Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the setup, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of your MINIX Z97 Mini PC. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the device to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Image: The MINIX Z97 Mini PC, a compact gray square device, shown from an angled top-down view.
The MINIX Z97 is a compact and powerful mini PC equipped with an Intel Alder Lake N97 processor, 12GB LPDDR5X RAM, and a 512GB NVMe SSD. It supports 4K triple display output and features dual LAN ports for versatile connectivity.
Image: The MINIX Z97 Mini PC demonstrating its compact size, fitting in the palm of a hand and next to a smartphone.
Package Contents
Verify that all items listed below are included in your package:
- 1 x MINIX Z97 Mini PC
- 1 x HDMI Cable
- 1 x US Power Adapter
- 1 x VESA Mount
- 1 x User Manual
Image: An illustration showing all items included in the MINIX Z97 Mini PC retail package.
Setup Instructions
- Connect Peripherals: Connect your keyboard, mouse, and other USB devices to the available USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports on the Mini PC.
Image: A detailed diagram illustrating the various ports and their locations on the MINIX Z97 Mini PC.
- Connect to Display: Use the provided HDMI cable or a DisplayPort cable to connect the Mini PC to your monitor or TV. The device supports up to three 4K displays via 2x HDMI and 1x DP1.4 ports.
Image: A MINIX Z97 Mini PC connected to three monitors, demonstrating its 4K triple display capability for multitasking.
- Network Connection: For wired internet, connect an Ethernet cable to one of the dual LAN ports. For wireless connectivity, the device supports WiFi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2.
Image: The MINIX Z97 Mini PC with two Ethernet cables plugged into its dual LAN ports, highlighting its network connectivity options.
- Power On: Connect the US power adapter to the DCIN port on the Mini PC, then plug it into a power outlet. Press the power button located on the front of the device to turn it on.
- VESA Mount Installation (Optional): The included VESA mount allows you to attach the Mini PC to the back of a compatible monitor or TV, saving desk space. Ensure your display supports VESA mounting and verify screen fit before installation.
Image: A visual guide demonstrating how to attach the MINIX Z97 Mini PC to the rear of a monitor using the VESA mount for a clean setup.
Operating Instructions
Initial Boot and Windows Setup
Upon first power-on, the device will guide you through the Windows 11 Pro setup process. Follow the on-screen prompts to configure your operating system, network settings, and user accounts.
Display Configuration
The MINIX Z97 supports up to three independent 4K displays. To configure multiple displays:
- Connect your monitors to the HDMI and DisplayPort outputs.
- Right-click on the desktop and select "Display settings" (Windows).
- Detect and arrange your displays as desired (e.g., extend, duplicate).
Network and Bluetooth
- Wired LAN: Ensure Ethernet cables are securely connected. The system will automatically detect the wired connection.
- Wi-Fi: Access network settings in Windows to connect to your preferred Wi-Fi 6 network.
- Bluetooth: Enable Bluetooth in Windows settings to pair with compatible devices like keyboards, mice, or headphones.
BIOS Settings
The Z97's BIOS menu allows for advanced configurations, including:
- Auto Power-on: Configure the device to automatically power on after a power outage.
- RTC Wake up: Schedule the device to wake up at a specific time.
- Wake On LAN: Enable the device to be woken up remotely over a network.
To access the BIOS, press the designated key (usually DEL or F2) repeatedly during startup.
Maintenance
Cooling System
The MINIX Z97 features a quiet and efficient cooling system with high-efficiency heat pipes, a large heatsink, and a centrifugal fan. This design keeps noise levels below 30dB during operation.
Image: An exploded view of the MINIX Z97 Mini PC's internal cooling components, including the fan, heat pipes, and heat dissipation area.
To maintain optimal cooling performance:
- Ensure proper airflow around the device. Avoid blocking ventilation openings.
- Regularly clean dust from the exterior vents using a soft brush or compressed air.
- Do not operate the device in excessively hot or humid environments.
Storage Expansion
The MINIX Z97 includes a 512GB PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe SSD. For additional storage, the device features one M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0 x4 slot which also supports SATA 3.0 SSDs, allowing expansion up to 1TB. Refer to the detailed specifications for compatible storage types and installation procedures.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your MINIX Z97 Mini PC, refer to the following common troubleshooting steps:
- 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 by plugging in another device.
- No Display:
- Check that the HDMI or DisplayPort cable is firmly connected to both the Mini PC and the monitor.
- Ensure the monitor is powered on and set to the correct input source.
- Try a different cable or monitor to rule out faulty components.
- No Internet Connection:
- For wired connections, check Ethernet cable integrity and router status.
- For Wi-Fi, ensure Wi-Fi is enabled in Windows settings and you are connected to the correct network with the correct password.
- Restart your router and modem.
- Slow Performance:
- Close unnecessary applications running in the background.
- Check for available Windows updates and install them.
- Ensure the cooling vents are not obstructed.
For persistent issues, please contact MINIX support as detailed in the Support section.
Specifications
The following table outlines the key technical specifications of the MINIX Z97 Mini PC:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Processor | Intel Alder Lake N97 (4C/4T, up to 3.6GHz) |
| RAM | 12GB LPDDR5X |
| Storage | 512GB PCIe 3.0 x4 NVMe SSD (Expandable up to 1TB via M.2 2280 slot) |
| Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics |
| Video Output | 2x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 1.4 (Supports 4K Triple Display) |
| LAN | Dual 1G Ethernet ports |
| Wireless Connectivity | Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.2 |
| USB Ports | 3x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A |
| Audio | 3.5mm Audio Input/Output Combo Jack |
| Operating System | Windows 11 Pro |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 3.46 x 3.46 x 1.65 inches (88 x 88 x 42 mm) |
| Weight | 6.3 ounces |
| Special Features | VESA Mount support, Auto Power-on, RTC Wake up, Wake On LAN |
Image: A visual representation of the Intel Processor N97, highlighting its 4 cores, 4 threads, 6MB cache, and 3.60 GHz max turbo frequency, with a performance comparison chart.
Warranty Information
The MINIX Z97 Mini PC comes with a 1-year limited warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and ensures the product functions as intended under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
For detailed warranty terms and conditions, please refer to the official MINIX website or contact customer support.
Support
For technical assistance or customer service, please use the following methods:
- Online Support:
- Access your Amazon account, navigate to "Your Orders," and select "Ask Product Question" for the MINIX Z97.
- Official Website:
- Visit the official MINIX website for offline maintenance services, FAQs, and additional resources.
- Technical Support:
- MINIX provides 24-hour technical support. Contact information can be found on the official website.
