The Core 100 is powered by Intel Core i7, i5 and i3 processors (depending on model purchased) combined with the Mobile Intel HM55 Express chipset. The Core 100 device supports up to 8GB total memory with 2 DDR3 memory slots that support up to 4GB in each slot; installed RAM depends of course on model purchased. The ASRock Core 100 also features the Intel HD Graphics GPU, 2.5" hard drive support, a DVD super Multi drive and 7.1 channel audio with THX TruStudio Pro Software built-in.
Overall, the ASRock Core 100 HTPC features a mid-grade PC build with a mix of high-end and lower-end PC hardware components. In addition the ASRock Core 100 HTPC also provides USB 3.0 support (speeds up to 10x faster than USB 2.0), ASRock App Charger support which charges Apple iPod devices even when the HTPC is in standby modes, and unique ASRock AIWI software that allows users to take advantage of the accelerometer built into their iPod devices to control onscreen games and programs.
A Bare Bones PC is simply a computer or system sold with only the most essential components that is meant to be assembled and installed by the consumer. Bare Bones PC kits usually leave room for users to add PC components and hardware if they desire to do so and possess the knowledge and skills required. Bare Bones kits are not difficult to assemble however they often include no manuals or "simple" documentation on doing so, because of this Bare Bones computers are only recommended for more advanced PC users.
