re: Steam Machines..

quote:

---

Are they compatible with "aftermarket" PC parts, or do they have to be Steam Box parts?

---

The CPU is standard LGA 1150, but since all of Alphas use T series chips (the lower wattage versions of the standard desktop counterparts), I would suspect the custom motherboard wouldn't handle beyond the 35W TDP CPUs.

The RAM is SO-DIMM (laptop). The GPU is a proprietary design of an overclocked 860M. It is soldered and cannot be upgraded. Every decision in the design of the Alpha was made for the sake of fitting the tiny form factor at the sacrifice of upgradeability. It's a disposable steam box.