Always-On Computing

Compact, convenient networking devices for home, the classroom and beyond.

Plug Computers

Whether the need is remote access to data on a home network or to turn an entire classroom into a highly interactive learning environment, the solution is simple, convenient, and inexpensive. With a small form factor server called a plug computer, network connectivity is right at a wall socket.

Simply insert the plug computer into an electrical outlet and add an external hard drive or a USB flash drive through a USB port (depending on the deployment, a router may also need to be connected into the plug) — just like that, you have a network attached storage device.

Powered by Marvell embedded processors, a plug computer is packed with enough processing power and network connectivity for managing and serving up digital media files. It also draws less than one tenth of the power consumed by its PC counterparts enabling always-on, always-connected, and environmentally friendly computing. With a gigahertz-class processor, memory and storage the plug computer has ample processing power and resources to run any embedded computing application.

Applications for a plug computer include:

  • Media Server
  • Home Automation
  • Remote Access
  • A micro cloud for the classroom
SMILE Plug Reference Design

SMILE Plug for Education

Powered by Marvell's high-performance, low power ARMADA® 300 series SoC and Avastar™ 88W8764 Wi-Fi, the SMILE Plug creates a micro-cloud, eliminating the problem of inconsistent Internet access within a classroom and creating a safe and secure connectivity for up to 60 students. The SMILE plug also securely delivers digital content to a range of devices, including personal computers and handheld devices. Teachers and students can now tap into an unprecedented amount of open or premium digital content. The SMILE plug also allows teaches to control and run interactive classrooms with real-time feedback and analytics, deepening the learning experience.

Read the CES Press Release

Download the SMILE Plug Platform Brief

Plug Computer Developer Community

Pioneered by Marvell, the plug computer is originally based on the ARM ultra-low power architecture and built on an Open Development Platform. To encourage manufacturers to create applications on the platform, Marvell founded PlugComputer.org, an online community where developers can discuss ideas and share code solutions.

Visit Plugcomputer.org

Plug Computer Processors

Featured Document

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Enabling Classroom 3.0: Read how Marvell's SMILE Plug enables education institutions to create a micro-cloud within a classroom, facilitating a simple, low-cost way to network classrooms.

Product Documentation

Purchase a Plug Computer

These vendors have worked directly with Marvell to create full-featured Plug Computer development kits.

Additional Information

For additional product information please contact your local Marvell Sales Office.