additional monitors to the second HDMI port and/or the Type-C (DP/DATA) port using appropriate cables/adapters.
- Connect Peripherals: Connect your keyboard, mouse, and any other USB devices to the available USB ports.
- Connect to Network (Optional): For a wired connection, plug an Ethernet cable into the 2.5GbE LAN port. For wireless, ensure your WiFi network is available (see Section 6 for details).
- Power On: Press the power button on the front of the mini PC. The power indicator light will illuminate.
- Initial Setup: Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the operating system setup (e.g., Windows 11 Pro or Linux).
5. Operating Instructions
Power On/Off
- To Power On: Press the power button once.
- To Shut Down: From the operating system, select the 'Shut Down' option. Alternatively, press and hold the power button for 5-7 seconds for a forced shutdown (use only when necessary).
- To Restart: From the operating system, select the 'Restart' option.
Operating System
Your GMKtec Mini PC comes pre-installed with an operating system (e.g., Windows 11 Pro). Follow the standard procedures for your chosen OS for software installation, system updates, and general usage. The device is also compatible with Linux and Ubuntu.
6. Upgrades and Maintenance
Memory (RAM) Upgrade
The mini PC is equipped with 16GB (8GB*2) DDR4 RAM and supports expansion up to 64GB. To upgrade the RAM:
- Ensure the mini PC is powered off and disconnected from all power sources.
- Carefully remove the screws from the bottom cover of the mini PC.
- Gently lift the bottom cover to expose the internal components.
- Locate the SO-DIMM slots. Press the clips on both sides of the existing RAM module to release it, then pull it out.
- Insert the new DDR4 SO-DIMM module(s) into the slots, ensuring they are properly seated and the clips snap into place.
- Replace the bottom cover and secure it with the screws.
Storage (SSD) Upgrade
The mini PC includes a 512GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 2280 NVMe SSD and supports expansion up to 2TB. It also supports an additional M.2 2242 PCIe/SATA SSD up to 2TB. To upgrade or add storage:
- Follow steps 1-3 from the RAM upgrade section to open the mini PC.
- Locate the M.2 2280 or M.2 2242 slot.
- If replacing, remove the existing SSD by unscrewing it and pulling it out. If adding, ensure the slot is empty.
- Insert the new M.2 SSD into the slot at an angle, then gently push it down and secure it with the screw.
- Replace the bottom cover and secure it with the screws.
Image: Diagram showing how to remove the bottom cover and install or replace SO-DIMM RAM and M.2 SSDs.
Image: Exploded view of the GMKtec Mini PC, highlighting the cooling fan, DDR4 RAM slots, and M.2 SSD slots.
7. Connectivity
WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2
The GMKtec Mini PC features WiFi 6 for high-speed wireless internet connectivity, offering transmission speeds up to 3.5Gbps and improved bandwidth, lower latency, and wider coverage compared to WiFi 5. Bluetooth 5.2 is integrated for connecting wireless peripherals such as keyboards, mice, and audio devices, providing improved sound quality and energy efficiency.
Image: Comparison chart illustrating the speed and performance benefits of WiFi 6 over WiFi 5, alongside Bluetooth 5.2 capabilities.
2.5G Lightning Fast Ethernet
Equipped with an Intel i225v 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, this mini PC offers wired network speeds up to 2.5 times faster than standard Gigabit Ethernet. This ensures rapid data transfers and a stable connection for demanding network tasks. It is compatible with various operating systems including Linux, Ubuntu, and ESXI VMware.
Image: Visual representation of the 2.5G Ethernet port and its speed capabilities compared to 1000Mbps Ethernet.
8. Triple Screen Display
The GMKtec Mini PC supports triple screen display output, allowing you to connect up to three 4K monitors simultaneously. This is achieved through its two HDMI 2.0 ports and one Type-C (DisplayPort 1.4) port, providing a versatile setup for multitasking, professional work, or immersive entertainment.
Image: Illustration of the GMKtec Mini PC connected to three monitors, demonstrating its triple screen display capability.
9. Cooling System
The GMKtec Mini PC incorporates an efficient cooling system designed to maintain optimal operating temperatures and prevent overheating. It features superconducting copper twin turbine pipes and a strong cooling fan that allows air to flow freely from multiple directions, ensuring effective heat dissipation even under heavy workloads.
Image: Close-up view of the mini PC's cooling fan and copper heat pipes, illustrating the efficient heat dissipation design.
10. Specifications
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Processor | 12th Gen Intel Core i5-12450H (8 Cores, 12 Threads, up to 4.40GHz) |
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 1.20GHz |
| RAM | 16GB DDR4 (8GB*2) Dual Channel, 3200 MHz (Expandable to 64GB) |
| Storage | 512GB PCIe 3.0 M.2 2280 NVMe SSD (Expandable to 2TB) |
| Additional Storage Slot | M.2 2242 PCIe/SATA (Supports up to 2TB) |
| Video Output | 2 x HDMI 2.0 (4K@60Hz), 1 x Type-C (DP/DATA) (4K@60Hz) |
| USB Ports | 3 x USB 3.2, 1 x USB 2.0, 1 x Type-C (Power/Data) |
| Network | Intel i225v 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 6 (802.11ax) |
| Wireless | Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Audio | 1 x Audio-in/out Jack (3.5mm CTIA) |
| Operating System | OS Pro (Compatible with Linux, Ubuntu) |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 5.2 x 4.92 x 2.28 inches |
| Weight | 3.23 pounds |
| Color | Black |
11. Troubleshooting
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your GMKtec Mini PC. If you experience problems not covered here, please refer to the warranty and support section.
No Display Output
- Check Cables: Ensure the HDMI or Type-C cable is securely connected to both the mini PC and the monitor.
- Power Cycle: Turn off both the mini PC and the monitor, then turn them back on.
- Input Source: Verify that your monitor is set to the correct input source (e.g., HDMI 1, HDMI 2, DisplayPort).
- Test with Another Monitor/Cable: If possible, try connecting the mini PC to a different monitor or using a different HDMI/Type-C cable to rule out faulty hardware.
No Power
- Power Connection: Ensure the power adapter is firmly connected to the mini PC's DC port and the wall outlet.
- Power Outlet: Test the power outlet with another device to confirm it is working.
- Power Adapter: Ensure you are using the original GMKtec power adapter.
Slow Performance
- Close Background Applications: Too many programs running simultaneously can slow down the system. Close unnecessary applications.
- Check Storage Space: Ensure your SSD has sufficient free space. A full drive can impact performance.
- System Updates: Ensure your operating system and drivers are up to date.
- Malware Scan: Run a comprehensive antivirus/anti-malware scan.
- Consider Upgrades: If performance remains an issue, consider upgrading RAM or SSD (refer to Section 6).
Network Connectivity Issues
- Wired Connection: Ensure the Ethernet cable is properly connected to both the mini PC and the router/modem. Check router status.
- Wireless Connection: Verify that WiFi is enabled on the mini PC and you are connected to the correct network with the correct password. Restart your router/modem.
- Driver Issues: Ensure network drivers are installed and up to date.
12. Warranty and Support
GMKtec offers a 1-year limited warranty for each mini PC, starting from the date of purchase. This warranty covers all defects due to design and workmanship. For warranty claims or technical assistance, please contact GMKtec customer support through their official channels. Please have your product model number and purchase information ready when contacting support.
For the latest drivers, FAQs, and additional support resources, please visit the official GMKtec website.
