When we installed our home theater in 2010, the only device attached to the 1080p projector and the surround sound system was a 2009 Dell Zino. At the time the Zino had enough graphics to play high-end Windows video games, enough processor / memory for high-end apps, a blueray optical device, ethernet for fast Internet stuff (streaming) and a tiny form factor to fit unobtrusively in our home theater. We added a wireless keyboard and mouse and life was fantastic. It is still the only device attached to our projector and sound system. The 15 foot screen and huge subwoofer are still very impressive.
Microsoft's latest "cumulative patch" for windows-10 bricked the Zino last week. The Zino was completely unrecoverable, locked up tighter than a drum at the "which keyboard?" prompt.
The Zino now runs Ubuntu with the Mint desktop, VLC for media and streaming, and life is better. Linux has come a long way since 2009. It is a viable consumer OS.
It may be time to short Microsoft's stock. They are pushing us consumers away from their products and services in a concerted effort of self-destruction.
