Wizarm is an high-end set-top box / PVR powered by Exynos 5250 dual cortex A15 processor, with 2GB RAM, 16GB eMMC, lots of I/Os including USB 3.0 and SATA 3 support running Android 4.2, and soon Ubuntu as well. Although its main use is to handle and process media files, the device can be also used as a PC, gaming console, smart TV box, or even a development platform.
Here are the specifications of the device:
- SoC – Samsung Exynos 5250 dual Cortex A15 up to 2GHz with Mali T-604 GPU
- System Memory – 2GB
- Storage – 16 GB eMMC. SDXC card slot, and SATA 3 connector for 2.5″ SSD or HDD
- I/O ports:
- SATA 3
- USB – 2x USB 3.0, 4x USB 2.0 host ports
- Video – HDMI OUT, HDMI IN, DisplayPort
- Audio – LINE IN, LINE OUT, Optical out
- Connectivity:
- Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n (dual Wi-Fi antenna)
- Gigabit Ethernet
- Bluetooth 4.0
- Misc – IR sensor
- Dimensions – 21cm x 14cm x 5cm
The hardware is somewhat similar to Nuvola NP-1, except it has a slower processor (Exynos 5250 vs Tegra 4), but adds SATA support, and to me the key features is HDMI in, as it allows you to record anything coming out of another HDMI device. If you’re a gamer, you can use this box to record the action from your PS3 or XBOX 360 game console. Recording can be done up to 1440p.
The source code for the platform will be available on git.wizard.com (not working at the moment).
Wizarm is still under development, hardware seems mostly done, except certification, Android 4.2 development is nearly complete, and Ubuntu will be added later. The company is now looking for funds to complete development and start mass production via an Indiegogo (flexible) campaign to deliver the product in April 2014. The “earliest wizard” pledge reserved to the first 100 backers will get your the device for $249 including express shipping, after you’ll need to pledge $299 to get the device.
You can also visit Wizarm.com for more details, videos and pictures, access to forums, etc…
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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