I bought a NEW MINI-PC for astrophotography! Didn't expect it to be this good...

I really like having a small yet reasonably powerful PC I can run N.I.N.A. on! The Mele Quieter 2 fit that bill perfectly (and I was able to pay for it by selling the old PCs I was using). Not sponsored!
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[@Barbaria_Sailing]

I wake up in the morning and Cuiv has done everything for me, that’s lazy 😁. Thanks for the video! I would like to see how it performs in the field, setting it all up (polar,guiding,focusing and imaging) via Remote Desktop on phone or iPad like you can do with the ASI .

[@davidforeman7046]

Cuiv much of my education on controlling the gear has been on a Windows 11 laptop. Most problems were easily solved. In particular the ASCOM drivers, including the DSLR Canon camera. N.I.N.A, PHD, SharpCap 4.0, KStars (to communicate with R-Pi setup) all work in W11. You can also turn off updates altogether if that suits you.

[@TomDastrup]

I ended up replacing my beelink mini PC that had a fan with the new mele quieter 3. It came with windows 11 pro, which I was worried about initially, but it has been flawless. Thanks for the great recommendation and enjoy your break. 🙂

[@clarkastro2510]

I've been using the same little computer for about 3-4 months now and it's working great! I've used it on some hot nights during the summer with no problems. W10Pro remote.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Good to know it's been doing well even when it was hot! Thank you!

[@ChrisHoward]

I bought the exact min i PC from Amazon on Friday, and it's arriving today! It was the four USB 3 ports that sold it for me. Good to hear the quad core J4125 is "snappy"!

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

I'm sure you'll enjoy it! :)

[@johnomahony3489]

I picked up the same Mele Q2 mini-pc a few months ago and had a chance to use it a few times from a remote dark sky site a few hours from Brisbane. I am running APT and PHD on it with my ZWO 2600MC and 120 mini guide camera. It's an awesome little computer. I put a 500GB M2 ssd into it to store my images which are 50MB each. I stick it to my tripod legs with a strip of 3M Dual-Lock and a thin piece of Velco as a back up. It does get quiet warm, as it is fanless, but there is consequently no problem with dew forming on it. Using a USB powered monitor and a wireless keyboard makes a great portable setup-no laptop required. It also makes a great 4K video streaming pc when not on the mount. I have access to 4G wifi from my site so I can watch You Tube while waiting for my imaging session to finish. The biggest benefit is that it has super low power consumption. I use a 98 amp hour battery and can comfortably get two full nights out of it running the PC, mount, cameras and two dew heaters.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Great to know all those details from experience! I didn't realize the file sizes from the 2600MC were so huge! Thanks for sharing :)

[@matthewsmith5104]

I use a Beelink SEI10 mini PC which is kind of bulky, although it's pretty powerful using a Core i3 processor. Maybe a bit overkill for most people, but if you want to run NINA, Stellarium (for finding targets and sending coordinates to NINA) and Pixinsight (for EZ Livestack) it works great. And, although it's advertised as working on 19v and the power supply it comes with supplies 19v, I recently discovered that it will actually work totally fine if you supply it with 12v instead.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Very cool!

[@andrebremer7772]

I have been running a couple of Beelink U55s which operate at 12V by default. Very convenient.

[@darknight_astro]

I’ve been using the Mele Quieter 2 for several months now and love it - supports Windows 11 as well!

[@elythomaslumber]

We need a video and some words about the performance of this nice lttle box using N.I.N.A. and PDH2 for example! ;-)

[@HogarthsAstrophotography]

I use the smaller height Intel NUCs, have two and they work great. 12V, gen 8 Intel CPU. Interested that this lower spec CPU is good enough for common Astro progs. Will certainly take a look

[@tomzepf4360]

Thanks for the pointer Cuiv! I've been lazily looking for something fanless to replace my old NUC7 and this looked pretty close to what I wanted. I got the MeLE, a 1TB fast NVMe disk, and a couple extra power supplies so I could make my own cables with powerpole connectors. It is working out great so far. I did have to rediscover all the settings for Windows 10/11 and NINA and ASCOM and etc, etc. The only complaint I have and it is really minor is the blue LED power button - I wish it were red (or BIOS could make it red) instead.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

True! When the PC is off the LED is red... would be nice to be able to keep it that way. Manufacturers of general purpose products like blue and green LEDs far too much...

[@mattc7425]

I've been using various versions of BeeLink Mini PCs and they work great. Also, please note that MANY Mini PCs that recommend 19 Volts will work perfectly fine with only 12 Volts...

[@geoffc1862]

Interesting. My one issue with my beelink has been the short cable - but if what you say is correct, I could maybe use a 12v supply from my Pegasus.

[@MathewKelson]

I almost commented on one of your older videos earlier this week to ask what mini PC you were using and then this video pops up! I've been wanting to add a remote PC to my mount for a while now but wasn't sure where to start so this video couldn't have come at a better time. Love your videos mate, always interesting, explained clearly and simply a pleasure to watch!

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Thanks Mathew! Glad this video came right on time :)

[@steveboone8185]

Ordered one of these right after seeing your review. NINA and all software/drivers installed and so far I love it. Of course, haven't been able to get first light with it because clouds rolled in as soon as I opened the box. Can't wait to actually give it a try. As always, thanks Cuiv!

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Enjoy it and I hope you get clear skies soon!

[@arpadjakab-peter5431]

Hi! So can I use my smart phone as a screen and use NINA ? That would be a life changer for me thanks

[@gnashermedia]

I'm using a small Intel based comput stick. Boots automatically as soon as it get power. So I can reset my whole setup remote by switching off the power supply via a WiFi Walladapter. I'm also using N.I.N.A., Phd2, etc. When I set up everything using remote access tools I can view it via my smartphone and later control it very easy via PC. I love it. So nearly identical to your setup. I'm using a powered USB3 Hub with on/off switches for every port so I can controll everything connected via USB. I have everything in a small box that I put next to the telescope mount so that I do not have more load on top of everything. This way I also have an external USB3 Disk for image mirroring/storing and a 230V powerbar/Multi-Outlet with USB Power port. I run the dew heater from this so I don't overload the usb hub. And when imaging I just have to take the box and the scope out. Put the mount in position, scope onto it, box next to it. And then polar allign and shoot. Working like a charm. Happy imaging and thanks for the video.

[@uhadonejob]

A lot of the NUC pcs will run at a lower voltage than the power supply they come with. Often the spec will give a range. I have used one in the past and the DC range was 12-30V. Even 12V batteries are above 12 V for much of their draw. Of course to power a lot of accessories you need extra juice.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

I'll have to try!

[@pamelawhitfield4570]

Beware voltage drop due to resistance in wires. I run my ‘12V’ power supply around 12.8V and measure significant drop before even turning on any of the power hogs. (Mount runs off separate 13.7V supply) Lead acid batteries average around 13.7 V but can sag badly when their remaining capacity drops.

[@zevapini6485]

When connecting the mini PC to your home wifi (or any internet facing connection) set it as a metered connection. It prevents windows from automatically downloading updates.

[@tonykostansek9148]

Latte Panda Alpha has been out for years and in my opinion its the best Astro pc I've ever used. It also has a Integrated Arduino built on the board. SAo you can build a Dew heater project or Focuser project and run it on board. I designed and 3D printed a case that will mount right on the telescope. Has USB3 or 12 volt input voltage. Full NVME SSD and Micro SD support Thanks

[@pointcookobservatory]

A late post, but hopefully useful. You provided such a good review and setup recommendation that I went ahead and bought the unit (Celeron J4125, 8Gb Ram, 128Gb eMMC storage). Merci, Cuiv! Absolutely brilliant. Small, cheap, works flawlessly. Mine came with Windows 11 - it's absolutely fine (especially since it's really just a slave PC). Installed APT, PHD2, PoleMaster, FreeFileSync/ReatTimeSync and TeamViewer. Connected to EQ6R-Pro, ZWO ASI2600MM, ASI174MM (for guiding), ZWO EFW, PoleMaster. Canibalised an additional charger (cheapest option) to make a cable with a regular 12V plug for use in the field. Added a HDMI dummy plug (super cheap) so that the screen dimensions/resolution in TeamViewer were acceptable (it makes the mini-PC think that it has a screen with a decent resolution attached rather than defaulting to a low-res setting). Now I can sit and watch as subs are automatically sent to my main PC, and minotor and listen to the APT voice from my Tablet, Phone or PC from the warm indoors. I was concerned that eMMC might not be up to snuff performance wise (compared to SSD) but it is good. Again, it's only a slave PC that doesnt have to work too hard and the subs are all sent progressively with RealTimeSync to the main PC where the real grunt work is done. Also, once set up, there is no need for a mouse, keyboard or monitor; it's just another little box attached to the mount. Thanks again, Cuiv.

[@IceNein763]

Cuiv, I think I subscribed to you about a week before you went on your hiatus. I hope you're doing well. I'm glad that you have left us such a wealth of useful videos. Hope to see you posting videos again soon!

[@lukomatico]

I have to say, this thing looks like a lot of fun, for not a lot of money! - great concept! :-D

[@JonnyBravo0311]

I use a Beelink mini PC that I got during some lightning deal on Amazon earlier this year. It's powered by a standard 12V barrel plug. I think what we all really want to know is what is the pink striped thing you have hanging from the side of that mount?

[@astrojw1039]

His mount likes its privacy.

[@JonnyBravo0311]

@Astro JW 😂

[@IcedReaver]

I think it contains desiccant for absorbing moisture. I saw a video not long ago where he reviews a waterproof cover and he explains the peg bag at 7:15 in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZycemmvm79jgbc

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Astro JW is absolutely right :p but IcedReaver is even Right-er, it's a bag with desiccant :)

[@JonnyBravo0311]

@@CuivTheLazyGeek I thought it might be something like that. I use a product called "DampRid" for my boat.

[@JoeBob79569]

You helped me dodge a bullet with this video! I had just ordered an MSI Cubi mini pc and I just assumed it was 12v, but after watching this I thought I'd better check to be sure, and it turns out it's actually 19v! So I cancelled the order and went with a Trigkey G4 instead. So thanks!

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Glad I could help!

[@pedropereira2211]

I am on a Binge watching your videos, and of course subscribed. I like your down-to-earth and honest approach. Thank you.

[@bobstoffregen9853]

I also found this line of mini computers and use the MeLe Mini PC Stick like an earlier commenter. The version I have has 8gb of ram and the 256gb hard drive and it is reasonably fast running NINA, Stellarium, PHD, etc, all the typical programs. It only has two USB ports, but I have everything connected via a Pegasus UPBv2. The Mini uses 5 volts for power so I purchased a buck converter from 12v-5v. I actually bought two as the other one powers a mini router so I can RDP in from my house laptop. The router is the size of a deck of playing cards and works exceptionally well. I can also take the entire rig to a remote site and tether my cell phone to the router to get an internet connection in case I need it to plate solve thru Astrometry if ASTAP fails for some reason. So far I'm very pleased with the set up and super convenience of being able to RDP. No more cold nights leashed by 15' of USB cable. I've only noticed the Mini get slightly warm so I haven't experienced the overheating problems found by others. The only draw back I have found with the Mini is it does not like an external SSD drive or a mini SD card plugged into it via one of the USB ports or mini drive slot. It wont make the RDP connection. I've tried other SSD drives and they all cause the connection problem. I just configure NINA to write my files to the internal drive and then download after the session ends. Great videos, Cuiv!

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Thanks for all that feedback Bob, very useful!!

[@andrewfecheyr7790]

I love astroberry. I use K-stars EKOS for automating everything (polar alignment, scheduling, capturing, guiding). Captured images are sent over wifi to a NAS. It works really well on a raspberry pi 4. Plate solving is fast enough. Runs on a 12V to 5V converter so gets powered from the same 12V battery as the mount, camera and dew heaters. I use VNC from inside the house to control it.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

That works too!

[@shaunozs1ra92]

Thanks, that’s a great PC. Ihave the MeLE version and love it. I’ve added an additional USB hub because mine only has 2 ports. I cannot be happier. I need to check out the hotspot option, I’m not sure if mine can do that. Thanks for your video, great as always.

[@kamilkp]

Love your setup man - I might go ahead and try a similar thing on my own rig too. Around 9 mins mark you say that's it's a fool proof setup and sounds like it indeed is! What is not fool proof though is the autofocus in the camera you recorded this segment with :D - should've gone for manual focus and focus on the rig :)

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Thanks! Meh, that particular sequence doesn't have much visual information content anyway. I know from experience that I can't trust myself with manual focus, so I let the EOS M50 handle it, it usually does quite well!

[@Oxizee]

@Cuiv, The Lazy Geek Where to buy the DC 5521 to USB-C cable? I can only buy those cables with PD technology in it. What was yours Cuiv?

[@rckjiang]

You are absolutely awesome. I’m looking to migrate from ASIAir Pro to PC based rig running NINA, and now your videos have seriously allayed my fears!! I’m gonna be getting this!! Thank you!

[@alneid2707]

Very timely! Was just looking at this yesterday. Thanks for the info and opinion.

[@sjweemie]

I bought a mele quieter 3 about a week ago, had win 11pro. I was able to install all the required software and drivers with now probleem. It's a great lillte machine.

[@BlueStyle71]

I am looking at quieter 3 too. Which version did you choose? Thanks

[@sjweemie]

@@BlueStyle71 Merk: MeLE 4,4 van 5 sterren39Recensies MeLE Mini PC Lüfterlos Quieter3Q Windows 11 Pro N5105 8 GB/128 GB Desktop This one I bought, u can upgrade the ssd with a m.2 drive

[@BlueStyle71]

@@sjweemie exactly the one I put in my shopping cart. Thanks

[@sjweemie]

@@BlueStyle71 awesome. Have allot of fun with it and clear skies👌👋

[@psantangeli]

Thanks for the great video. Hope your break from Astronomy is short - it's happened to me many times in my 45 years in the hobby. I just purchased a Quieter3 (the newer version) and so far, so good. Runs nina, etc, great.

[@fernandoapausa4931]

Great option! I use the MeLE mini PC stick. Super happy with it, small and light. It has only 2 usb ports but with the hub available in the camera for filter wheel and guide camera and controlling my focuser via bluetooth, I actually don't need more than 2 ports at the PC (camera & mount). My only problem currently is that, being also fanless gets quite hot and the glue of the velcro straips I use to attach it to the rig gets slightly fluid and has fall down a couple of times. Nothing hard to fix I hope. Before, I had the Kingdel M1K, even lighter (84g only!!). It had a fan and only 6Mb of RAM but it performed perfectly until it burned out due to an overvoltage that spreaded out through my rig usb network with catastrofic consequences in addition to the stick PC.. it was my fault anyway meshing with the directlink cable for the AZ-GTi, something you alerted us about in some video, I remember...

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Thanks Fernando! Wow sad to hear the fate of that Kingdel M1K....

[@txhunter144]

I own that same mini pc but it overheats and shuts down during the hot Texas evenings. It’s a shame because it really is nice overall, but it just can’t handle the higher temperatures. I haven’t tried any cooling methods yet but maybe I’ll come up with something later. For now I just use an older Windows Surface Pro.

[@naveenmalik8531]

Thank you for the hotspot link, I will be looking into that. It's the only thing I have not gotten to work on my similar setup. I went with a Mele PCG02 Stick, rolling the dice that I could power it with a USB-micro cable over USB 2.0 from my PBA. It works! It's only a little slow on startup when firing up all the software but does fine for imaging. Glad to hear the quieter could be directly powered as well as an option.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Hopefully the hotspot stuff will help!

[@astrodysseus]

I got it too, but went for the equivalent pc stick as this one can't be powered by USB-C. I tried a USB-C -> DC cable with 12V output; it did start but wasn't stable. So it depends of your setup. If you are nomad and want a simple system like me, pc stick was the way to go. If you have a permanent / semi-permanent setup, this PC was indeed great, especially as you didn't need a USB hub. If it could be powered by USB-C I would definitely have kept this one.

[@jasonpatterson8091]

"Or a dislike, if that's your jam." Man, selling the video pretty hard. :-) First time I've seen your work and I enjoyed it, definitely not a dislike.

[@fazergazer]

My next rig will use a mini PC so I can use NINA! Looking forward to going through all your tutorials!

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Enjoy NINA!

[@avt_astro206]

Awesome Video Chiz!! Looks great For a small Outdoor Laptop Rather Than Having a Big Beefy One!!

[@slawomirsobiecki3564]

I use Windows 11 since beta, and had non problems with, it's stable, it's fast, and I do love it, all apps works like charm.

[@davidd_9300]

I have been on the edge of installing a mini PC at my setup, but the fact it needed the 220V mains to 19V threw me off. This mini pc looks like a gamechanger, I will be able to run it from a battery. I was verging to an asiair pro for my second setup but at this price, I might as well take a leap of faith and dive into NINA. Thanks for the push!

[@marccarrier]

Cuiv, I hope you are enjoying your break. With your experience of a few more months of using the Mele mini PC vs AIS AIR Plus, it would be useful to have a video comparing the two. One, the AIR Plus, is likely simple and better for less geeky people, plus a cell phone works to control it. For those comfortable with installing NINA, PHD2, a plate solver, file sharing, remote desk top access, etc..., the power of the mini PC is NINA and not being restricted to ZWO / DLSR cameras... I'm a software engineer too and I went last month with the mini PC & N.I.N.A. and I couldn't be happier of having followed your recommendation. I was on a raspberry PI struggling with INDIserver and then Astroberry before that. I'm glad that's over. May be this is a topic better suited for Wido's AstroForum to tackle with his diagrams and comparison tables he does so well but I don't believe he has tried both like you have. It might make a great collaboration...

[@arpadjakab-peter5431]

I'm not too sure about that, for example Nina won't recongnise my entry level nikon d3300 dslr camera.

[@douglasfleming1]

Going for it! Thanks for the info and tips (this time and always). I'm in ottawa and will let you know how it performs in subzero weather!

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Oh that's going to be interesting! It should generate its own heat... But since it's so low power... We'll see!

[@tedstokes7331]

Nice review, Cuiv. What do you do for GPS when at a remote location? And, what do you do for a network at a remote location so you can control the mini PC via Remote Desktop?

[@adamgoodall3111]

Thanks for giving me the final push to order this mini PC. I took delivery today but have also ordered a 500gb SSD as £40 for the additional performance seemed like a bargain. I’m looking forward to getting everything setup and commencing my new journey with NINA!

[@freshsheets_]

I have a “19V” NUC which I used with a buck converter with for a long time until discovering that plugging it directly into 12V on my UPB works flawlessly…

[@vasodyss]

Coincidentally bought the same mini pc about two months ago. Love it as well!

[@zachary4225]

Just what I was looking for. U got a new subscriber!!!

[@hael8680]

8:50 A video on how to do this hot spot setup would be fantastic!! Merci à l'avance!

[@robertw1871]

Excellent, since the ASIAIR is unobtainable I pulled the trigger, I think this will ultimately be a better solution if not far more complicated…

[@nadirteymurov1]

Cuiv, Intel NUC runs fine on 12V. I too have one and constantly use it with 12V car cigarette port in the field. :P

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

I tried it once with no success, but I'll try again!

[@fmoraes]

Interesting that I went through the same pains to set up the persistent hotspot but I actually found a PowerShell script that I made a start up task to run. The only main issue I have seen when using the hotspot is finding the ip address of the Mini PC.

[@mediocrefunkybeat]

Worth setting a fixed IP address for the device if you can do that on your home router. Alternatively there are plenty of free IP scanning software packages around.

[@tomtrubridge84]

Hi I recently bought the PC with power lead from amazon, works fine with my power bank (leap of faith), loaded APT PHD Mount drivers etc just works a treat, also invested in a small raspberry pie (very tasty !!) 7inch HDMI monitor with self powered bluetooth micro keyboard & mouse pad to set up in the field without a laptop if needs, really cool for so little money compared to other products, very pleased you had this device highlited on your channel, Hope all is well with you Cuiv, Regards Tom UK..

[@iansteane2586]

Hi Tom do you have a link to the lead you used. Thanks

[@astrostufftomtrubridge7915]

@@iansteane2586 Hi Ian it was an £8.99 lead from Amazon Item : CY DC 5.5x2.5mm to Type C USB-C Input Cable for Laptop Notebook (5.5x2.5mm to USB-c) works fine with a positive centre on 12V.. Regards Tom..

[@iansteane2586]

@@astrostufftomtrubridge7915 Thanks Tom

[@williamsouthwick6117]

How has the MINI PC worked out for you? (Been 4 months) I'm planning to do the same on my big scope, and at some point go fully remote.

[@johnellsphoto]

I appreciate your open and progressive thinking. Thanks a lot! Very useful and innovative implementation.

[@hanimehrez9423]

Windows 11 Pro on Beelink GK55 mini (Intel 600 chipset) no longer support Adhoc Network. So no use going back to Windows 10 Pro. Only choice now is small travel router when in remote areas with no wifi. Too bad.

[@zveck06]

Been on the edge of buying this one, thanks for the push

[@Prometey77777]

I use Lattepanda Alpha 800s. also small, takes 12v power, 8-th genegartion Intel Celeron processor, 8GB ram, 1xM.2 M Key to install ssd. built in Arduino onboard!!! the only disadvantage i see so far is only 3 USB3.0 ports. that is enough for my rig, but in general just 3 USB ports is kind of not enough. but yes that could be easily extended

[@hapestr]

Very cool! I was inspired by your video and did some googling to find one that might suit my own needs. Lo and behold - it was a Mele too, although the even smaller and lighter stick version, which will pair well with my Pegasus box. Thanks again, Cuiv!

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

My pleasure :)

[@ChrisMyers2000]

I actually JUST bought this same pc on Black Friday since they were only $208 USD. Glad to see you’ve had experience with it and love it. I was worried about it being fast enough but you’ve made me feel better about my spontaneous purchase 😄. Thank you 🙏🏻 Also looking forward to adding your startup script

[@JonHeckendorf]

disable windows 11 upgrade kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZDWZmOdett6bck

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Check the description - the PersistentHotspot program just works instead of a script!

[@ChrisMyers2000]

@@CuivTheLazyGeek thank you, I’ll definitely be adding it once I get the PC.

[@cmas-astronomy4715]

I had a Minix a couple of years ago that worked ok, but the processor was missing the AVX instruction set on the N4200 cpu. Sharp-Cap 64bit version didn't work with it. I've since built a more powerful Micro-PC, but it's too big to ride on the mount and dew had me nervous that somthing would short out. It now lives in a plastic bin. The price for this is certainly right.

[@georgiosamanakis9015]

Well, I have the same one. The USB-C is not a PD version, it cannot do power negotiation. A simple DC 5.5/2.1mm (female) to USB-C (male) adapter from Amazon and it works perfectly on the DC output (12V/3A) of an iOptron GEM28.

[@Megavoltamper]

I just bought a "new old stock" MELE Quieter 2D for 100EUR. A lot cheaper and more powerful and versatile than an ASIAir or an Rpi5.

[@CAPAstro]

They are a great little unit !

[@quadbot5229]

Awesome stuff! Very reasonable price too! I’ve been using a latte panda for imaging for a while now with great results

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Latte Panda looks like a tinkerer's dream :D

[@darknight_astro]

I've added the persistent hotspot script but set it up in "Task scheduler" so that it starts when the computer boots rather than after the user logs in.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Sounds like a wise idea, thanks for suggesting it! I'll have a look into it as well!

[@massibegous7261]

Actually, Mele2 wifi antenna is very weak. My laptop sees full wifi signal whereas Mele cannot connect at the same place

[@petelopez5826]

It’s a shame that Zwo doesn’t allow 3rd party equipment to be used with their platform. I’m planning on migrating to astrophotography but looking at a lot of options.

[@raymction947]

I use a chrombox ASUS CN62 (i7) converted to run windows 10 - KZbin has the procedure on how to do it. Got it on ebay for $100 US and works great and better than my ACEPC celeron J3455 which is also good ($85 on ebay). Both run on 12Volts.

[@Butzemann123]

im using a fanless and lightweigt laptop with similar perfomance and a long lasting battery. Im perfectly happy with it, but this little device is tempting because better cable management and i wouldnt need an extra chair/desk for my laptop. I think the only drawback is sometimes its a little fiddly to control NINA and Stellarium via remote app on smartphone

[@barkwithastro3304]

I still use my intel nuc, I just have a small 12v-19v dc converter inline. However, For EAA I am experimenting with my old RPi 3 with some python code to capture images and thanks to linux file sharing, those images also simultaneously appear on my windows machine indoors and use Sharpcap's folder monitor function for live stacking. I guess that could work just as well for ap.

[@cstowell1]

To disable an upgrade to Windows 11 you can just disable TPM in the BIOS. While you can do a clean install to get Windows 11 with a PC that doesn't support TPM, Window Update won't allow you to upgrade, or push Windows 11 to a Windows 10 box automatically ;)

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Thanks!

[@andyrawlins]

Hi Cuiv. Do you have any affiliate links to Amazon UK? What is the quality of the remote desktop image/what is the lag like? My experience (which is several years old) of remote desktops was they they were never quite as good but sounds like you didn't have any problems.

[@rashie]

Great vid. Thanks Cuiv!

[@robertsdixon3121]

Great video. In the video, you said that you created a program to start a mobile wifi hotspot on the melee quiter2 for use in the field where you don’t have access to a router. The link you provided is in computer geek speak, do you / is there a documented procedure to create this little program …. For us, the mere mortals of the world. Thanks

[@paulwilson8367]

I would like to branch out from the ASIAir. So far, nothing is tempting enough and easy and LAZY enough to make me jump. Love NINA! It won't run on my iPad. So far, my ZWO stuff all works on a given night, even at the remote, dark site. As long as the expensive ASI2600 doesn't start leaking oil (again), I am mostly good. I appreciate Cuiv since he doesn't process data from a 24 inch PlaneWave perched at a Bortle 1 site remotely in Chile. Those guys win APODs, they might as well award them every week to the Hubble and JWST.

[@lesgatechair3907]

Hey from Tampa! Can you provide a link for the usbC-cable power adapter you described in one of the videos about the mini-PC? Thanks and keep up the great work. Les

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

I can't guarantee it, but something like this should work! amzn.to/3I21567

[@Sammus43]

Out of interest would a cheap boost converter not work for powering the old Nuc? I use a $5(ish after conversion from ZAR) one to run a laptop off a deep cycle battery at 19v and that works well for power outages that are regular where I live.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

I'm told the NUC actually works at 12V, I tested in the past with no success, but I'll try again!

[@Fat-totoro-cat]

I have the exact same machine - I put a 1tb SSD drive and it works very well. I made my own USBC 12v power cable.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Wow a full terabyte! I really like this little PC

[@Fat-totoro-cat]

@@CuivTheLazyGeek I like mine too - seems to be holding up fine under my Telegizmo cover. (I have it attached to a tripod leg rather than mounted on my scopes)

[@apiaristicone9585]

Cuiv, love your videos and enthusiasm!

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Thank you!

[@Neanderthal75]

Great stuff! I've been also using 2 mini-pcs for a year / one is rather disappointing with its wifi range, but the other is ok. Although it struggles to run Stellarium along with N.I.N.A and PHD2, I just turn off Stellarium after I acquired the target DSO. I've been looking at some with more power with graphics, but things start to get bulkier and more expensive of course. Intel has been working on their own dedicated graphics chip, which supposed to surpass the current Intel HD graphics by far, which is very welcome, while Ryzen also racing to make their CPU with integrated graphics be more efficient.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Time will give us better solutions sooner rather than later!

Super vidéo !! Merci à toi pour ton travail !!

[@philleng480]

Thanks cuiv. Very useful.

[@dumpydalekobservatory]

I've got a quite old HP mini PC in the observatory which I've pretty much got set up now to work with NINA etc but like the NUC it only runs on 19V which is a real pain, there's quite a few fanless PC's out there now that run on 12v but they always seem to fall short on USB outlets so finding one with four is a real gem, enjoyed the video as always clear skies!!

[@JonHeckendorf]

disable windows 11 upgrade kzbin.info/www/bejne/iZDWZmOdett6bck

[@arpadjakab-peter5431]

Hi! It is not possible to plug in a usb adapter with 2 more usb ports on it? Basically it's like a short cable with 2 or 3 or 4 usb ports extra

[@dumpydalekobservatory]

@@arpadjakab-peter5431 I use a Pegasus powerbox which has 4 extra USB ports as well as power outputs etc & it works just fine

[@astrostufftomtrubridge7915]

Hi Cuiv, Hope all is well, after some deliberation Ive ordered this pc from amazon, my only concern was the USB C to 12V lead most on amazon are rated to supply well above 12V with active voltage control built into the lead, if used with a healthy 12.5V would this still power the PC, or shut down to 5V..guess its a bit of a lottery getting one that works. The PC looks great, I guess once set up windows boots with a remote screen app to use with PC indoors, very excited to get this all working with my old mount, C100 ED.. And modded camera... All the best Tom in South UK...

[@arashafkanpour4694]

Hi Cuiv. Do you have a link to the 12v dc to USB-C cable you used with this PC? It seems that most of the options on Amazon won't work. Thanks.

[@theozed123]

I've been using one of those for a couple of months now so it's great to see you choose the same thing. Also running it with a CEM60. I've been wondering if upgrading to a SSD will give a performance boost over the eMMC. Also, I made my own power cable for this by chopping the end off a USB-C cable and adding the DC plug I required. For anyone who wants to do the same, the 12V is simply just instead of the regular 5V, ie the red and black wires. Just be careful to then not plug it into anything else.

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

I don't think we'd see a huge performance boost over the eMMC - but more storage, and also more reliable storage!

[@ChrisMyers2000]

I haven’t received mine yet so I can’t say with experience, but an Amazon reviewer posted speed tests of the eMMC vs nvme SSD and the results are fairly significant, especially the random reads and writes. I don’t know how much that translates into real world usability but I would assume it would be noticeable. Also thanks for the tip on the power cable, I’ll definitely be making one so I can use it portable in the field.

[@PopeAstro]

How is the MeLe in weather conditions. I read it runs hot, wonder how that's works on cold nights and warm nights...

[@jlecomte0719]

I had my eyes on the exact same PC, but in the end, I did not pull the plug. My setup works pretty well as is, and as you said, le mieux est l’ennemi du bien… Also, nice deal on the CEM60! I have its younger brother (or sister? 🤔), the CEM70, and it is a phenomenal mount for the price (I bought it a year ago with a sweet discount) Anyway, I enjoy your informative videos, keep them coming 👏🏻

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

I'm loving the CEM60 for now, although I miss EQMOD/GSS :) The CEM70 looks even better :)

[@philippefenain4405]

Yes, «le mieux est l’ennemi du bien », but all your videos have awesome content that make us think we should upgrade to what you have and use 😉 !! Thanks for sharing 🙏

[@screwyouyoutube5493]

Any chance you can post the link for the cable? I am having a rough time trying to identify which one to buy...thanks Cuiv 👍

[@alcosound]

Just stumbled upon this video after your pointer. It seems that the current models (Quiter 3C and 3Q) are a little improved (especially in CPU, with the N5105 Celeron and a better Wifi radio). I think that the 3C offers three USB A sockets and a USB-C, and it seems that it supports USB-C 12V power supply directly. Any heat/temperature problems on the 2Q you are using? I am wondering if NINA is so much better than Raspberry Pi4-based solutions.

[@gansri4819]

Hi Cuiv. Great fan! I started using this MeLe Quieter3 C recently. I use NINA for imaging session and Carte de ciel, and ASCOM drivers and EQMOD. There is a problem: The Telescope keeps disconnecting randomly with no reason. No slack wires or connections. At times even when the telescope is "connected", it stops tracking on its own. I have re-loaded all the programmes once again freshly. still the same problems. 🙁 Before MeLe I used a LapTop with no issues. Please advise.Thank you

[@alessandrobibaloastrophoto301]

Nice! Can i use this PC for planetary imaging?

[@MaartenAnna]

Dude… I was just all in on your Raspberry Pi set-up, with either a small telescope or an old DSLR.😱 😉 Nevermind, I’m still going that way, I think. This seems awesome though as well!

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

So many different but cool solutions! I know I've been testing out a lot these days! For my Pentax DSLR though, only Stellarmate works :)

[@biteler55]

Purchased and formatted for the Quieter 3Q. Very nice to be sitting inside now. Do you have any more direction on pasting the code into program like visually studio. allowing it to be a hot spot. I caught the link and the downloads, but now where do I go from here. I realize this may be above my knowledge but willing to give it a go. I was able to Opened the hotspotproject in visual studio.

[@jeffreydaniel]

Love your videos Cuiv. Do you use a USB hub with this set up when you need more USB ports ?

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

I haven't needed more USB ports up to now, but I did use the USB port on my camera

[@user-dx4sz4wh5n]

Hello Cuiv, do you connect ethernet to your mini PC? I found my Windows 11 PC hard to turn on Wi-Fi hotspot when there's no Internet connection. I end up having a small router with the PC...

[@cosbyt7]

I ordered the exact same model few days ago... waiting to be delivered!

[@CuivTheLazyGeek]

Awesome I hope you enjoy!

[@cosbyt7]

@@CuivTheLazyGeek I'm struggling to get the hotspot started if the pc dos not have internet access...so if i'm outside my home network wifi range the hotspot is useless. Did you menage to get it working like an hosted network?

[@edoyle2298]

Thanks for the video. I've been looking for an alternative for my 17" laptop that I have to bring to remote sites. In viewing your video I was a bit confused. If I switch to the MINI-PC would I still need to bring my laptop to remote into the MINI-PC when at remote dark sites?