Looking to build a small HTPC without breaking the bank? Take a look at Asus' feature-packed AT5IONT-I. This mini-ITX form factor motherboard comes bundled with the recently introduced dual-core Atom D525 processor clocked at 1.8GHz, running alongside Intel's NM10 Express Chipset and Nvidia's next-gen Ion 2 graphics chip with 512MB of dedicated RAM. These components are passively cooled by a massive heatsink, which of course won't be a problem considering the 13W TDP, and they are joined by a few other connectivity and expansion options.
The I/O panel is populated by HDMI and DVI outputs for dual display support, eSATA, S/PDIF Out and 6 -Channel Audio connectivity, an Ethernet jack, and a pair of USB 2.0 and 3.0 ports each. Meanwhile, on the surface of the board is an open-ended PCIe x4 slot for expansion, dual SATA 3.0 Gb/s ports, USB connectors for two extra USB 2.0 ports, a couple of DDR3 DIMM slots and built-in 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi.
According to Fudzilla, Asus will charge over €140 for the AT5IONT-I in Europe – which seems a bit pricey for an Atom board. There's no word on pricing or availability for the U.S. market yet but we'll keep our eyes open.