| Small
Form Factor (SFF) computer
systems are smaller than traditional mini-towers.
SFFs include cubes, book-sized PCs and
miniature Home Theater PCs (HTPC). SFF
originally referred to systems smaller
than the Micro-ATX. The term SFF is used
in contrast with terms for larger systems
such as "mini-towers" and "desktops."
The acronym SFF originally stood for "Shuttle
Form Factor," describing shoebox-sized
personal computers with two expansion
slots.
The phrase Small Form Factor does not
refer to standard form factors, as the
phrase computer form factor does. Computer
form factors are established standards
for the physical dimensions of computer
system components (e.g., IBM PC compatible
components) to ensure they are interchangeable
regardless of the vendor or the generation
of technology. Because SFFs such as mini-computers
and home theater boxes use proprietary
motherboards and other components without
industry-standard dimensions, "form
factor" is technically a misnomer.
Designed to minimize
spatial volume, SFFs are usually measured
in litres. The phrase "small form
factor" does not include traditionally
small computing systems such as embedded
or mobile systems. However, "small
form factor" lacks a normative definition
and is consequently misappropriated as
a buzzword due to its growing popularity.
Manufacturers often provide self-serving
definitions.
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