I was very happy with an earlier NUC purchase that I was eagerly waiting for the Core i5 with USB3.0.  USB3.0 is the key feature I found lacking with the earlier models and finally I can extend the storage capacity over a faster direct link.The unit itself with its functionality is pretty good, my main issue is the non-typical video ports of mini-HDMI and mini-displayport, at least put in a HDMI port for user convenience.  This unit performs as an HTPC and pairs well with the HDHomerun Prime, XMBC client, as a compact workstation or as a home server.I have not experienced any major issues except for a system/software hang that drove the cooling fans to run at max, I updated the bios to the latest released version, re-downloaded the drivers and updated the OS and haven’t experienced any further issues.This unit is easily a 4-5 stars device but I’m only putting in 3 due to possibly quality control and packaging issues.  I received my unit’s box still shrink-wrapped but when I opened it not only was it a bit dusty inside, the plastic wrapping for the unit, cables were wrinkled like it has been used and repackaged.  The inner box is also beat and torn-up as though the package was shaken causing the inner packaging to break apart.  I would seem this was either demo unit or packaged by somebody who hates their job in the factory line.  I had little expectations when I saw the way the device was packaged – good thing the unit actually works but quality control needs to do a better job.