ZBOX CI521 nano - Desktop computer Zotac - Free user manual and instructions

Product Type	Mini-PC (Desktop Computer)
Model	ZBOX CI521 nano
Processor	Intel Core M-5Y10c (dual-core, 800 MHz, up to 2.0 GHz)
Graphics	Intel HD Graphics 5300
Memory	8GB LPDDR3-1600 (onboard)
Storage Support	1x 2.5-inch SATA HDD/SSD (max 9.5mm height); 1x M.2 SATA SSD (22/42, 22/60)
USB Ports	4 USB 3.0 (2 front, 2 rear)
Video Outputs	HDMI 1.4a (max 4096x2160 @24Hz), DisplayPort 1.2 (max 2560x1600 @60Hz)
Network	Dual Gigabit LAN (10/100/1000 Mbps), IEEE 802.3
Wireless	802.11ac Wi-Fi (dual-band), Bluetooth 4.0
Audio	Digital 8-channel audio (LPCM/bitstream via HDMI), S/PDIF output, analog stereo output
Dimensions	127mm x 127mm x 45mm
Power Supply	19V DC adapter (included)
Operating System	Not preinstalled; supports Windows 7/8/8.1 (32/64-bit)
Mounting	VESA mount compatible (75/100 mm), bracket included
Package Contents	ZBOX nano, VESA mount, 4 screws, AC adapter, power cord, headphone/SPDIF adapter, WiFi antenna, user manual, quick start guide, support DVD, USB flash drive with drivers
Maintenance	Clean with dry cloth; unplug all cables before cleaning; avoid liquids
Safety	Use on stable surface with stand; keep away from water/heat; do not block vents; ambient temperature 0-35°C
Repairability / Upgradability	User-accessible HDD/SSD and M.2 SSD; supports RAM upgrades via onboard (not user-replaceable)

Frequently Asked Questions - ZBOX CI521 nano Zotac

How do I install an operating system on the ZOTAC ZBOX CI521 nano?

The ZBOX does not come with an OS preinstalled. To install one, insert a bootable disk (DVD or USB) with a supported OS (Windows 7/8/8.1), power on the system, and follow on-screen instructions. After installation, install the system drivers from the provided DVD or USB flash drive.

What are the supported storage types for upgrades?

The ZBOX supports one 2.5-inch SATA HDD/SSD (up to 9.5mm height) and one M.2 SATA SSD (22/42 or 22/60 form factor). Installation instructions are in the manual.

How do I connect the WiFi antenna?

Screw the included WiFi antenna onto the gold connector on the rear panel labeled 'Wi-Fi antenna connector'. Ensure it is securely attached for optimal signal.

Can I mount the ZBOX behind a monitor?

Yes, the ZBOX supports VESA mounting (75/100mm). Use the included VESA bracket and four screws (not included for the monitor) to attach it to a compatible LCD monitor. Follow the mounting instructions in the manual.

How do I configure audio output via HDMI?

Go to Sound settings in the Control Panel. Under Playback devices, select the HDMI output device (e.g., your TV) and click 'Set Default'. Click OK to apply. Ensure your display supports HDMI audio.

What should I do if the system does not power on?

Check that the AC adapter is properly connected to the DC19V input and to a working power outlet. Press the power button on the front panel. If still off, try a different outlet or contact support.

How do I install system drivers?

Insert the provided driver DVD or USB flash drive. If autorun is enabled, the driver menu will appear. If not, run 'Launch.EXE' on the media. Install drivers in order: Intel Chipset, HDA Sound, Intel Graphics, Ethernet, USB 3.0, IEEE 1394 (if applicable), Wireless Network, CIR, Bluetooth, MassStorage, and optional USB Charger. Restart after each if required.

What is the maximum resolution supported?

HDMI supports up to 4096x2160 @24Hz, and DisplayPort supports up to 2560x1600 @60Hz. Ensure your cable and display are compatible.

Does the ZBOX have Bluetooth?

Yes, it has Bluetooth 4.0. Enable it in Windows settings after installing the Bluetooth driver from the driver media.

Can I use a wireless keyboard and mouse with the ZBOX?

Yes, you can connect Bluetooth peripherals (after installing Bluetooth driver) or use USB wireless dongles via the USB 3.0 ports. For Bluetooth, pair the device in Windows Bluetooth settings.

USER MANUAL ZBOX CI521 nano Zotac

ZOTAC ZBOX nano User's Manual

Black ZOTAC wireless device with ventilation grille and control buttons (no visible text beyond branding)

No part of this manual, including the products and software described in it, may be reproduced, transmitted, transcribed, stored in a retrieval system, or translated into any language in any form or by any means, except documentation kept by the purchaser for backup purposes, without the express written permission of ZOTAC.

Products and corporate names mentioned in this manual may not be registered trademarks or copyrights of their respective companies, and are used for identification purposes only. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Every effort has been made to ensure that the contents of this manual are correct and up to date. However, the manufacturer makes no guarantee regarding the accuracy of its contents, and reserves the right to make changes without prior notice.

CAUTION:

Risk of explosion if the battery is replaced with an incorrect type. Batteries should be recycled where possible. Disposal of used batteries must be in accordance with local environmental regulations.

Table of Contents

Product specifications 3

Safety information 4

Setting up your system 4

Care during use 4

Welcome 5

Package contents 5

Getting to know your ZOTAC ZBOX nano 6

Front view 6

Rear view----7

Customizing the ZOTAC ZBOX nano 8

Installing an M.2 SSD 9

Installing a hard disk 11

Connecting a S/PDIF cable----13

Setting up the ZOTAC ZBOX nano 14

Positioning the ZOTAC ZBOX nano---- 16

Mounting the ZOTAC ZBOX nano to an LCD monitor----16

Installing drivers and software 18

Installing an operating system 18

Installing system drivers---- 18

Using your ZOTAC ZBOX nano---- 19

Configuring wireless connection 19

Configuring wired connection 19

Using a static IP 19

Using a dynamic IP (PPPoE connection)---- 20

Configuring audio output via an HDMI device 20

Product specifications

Processor

• Intel Core M-5Y10c Processor (dual core, 800 MHz, up to 2.0 GHz)

Onboard graphics

• Intel HD Graphics 5300
• HDMI 1.4a (max resolution: 4096x2160 @24Hz)
• DP 1.2 (max resolution: 2560x1600 @60Hz)

Onboard Memory

- Onboard 8GB LPDDR3-1600 memory

USB ports

- 4 USB 3.0 ports

Storage support

• SATA 6.0 Gb/s transfer rates
• Supports one 2.5-inch SATA HDD/SSD (9.5mm max height)
• Supports M.2 SATA SSD (22/42, 22/60)

Network support

• Dual Gigabit (10/100/1000Mbps) LAN
- IEEE 802.3 compatible

Wi-Fi support

• 802.11ac Wi-Fi (dual-band)
- Bluetooth 4.0

Audio

• Digital 8 Channel Audio (LPCM/bitstream via HDMI)
- SPDIF output
- Analog Stereo Output

Operating System support

- Windows 7 32bit/64bit, Windows 8 32bit/64bit and Windows 8.1 32bit/64bit

Product Dimensions

- 127mm x 127mm x 45mm

Safety information

Your ZOTAC ZBOX nano is designed and tested to meet the latest standards of safety for information technology equipment. However, to ensure your safety, it is important that you read the following safety instructions.

Setting up your system

Read and follow all instructions in the documentation before you operate your system.
Do not use this product near water or a heat source such as a radiator.
- Set up the system on a stable surface with the provided stand. Never use the system alone without the stand.
Openings on the chassis are for ventilation. Do not block or cover these openings. Make sure you leave plenty of space around the system for ventilation. Never insert objects of any kind into the ventilation openings.
Use this product in environments with ambient temperatures between 0^ C and 35^ C.
If you use an extension cord, please use the UL listed cord and make sure that the total ampere rating of the devices plugged into the extension cord does not exceed its ampere rating.

Care during use

Do not walk on the power cord or allow anything to rest on it.
Do not spill water or any other liquids on your system.
When the system is turned off, a small amount of electrical current still flows. Always unplug all power, modem, and network cables from the power outlets before cleaning the system.
If you encounter the following technical problems with the product, unplug the power cord and contact a qualified service technician or your retailer.

The power cord or plug is damaged.
Liquid has been spilled into the system.

The system does not function properly even if you follow the operating instructions.

The system was dropped or the cabinet is damaged.
The system performance changes.

Welcome

Congratulations on your purchase of the ZOTAC ZBOX nano mini-PC. The following illustration displays the package contents of your new ZOTAC ZBOX nano. Please contact your retailer If any of the below items are damaged or missed.

Package contents

• 1 x ZOTAC ZBOX nano
  • 1 x ZOTAC VESA mount
• 4 x Mount screws
• 1 x AC Adapter
• 1 x Power Cord
  • 1 x Headphone/SPDIF adapter
• 1 x WiFi antenna
• 1 x User Manual
  • 1 x Quick Start Guide
• 1 x Support DVD
  • 1 x USB flash drive with OS drivers

Product display of a ZTOAC wireless device with CD, ports, and cable (no visible text or symbols)

Getting to know your ZOTAC ZBOX nano

Front view

Refer to the diagram below to identify the components on this side of the system

1. Power button

The power button turns the mini-PC ON and OFF.

2. HDD status indicator

The hard disk LED blinks when data is being written onto or read from the hard disk drive.

3. Wi-Fi status indicator

The Wi-Fi LED blinks when data is being transferred over Wi-Fi.

4. Memory card reader

The built-in memory card reader reads SD/SDHC/SDXC cards used in devices such as digital cameras, MP3 players, mobile phones and PDAs.

5. Combo analog/mini-Optical S/PDIF output

The Combo analog/mini-Optical S/PDIF output (3.5mm) is used to connect the system's audio output signal to amplified speakers or headphones. It also supports SPDIF output with the headphone/SPDIF adapter included in the package. The optical SPDIF output enables connecting the ZBOX nano to digital audio receivers and speakers for crystal clear digital audio and surround sound from compatible soundtracks.

6. Microphone input

The microphone input is designed to connect a microphone for video conferencing, voice narrations or simple audio recordings.

7. IR receiver

The integrated IR receiver is used to receive signals from the IR remote control.

8. USB 3.0 ports

The USB 3.0 ports support the SuperSpeed USB 3.0 devices and are backwards compatible with USB 2.0/1.1 devices. Use the ports for USB 3.0 devices for maximum performance with USB 3.0 compatible devices.

Rear view

Refer to the diagram below to identify the components on this side of the system.

1. Wi-Fi antenna connector

The Wi-Fi antenna connector supports the included Wi-Fi antenna.

2. HDMI output

The HDMI (High Definition Multimedia Interface) port supports a Full-HD device such as an LCD TV or monitor to allow viewing on a larger external display.

3. DisplayPort

DisplayPort supports both external (box-to-box) and internal (laptop LCD panel) display connections.

4. Ethernet ports

The eight-pin RJ-45 LAN ports support standard Ethernet cable for connection to a local area network (LAN) with speeds of 10/100/1000Mbps. LAN2 supports the PXE technology.

5. USB 3.0 ports

The USB 3.0 ports support the SuperSpeed USB 3.0 devices and are backwards compatible with USB 2.0/1.1 devices. Use the ports for USB 3.0 devices for maximum performance with USB 3.0 compatible devices.

6. Power input (DC19V)

The supplied power adapter converts AC power to DC power for use with this jack. Power supplied through this jack supplies power to the mini-PC. To prevent damage to the mini-PC, always use the supplied power adapter.

Note 1: The power adapter may become warm to hot when in use. Do not cover the adapter and keep it away from your body.

Note 2: Due to the special design for easy upgrade, some connectors are placed upside down.

Customizing the ZOTAC ZBOX nano

Before installing hardware, please follow the instructions below to remove the cover of your ZOTAC ZBOX nano.

1. Remove the four screws securing the bottom cover into place.

Black plastic enclosure with perforated top and four small metallic pins below (no visible text or symbols)

1. Remove the bottom cover.

Hand placing a black plastic electronic device into a housing, with four small metallic pins nearby (no visible text or symbols)

Installing an M.2 SSD

1. Remove the four screws from the mid-frame as the image below.

Two views of an open computer case showing internal circuit boards and a hand inserting a screwdriver into the interior (no text or symbols visible)

1. Remove the mid-frame.

Hand inserting a component into an open electronic device case (no visible text or symbols)

1. Insert the M.2 SSD into the socket and gently slide into the connector.

Hand inserting a card into an open electronic device chassis (no visible text or symbols)

1. Install the screw for the M.2 SSD.

Hand inserting a USB into an open electronic device case (no visible text or symbols)

1. Install the mid-frame and reinstall the four screws.

Note: Users please pay special attention to the direction of mid-frame. When the mid-frame is installed properly, the holder of mid-frame is above the HDD socket.

Installing a hard disk

1. Locate the hard disk bracket, remove the 2 screws, and remove the hard disk bracket as shown in the image below.

Hand inserting a cable into an open computer case with visible circuit boards and components (no text or symbols)

1. Install the hard disk bracket onto a 2.5-inch SATA hard disk /SSD with 2 screws.

SSD:HHD:

Hand using a screwdriver to adjust or repair a hard disk drive (no text or symbols visible)

Hand using a screwdriver to apply material to a battery pack (no text or symbols visible)

1. Insert the hard disk /SSD into the socket and gently slide into the connector.

SSD:HHD:

Hand inserting a CD into an open case, showing internal components and drive slots (no text or symbols visible)

1. Reinstall the screws for the hard disk bracket.

SSD:HHD:

Hand inserting a screw into a hard disk drive into an open case (no visible text or symbols)

Connecting a S/PDIF cable

1. Connect the S/PDIF cable to the mini-Optical S/PDIF adapter.

Three black cable connectors with arrows indicating direction of movement (no text or symbols)

1. Locate the front panel and connect the mini-Optical S/PDIF adapter to the headphone / mini-Optical S/PDIF jack.

Black ZOTAC wireless device with power cord and cable (no visible text or symbols on body)

Setting up the ZOTAC ZBOX nano

Please connect your peripherals before using your ZOTAC ZBOX nano.

1. Connecting the WiFi antenna module

Connect the included WiFi antenna to the WiFi antenna connector.

2. Connecting a DisplayPort display

Connect the DisplayPort connector to the DP port.

3. Connecting to a network device

Connect one end of a network cable to the LAN port on the system rear panel and the other end to a network hub, switch or router.

4. Connecting to an HDMI display

Connect one end of an HDMI cable to the HDMI port on the system rear panel and the other end to a HDMI-compatible display such as an HDTV or monitor. (When both the HDMI and the DP are connected, the audio output is from HDMI by default.)

5. Connecting USB 3.0 device

Connect USB 3.0 devices such as external hard drives, SSDs and flash drives to the USB 3.0 port.

6. Turning on the system

Connect the supplied AC adapter to the DC IN jack on the system rear panel and then press the power switch on the front panel to turn on the system.

Note: When your ZOTAC ZBOX nano is not in use, unplug the power adapter or switch off the AC outlet to conserve power.

Positioning the ZOTAC ZBOX nano

- Do not position the ZOTAC ZBOX nano where the ventilation holes are covered. To guarantee proper use, leave 4 inches (10 cm) of spacing in front of the ventilation holes.

- ZOTAC ZBOX nano mini-PC systems provide ample connectivity in a tiny form factor, please choose connectors and cables in appropriate sizes to avoid interference.

Mounting the ZOTAC ZBOX nano to an LCD monitor

You can attach your ZOTAC ZBOX nano to the back of a VESA75/100 compliant monitor.

1. Secure the VESA mount to the LCD monitor using 4 screws (not included).

Disclaimer: ZOTAC cannot be held liable for damages resulting from an improper installation.

Diagram showing a black electronic device with four buttons and an arrow pointing to a computer monitor displaying LG (no text or symbols on the device itself)

1. Align the ZOTAC ZBOX nano mounting holes to the VESA mount attachment pegs. Attach the ZOTAC ZBOX nano to the VESA mount and gently press down to secure the ZBOX to the mount.

Two black electronic device components: a front panel with ports and connectors, and a side panel with mounting holes (no visible text or symbols)

1. Connect the ZOTAC ZBOX nano to your LCD monitor with an HDMI/DP cable.

Front view of a black computer monitor with a small display panel and stand (no visible text or symbols)

Installing drivers and software

Installing an operating system

The ZOTAC ZBOX nano does not ship with an operating system preinstalled. An operating system must be installed before the ZOTAC ZBOX nano can be used. The following operating systems are supported:

• Windows 7
• Windows 8
• Windows 8.1

Follow the instructions below to install an operating system:

1. Insert disk for operating system into the optical drive.
2. Wait for the ZOTAC ZBOX nano to boot from the disk.
3. Follow the onscreen directions to install the operating system.
4. Install system drivers to gain full functionality of the ZOTAC ZBOX nano hardware and features.

Installing system drivers

Before you can use the full features of the ZOTAC ZBOX nano, the system drivers must be installed. The following types of operating systems are supported by the ZOTAC ZBOX nano driver DVD and USB flash drive:

• Windows 7
• Windows 8
• Windows 8.1

Follow the instructions below to install the system drivers:

1. Insert the ZOTAC ZBOX nano driver DVD or USB flash drive. If autorun is enabled, the driver installation main menu will show up automatically.

Note: If autorun is disabled, you can click the file Launch.EXE to bring up the driver installation main menu.

1. The following drivers are available on the DVD and USB flash drive:

2. Intel Chipset Driver
   • HDA Sound Driver

3. Intel Graphics Driver
4. Ethernet PCI-E Driver
   • USB3.0 Controller Driver
   • Intel Management Engine
5. Wireless Network Driver
6. CIR Driver
7. Bluetooth Driver
8. MassStorage Driver
   • USB Charger (optional)

Note: If you want to use USB charger for iPhone/iPad, please install the driver at X:\Utility\Software\Usb Charger\setup.exe (X: your driver disk letter).

Each driver must be installed individually to ensure proper operation of the ZOTAC ZBOX.

1. Select the driver you want to install. The driver installer should launch.
2. Follow the onscreen instructions to install the drivers.
3. Restart the system.

Using your ZOTAC ZBOX nano

Configuring wireless connection

Please follow the instructions below to connect to a wireless network:

1. Double-click the crossed wireless network icon (pic) in the notification area.
2. Select the wireless network you want to connect to from the list and click Connect.
3. After connection was established, you will see "Connected".
   Note 1: For security concerns, Do NOT connect to an unsecured network, otherwise, the transmitted information without encryption might be visible to others.
   Note 2: Enter the network security key if necessary.

Configuring wired connection Using a static IP

1. Right-click the network icon in the notification area and select "Open Network Connections".
2. Right-click "Local Area Connection" and select "Properties".
3. Highlight "Internet Protocol (TCP/IP)" and click "Properties".
4. Select "Use the following IP address".

5. Enter your IP address, subnet mask and Default gateway.

6. Enter the preferred DNS server address if necessary.

7. After entering all of the related values, click "OK" to finish the configuration.

Using a dynamic IP (PPPoE connection)

1. Repeat Step 1-3 in the previous section.
2. Select "Obtain an IP address automatically" and click "OK".
3. Click "Create a new connection" to start the NEW Connection Wizard.
4. Click "Next".

5. Select "Connect to the Internet" and click "Next".

6. Select "Set up my connection manually".

7. Select your connection type and click "Next".

8. Enter your ISP Name and click "Next".

9. Enter your User name and Password. Click "Next".

10. Click "Finish" to finish the configuration.

11. Enter your user name and password. Click "Connect" to connect to the internet.

Note: Contact your internet Service Provider (ISP) if you have problems connecting to the network.

Configuring audio output via an HDMI device

Follow the steps below to enable audio output via HDMI when connecting the ZOTAC ZBOX nano to a TV or receiver via HDMI.

1. Access the Sound settings via the system Control Panel.
2. Under Playback devices, click the display device that corresponds with your HDMI audio compatible display
3. Click the "Set Default" button in the lower right hand corner.
4. Click "OK" to exit the setup.