NiPoGi AM21 Mini PC User Manual

1. Introduction

Thank you for choosing the NiPoGi AM21 Mini PC. This compact and powerful desktop computer is designed for a wide range of applications, from office productivity and multimedia entertainment to light gaming and professional tasks. Featuring an AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor, AMD Radeon 780M graphics, 32GB DDR5 RAM, and a 1TB NVMe SSD, the AM21 delivers high performance in a small form factor. This manual provides essential information for setting up, operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting your new Mini PC.

Figure 1.1: NiPoGi AM21 Mini PC overview highlighting processor, graphics, memory, storage, and connectivity.

2. Package Contents

Please check the package contents upon unboxing to ensure all items are present:

• 1 x NiPoGi AM21 Mini PC
• 1 x Power Adapter (European plug)
• 1 x User Manual
• 1 x HDMI Cable
• 1 x VESA Mount

3. Product Features

The NiPoGi AM21 Mini PC is equipped with advanced hardware to provide a robust computing experience.

• Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS (8 Cores/16 Threads, up to 4.9 GHz, 16MB L3 Cache) based on TSMC Zen4 4nm architecture.
• Graphics: Integrated AMD Radeon 780M Graphics (12 Cores, 2600 MHz) with RDNA 3 architecture.
• Memory: 32GB DDR5 5600 MHz SO-DIMM RAM (expandable up to 64GB).
• Storage: 1TB M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe3.0 SSD (with 2 M.2 2280 slots, expandable up to 4TB, SATA SSDs not supported).
• Operating System: Pre-installed Windows 11 Pro (64-bit).
• Display Support: Quad-screen 4K @ 60Hz output via 2x HDMI 2.1, 1x USB4 Type-C, and 1x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C (with DP support).
• Wireless Connectivity: Built-in WiFi 6 (802.11ax) dual-band (2.4G/5G) and Bluetooth 5.2.
• Wired Connectivity: Dual Gigabit LAN (1x 1000 Mbps, 1x 2.5G Ethernet).
• Ports:
  • 2 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A ports
  • 2 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A ports
  • 1 x USB4 Type-C port (40Gbps, PD/DP1.4)
  • 1 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C port (10Gbps, PD/DP/Charge/Data)
  • 2 x HDMI 2.1 ports
  • 2 x RJ45 Ethernet ports
  • 1 x 3.5mm Headphone/Microphone Combo Jack
  • 1 x DC Power Input
• Additional Features: Wake On LAN, RTC Wake, Auto Power On support.

Figure 3.1: Performance comparison of the AMD Ryzen 7 8745HS processor.

Figure 3.2: Performance comparison of the AMD Radeon 780M Graphics.

Figure 3.3: Internal view illustrating DDR5 memory and M.2 NVMe SSD expansion slots.

4. Setup Guide

4.1 Connecting Peripherals

1. Connect Display: Use the provided HDMI cable to connect your monitor to one of the HDMI 2.1 ports on the Mini PC. Alternatively, use a USB4 or USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C port with DisplayPort support for compatible monitors.
2. Connect Keyboard and Mouse: Plug your USB keyboard and mouse into the available USB Type-A ports.
3. Connect Power: Connect the power adapter to the DC input port on the Mini PC, then plug the adapter into a power outlet.
4. Network Connection (Optional): For a wired connection, connect an Ethernet cable to one of the RJ45 ports. For wireless, WiFi 6 is built-in.

Figure 4.1: Front and rear panel interfaces for connecting peripherals.

4.2 First Boot and Windows Setup

1. Press the power button on the front of the Mini PC.
2. Upon the first boot, the Windows 11 Pro setup wizard will guide you through initial configuration.
3. Important Tip: During the initial setup, it is recommended not to connect to the internet (either wired or Wi-Fi) until the operating system is fully loaded and stable. This helps avoid potential configuration issues. You can skip the network connection step and create a local account. Connect to the internet after the desktop appears.
4. Follow the on-screen prompts to select your language, region, and create a user account.

4.3 VESA Mounting (Optional)

The included VESA mount allows you to attach the Mini PC to the back of a compatible monitor or to a wall, saving desk space.

1. Attach the VESA bracket to the back of your monitor or desired surface using the provided screws.
2. Slide the Mini PC onto the VESA bracket until it clicks securely into place.

Figure 4.2: The Mini PC VESA mounted for a clean desktop setup.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1 Power On/Off

• Power On: Press the power button on the front panel.
• Shut Down: Click the Windows Start button, then select Power > Shut down.
• Restart: Click the Windows Start button, then select Power > Restart.
• Sleep: Click the Windows Start button, then select Power > Sleep.

5.2 Display Configuration

The NiPoGi AM21 supports up to four 4K displays simultaneously.

• Connect up to two monitors via HDMI 2.1 ports.
• Connect an additional monitor via the USB4 Type-C port (requires a compatible cable/adapter).
• Connect a fourth monitor via the USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-C port (requires a compatible cable/adapter with DisplayPort Alternate Mode).
• To configure multiple displays in Windows, right-click on the desktop, select "Display settings," and arrange your monitors as desired.

Figure 5.1: Example of a quad-display setup with the Mini PC.

5.3 Network and Bluetooth

• Wi-Fi: To connect to a wireless network, click the Wi-Fi icon in the taskbar, select your network, and enter the password.
• Ethernet: For a wired connection, ensure an Ethernet cable is connected to an RJ45 port and your router.
• Bluetooth: To pair Bluetooth devices, go to Windows Settings > Bluetooth & devices, and follow the instructions to add a new device.

5.4 USB4 Functionality

The USB4 port on your Mini PC offers versatile functionality:

• High-Speed Data Transfer: Up to 40Gbps for external storage devices.
• DisplayPort 1.4 Output: Connect an external monitor for video output.
• Power Delivery (PD): Can provide power to compatible devices or receive power from a compatible USB-PD source (check power requirements).

Figure 5.2: USB4 capabilities including high-speed data and display output.

6. Maintenance

6.1 General Care

• Keep the Mini PC in a well-ventilated area to prevent overheating.
• Avoid exposing the device to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• Clean the exterior with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or solvents.
• Ensure ventilation openings are clear of dust and obstructions.

6.2 Software Updates

• Regularly check for and install Windows updates to ensure system stability and security. Go to Windows Settings > Windows Update.
• Keep your drivers updated for optimal performance. You can usually find the latest drivers on the NiPoGi support website or AMD's official website.

6.3 Storage Expansion

The NiPoGi AM21 supports storage expansion. You can add an additional M.2 2280 NVMe PCIe SSD (up to 4TB).

• Power off the Mini PC and disconnect all cables.
• Carefully open the chassis (refer to the detailed instructions on the NiPoGi support website or included quick start guide for specific steps).
• Insert the new M.2 NVMe SSD into an available slot.
• Secure the SSD and close the chassis.
• After powering on, you may need to initialize and format the new drive in Windows Disk Management before it can be used.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Mini PC, please refer to the following common solutions:

7.1 No Display Output

• Ensure the monitor is powered on and correctly connected to the Mini PC via HDMI or USB-C.
• Try a different HDMI port or cable.
• Verify the monitor input source is set correctly (e.g., HDMI1, HDMI2, DisplayPort).
• If using a USB-C to DisplayPort/HDMI adapter, ensure it is compatible and functioning.

7.2 Wi-Fi or Ethernet Connection Issues

• Wi-Fi: Check if Wi-Fi is enabled in Windows settings. Restart your router and the Mini PC. Ensure you are entering the correct Wi-Fi password.
• Ethernet: Verify the Ethernet cable is securely connected to both the Mini PC and the router. Check the router's status lights for the connected port.
• Try updating network drivers.

7.3 System Slowdown or Freezing

• Close unnecessary applications running in the background.
• Check Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) for high CPU, RAM, or disk usage.
• Ensure the Mini PC has adequate ventilation and is not overheating.
• Run a disk cleanup and defragmentation (for HDDs, though SSDs don't need defragging).
• Scan for malware or viruses.

7.4 Auto Power On Feature

To enable automatic power-on after a power failure:

1. During startup, repeatedly press the "ESC" key to enter the BIOS interface.
2. Navigate to the "Boot" section.
3. Find and enable the "Automatic Power On" option.
4. Save changes and exit the BIOS.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

9.1 Warranty Information

The NiPoGi AM21 Mini PC comes with a 12-month free replacement warranty from the date of purchase. This warranty covers manufacturing defects and malfunctions under normal use. Please retain your proof of purchase for warranty claims.

The product complies with CE and UKCA safety standards.

9.2 Technical Support

NiPoGi provides LIFETIME technical support for the AM21 Mini PC. If you encounter any issues or have questions not covered in this manual, please contact our customer service team.

• Customer Service: Available 24/7. Please refer to the contact information provided on the NiPoGi official website or your purchase documentation.
• When contacting support, please have your product model (AM21) and purchase details ready.