LoPoCo launched its LP-4240 low-power server line in July 2013, positioning it for everyday web, database, email, file-serving, and Hadoop workloads—not high-performance computing. Contemporary coverage reported 28 watts at idle and 100 watts total design power for the family, but those figures and LoPoCo’s larger efficiency claims were not independently validated in the sources reviewed. This is a historical product story; current sales and support status are unverified.
What LoPoCo launched
In July 2013, Low Power Company (LoPoCo) introduced the LP-4240 family as a 1U server line. Data Center Knowledge’s launch report identified an LP-4240-10H Ultra in its product image. CRN’s coverage described four broad classes: an Intel Atom microserver and Intel Xeon-based 4-core, 8-core, and 12-core servers.
The contemporary accounts do not provide one definitive processor-by-processor specification sheet. Data Center Knowledge listed an Intel D525 dual-core/four-thread model, two E3 configurations, and an E5 six-core model; CRN summarized processor families and core counts at a higher level. Treat these as launch-era descriptions, not a confirmed complete bill of materials or a guide to current configurations.
Design choices described at launch
CRN reported that LoPoCo used 2.5-inch drives instead of 3.5-inch drives and avoided drives rated at 10,000 rpm or faster as part of its power-conscious design. CEO Andrew Sharp described the approach to Data Center Knowledge this way: “To eliminate every last ounce of waste, we start with the best processors with the best tradeoffs of performance and efficiency. Then we handcraft (the server) around them.”
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Quad-Core 8-Thread Processor:Equipped with an 8th-generation U-series quad-core 8-thread low-power CPU, delivering up to 3.9GHz turbo frequency and 15W TDP. This processor outperforms mainstream N100/N150 chips, providing superior performance for NAS, firewall, and network security applications. Supports virtualization with VT-x and VT-d for smooth and efficient operation.
- Compact Industrial Mini-ITX Design:Mini-ITX motherboard (6.69 x 6.69 in) with 6-layer high-density moisture-resistant PCB. Includes 1x USB 3.0, 3x USB 2.0, 1x TF card slot, 1x HDMI, and 1x DP supporting dual 4K@60Hz display, ideal for compact NAS or industrial systems.
- High-Speed Networking:Dual 2.5GbE RJ45 network ports (i226-V compatible) provide stable, fast, and reliable connections, perfect for NAS storage, multimedia applications, and professional network security appliances.
- Flexible Storage and Memory Expansion:Supports 2x DDR4 SO-DIMM memory slots (2133–3200MHz, up to 32GB per slot), 8x SATA 3.0 ports (native and chip-extended), 2x M.2 NVMe 2280 slots (PCIe 3.0 x2), and 1x PCIe x4 Gen3 slot for network cards or expansion, ensuring ultra-fast and stable data transfer.
- Notes and Cooling:This version may have a known sleep mode bug. Includes a dual ball-bearing fan cooler with dual copper heat pipes for efficient cooling. Requires both 24PIN + 4PIN power connections. First boot may take a few minutes to read memory information — please be patient.
What the reported power figures mean
Data Center Knowledge reported 28 watts of idle power for the LP-4240 family and 100 watts of total design power (TDP), which the article characterized as maximum possible power. It also said the figure allowed 40 servers on a 40A, 110V circuit. These are launch-era reported figures; the coverage reviewed does not provide an independent test procedure, measurement conditions, or a comparable dataset for other servers.
LoPoCo’s comparative efficiency statements should be read as company claims rather than verified results. Data Center Knowledge reported a claim of “as much as 80 percent less power than some mass-market servers.” In an August 2013 HPCwire report, CEO Andrew Sharp said most LoPoCo products were “somewhere between 60 to 80 percent more power-efficient.” Neither account supplies an independent, controlled head-to-head comparison establishing those percentages for a particular workload or competing server.
Rank #2
- 【Advanced Home Data & Media Hub】For advanced home users who need phone backup, file storage, and centralized data management. Centralize family photos, 4K videos, movies, computer backups, and personal files in one place while running multiple apps for home entertainment and everyday data management. Suitable for households with growing digital libraries and multiple NAS use cases.
- 【Built for Creators, Media Servers & Advanced Apps】Powered by the Intel N100 Quad-Core CPU, 8GB DDR5 RAM, 2.5GbE networking, and dual M.2 NVMe slots, DXP2800 handles large files and heavier workloads with ease. Run Docker, virtual machines, and media server applications compatible with Plex—ideal for content creators, tech enthusiasts, and advanced home users managing 4K videos, RAW photos, personal media libraries, and multiple NAS apps.
- 【Up to 80TB for Growing Digital Libraries】 Supports up to 80TB of storage using two HDD bays and two M.2 NVMe SSD slots for family photos, movies, RAW photos, 4K videos, work files, and device backups. AI photo management supports recognition of people, objects, scenes, and locations, album organization, and duplicate photo detection. HDDs and SSDs are not included.
- 【AI-powered Home Surveillance】Turn DXP2800 into a centralized home surveillance hub by connecting compatible network cameras and storing recordings locally on your NAS. AI-powered features include Face Recognition, People Detection, and Pet Detection, helping advanced home users review important events more efficiently while managing home surveillance and personal data in one place.
- 【One data Center Across Your Devices】Keep files from desktops, laptops, phones, tablets, and other devices together instead of scattered across cloud accounts and external drives. Access, back up, organize, and share data across Windows, macOS, Android, iOS, web browsers, and compatible smart TVs—ideal for creators and advanced home users working across multiple devices.
Which workloads LoPoCo targeted
LoPoCo positioned the systems for conventional web serving, databases, email, file serving, and Hadoop, especially work combining CPU and I/O demands. Sharp explicitly excluded high-performance computing (HPC) from the company’s target market, telling Data Center Knowledge: “There’s parts of the market that we’re not going after – like High Performance Computing. We’re happy to leave that to traditional vendors.” Coverage identified small firms, early-stage startups, and organizations running their own data centers as likely buyers.
The pitch was a more constrained set of server options in exchange for lower reported power use. That trade-off does not establish that an LP-4240 would be faster, cheaper to operate, or more efficient for a specific workload than a conventional server. A meaningful comparison would need workload performance alongside idle and peak power measured on a comparable basis, plus memory and storage capacity, rack density, cooling, expandability, support, and total ownership cost.
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- 【WHY CHOOSE CORE i3-5005U - Better single-core performance:】Powered by the Intel Core i3-5005U processor, it provides a stable and efficient platform for daily essential tasks that rely on fast single-core performance (e.g., web browsing, office apps), it handles light multi-threaded tasks like multitasking with multiple browser tabs and office applications efficiently, ensuring a smooth workflow for budget-conscious professionals.
- 【Up to 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD】 Installed with 8GB DDR RAM (expandable up to 32GB) and a responsive 512GB M.2 2280 SSD for quick boot times and fast file access. Need more space? The mini desktop PC supports M.2 SATA/NVMe SSD expansion up to 2TB and an additional 2.5-inch SATA SSD/HDD slot with cable which up to 2TB, providing up to 4TB total storage for photos, videos, business files, media libraries, and backups.
- 【7*24 Hours Stable Operation】Engineered with an optimized cooling fan designed for low-TDP processors. This mini PC is optimized for 7x24 hours industrial and commercial use, such as digital signage, thin client setups, or home media servers. The low-power (TDP: 15W) architecture ensures energy efficiency without compromising the steady performance needed for long-term operations. Its capabilities make it well-suited for multi-monitor workstations, retail POS displays, and real-time monitoring terminals.
- 【Comprehensive Port Layout & Connectivity】 Simplify your desktop setup with a robust array of ports. It features 2x USB 3.2 Gen1 (5Gbps) and 1x USB Type-C (Data only) on the front panel for fast external drives, plus 2x USB 2.0 on the back for legacy peripherals like printers. The built-in Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45), Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), and Bluetooth 5.0 ensure you stay connected to both wired and wireless networks effortlessly.
- 【Quiet Operation & Space-Saving Design】 Engineered with an optimized cooling fan designed for low-TDP processors, the C3 operates quietly even during long study or work sessions, maintaining a peaceful environment in your home office or bedroom. Weighing under 1kg, its ultra-compact form factor can easily be tucked away on any desk, helping you reclaim your workspace while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic.
Is the LoPoCo LP-4240 available today?
Current availability, corporate status, warranty, and support are unverified. The product reporting located is from 2013, with a 2016 investor presentation describing the company historically; no reliable current product page, sales channel, or support statement establishes whether the LP-4240 can be bought or serviced today. That absence does not prove the company has closed or the product has been discontinued. There is also no established current price or compatibility guide.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 12th Intel Alder Lake N95 Processor – The GMKtec G3 S Mini PC is powered by the 12th Gen Intel N95 processor with 4 cores, 4 threads, 6MB cache and a burst frequency up to 3.4GHz. Compared with N100/N5105/N5100/N5095, the N95 delivers up to 36% overall performance improvement. Perfect for routine tasks, office work, and home entertainment, this compact mini desktop is more convenient than traditional bulky PCs.
- 8GB RAM & 256GB SSD Storage – Pre-installed with 8GB DDR4 memory and a fast 256GB M.2 2242 SSD, the G3 S mini desktop offers quicker startup, smoother multitasking, and faster file transfers. Enjoy seamless performance whether you’re working on multiple applications, browsing, or streaming content.
- Rich Interfaces & Connectivity – The G3 S mini computer comes equipped with USB 3.2 (up to 10Gbps), dual HDMI 2.0 (4K@60Hz), and a 3.5mm audio jack. With support for WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.0, and Gigabit Ethernet (RJ45 1000MbE), it connects easily with monitors, projectors, printers, office equipment, and other peripherals, making it versatile for both home and business use.
- Dual 4K Display Support – Featuring upgraded Intel UHD Graphics (up to 1000MHz), the G3 S supports 4K video playback and AV1 decoding for a smooth viewing experience. With dual HDMI outputs, you can connect two 4K@60Hz displays simultaneously, enabling efficient multitasking for work and entertainment.
- GMKtec WARRANTY - GMKtec offers a 1-year limited GMKtec's warranty for each mini PC, starting from the date of the purchase. All defects due to design and workmanship are covered. With a professional after sales team always ready to attend to your needs, you can simply relax and enjoy your mini PC.
Rank #4
- 【Build Your Own NAS & Homelab — Not Just Storage】 More than a traditional NAS, ZimaBlade 7700 is a flexible x86 mini server for building your own homelab, personal cloud, or Docker host. Perfect for DIY NAS, self-hosting, container apps, and even retro systems — not limited like typical ARM-based NAS devices.
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- 【16GB RAM for Smooth Multi-Service Workloads】 Handle file sharing, media streaming, backups, and multiple lightweight services at once. Optimized for low-power, always-on operation — a great fit for home labs and personal servers running 24/7.
- 【Smooth 4K Media Streaming — Plex Direct Play Ready】 Stream your personal media library smoothly with Plex and similar media servers. Supports 4K playback on compatible devices via direct play, delivering a reliable home media experience without the need for heavy transcoding.
- 【Complete 2-Bay NAS Kit — Ready to Build】 Includes power supply, 16GB RAM, metal drive cage for 2 HDD/SSD, and dual SATA cables — everything you need to start building your own NAS right out of the box.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
