Product Description

V517G MT P4/3.0 512MB 200GB DVDRW 17IN WXPH ... Read more

Product Description

Cutting-Edge Sony Media Center! Intel P4 3.4EGHz HT Technology CPU! 1GB DDR, 320GB SATA HDD, DVD Burner! The Sony VAIO VGC-RA830G Digital Studio Media Center was developed with your lifestyle in mind. Providing the multimedia muscle for your next-generation A/V demands, the VAIO VGC-RA830G gives you the power to edit high-definition camcorder video, master your own music recordings, and turn your home movies into high-quality DVDs. The unique liquid-cooling system and advanced noise-reduction technology deliver powerful, reliable performance from an incredibly cool, quiet system. The wireless keyboard, mouse and remote control eliminate cable clutter, and allow you to work from your easy chair. The VAIO VGC-RA830G Digital Studio Media Center lets you turn your living room into a home theater. Bring Sony’s professional audio, video and broadcast expertise directly to your desktop. Now you can create, manage, edit and archive video, music and photos just like a Pro. Capture and edit high-definition camcorder video. Turn your old VHS and 8mm videos into professional-quality DVDs. Watch and record high-quality TV. Master your own audio recordings, or digitize your old records and tapes, with Sony’s original SonicStage Mastering Studio software. The power you need for the most demanding A/V applications. Sony has truly outdone themselves with 320GBs of unimaginably massive hard drive space as a result of two 160GB Serial-ATA 7200RPM hard drives combine ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Nice package
The RA8xxx Series from Sony is very nice.Big plus is the cooling system.The machine is super quiet.The integrated Home Media support is a nice bonus.I don't think I'd want to use one of these as a TiVo replacement but for a home machine it's tough to beat from a combination of style, power, features and performance.

Negatives are the crappy mouse and keyboard and having to burn your own Recovery software.

buyer beware!!
Just bought this yesterday at compusa. Will be taking it back tomorrow morning. This is the 5th computer I have owned and the worse I have ever seen. Sony has allot of wonderful software on this system and impressive 5.1 speakers that come with it. But you are screwed if you have to do a system recovery. Followed the directions and spent 2 hours making recovery disks before putting any of my software on it, only to find out that when it tries to recover your system it prompts you to insert disk #1 and press ok. Guess what? You can't press ok because your wireless mouse and keyboard are no longer functional. And turning off the computer wiped out ALL my system restore checkpoints. So I couldn't even restore to a earlier time. When I tried it again I then got a message that it couldn't locate the recovery partion. And forget about any type of help from the website or the non-existant user manual. The only help they had was to change the batteries in the mouse and keyboard (they already had brand new batteries). ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Whether editing your family photos, balancing your online checkbook, or listening to your digital music collection, Compaq's SR1401NX offers a versatile, strong base for your home computing needs. Focusing on affordability, the SR1401NX has room to grow with an available expansion slot, 2 available PCI slots, 5 USB ports for connecting peripherals, and the ability to add up to 2 GB of RAM. This desktop comes with a 40 GB hard drive, 256 MB of installed RAM, 2.66 GHz Intel Celeron processor, 48x CD writer, and a multi-format memory card reader. For a step up in price, the SR1410NX offers a faster Celeron processor, 80 GB hard drive, and a combo DVD/CD-RW drive.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: Since the focus is on affordability, the SR1401NX comes with just a 40 GB hard drive (7200 RPM). While this may have sounded gigantic at one time, it is one of the smallest hard drives you'll find in a desktop computer. That said, it offers more than enough room for home office productivity software, storing family photos, and a decent-sized digital audio library.
• Processor: The Intel Celeron D 330 processor might not be as sexy as a Pentium, but it still gets your work done speedily enough. It has a 2.66 GHz speed with a decently fast 533 MHz front-side bus (FSB) and 256K L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance.)
• Memory: The 256 MB of installed RAM will get you started, but you'll want to add more to handle any kind of multimedia application and most business productivity suites. This desktop has a 2 GB maximum RAM capacity.
• CD/DVD Drive: This desktop includes a speedy CD burner, with 48x write/read and 32x rewrite speeds. While this won't play DVDs, you can use one of the 5.25-inch expansion slots to add an optional DVD drive.
• Keyboard & Mouse: The SR1401NX comes with a Compaq keyboard and scroller mouse (both with PS/2 connections.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
For expansion, the SR1401NX has two 5.25-inch external bays (one available), one external 3.5-inch bay (available) and one internal 3.5-inch bay (occupied), and three PCI slots (two available). It comes with a built-in floppy drive and the following external connectors:

• 5 USB 2.0 ports (1 in front, 4 in rear) for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 2 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals (1 in front, 1 in rear)
• 1 parallel port for connecting older printers and scanners
• 2 PS/2 ports for connecting keyboards and mice
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 9-in-1 media card reader on the front, compatible with CompactFlash (Type I and II), MicroDrive, SmartMedia, Memory Stick/Memory Stick Pro, MultiMedia Card, Secure Digital, and XD Picture Card

Preloaded System and Software
This system comes with the Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 2 operating system with Advanced Security Technologies, which helps to reduce unwanted downloads and pop-ups while surfing the Web. It also comes preloaded with Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents), Norton Internet Security 2005 (with 60 days of complimentary updates), InterMute SpySubtract Pro (with 60 days of complimentary updates), Microsoft Money 2005, Quicken 2005 New User Edition, Sonic RecordNow, Apple iTunes, Adobe Photoshop Album Starter Edition, and MSN Encarta 2005.

Dimensions and Weight
This desktop measures 15.35 x 7.17 x 16.54 inches (HxWxD) and weighs approximately 30 pounds.

What's in the Box
The Presario SR1401NX desktop PC comes with a power cord, keyboard, and scroller mouse. It is backed by a one-year warranty for parts and labor from date of purchase, and it includes 90 days of toll-free software technical assistance. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The VAIO W Series pioneers new territory in desktop PCs. The all-in-one design makes it ideal when space is hard to find. It covers your computing needs and knows how to entertain, with three different modes to choose from. You can be checking stock quotes on-line one minute, and be digitally recording a football game the next.

  The W700G comes with a 17.5-inch LCD WXGA screen in a compact, all-in-one design.

The Basics Sporting a distinctive style that liberates valuable desktop real estate from annoying cables and wires and clunky computer boxes, the Sony VAIO PCV-V700G is far removed from a typical PC. If space is an issue or you merely need a computer that doubles as a television recorder and multimedia center, you need look no further than this sleek and very unique machine. Unlike standard desktop computers, the VAIO PCV-V700G features an elegant all-in-one design that mates a large 17.5-inch DVD-friendly widescreen display, speakers, and internal components inside a single futuristic module. The system also includes a foldaway keyboard, thereby freeing your work surface from even more clutter. Whether used in the office or in other environments where its massive 200 GB hard disk, DVD burner, and built-in TV tuner might just make your home entertainment center dispensable, the VAIO PCV-V700G is ready for the job. Sound The VAIO PCV-W700G produces sound via an audio chip integrated on the motherboard and two speakers mounted on either side of its display. The system takes advantage of Sony's SRS WOW technology to simulate surround sound. However, if big, room-rattling audio and true surround sound is a requisite, you'll need to purchase a separate amplified speaker system.

Video CPUs are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translating visual output to the screen. This is the duty of the video card (or video controller). The VAIO PCV-W700G features an SIS 651 graphics controller--a chipset that's integrated onto the unit's motherboard and shares 32 MB of the system's main memory. This is not an ideal setup for gamers, video artists, or anyone who needs smooth 3-D graphics. If you require top-level 3-D graphics support, you may be best served by investigating other Sony computers, such as the Media Center series. The built-in 17.5-inch display sports a comparatively large viewing area and a widescreen format well suited to the aspect ratio favored by Hollywood. As such, it's not only great for displaying standard computing tasks, but also for watching DVD movies. Performance The VAIO W Series is quite powerful. With an Intel Pentium 4 2.80 GHz processor and up to 512 MB of RAM, it's more than capable of handling the demands of digital video and Internet downloads. A large 160 GB hard drive comes standard and provides plenty of space for storing digital music and video files or working with multiple applications. This series was created to provide everything needed for home computing and entertainment.

With Giga Pocket software you can record, manage, and play your favorite TV shows anytime.

Hard Drive
The built-in 200 GB hard drive is considered generous in any price range, sporting enough storage space for a massive allotment of files and applications and a huge music or multimedia collection too. Most users will have a hard time ever filling this hard drive.

Optical Drive
An optical drive is essential in today’s computing environment. A CD-ROM drive allows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A CD-RW drive adds CD burning, so you can also back up your important files to long-lasting discs and create personalized music CDs. With a DVD-ROM drive you can enjoy all of the above plus watch the same big-budget DVD movies you watch on your home entertainment system. And with a DVD-RW drive, you can also write home movies and archive files to durable DVDs, which boast more than seven times the storage capacity of CDs.

The VAIO PCV-W700G features a DVD+RW/-RW/CD-ROM drive that's ready for virtually any form of CD or DVD recording or playing.

Operating System and Software
The VAIO PCV-W700G features an impressive software package headed by Microsoft’s Windows XP Home Edition operating system. Sony will also preinstall Microsoft’s Works 7.0 word processing and productivity suite, Adobe's Photoshop Elements 2.0 photo- and graphic-editing application, Sony's Giga Pocket personal video recorder, and an array of multimedia utilities.

Accessories The VAIO PCV-W700G is wonderfully easy to operate via the foldaway VAIO keyboard, optical wired mouse and ultra-convenient infrared remote control. Connectivity and Expansion With four high-speed USB 2.0 ports at your disposal, you’ll have sufficient room for a small batch of plug-and-play gadgets such as printers, scanners, and joysticks. The system also includes an IEEE 1394 FireWire port (commonly used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders), a variety of high-end audio and video connections, and a convenient television tuner. Communication options include an integrated networking interface for Internet and network communication, a V.92 data/fax modem for low-speed dialup connections, and a Sony VAIO 802.11 a/b/g wireless card for wireless networking.

The W700G provides a number of ports for all your expansion and interface needs.

... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Whether editing your family photos, balancing your online checkbook, or listening to your digital music collection, Compaq's SR1430NX offers a versatile, strong base for your home computing needs and is ready to take on multimedia tasks such as 3D gaming and video editing. The tricked-out SR1430NX has room to grow with 2 available PCI slots, 7 USB ports for connecting peripherals, and the ability to add up to a whopping 4 GB of RAM. This desktop comes with a huge 160 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, 2.93 GHz Intel Pentium 4 processor, dual-layer DVD-/+RW drive (which also burns CDs), and a multi-format memory card reader.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The extra-large 160 GB Ultra DMA hard drive (7200 RPM) offers a wealth of storage space, perfect for storing a vast multimedia collection or for editing digital video.
• Processor: Compaq amps up the processing power with the 2.93 GHz Intel Pentium 4 515J processor, which is more befitting this multimedia model than the Celeron processor found in its brethren. It has a decently fast 533 MHz front-side bus (FSB) and large 1 MB L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance.)
• Memory: The 512 MB of installed RAM is a good start, but you'll want to take advantage of the huge 4 GB of total RAM capacity (4 x 1 GB)for such multimedia needs as video editing and immersive 3D gaming.
• CD/DVD Drive: Offering the latest in DVD writing technology, the SR1430NX multiformat DVD/CD drive is compatible with both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats as well as dual-layer DVD+R discs, which can store up to 8.5 GB of data. It features16x DVD+R, 8x DVD-R, 4x DVD+/-RW, 2.4x DVD+R DL, 16x DVD-ROM, 40x CDR, 24x CDRW, and 40x CD-ROM ROM speeds. It also features an extra CD-ROM drive with 48x read speed.
• Keyboard & Mouse: The SR1430NX comes with a Compaq keyboard and scroller mouse (both with PS/2 connections.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
For expansion, the SR1430NX has two 5.25-inch external bays (both available), one external 3.5-inch bay (available) and one internal 3.5-inch bay (occupied), and three PCI slots (two available). It comes with a built-in floppy drive and the following external connectors:

• 7 USB 2.0 ports (3 in front, 4 in rear) for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 2 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals (1 in front, 1 in rear)
• 1 parallel port for connecting older printers and scanners
• 2 PS/2 ports for connecting keyboards and mice
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 9-in-1 media card reader on the front, compatible with CompactFlash (Type I and II), MicroDrive, SmartMedia, Memory Stick/Memory Stick Pro, MultiMedia Card, Secure Digital, and XD Picture Card

Preloaded System and Software
This system comes with the Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 2 operating system with Advanced Security Technologies, which helps to reduce unwanted downloads and pop-ups while surfing the Web. It also comes preloaded with Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents), Norton Internet Security 2005 (with 60 days of complimentary updates), InterMute SpySubtract Pro (with 60 days of complimentary updates), Microsoft Money 2005, Quicken 2005 New User Edition, Sonic RecordNow, Apple iTunes, Adobe Photoshop Album Starter Edition, and MSN Encarta 2005.

Dimensions and Weight
This desktop measures 15.35 x 7.17 x 16.54 inches (HxWxD) and weighs approximately 30 pounds.

What's in the Box
The Presario SR1430NX desktop PC comes with a power cord, keyboard, and scroller mouse. It is backed by a one-year warranty for parts and labor from date of purchase, and it includes 90 days of toll-free software technical assistance. ... Read more

Product Description

Sony VAIO RA834G Desktop PC The VAIO® RA834G Digital Studio Desktop Computer was developed with your lifestyle in mind. Providing the multimedia muscle for your next-generation A/V demands, the RA834G gives you more power to edit high-definition camcorder video, master your own music recordings, and turn your home movies into high-quality DVDs1. The unique liquid-cooling system and advanced noise-reduction technology deliver powerful, reliable performance from an incredibly cool, quiet system. The wireless keyboard, mouse and remote control eliminate cable clutter, and allow you to work from your easy chair. ... Read more

Product Description

Cutting-Edge Sony Style & Performance! Intel Pentium 4 3GHz HT Technology Processor! 512MB of DDR RAM, 200GB SATA HDD, DVD+/-RW Dual-Layer Burner! The Sony VAIO VGC-RB30 desktop is ready for your digital lifestyle. Loaded with exclusive Sony software, the VAIO VGC-RB30 will be able to support and grow with your expanding multimedia demands and essential computing needs. Versatile and empowering, the VGC-RB30 lets you create, manage, share and enjoy your digital photos, home videos, movies and music. The massive 200GB Serial-ATA hard drive and 512MB of DDR memory ensure you never run out of room to expand your collection of memories. It's also loaded with software and hardware to help you create professional quality DVDs and CDs with up to 8.5GB recording capacity using advanced DVD+/-RW Dual-Layer technology and Sony Click to DVD software. The sleek design of the VAIO VGC-RB30 will integrate easily into any room, adding style without clutter. Ready for your creativity. The Sony VAIO VGC-RB30 desktop comes loaded with the tools you need to create, manage, share and enjoy your digital photos, home videos, movies and music. Intuitive and versatile, the VGC-RB30 is ready for your digital lifestyle. The power to create professional-quality DVDs is at your fingertips with the Sony Click to DVD creation software. Create or record up to 8.5GB of home videos, movies, TV shows, music or digital photos – up to 4 hours of MPEG-2 video – on one Dual-Layer DVD disc. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Missing critical information
The system is regular, normal I would say for any kid who is not looking for cutting edge games.
My biggest complain is that HP made this computer just for Windows XP Home edition. After installing Professional edition you will end up with no sound and may be some thing else. There are not drivers for this system if you change OS, basically you can not upgrade computer.
... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Ultra-affordable but lacking the power and perks of a mid- or high-level unit, the HP Pavilion a210n Desktop PC is built for folks who don't want or don't need to drop a lot of dough on state-of-the-art equipment. Distinct from the entry-level Pavilion a200n by virtue of its larger hard disk and DVD playing capabilities, the Pavilion a210n won't appease those who constantly strain their computer with processor-intensive applications or the latest 3-D games, but is otherwise a solid choice for the budget-conscious user.

At the heart of the Pavilion a210n lies a 2.5 GHz Intel Celeron processor. HP has matched this budget-conscious CPU with 256 MB of PC2100 DDR SDRAM, an integrated Intel Extreme graphics chipset with 64 MB of shared (not dedicated) memory, and a surprisingly large 80 GB hard disk. Other data handling tools include a 3.5-inch diskette drive for older or smaller applications and backup needs, a CD-RW drive through which you can play and burn audio CDs and archive information, and a DVD-ROM drive for watching movies.

The Pavilion a210n package does not include a display or speakers, nor does it feature an IEEE 1394 FireWire port (normally used for fast data movement to and from external devices such as digital camcorders). It is equipped with a half dozen high-speed USB 2.0 ports for speedy interaction with plug and play peripherals, a two-button PS/2 scrolling mouse and a convenient HP Multimedia keyboard. Connectivity options include a low-speed 56K modem and a 10/100Base-T networking interface for high-speed e-communications.

The impressive bundled software package features such useful applications as WordPerfect Productivity Pack 2002, WordPerfect 10 and Quattro Pro 10, Intuit Quicken New Users Edition, InterVideo's WinDVD DVD player, and the Windows XP Home Edition operating system. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The BasicsHardcore gamers and people who absolutely must have the most power and finest state-of-the-art amenities that money can buy will want to check out other PCs such as the Sony VAIO VGC-RA826G Digital Studio PC, but everyone else should find the Sony VAIO PCV-RS720G Desktop PC is all the computer they need. Featuring such desirable perks as double-layer DVD burning, built-in TV and video recording and a spacious 200 GB hard drive, the system is especially ideal as the centerpiece of a home entertainment center -- merely add a set of surround sound speakers and a viewing screen and you're good to go. If multimedia is in your future, the VAIO PCV-RS720G is a superb midlevel alternative.

Processor
At the heart of any computer lies the CPU (or processor), a massive collection of miniature transistors that governs the speed and power of the entire unit. For the VAIO PCV-RS720G, Sony balanced speed with affordability by installing an Intel Pentium 4 530. New for 2004, this is one of the recently upgraded series of Pentium 4 chips -- nicknamed "Prescott" -- featuring one full MB of Level 2 cache and a more generous data "pipeline" than prior models. Operating at a speedy but not record-breaking 3.0 GHz and of course sporting Intel's Hyper-Threading technology (Hyper-Threading allows a single CPU system to behave at times as a dual CPU system, thus adding substantially more speed to some high-end applications), this CPU delivers more than enough power for most applications and environments.

Memory
Computers typically store information on their hard drive, but they keep frequently and recently accessed data in Random Access Memory (RAM) for faster retrieval. More RAM means more efficient computing, superior multitasking and less strain on your hard drive. Though some of Sony's pricier units feature a whopping 1 GB of RAM and are therefore ready for anything the future may bring, the VAIO PCV-RS720G sports half that amount, 512 MB. Still, this is a typical allotment for most midlevel and high-end computers, and is certainly enough for most multitasking situations and/or complex applications. Moreover, it's fast PC3200 400 MHz DDR memory, and can be upgraded to a whopping 2 GB.

Video
CPU's are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translating visual output to the viewing screen. This is the duty of the graphics card (or graphics controller). A graphics controller with "dedicated" video memory is preferable to a controller that's integrated on the mainboard and "shares" the system's main memory, as it will better handle complex procedures.

The VAIO PCV-RS720G features a new style of video controller -- a hybrid of sorts between high-end standalone "dedicated memory" cards and less capable integrated "shared memory" controllers. It's called the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900, a module that is indeed integrated on the motherboard but features more refined components. It also commandeers more of the system's main memory -- up to 224 MB -- than traditional integrated controllers. Ultimately, this controller is sufficient for all 2D and most 3D tasks (including most 3D games) and is far superior to a standard integrated controller, though a dedicated video card with 256 MB or more of built-in memory would deliver smoother imaging and more realistic textures in super-high-end applications such as the latest 3D games and 3D animation packages.

Display:
Sony has not included a display screen, thus allowing you to continue using your current monitor or select from today's many alternatives.

Sound
The VAIO PCV-RS720G generates stereo and surround sound via an Intel High Definition Audio chipset.

Hard Drive
The unit's large 200 GB internal hard drive is spacious enough for a massive allotment of files and applications and a comprehensive music, video/photo and multimedia library too. Furthermore, this particular hard drive is exceptionally quick -- sporting a fast 7200-RPM speed, an 8 MB buffer, and a futuristic Serial ATA connection. These are all comparatively recent innovations, each increasing the overall speed and performance of the system.

Optical Drive
An optical drive is essential in today's computing world. A "CD-ROM" drive allows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A "CD-RW" drive adds CD "burning", so you can also backup your important files to long-lasting discs and create personalized music CDs. With a DVD-ROM drive you can enjoy all of the above plus watch the same big budget DVD movies you watch on your home entertainment system. And with a DVD-RW drive, you can also "write" home movies to durable discs and archive files to DVD (DVDs boast more than seven times the storage capacity of CDs).

This unit features two optical drives -- a DVD-ROM drive for playing music and data CDs and DVD movies, and a DVD +/- RW Double Layer Multi-Format drive through which you can not only do everything above but also take advantage of new double layer DVDs (twice the capacity of traditional DVDs). Moreover, this two-drive setup allows you to create extremely fast CD or DVD copies.

Connectivity and Expansion
With no less than seven high-speed USB 2.0 ports, you'll have lots of room for plug and play gadgets such as digital cameras and printers. Sony has also installed an IEEE 1394 "FireWire" port (often used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders), an S/PDIF jack for crystal clear digital audio, two S-Video inputs for lossless digital video, and a memory card reader for uploading data from today's most popular memory cards from devices such as digital cameras, PDAs and more. Communication options include a standard Ethernet LAN interface for fast network and Internet access and a 56K data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections

Operating System and Software
The VAIO PCV-RS720G features a software package headed by today's most accepted and commonplace operating system, Microsoft's Windows XP Home Edition. Also bundled with the system is Microsoft's Works 8.0 productivity pack, Intuit's Quicken 2005 New User's Edition financial suite, a half dozen of Sony's own top notch multimedia tools, and several time-limited trial editions of popular security and Internet utilities.

Control
The system includes a VAIO Keyboard and a no hassle PS/2 optical mouse. To help you better operate your system when you can't or don't want to hover over the keyboard, Sony will also enclose a convenient wireless remote control. ... Read more

Product Description

VAIO RB38G Minitower, Intel Pentium 4 Processor 550, 3.4GHz, with Hyper-Threading Technology, 1GB RAM, 250GB Hard Drive, 16X DVD+/-RW and 16X DVD Drives, Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Whether editing your family photos, balancing your online checkbook, or listening to your digital music collection, Compaq's SR1420NX offers a versatile, strong base for your home computing needs. Focusing on affordability, the SR1420NX has room to grow with an available expansion slot, 2 available PCI slots, 5 USB ports for connecting peripherals, and the ability to add up to 2 GB of RAM. This desktop comes with an 80 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, 2.93 GHz Intel Celeron processor, dual-layer DVD-/+RW drive (which also burns CDs), and a multi-format memory card reader. For a step up in price, the SR1430NX offers a Pentium 4 processor, 160 GB hard drive, and an extra CD-ROM drive.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The 80 GB hard drive (7200 RPM) is average in size when compared to other budget-minded desktop PCs. It will provide ample storage space for your family digital photos as well as a large digital audio library--but it's not quite enough for editing digital video from camcorders.
• Processor: The Intel Celeron D 340 processor might not be as sexy as a Pentium, but it still gets your work done speedily enough. It has a 2.93 GHz speed with a decently fast 533 MHz front-side bus (FSB) and 256K L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance.)
• Memory: The 512 MB of installed RAM is a good start, but you'll want to take advantage of the roomy 2 GB of total RAM capacity (2 x 1 GB)for such multimedia needs as video editing and immersive 3D gaming.
• CD/DVD Drive: Offering the latest in DVD writing technology, the SR1420NX multiformat DVD/CD drive is compatible with both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats as well as dual-layer DVD+R discs, which can store up to 8.5 GB of data. It features16x DVD+R, 8x DVD-R, 4x DVD+/-RW, 2.4x DVD+R DL, 16x DVD-ROM, 40x CDR, 24x CDRW, and 40x CD-ROM ROM speeds.
• Keyboard & Mouse: The SR1420NX comes with a Compaq keyboard and scroller mouse (both with PS/2 connections.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
For expansion, the SR1420NX has two 5.25-inch external bays (one available), one external 3.5-inch bay (available) and one internal 3.5-inch bay (occupied), and three PCI slots (two available). It comes with a built-in floppy drive and the following external connectors:

• 5 USB 2.0 ports (1 in front, 4 in rear) for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 2 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) port for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals (1 in front, 1 in rear)
• 1 parallel port for connecting older printers and scanners
• 2 PS/2 ports for connecting keyboards and mice
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 9-in-1 media card reader on the front, compatible with CompactFlash (Type I and II), MicroDrive, SmartMedia, Memory Stick/Memory Stick Pro, MultiMedia Card, Secure Digital, and XD Picture Card

Preloaded System and Software
This system comes with the Windows XP Home Edition Service Pack 2 operating system with Advanced Security Technologies, which helps to reduce unwanted downloads and pop-ups while surfing the Web. It also comes preloaded with Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents), Norton Internet Security 2005 (with 60 days of complimentary updates), InterMute SpySubtract Pro (with 60 days of complimentary updates), Microsoft Money 2005, Quicken 2005 New User Edition, Sonic RecordNow, Apple iTunes, Adobe Photoshop Album Starter Edition, and MSN Encarta 2005.

Dimensions and Weight
This desktop measures 15.35 x 7.17 x 16.54 inches (HxWxD) and weighs approximately 30 pounds.

What's in the Box
The Presario SR1420NX desktop PC comes with a power cord, keyboard, and scroller mouse. It is backed by a one-year warranty for parts and labor from date of purchase, and it includes 90 days of toll-free software technical assistance. ... Read more

Product Description

Cutting-Edge Sony Media Center! Intel Pentium 4 3.2GHz HT Technology Processor! 512MB of DDR RAM, 200GB SATA HDD, DVD+/-RW Dual-Layer Burner! The Sony VAIO VGC-RB34G Media Center can handle your professional needs and cater to your digital lifestyle. It comes loaded with exclusive Sony software that allows you to easily create, manage, share and enjoy your digital photos, home videos, movies and music. Convert old VHS and 8mm videos to DVD with Click to DVD software and create an extensive digital library for your personal viewing entertainment. The massive 200GB Serial-ATA hard drive and 512MB of DDR memory ensure you never run out of room to expand your collection of memories. The tools you need for your expanding multimedia demands and everyday computing needs are centralized in one powerful media center machine. The expanded hard drive space and improved memory give you the power to do more, save more, create more. The Sony VAIO VGC-RB34G Media Center comes loaded with the tools you need to create, manage, share and enjoy your digital photos, home videos, movies and music. Intuitive. Versatile. Empowering. Ready for your digital lifestyle. The power to create professional-quality DVDs is at your fingertips. With the Sony Click to DVD creation software and the Dual-Layer DVD+/-RW drive, it’s just one click away. Create or record up to 8.5GB of home videos, movies, TV shows, music or digital photos – up to 4 hours of MPEG-2 video – on one Dual-Layer DVD disc. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The Basics
Targeting multimedia enthusiasts who relish the thought of manipulating photos, editing home movies, burning and playing digital music and building a library of all of the above, the Sony VAIO VGC-RB44G Desktop PC is in reality quite capable of handling virtually any task apart from high-end 3D games. And even then, all it would take is an upgrade of the system's middle-of-the-road graphics card to bring it up to spec. Featuring a fast yet cost effective processor, superb optical drive facilities and enough data storage space for anyone, the VAIO VGC-RB44G is a strong midlevel desktop alternative for the personal and professional user.

Processor
At the heart of any computer lies the CPU (or processor), a massive collection of miniature transistors that governs the speed and power of the entire unit. For the VAIO VGC-RB44G, Sony balances speed with affordability by incorporating an Intel Pentium 4 640. This is one of Intel's recently upgraded Pentium 4 chips, featuring two full megabytes (MB) of Level 2 cache for even faster real world operation than last year's model, which sported an already impressive one MB Level 2 cache. Operating at a speedy but not top-of-the-line 3.2 GHz and of course sporting Intel's Hyper-Threading technology (Hyper-Threading allows a single CPU system to behave at times as a dual CPU system, thus adding substantially more speed to some high-end applications), this CPU delivers more raw horsepower than many users are ever likely to require.

Memory
Computers typically store information on their hard drive, but they keep frequently and recently accessed data in Random Access Memory (RAM) for faster retrieval. More RAM means more efficient computing, superior multitasking and less strain on your hard drive. Currently, 512 MB of RAM is considered sufficient for most applications and multitasking situations, though demanding users will want more. Fitted with a full one gigabyte (1034 MB) of high-speed PC3200 400 MHz RAM, the VAIO VGC-RB44G delivers instant response no matter how many programs you're running.

Video
CPU's are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translating visual output -- particularly the demanding 3D visual output of games and 3D animation packages -- to the viewing screen. This is the duty of the graphics card (or graphics controller). A graphics controller with "dedicated" video memory is preferable to a controller that's integrated on the mainboard and "shares" the system's main memory, as it will better handle complex procedures and display a more sophisticated, smoother image. The good news is that the VAIO VGC-RB44G features a graphics controller with dedicated video memory -- an ATI Radeon X300. The not-so-good news for those who absolutely require top-notch 3D graphics performance is that the X300 carries just 128 MB of video memory. In a time when many cards sport 256 MB or 512 MB and many game manufacturers optimize their software for a 256 minimum, the X300 may not be enough for serious 3D fans. Though it's far superior to an integrated controller and will handle all 2D and many 3D applications, it is not an ideal gamer's card.

Display
Sony has not included a display screen, thus allowing you to continue using your current monitor or select from today's many alternatives.

Sound
The VAIO VGC-RB44G generates stereo and surround sound via an audio chip integrated on the motherboard. This arrangement doesn't offer the power or the sophistication of a high-end sound card, but it's more than sufficient for the enclosed set of stereo desktop speakers.

Hard Drive
The unit's massive 250 GB internal hard drive is spacious enough for a massive allotment of files and applications and a comprehensive music, video/photo and multimedia library too. Furthermore, this particular hard drive is quick -- sporting a fast 7200-RPM speed, an 8 MB buffer, and a cutting-edge Serial ATA connection. These are all comparatively recent innovations, each increasing the overall speed and performance of the system.

Optical Drive
An optical drive is essential in today's computing world. A "CD-ROM" drive allows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A "CD-RW" drive adds CD "burning", so you can also backup your important files to long-lasting discs and create personalized music CDs. With a DVD-ROM drive you can enjoy all of the above plus watch the same big budget DVD movies you watch on your home entertainment system. And with a DVD-RW drive, you can also "write" home movies to durable discs and archive files to DVD (DVDs boast more than seven times the storage capacity of CDs).

This unit features two optical drives -- a DVD-ROM drive for playing music and data CDs and DVD movies, and a DVD+R Double Layer/ DVD±RW drive through which you can not only do everything above but also take advantage of new double layer DVDs (twice the capacity of traditional DVDs). Moreover, this two-drive setup allows you to make extremely fast CD or DVD copies.

Connectivity and Expansion
With six high-speed USB 2.0 ports, you'll have lots of room for plug and play gadgets such as digital cameras and printers. The unit also features two IEEE 1394 "FireWire" ports (commonly used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders), an S-Video input for loss-less digital video, composite video-audio inputs and a coaxial input to run signals from other sources through your computer (for recording television programs on your hard drive, for example), a DVI-D output to send an optimal digital video signal from the computer to a flat-panel display, and a memory card reader for uploading data from today's most popular memory cards. Communication options include a standard Ethernet LAN interface for fast network and Internet access and a 56K data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections.

Operating System and Software
Multimedia fans will find a lot to like in the unit's operating system, Microsoft's Windows XP Media Center Edition. Also bundled with the VAIO VGC-RB44G is Microsoft's Works 8.0 productivity pack, Intuit's Quicken 2005 New User Edition financial suite, a half dozen of Sony's own top notch multimedia tools, and several time-limited trial editions of popular security and Internet utilities.

Control
The system includes a VAIO Keyboard and a no hassle USB optical mouse. To help you better operate your system when you can't or don't want to hover over the keyboard, Sony will also enclose a convenient wireless remote control. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Sony VAIO PCV-RS530G offers the next step in the home digital media hub with its personal video recording capabilities and built-in DVD+/-RW writer. It also sports tremendous power for high-end multimedia software and PC games. Featuring a fast Hyper-Threaded 3.2 GHz Pentium 4 processor, the PCV-RS530G also offers 512 MB installed RAM, a very generous 160 GB hard drive, and a wealth of digital audio, photo, and video software. With Sony's Giga Pocket, you can record TV programs to the hard drive and save them for later viewing. With Click to DVD, you can import your camcorder's digital video and burn directly to DVD. For a step down in price, the Sony Vaio PCV-RS520 subtracts the personal video recording functions of the PCV-RS530G.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: Though it's not the largest on the market, the large 160 GB Ultra ATA/100 hard drive (7200 RPM) offers a wealth of storage for all your media storage--from digital audio to TV programs.
• Processor: The 3.2 GHz Pentium 4 processor with Hyper-Threading technology (which allows a single CPU system to behave in some aspects like a dual-CPU system--see more in Tech Talk section below) is one of the fastest processors currently available on the market. It also has a 512 KB L2 cache.
• Memory: The installed 512 MB of RAM (400 MHz DDR SDRAM) is sufficient for starting out, but you'll want to add more memory power to take full advantage of the PCV-RS530G's multimedia capabilities (it's expandable to 2.0 GB). It also has an FSB (front-side bus) speed of 800 MHz.
• CD/DVD Drive: It is equipped with a combo DVD+/-RW and CD-RW drive. For DVD-RW discs, it has a 4x write/2x rewrite/2x read speed, while for DVD+RW discs it has a 4x write/2.4x rewrite/2.4x read speed. For CDs, it has a 16x write/10x rewrite/32x read speed.
• Keyboard & Mouse: It comes with a Sony Vaio keyboard and mouse (with PS/2 connector).

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
You get a wide range of connectivity options with the PCV-RS530G (including a floppy disk drive), such as three PCI expansion slots (one available), one 8x AGP (accelerated graphics port, occupied) slot and the following external ports:

• 7 USB 2.0 ports (3 in front, 4 in rear) for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 2 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link; 1 4-pin in front and 1 6-pin in back) ports for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• 1 parallel port for connecting older printers and scanners
• 2 PS/2 ports for connecting keyboards and mice
• 1 RGB monitor port
• 2 TV-out (S-Video) (1 front, 1 rear)
• 2 composite video/audio inputs (1 front, 1 rear)
• Stereo (RCA jack) input/output
• Coaxial input
• Multi-format memory card reader that is compatible with CompactFlash (Type I/II), MicroDrive, Memory Stick, and SmartMedia cards.
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack

Preloaded System and Software
The PCV-RS530G comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it also features Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents) as well as a 60-day trial for Microsoft Office 2003. Preloaded Sony software includes Giga Pocket (Personal Video Recorder), Click to DVD (DVD creation), PictureGear Studio (digital photo), DVgate Plus (digital video), SonicStage (digital music), and VAIO Media (Network file sharing). Other preloaded software includes InterVideo WinDVD, MoodLogic 2.5 Trial, Intuit Quicken 2004 New User Edition, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Apple QuickTime, RealNetworks RealOne Player, Norton Internet Security (90-day trial).

Dimensions and Weight
It measures 7.2 x 15.6 x 14.9 (W x H x D) and weighs 26.5 pounds.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCV-RS530G Digital Studio PC, keyboard, mouse, IR remote control and receiver, and set of two speakers.

Tech Talk
Hyper-Threading: A Hyper-Threading processor helps a PC to run multiple demanding applications at the same time. This technology enables the processor to execute two threads (a part of a program) in parallel, boosting performance during key high-drain procedures. This results in more efficient software performance (such as faster reaction times in gaming applications) and enhanced multitasking. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A hidden Gem!
This really is an excellent system. Let me say it again this is a great system when you get it home and see the sum of all its parts. This system has a fast processor,lots of memory,a huge hard drive and tons of goodies that you just wont find on alot of other brand name computers. I really wanted a dell like alot of you. I heard only great things about dell computers. My computer recently died(moment of silence)and I needed a replacement in a hurry for our home business. The dell just took to much time to get, and now that I compare the two I find that I have alot more computer for a much cheaper price. I went to Best Buy and bought the PCV-RS530G and have been on cloud nine ever since. Now I know that I sound like a Sony employee, which I am not,but this system really grows on you as you spend more time with it. The first reviewer got a bad apple, and they are upset but this happen to someone no matter what brand you buy, there will be that one person you hear about that had a terrible time. I felt compelled to write this review because I really feel this is one of the best computers that you can buy for around $1300.00 Its has tons of software for editing photos,making DVD movies,recording tv programs (kinda like a tivo only cheaper)and many other useful programs which I still am exploring. Sony may not be the first brand that you consider when looking for a new PC, but you know what, they always make sound products that last a long time. I am writing this review on my Sony laptop which I have had for 6 years now and you know what? It still works like the day I first bought it. Now the one feature that really make this computer stand out from all the others is the Giga Pocket software. I really like being able to record my favorite TV programs and watching them whenever I am able. I can even archive them to a DVD should I wish. There also is an application included so that you can click on a menu and the software will automatically record the program of your choice from start to finish, with just one click. The video card is a ATI Radeon 9200 which is a good card for most of us, however you die hard gamers will probably want to upgrade to a top of the line card. This system has a DVD+/- Rewritable Drive and a DVD drive for watching your favorite movies and loading software. I could go on and on but please just trust me and go to your favorite computer store (best buy) and play with the system for a few minutes. I am sure that you will be as impressed as I was with my hidden gem. I say this because this system is so new that reviews are unfortunately hard to come by and this system deserves an honest review. Dont believe me? Try to find a system with as much as this system has, and compare prices. I think you will come to the same conclusion I did.

Where do you want to go today? Parts or customer service?
Buying a PC off the shelf is never ideal, but I was stuck, so I bought the best they had, a Sony PCV-RS530G. I like Sony; I keep saying that, not sure why anymore. It has a great processor, adequate RAM, and a so-so video card. The power supply is underpowered and not a standard size. The big problem is the hard drive, it's so slow! It's a Seagate, which makes a very quiet drive, quiet because it barely moves, and Sony makes it all worse with a really odd partition scheme. The drive also features an obsolete 2mb cache and no acoustic management tools; it can't be speeded up. The high end processor and the RAM spend all their time playing solitaire waiting for the hard drive to produce data, it's terrible. No big deal, I bought a new fast hard drive. Before cloning I went to use the back-up utility, and it wouldn't burn the discs: that's right $1,500.00 and you don't get a back-up disc, you have to purchase one, and the onboard Vaio back-up software is useless. I went ahead with the clone, but something went wrong and now I have a brand new $1,500 rectangle; joy. To get a recovery disc I had to go to Sony's parts department, which is a very slow moving place (U.S. based; somehow Sony Japan gets things to me in Maryland, USA within 3 days, Sony U.S. takes weeks), and I ordered what may, or may not be the right one for my dead machine, it only said RS500 series on the site and even that took a lot of searching to find. I'm having it overnighted, it won't speed things up much though. So here I sit, with a ton of work to do and no new PC. The discs have not shipped and nobody has answered my inquiry as to whether I had ordered the right recovery kit. I have had similar experiences with other Sony products recently - it took a long time, but they have finally earned my contempt.
UPDATE 4/29/04: I still hate it. The display drivers keep going south on me. Multiple system wipes, updates, new monitor, new video card, nothing helps. I use my computer to run a business and don't have time for this mess. I have owned PC's made by Gatewy, eMachines, HP, and Acer; this one is the worst. I am giving up and will be buying a new PC from a different company this week. What a complete waste of time and money. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The Basics
Brandishing top level accoutrements, awesome power and all the connectivity you'll need for the hottest electronic gadgetry, the Sony VAIO VGC-RA828G Desktop PC is the brightest star in the entire Sony computer lineup and one of the most capable desktop PCs available. Designed to efficiently handle anything you can throw at it, the system is a superb hub for a business, personal, home office, entertainment or gaming environment. It even features an innovative liquid heat pipe cooling system to squelch excess heat and minimize noise, but that's just one of many impressive innovations you'll find in this stunning example of high-tech wizardry.

Processor
At the heart of any computer lies the CPU (or processor), a massive collection of miniature transistors that governs the speed and power of the entire unit. The VAIO VGC-RA828G incorporates one of the fastest CPUs currently in existence, an Intel Pentium 4 560. New for 2004, this is an upgraded version -- nicknamed "Prescott" -- of the venerable Pentium 4 chip, featuring one full MB of Level 2 cache and a more generous data "pipeline" than prior models. Operating at an astounding 3.6 GHz and of course sporting Intel's Hyper-Threading technology (Hyper-Threading allows a single CPU system to behave at times as a dual CPU system, thus adding substantially more speed to some high-end applications), this pricey but ultra-potent CPU delivers more than enough power for any environment or situation.

Memory
Computers typically store information on their hard drive, but they keep frequently and recently accessed data in Random Access Memory (RAM) for faster retrieval. More RAM means more efficient computing, superior multitasking and less strain on your hard drive. For the VAIO VGC-RA828G, Sony has installed a whopping 1024 MB (1 GB) of fast PC3200 400 MHz DDR SDRAM memory. This is a ton of memory even for a high-end machine, and its rated speed is comparatively quick. As such, it is easily sufficient for any multitasking situation or complex application. Moreover, the system's mainboard is constructed to support RAM upgrades to a whopping 2 GB.

Video
CPU's are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translating visual output to the viewing screen. This is the duty of the graphics card (or graphics controller). A graphics controller with "dedicated" video memory is preferable to a controller that's integrated on the mainboard and "shares" the system's main memory, as it will better handle complex procedures.

One of the problems with many high-end PCs is that they simply aren't equipped with a graphics card on par with the rest of the system. Not so with the VAIO VGC-RA828G, which features an ATI Radeon X600 XT with 256 MB of video memory. Not only will this card efficiently operate all your 2D and 3D apps (including the vast majority of demanding 3D games), but it also includes a television tuner and a Giga Pocket MPEG2 Realtime Encoder/Decoder to pause, rewind and replay live TV. Furthermore, Sony will package the system with a handy remote control to make TV and movie viewing even easier.

Display:
Sony has not included a display screen, thus allowing you to continue using your current monitor or select from today's many alternatives.

Sound
The VAIO VGC-RA828G produces stereo and surround sound via an Intel High Definition Audio chipset that supports for five distinct audio channels and a dedicated subwoofer. Sony will also enclose a 2.1 speaker system featuring two desktop satellites for clean middle and high frequencies and a subwoofer for added bass support.

Hard Drive
With an incredible storage capacity of 400 GB, the unit's internal hard drive is one of the largest ever manufactured and double the size of the hard drives found in many high-end PCs. It is thusly roomy enough for a massive allotment of files and applications and a comprehensive music, video/photo and multimedia library too. Indeed, even the most avid collectors of digital data will have a tough time filling this hard drive. Furthermore, it's exceptionally quick -- sporting a fast 7200-RPM speed, an 8 MB buffer, and a futuristic Serial ATA connection. These are all comparatively recent innovations, each increasing the overall speed and performance of the system.

Optical Drive
An optical drive is essential in today's computing world. A "CD-ROM" drive allows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A "CD-RW" drive adds CD "burning", so you can also backup your important files to long-lasting discs and create personalized music CDs. With a DVD-ROM drive you can enjoy all of the above plus watch the same big budget DVD movies you watch on your home entertainment system. And with a DVD-RW drive, you can also "write" home movies to durable discs and archive files to DVD (DVDs boast more than seven times the storage capacity of CDs).

This unit features two optical drives -- a DVD-ROM drive for playing music and data CDs and DVD movies, and a DVD +/- RW Double Layer Multi-Format drive through which you can not only do everything above but also take advantage of new double layer DVDs (twice the capacity of traditional DVDs and capable of four hours of DVD-quality video). Moreover, this two-drive setup allows you to make extremely fast CD or DVD copies.

Connectivity and Expansion
With no less than seven high-speed USB 2.0 ports, you'll have lots of room for plug and play gadgets such as joysticks and printers. Sony has also installed two IEEE 1394 "FireWire" ports (often used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders), an S/PDIF jack for crystal clear digital audio, two S-Video inputs for lossless digital video, a DVI monitor port for the highest quality flat-panel display images, and a memory card reader for reading today's most popular memory cards from devices such as digital cameras, PDAs and more. Communication options include an integrated Gigabit Ethernet LAN interface for substantially faster network and Internet access than traditional 100Mbps and 10Mbps Ethernet, and a 56K data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections

Operating System and Software
The VAIO VGC-RA828G features a software package clearly aimed at fans of multimedia. Headed by Microsoft's Windows Media Center Edition 2005 operating system and Microsoft's Works 8.0 productivity pack, the bundle also features Adobe's Photoshop Elements 2.0 photo editing suite, Adobe's Premier Standard video editing solution, and a half dozen of Sony's respected audio, video and photo utilites.

Control
Apart from the aforementioned remote control, the system includes a convenient VAIO Keyboard and a no hassle PS/2 optical mouse. ... Read more