# Stick PC

> single-board computer in the form of a small dongle, plugging into a display port

**Wikidata**: [Q3359592](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q3359592)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stick_PC)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/stick-pc

Here’s the structured knowledge entry for **Stick PC** based on the provided source material:

---

## Summary  
A Stick PC is a single-board computer in the form of a small dongle that plugs directly into a display port, such as HDMI. It provides full computing functionality in a compact, portable design, often used for lightweight tasks or as a low-cost desktop alternative. Examples include the Intel Compute Stick and early models like the Android Mini PC MK802.

## Key Facts  
- **Form Factor**: A dongle-shaped single-board computer that plugs into a display port (e.g., HDMI).  
- **Parent Class**: Subclass of **single-board computer** (complete computer on one circuit board).  
- **Early Example**: **Android Mini PC MK802** (2012) was one of the first Stick PCs.  
- **Related Products**: Includes **Intel Compute Stick**, **Chromebit** (Chrome OS variant), and **Cotton Candy**.  
- **Aliases**: Also called *PC on a stick*, *stick computer*, or *computer-on-a-stick*.  
- **Connector**: Uses an **audio/video connector** (e.g., HDMI) with an electrical plug.  
- **Shape**: Compact, dongle-like design for portability.  
- **Partially Coincident With**: **HDMI stick** (a subset of Stick PCs).  

## FAQs  
### Q: What is the difference between a Stick PC and a Chromebit?  
A: A Stick PC is a general term for any dongle-sized computer, while a Chromebit specifically runs Chrome OS. Both plug into displays but use different operating systems.  

### Q: Can a Stick PC replace a traditional desktop?  
A: For basic tasks (web browsing, media playback), yes. However, Stick PCs lack the power and expandability of full desktops for intensive workloads.  

### Q: What was the first Stick PC?  
A: The **Android Mini PC MK802** (released in 2012) is one of the earliest known Stick PCs, running Android on a dongle-sized device.  

## Why It Matters  
Stick PCs revolutionized compact computing by offering a portable, low-cost alternative to traditional desktops and laptops. Their plug-and-play design made them ideal for digital signage, lightweight office work, or as media centers. By integrating full computing capabilities into a dongle, they reduced hardware clutter and expanded access to computing in education and emerging markets. Though limited in performance, their affordability and simplicity filled a niche for users needing basic functionality without bulky hardware.  

## Notable For  
- **Portability**: One of the smallest form factors for a full computer.  
- **Early Innovation**: Pioneered by devices like the **MK802** (2012) and later popularized by Intel’s Compute Stick.  
- **Versatility**: Used in diverse applications, from home entertainment to enterprise displays.  
- **Low Power Consumption**: Energy-efficient compared to traditional desktops.  

## Body  
### Form Factor and Design  
- Shape: Resembles a **dongle** (e.g., USB or HDMI stick).  
- Dimensions: Typically matches standard display port sizes (e.g., HDMI stick dimensions).  

### Technical Specifications  
- **Processor**: Often uses low-power chips (e.g., Intel Atom in Compute Stick).  
- **OS**: Runs lightweight operating systems (Android, Linux, Windows, or Chrome OS).  
- **Storage**: Limited onboard storage (e.g., 32GB–64GB), often expandable via microSD.  

### Historical Context  
- **2012**: **MK802** introduced as an early Android-based Stick PC.  
- **2015**: Intel launched the **Compute Stick**, mainstreaming the form factor.  

### Related Products  
- **Chromebit**: Chrome OS variant by ASUS.  
- **Cotton Candy**: Early Linux/Android Stick PC by FXI Technologies.  

## Schema Markup  
```json
{
  "@context": "https://schema.org",
  "@type": "Thing",
  "name": "Stick PC",
  "description": "A single-board computer in the form of a small dongle, plugging into a display port.",
  "sameAs": [
    "https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q17022358",
    "https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stick_PC"
  ],
  "additionalType": "Form factor"
}