BIOS Overview and OS Installation
As with many barebones and pre-built Nettop-class systems the AD12 requires user installation of an OS rather than being bundled with one, typically either Windows or some variant or Linux. HTPCs often utilise XBMC, an OS specifically designed for media playback on large-screen flat panel displays and supporting a wide range of hardware and video codecs. It's important when budgeting for a system that the cost of an OS this is factored in, along with at least temporary use of a keyboard or mouse for configuration purposes. Windows 8 compatibility is as-yet unconfirmed, but given the up-to-date component choices we wouldn't be surprised to see it follow fairly soon.
The ZOTAC ZBOX nano BIOS is now a fairly dense UEFI, although still stripped-down compared to a desktop motherboards wide range of tweaking, overclocking and device installation options. A number of handy tweaking options are still present and outlined in the User Manual, such as deactivating illumination on the top ring and setting boot priority. Overall the UEFI BIOS gets the job done with a minimum of fuss and bother, colour-scheme aside. We should also note that in our experience the UEFI cannot be navigated by USB mice.
The most straightforward processes for installing an OS onto the AD12 is through the use of a USB thumbdrive with a pre-configured image of a Windows Boot DVD, though this does require some expertise to set-up. Installing through an external DVD drive will be convenient for some, but does require hardware which relatively few consumers are likely to have access to. As with the AD11 BIOS, boot priority on the AD12 could be clearer: there's no options to select/deselect 'USB Device', though it quickly becomes clear that USB boot is always assumed if a USB storage device is attached.
VESA Mounting
As noted, the packaging includes a 75mm x 75mm / 100mm x 100mm VESA mount plate for the rear of LCD Monitors and TV's or a variety of other wall fixings currently on the market. It's well worth noting that adapter kits for larger VESA standards are available from hardware stores if the VESA mount of the rear of your screen differs from what's included.
Mounting the AD12 is extremely simple: just a case of mounting the plate to the rear of the LCD panel and then slotting the chassis into the two raised chevrons. Although it can be mounted in any orientation, it's typically best to do so with exhaust vents 'up' for more optimal heat dissipation.
