Product Description

Space-constrained server environments pose challenges to businesses running e-mail, Internet, database, other demanding server applications. To help ensure reliability, server components must be rigorously validated with one another before deployment. To maintain performance and availability requires special attention to heat and power. Administration and management features must be made easily accessible, and maintenance and support must be simplified. To meet the needs of businesses facing such concerns, Intel has applied its wealth of experience and technological leadership to the development of the Intel Server Chassis SR2400.The Intel Server Chassis SR2400 is specifically designed for use with Intel Server Boards SE7520JR2 and SE7320VP2 and rigorously tested with these boards in space-constrained, storage-demanding environments. For performance, the Server Chassis SR2400 supports dual Intel Xeon processors, and for availability, the chassis provides hot-swap redundant power and disk drives and redundant cooling. The Intel Server Chassis SR2400 helps to simplify administration and management in a number of ways. Through validation with the powerful Intel Server Management 8, the chassis supports operating-system-independent server management. With the optional Intel Local Control Panel, managers and support staff can monitor the server conveniently from the front panel. Servicing is simplified as well in the Server Chassis SR2400, thanks to its support for tool-less assembly and installation of fans, risers, drives, slide rails, power supplies, backplanes, and other components. ... Read more

Product Description

Intel technology leadership has taken performance and availability to the next level for customers seeking a solid, cost-effective server chassis solution. The Intel Server Chassis SC5300 combines outstanding reliability, extensive scalability, and superior manageability in a versatile chassis designed to meet diverse needs. This chassis offers an ideal foundation for a range of environments, from multipurpose servers for small businesses to workgroup database servers and departmental Exchange servers. Configurable in a pedestal or rack-mount form factor, the Intel Server Chassis SC5300 includes an assortment of options to effectively handle current and future storage and performance requirements.The Intel Server Chassis SC5300 is built for environments that demand continuous server operation. It delivers the performance advantages of dual Intel Xeon processors and is rigorously validated with multiple Intel server boards for assured dependability. Hot-swap options help to maintain high availability and hot-swap redundant power and cooling configurations add robustness and reliability. The Intel Server Chassis SC5300 is also engineered with ample power and thermal capacity to optimize performance and minimize support needs.The product features Intel Server Board SE7520BD2V. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Sony VAIO PCV-RS520 offers everything you need to wrangle your multimedia collection, as well as tremendous power for high-end multimedia software and PC games. Featuring a fast Hyper-Threaded 3.0 GHz Pentium 4 processor, the PCV-RS520 also offers a built-in DVD+/-RW writer, 512 MB installed RAM, a very generous 160 GB hard drive, and a wealth of digital audio, photo, and video software. With Click to DVD, you can import your camcorder's digital video and burn directly to DVD. For a step up in price, the Sony Vaio PCV-RS530G offers a PVR function that you can hook up to your TV to record programs.

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 3.0 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 1 MB 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-RS520'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-RS520 (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:

• 8 USB 2.0 ports (4 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
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack

Preloaded System and Software
The PCV-RS520 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 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-RS520 Digital Studio PC, keyboard, mouse, 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 (6)

Some comments on Sony RS520
I purchased this computer one week ago. It works well so far. I have the following supplemental comments to previous reviews:
1. There is indeed NO recovery CD coming with the computer. However, SONY allocates a diagnostic partition on the hard drive for the backup. You can easily use the included recovery software to reinstall the whole system or create you own recovery disks (9 CDs or 1 DVDs+1 CDs). I am quite happy with this feature since it is more convenient and gives you more options.
2. There is NO DVD decoder in the pre-installed system. So you have to buy one.
3. Most pre-installed softwares are trash.
4. It is FAST and QUIET.

Great But It Has a Few Glitches
I bought this computer 10 days ago, and here are what I like and don't like:

What I like
===========
1. Fast, very fast - It speeds up everything on my computer, especially my graphics editing program.

2. Quiet - Unlike my previous HP, this computer is very quiet. The sound is also quite soothing.

What I don't like
=================
1. The modem has only one port. This is hard to believe because every modem on the market has two ports. Why two? Because I need the other one for auto-dialing my phone. I had to buy a new modem. Fortunately, it's quite inexpensive these days. I paid just $15 for a name brand.

2. The default hard drive partitions are C and D. Sony is dumb enough to put just 10 GB on C drive. Why?????? So I have to reformat the whole thing. Fortunately, the computer allows you to set partition easily. I gave 80 GB to each drive.

3. Unlike my previous HP and my Dell laptop, this computer does not let you play any movie. I got an error from the preinstalled DVD playback program. So I used the Intervideo program provided by Dell, and it worked. If you don't have the program, you would need to buy one.

If I could wait, I would have bought a Dell. But I couldn't. :(

Absolutely Incredible!
I bought this computer after buying my RS-310 about a year and a half ago. This computer is EXTREMELY fast and has many extra goodies like the capture card. The only thing i hate is that no Windows CD came with it, no backup cd and it came with software that is garbage. It didnt even come with microsoft office, it came with microsoft works which is a very low-budget version of office. Apart from that, this computer is very good and is recommended to new owners or people who just need a new computer!

Sony does video
I just have one thing to say: thank you Sony for putting a decent video card in this system. Nobody, not even Apple puts good video cards in retail computers (even high-end systems). They think the retail market is price driven so they cut every corner they can. The 128MB 9200 is a very good card. I hope other companies follow through. Otherwise companies like Dell are going to drive them all out of business.

I love mine
I ordered this exact system and I've had it about 3 weeks. No problems, easy setup, and man it screams. All the things I wanted to add to my old system are on this one. With Hyper-threading I can suft the web while I burn cds. No matter what system you buy, make certain it has hyper-threading!!! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Sony's new RA Series of multimedia desktop PCs combine the style and attraction of VAIO with new and unique next-generation features. With an i915P Grantsdale chipset, x16 PCI Express for graphics, and four serial-ATA ports, the RA Series is equipped for a hardware challenge. The stylishly black VGC-RA710G comes complete with a DVD+/-RW drive and a variety of Sony digital media software that makes it easy to burn your home movies and digital audio collections to disc. It also comes preloaded with Sony's GigaPocket software, which enables you to watch and record TV programs right on your PC. Other features include a massive 250 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and a hyper-threaded 3.20E GHz hyper-threaded Pentium 4 processor.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The included 250 GB Ultra ATA/100 hard drive (7200 RPM) is one of the largest installed drives found on the PC market. It will provide more than enough space to store your favorite TV shows as well as room for recording old VHS tapes.
• Processor: The 3.20E GHz Pentium 4 processor with Hyper-Threading technology (which allows a single CPU system to behave in some aspects like a dual-CPU system) is one of the fastest processors currently available on the market. It's based on Intel's next generation 90 nm process technology, which delivers faster transistors and increases performance. It also has a 1 MB L2 cache and a fast 800 MHz front-side bus speed.

  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.

• Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory (PC-3200 400MHz DDR SDRAM) is a good start for power users. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 2 GB (2 x 1 GB).
• CD/DVD Drive: It comes with two optical drives: a DVD+/-RW and CD-RW combo drive and a 16x DVD-ROM for playing music and movie discs. The combo drive offers 8x write, 4x rewrite, and 8x read speeds for both +R/RW and -R/RW discs and a 40x write/read and 24x rewrite speed for CD-R/RW discs.
• Keyboard & Mouse: It comes with a Sony Vaio keyboard and optical mouse (with PS/2 connector).

• 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 VGA monitor port
• 2 composite video/audio inputs (front and rear)
• Coaxial input (VHF/UHF)
• 2 S-Video (1 front)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack
• 1 S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) digital optical connector
• 1 line input/output

Preloaded System and Software
The pre-installed Windows XP Media Center Edition 2004 is essentially Windows XP Professional Edition with a variety of tools to help you to create, organize, and enjoy digital media ranging from music to home movies to photo slide shows--even pause or rewind (up to 7 seconds) FM radio broadcasts. Sony's Giga Pocket built-in software converts TV signals to digital MPEG2 format and lets you watch and record TV programs right on the PCV-620G, watch while you record with the Slip Playback feature, and burn shows directly to DVD. It's also loaded with Sony's Vaio Creative suite of multimedia applications, which includes PictureGear Studio (digital photo), SonicStage (digital music), Sony MovieShaker, DVGate Plus (digital video), VAIO Media (network file sharing), and Click to DVD (for burning DVD discs). Other preloaded titles include a 60-day trial of Microsoft Office, Adobe Premiere, Adobe Photoshop Elements 2.0, Quicken 2004, Norton Internet Security (with 90-day trial subscription), InterVideo WinDVD, and a 90-day trial of AOL.

Dimensions and Weight
This desktop PC measures 8 x 16 x 16 inches (WxHxD).

More Technical Features
The heat pipe advanced cooling system pulls heat away from the CPU, dissipating it through an exchanger, ensuring ultimate performance without the noise or hassle of alternative cooling systems. Noise reduction is at the core of the RÕs design. With impovements in the optical, hard drive, power supply and graphics card, youÕll hardly know it's on.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio VGC-RA710G desktop PC, IR remote control, keyboard, mouse, and set of two speakers.

More About Microsoft Windows XP Media Center

What sets this PC apart is that it is powered by Windows XP Media Center Edition 2004, which offers the features, reliability, and power of Windows XP Professional, plus advanced digital entertainment capabilities. The Media Center interface offers you more types of entertainment to enjoy: TV, Personal Video Recording (PVR), Movies, Music, Photos, Videos, Radio, and DVD. Use the remote control to enjoy from anywhere in your room.

TV & Movies 
Watch TV when and how you want, and never miss a moment of your favorite programs.Pause and rewind live TV. Record a TV episode, series, or category. Automaticallyrecord a personalized selection of TV programs using Keyword Record. Media Centerdownloads the latest program listings for you and even wakes up from power-savingstandby mode to record programs, so you can watch shows on your schedule.
 	 
	Photos & Video
	Easily edit your digital pictures and digital videos, and then launch a dynamic slideshow complete with animated transitions and your favorite soundtrack. While viewing a picture, zoom in to see more detail. You can rotate, correct red-eye, and print your pictures using the remote. Play slide-shows straight from digital storage devices.
 	 
Music & Radio 
All your music is stored in one digital jukebox and using the remote, shuffle your entire music collection according to artist or genre or listen to your tunes through playlists that learn what you like. Tune in FM stations and pause live radio. Full-screen visualizations pulse to the beat of the music. Cool on-screen effects show music information, such as track title, track time, and artist.

... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Sony Vaio PCV-RS620G proves that PCs aren't just for spreadsheets any more. A multimedia powerhouse, the RS620G comes complete with a DVD+/-RW drive and a variety of Sony digital media software that makes it easy to burn your home movies and digital audio collections to disc. It also comes preloaded with Sony's GigaPocket software, which enables you to watch and record TV programs right on your PC. Other features include a huge 160 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and a hyper-threaded 3E GHz hyper-threaded Pentium 4 processor.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: Though it's not the largest on the market, the 160 GB Ultra ATA/100 hard drive (7200 RPM) is still quite huge, and it offers a wealth of storage for your media library as well as necessary space for editing digital video.
• Processor: The 3E GHz Pentium 4 processor with Hyper-Threading technology (which allows a single CPU system to behave in some aspects like a dual-CPU system) is one of the fastest processors currently available on the market. It's based on Intel's next generation 90 nm process technology, which delivers faster transistors and increases performance. It also has a 1 MB L2 cache and a fast 800 MHz front-side bus speed.

  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.

• Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory (PC-3200 400MHz DDR SDRAM) is a good start for power users. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 2 GB (2 x 1 GB).
• CD/DVD Drive: It comes with two optical drives: a DVD+/-RW and CD-RW combo drive and a 16x DVD-ROM for playing music and movie discs. The combo drive offers 8x write, 4x rewrite, and 8x read speeds for both +R/RW and -R/RW discs and a 40x write/read and 24x rewrite speed for CD-R/RW discs.
• Keyboard & Mouse: It comes with a Sony Vaio keyboard and mouse (with PS/2 connector).

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
You get excellent range of connectivity options befitting the multimedia tasks associated with the PCV-RS620G, such as three PCI expansion slots (two available), one 8x AGP (accelerated graphics port, available) slot, two 5.25" half-height bays (both occupied), one external 3.5" bay (occupied), two internal 3.5" bays (one occupied), 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 VGA monitor port
• 2 composite video/audio inputs (front and rear)
• Coaxial input (VHF/UHF)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack
• 1 S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) digital optical connector
• 1 line input/output

Preloaded System and Software
This PCV-RS620G comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it features Microsoft Works 7.0 (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). Sony's Giga Pocket built-in software converts TV signals to digital MPEG2 format and lets you watch and record TV programs right on the PCV-620G, watch while you record with the Slip Playback feature, and burn shows directly to DVD It's also loaded with Sony's Vaio Creative suite of multimedia applications, which includes PictureGear Studio (digital photo), SonicStage (digital music), Sony MovieShaker, DVGate Plus (digital video), VAIO Media (network file sharing), and Click to DVD (for burning DVD discs). Other preloaded titles include a 60-day trial of Microsoft Office, Quicken 2004, Norton Internet Security (with 90-day trial subscription), InterVideo WinDVD, and a 90-day trial of AOL.

Dimensions and Weight
This desktop PC measures 7.2 x 15.6 x 14.9 inches (WxHxD) and weighs 26.5 pounds.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCV-RS620G desktop PC, IR remote control, keyboard, mouse, and set of two speakers. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Sony's new RA Series of multimedia desktop PCs combine the style and attraction of VAIO with new and unique next-generation features. With an i915P Grantsdale chipset, x16 PCI Express for graphics, and four serial-ATA ports, the RA Series is equipped for a hardware challenge. The stylishly black VGC-RA810G comes complete with a variety of Sony digital media software that makes it easy to burn your home movies and digital audio collections to disc. It also comes preloaded with Sony's GigaPocket software, which enables you to watch and record TV programs right on your PC. Other features include a dual layer DVD+RW drive, massive 250 GB hard drive, a whopping 1 GB of installed RAM, and a 3.40E GHz hyper-threaded Pentium 4 processor. For a step down in price, the VGC-RA710G has the same 250 GB hard drive, but saves you money with 512 MB of installed RAM and a slightly slower 3.2 GHz hyper-threaded Pentium 4 processor.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The included 250 GB Serial ATA/100 hard drive (7200 RPM) is one of the largest installed drives found on the PC market. It will provide more than enough space to store your favorite TV shows as well as room for recording old VHS tapes.
• Processor: The 3.40E GHz Pentium 4 processor (newly labeled as the "550" by Intel) with Hyper-Threading technology (which allows a single CPU system to behave in some aspects like a dual-CPU system) is one of the fastest processors currently available on the market. It's based on Intel's next generation 90 nm process technology, which delivers faster transistors and increases performance. It also has a 1 MB L2 cache and a fast 800 MHz front-side bus speed.

  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.

• Memory: The 1 GB of built-in memory (PC-3200 400MHz DDR SDRAM) will enable you to handle a variety of processor-intensive video programs and editing work. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 2 GB (2 x 1 GB).
• CD/DVD Drive: It comes with two optical drives: a double layer DVD+RW and single layer DVD+/-RW combo drive and a 16x DVD-ROM for playing music and movie discs. With double layer DVD+RW discs, you get up to 8.5GB of storage capacity--enough for 4 hours of high-quality MPEG-2 video. The combo drive offers 8x write, 4x rewrite, and 8x read speeds for single layer +R/RW and -R/RW discs and a 40x write/read and 24x rewrite speed for CD-R/RW discs. You get 2.4x write speeds for double layer DVD+R discs.
• Keyboard & Mouse: It comes with a Sony Vaio keyboard and optical mouse (with PS/2 connector).

• SMARTSHADER 2.0 defines a higher level ofimage realism for you
• SMOOTHVISION 2.1 smoothes uneven edges and improvesblurred images
• HYPER Z III conserves video memory bandwidth for improvedperformance in demanding and applications and 3D games

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
You get excellent range of connectivity options befitting the multimedia tasks associated with the PCV-RA810G, such as three PCI expansion slots (two available), one 8x AGP (accelerated graphics port, available) slot, two 5.25" half-height bays (both occupied), one external 3.5" bay (occupied), two internal 3.5" bays (one occupied), 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 VGA monitor port
• 2 composite video/audio inputs (front and rear)
• Coaxial input (VHF/UHF)
• 2 S-Video (1 front)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack
• 1 S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) digital optical connector
• 1 line input/output

Preloaded System and Software
The pre-installed Windows XP Media Center Edition 2004 is essentially Windows XP Professional Edition with a variety of tools to help you to create, organize, and enjoy digital media ranging from music to home movies to photo slide shows--even pause or rewind (up to 7 seconds) FM radio broadcasts. Sony's Giga Pocket built-in software converts TV signals to digital MPEG2 format and lets you watch and record TV programs right on the PCV-620G, watch while you record with the Slip Playback feature, and burn shows directly to DVD. It's also loaded with Sony's Vaio Creative suite of multimedia applications, which includes PictureGear Studio (digital photo), SonicStage (digital music), Sony MovieShaker, DVGate Plus (digital video), VAIO Media (network file sharing), and Click to DVD (for burning DVD discs). Other preloaded titles include a 60-day trial of Microsoft Office, Adobe Premiere, Adobe Photoshop Elements 2.0, Quicken 2004, Norton Internet Security (with 90-day trial subscription), InterVideo WinDVD, and a 90-day trial of AOL.

Dimensions and Weight
This desktop PC measures 8 x 16 x 16 inches (WxHxD).

More Technical Features
The heat pipe advanced cooling system pulls heat away from the CPU, dissipating it through an exchanger, ensuring ultimate performance without the noise or hassle of alternative cooling systems. Noise reduction is at the core of the RÕs design. With impovements in the optical, hard drive, power supply and graphics card, youÕll hardly know it's on.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio VGC-RA810G desktop PC, IR remote control, keyboard, mouse, and set of two speakers. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

HP's Pavilion a410n Desktop PC is an affordable and capable midlevel computer that shouldn't be counted upon for upscale pursuits such as 3-D animated graphics or high-end 3-D games but is certainly ready for standard home, home office and leisure applications. Perfect for those who can do without state-of-the-art power but require lots of storage space, the Pavilion a410n is a solid, cost-conscious choice.

Driven by a reasonably peppy 2.8 GHz Celeron processor and 512 MB of PC2700 DDR SDRAM memory, the Pavilion a410n isn't intended to keep up with the latest Pentium 4-infused units but will certainly suffice for the majority of tasks it will be asked to perform. Compaq has enclosed an integrated Intel Extreme Graphics video chipset with 64 MB of shared (not dedicated) video memory, and a massive 120 GB hard drive on which to store all your files and programs. If you need to archive your files, you can do so via the unit's DVD/CD-RW optical combo drive, which also allows you to play and burn audio CDs and watch DVD videos. In this stock configuration, DVD writing is not supported.

Other key amenities include a 7-in-1 digital card reader for accessing memory cards from devices such as PDAs and digital cameras, five high-speed USB 2.0 ports (one of the front) for exchanging information with external devices such as scanners and external drives, two FireWire ports (one on the front) for fast interaction with digital camcorders, a front-mounted microphone and headphone port, and six-speaker surround sound audio support. The package does not feature a speaker system or a monitor, thus allowing you to choose from the many alternatives currently available.

Communication facilities include a 56K modem for low-speed dial-up surfing and a 10/100Base-T Ethernet interface for high-speed e-communications. A PS/2 multimedia keyboard with hotkeys and a PS/2 mouse complete the hardware picture.

The bundled software package features such essentials as the Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition operating system, Microsoft's Works 7.0 productivity suite, Quicken New User Edition 2004 financial center, and a variety of multimedia and security utilities. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

The best hp computer!
Fast,Pretty blue power button.good dvd player,no monitor.celeron processor,hp support,good mouse and internet keyboard. Hard case,lots of great software, love the game channel games on it!

Great computer, great price
How is it that HP and Compaq can be the same company. Here we have and example of what a value computer should be. Solid construction, decent case, good components and a great price. It would be hard to do better.

HP a410n
I just got this comp from Amazon and so far I like it. However, there are a few things I found out after it arrived that I didn't expect. For one, Amazon says it has 7 USB 2.0 ports, while HP (according to their website) says it has 6. Apparently, neither can count beyond a 1st grade level because my machine has 5 (1 in the front and 4 in the back). Ok, maybe that was a bit harsh, but the point is I paid a pretty penny for this unit and I expect it to come as advertised. More to the point, Amazon says it has 3 FireWire ports, mine only has 2 (1 in the front and 1 in the back), at least the HP website agrees with me on this. Also, Amazon says max RAM is 2 GB, while HP says max RAM is 1 GB (2 slots that can take 512 MB each). I'd like to think Amazon is right in this regard, more RAM is always nice, but what if I buy two 1 GB cards and the machine won't accept it?

So, there you go. A very fast machine that flys through everything I've thrown at it (so far). I can't attest to its reliability because I've only had it for 2 weeks, but if the past is any indication, HP should hold up under pressure. I had been extensively using a PII 450 MHz HP up until this point (5 years), and it's still going strong as my secondary computer; never had a major malfunction with it! One last thing, total hard drive memory may be 120 GB, but upon first activation I only had a net of around 99 GB. Apparently, this thing comes jam packed with 21 Gigs of programs (most of the good ones you'll have to pay extra online for full or continuing activation) and a partition dedicated to system recovery. Yikes! Common HP, spend the extra 2 bucks per computer and make those recovery disks for us! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Compaq's Presario SR1210NX is one of the least expensive yet most cost-effective desktop PCs available today, a perfect fit for a wide variety of users--from financially strapped students to families with multimedia needs. While fitting within your budget is a high priority, the SR1210NX is well apportioned with an 80 GB hard drive, 2.66 GHz Intel Celeron D processor, a video/graphics card with 64 MB of shared memory, a DVD-ROM/CD-RW combo drive, ultra-fast USB 2.0 ports, and a multi-format memory card reader.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The 80 GB Ultra DMA hard drive (7200 RPM) is small in comparison to other desktop PCs in this range, and certainly smaller than you'll need if editing a lot of digital video. It does have more than adequate storage for all your documents and a good-sized library of digital photos and MP3s.
• Processor: While not as strong a performer as the Intel Pentium 4, the Intel Celeron D 330 processor helps make this package affordable. The 2.66 GHz speed is powerful enough for Internet, home office, educational and productivity applications. It also features a decently fast 533 MHz front-side bus (FSB) and 256 KB L2 cache.
• Memory: The installed 256 MB of RAM (PC2700) is small compared to other desktops in this class, but it helps keep this package within your budget range. That said, you'll want to upgrade to at least 512 MB. The SR1210NX has a 1 GB maximum (2 x 512 MB).
• CD/DVD Drive: The combo CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive can write and read CDs at 48x and rewrite at 32x speeds. It can read DVDs at 16x.
• Keyboard & Mouse: The SR1210NX comes with Compaq productivity keyboard and scroller mouse (both with PS/2 connections).

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
For expansion, the SR1210NX has two 5.25-inch external bays (one available), two 3.5-inch bays (one available), 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
• 1 parallel port for connecting older printers and scanners
• 2 PS/2 ports for connecting keyboards and mice
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 1 serial port for older peripherals such as early PDAs
• 1 microphone, 1 line-out, and 1 line-in jack
• 9-in-1 media card reader on the front, compatible with CompactFlash (Type I and II), MicroDrive, Smaredia, Memory Stick/Memory Stick Pro, MultiMedia Card, Secure Digitial, and XD Picture Card

Preloaded System and Software
This system comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it also features Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). Other preloaded software includes Quicken New User Edition 2004, Norton Antivirus 2004 (with 60-day LiveUpdate subscription) and Personal Firewall 2004, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Encarta Encyclopedia 2004 Standard Edition, RecordNow 7.2 (for burning CDs), WinDVD SE 5.0 (for DVD playback), Adobe Photoshop Album (starter edition), and Apple iTunes.

Dimensions and Weight
This desktop unit measures 15.25 x 7.17 x 16.54 inches (H x W x D).

What's in the Box
This package contains the Compaq Presario SR1210NX desktop PC, power cable, keyboard, and mouse. It is backed by a limited warranty for parts and labor for one year from date of purchase. ... Read more

Product Description

It's your flat-panel LCD TV. It's your high-performance PC. It's all in one. The VAIO V TV-PC brings high-quality television to your desktop computer. Designed to be sleek and modern, yet highly functional, it compliments any room. With the added benefit of Sony creative software, you can create, manage and share digital photos, videos and music. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Gorgeous; must see in person to appreciate.
Is beautiful machine.Fits sleekly into library office or den, and gets comments from everyone.The screen is so bright and rich in colors that people cannot believe it is a computer.Is at same display level to eyes as hdtv lcd quality.Oh yeah, the computer part works great, too.Loaded with real software, and everything runs smoothly the first time.Is real fast.Instantaneous speed.Unreal.Only negative is the high price.Because of the screen aspect ratio, though, get the 20 inch model, not the 17 inch model.The 20 looks like a 17 in person. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Bring together the worlds of entertainment and information technology with the HP Media Center m1280n desktop PC. This powerful digital entertainment hub enables you to watch and record your favorite TV programs, easily edit digital video, and create your own CDs and DVDs (including 8.5 GB dual layer discs). It also offers a variety of HP multimedia features, including LightScribe direct disc labeling, Image Zone photo editing and management software, and HP camera dock holder. The m1280n features a gargantuan 300 GB hard drive, 1 GB of installed RAM, 3.4 GHz hyper-threaded Pentium 4 processor, and multiformat memory card reader.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The massive 300 GB Serial ATA hard drive (7200 RPM) offers a wealth of storage space, perfect for storing a vast multimedia collection or for editing digital video.
• Processor: The hyper-threaded Intel Pentium 4 640 processor (3.4 GHz) allows a single CPU system to behave in some aspects like a dual-CPU system, helping to deliver faster transistors and increased performance. It also features a 512 KB L2 cache and a blazingly fast 800 MHz front-side bus speed, which measures how fast a processor and the main memory communicate. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance.)

  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.

• Memory: The 1 GB of installed RAM (PC2700) is a very good start for this multimedia-centric desktop PC, but you'll want to take advantage of the ultra-roomy 4 GB of total RAM capacity (2 x 2 GB) for such multimedia needs as video editing and immersive 3D gaming.
• CD/DVD Drive: Offering the latest in DVD writing technology, the 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 features 16x 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 features the LightScribe direct disc labeling feature, which enables CD, DVD images and disk labels to be permanently etched onto discs--eliminating messy marker-scrawled labels. This desktop also has an additional 48x CD-ROM drive.
• Keyboard & Mouse: This desktop comes with an HP two-button, scrolling optical mouse and HP Media Center keyboard with full multimedia control. It also includes a remote control with IR (infrared) receiver.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
The m1280n has three PCI expansion slots (one available), two external 5.25 drive bays (occupied), 1 internal 3.5 drive bay (occupied), one AGP (accelerated graphics port, occupied) slot and the following external ports:

• 6 USB 2.0 ports (2 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 front and 1 back) ports for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• 1 parallel port for connecting older printers and scanners
• 1 serial port
• 2 PS/2 ports for connecting keyboards and mice
• 1 VGA/DVI monitor port
• Composite video, S-Video, and audio inputs
• HP Personal Media Drive bay (which can accept HP's Personal Media mini hard drive, which slides right into the chassis and provides easy access to all your multimedia files for transfer to a notebook or use with a compatible stereo)
• 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
The pre-installed Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 is essentially Windows XP Professional Edition with a variety of tools to help you to create, organize, and enjoy digital media ranging from music to home movies to photo slide shows. Additionally, it enables you to control your television with the included remote and record and pause programs (much like a DVR--or digital video recorder--such as Tivo or ReplayTV). With the 300 GB hard drive, you'll be able to record and store up to 180 hours of video programming. It's compatible with cable, digital cable, satellite TV and antenna inputs, and it includes an FM tuner.

The included HP Image Zone Plus photo and imaging software makes it easy to organize, edit, share, print, protect, and store your photos and video clips. Organize and find your photos easily by timeline, keywords, and/or location using the unique photo-globe mapping tool. Remove red eye and fix other common problems. Share your photos quickly via e-mails that include thumbnails with links to the full-sized images--without downloading time-consuming attachments.

Other preloaded software includes InterVideo WinDVD Creator and WinDVD SE player, Apple iTunes, Sonic RecordNow, Norton AntiVirus 2005 and Personal Firewall 2004 (with 60 days of live updates), Microsoft Works 8.0, MSN Encarta Standard, Microsoft Money, and Quicken 2004 New User Edition.

What's in the Box
This package contains the HP Media Center m1280n desktop PC, keyboard, mouse, remote control, HP Personal media drive, and power cord. It is backed by a 1-year limited warranty. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Sporting a distinctive style and a design that liberates valuable desktop real estate from annoying cables and wires and clunky computer boxes, the Sony VAIO PCV-V300G is far removed from the typical PC. The VAIO PCV-V300G features an elegant all-in-one design that combines a 15-inch flat-panel LCD viewing screen, speakers and all internal components inside a single futuristic module. The PCV-V300G also features a super-sized 200 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, a DVD+/-RW drive, and a wide array of pre-installed multimedia software--including the Giga Pocket application, which enables you to watch and record TV programs right on your PC.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The built-in 200 GB Ultra ATA/100 hard drive (7200 RPM) is one of the largest installed drives found on the PC market. It will provide more than enough space to store your favorite TV shows as well as room for recording old VHS tapes.
• Processor: The 2.8 GHz Pentium 4 processor is one of the fastest processors currently available on the market--a definite plus for a video-centric PC. It also has a 512 KB L2 cache and a 533 MHz front-side bus speed.
• Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory (PC-3200 400MHz DDR SDRAM) is a good start for power users. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 1 GB (2 x 512 MB).
• CD/DVD Drive: It comes with a DVD+/-RW and CD-RW combo drive. The combo drive offers 4x write, 2x rewrite, and 5x read speeds for both +R/RW and -R/RW discs and a 16x write, 8x rewrite, and 24x read speeds for CD-R/RW discs.
• Keyboard & Mouse: The system also includes a wireless keyboard and wireless mouse, thereby freeing your working surface from even more clutter.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
You get a decent (but not overpowering) range of external connectivity options with the PCV-V300G, including:

• 4 USB 2.0 ports (2 on side, 2 in rear) for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 1 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link) ports for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• 1 line in VHF/UHF
• 1 S-Video in
• 1 composite A/V in
• 1 VHF/UHF in
• PCMICA Type II PC card slot
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack

Preloaded System and Software
This PCV-300G comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it features Microsoft Works 7.0 (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). Sony's Giga Pocket built-in software converts TV signals to digital MPEG2 format and lets you watch and record TV programs right on the PCV-300G, watch while you record with the Slip Playback feature, and burn shows directly to DVD. It's also loaded with Sony's Vaio Creative suite of multimedia applications, which includes PictureGear Studio (digital photo), SonicStage (digital music), Sony MovieShaker, DVGate Plus (digital video), VAIO Media (network file sharing), and Click to DVD (for burning DVD discs). Other preloaded titles include a 60-day trial of Microsoft Office, Quicken 2004, Norton Internet Security (with 90-day trial subscription), InterVideo WinDVD, and a 90-day trial of AOL.

Dimensions and Weight
The compact PCV-V300G measures 15 x 13 x 7 inches (W x H x D), making it the perfect desktop companion. It weighs 16.8 pounds.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCV-V300G desktop PC, wireless keyboard and mouse. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The HP Pavilion a730n is a multimedia powerhouse that won't break the bank. It features a fast, powerful 3.0 GHz Intel Pentium 4 530 processor as well as the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900 for versatile display options and great 3D performance.. It also offers a massive 200 GB hard drive, 512 MB of RAM (expandable to 4 GB), and two optical drives: a CD-ROM and a dual-layer DVD+RW. It's bundled with a variety of software, including HP Image Zone Plus digital photography software, aimed to get you online and capturing, editing, and sharing your digital photos, audio, and video.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The massive 200 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: The hyper-threaded Intel Pentium 4 530 processor (3.0 GHz) allows a single CPU system to behave in some aspects like a dual-CPU system, helping to deliver faster transistors and increased performance. It also features a 512 KB L2 cache and a blazingly fast 800 MHz front-side bus speed

  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.

• Memory: The A730N comes with a 512 MB built-in memory (2 x 256 MB DDR SDRAM, PC3200)--a good start for power users. It has a spacious 4 GB maximum memory expansion (4 x 1 GB).
• CD/DVD Drive: This desktop PC comes with two optical drives: a CD--ROM for reading CDs and a double-layer DVD+RW drive for writing both DVDs and CDS. With double-layered DVD+R/RW discs, you can store up to 8.5 GB of data. The DVD+R/RW drive has 8x write and 4x rewrite speeds. You can burn CDs at 24x and rewrite at 10x.
• Keyboard & Mouse: The A730N comes with an HP Internet keyboard and scroller mouse (both with PS/2 connections).

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
For expansion, the A730N has two 5.25-inch external bays (none available), two 3.5-inch bays (one available), three PCI slots (two available), and one AGP 8x slot (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) ports 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
• 1 serial port for older peripherals such as early PDAs
• 1 microphone, 1 headphone, and 1 line-in jack in the front
• 9-in-1 media card reader on the front, compatible with CompactFlash (Type I and II), MicroDrive, Smaredia, Memory Stick/Memory Stick Pro, MultiMedia Card, Secure Digitial, and XD Picture Card

Preloaded System and Software
This system comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it also features Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). Other preloaded software includes Quicken New User Edition 2004, Norton Antivirus 2004 (with 60-day LiveUpdate subscription) and Personal Firewall 2003, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Encarta Encyclopedia 2004 Standard Edition, HP Image Zone Plus, RecordNow 7.2 (for burning CDs), WinDVD SE 5.0 (for DVD playback), and Apple iTunes.

The included HP Image Zone Plus photo and imaging software makes it easy to organize, edit, share, print, protect, and store your photos and video clips. Organize and find your photos easily by timeline, keywords, and/or location using the unique photo-globe mapping tool. Remove red eye and fix other common problems. Share your photos quickly via e-mails that include thumbnails with links to the full-sized images--without downloading time-consuming attachments.

Dimensions and Weight
It measures 15.2 x 16.5 x 7.5 (W x D x H).

What's in the Box
This package contains the HP Pavilion A730N desktop PC, power cable, keyboard, and mouse. It is backed by a limited warranty for parts and labor for one year from date of purchase. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Sony Vaio PCV-RS630G proves that PCs aren't just for spreadsheets any more. A multimedia powerhouse, the RS620G comes complete with a DVD+/-RW drive and a variety of Sony digital media software that makes it easy to burn your home movies and digital audio collections to disc. It also comes preloaded with Sony's GigaPocket software, which enables you to watch and record TV programs right on your PC. Other features include a massive 250 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, and a hyper-threaded 3.20E GHz hyper-threaded Pentium 4 processor.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The included 250 GB Ultra ATA/100 hard drive (7200 RPM) is one of the largest installed drives found on the PC market. It will provide more than enough space to store your favorite TV shows as well as room for recording old VHS tapes.
• Processor: The 3.20E GHz Pentium 4 processor with Hyper-Threading technology (which allows a single CPU system to behave in some aspects like a dual-CPU system) is one of the fastest processors currently available on the market. It's based on Intel's next generation 90 nm process technology, which delivers faster transistors and increases performance. It also has a 1 MB L2 cache and a fast 800 MHz front-side bus speed.

  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.

• Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory (PC-3200 400MHz DDR SDRAM) is a good start for power users. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 2 GB (2 x 1 GB).
• CD/DVD Drive: It comes with two optical drives: a DVD+/-RW and CD-RW combo drive and a 16x DVD-ROM for playing music and movie discs. The combo drive offers 8x write, 4x rewrite, and 8x read speeds for both +R/RW and -R/RW discs and a 40x write/read and 24x rewrite speed for CD-R/RW discs.
• Keyboard & Mouse: It comes with a Sony Vaio keyboard and mouse (with PS/2 connector).

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
You get excellent range of connectivity options befitting the multimedia tasks associated with the PCV-RS630G, such as three PCI expansion slots (two available), one 8x AGP (accelerated graphics port, available) slot, two 5.25" half-height bays (both occupied), one external 3.5" bay (occupied), two internal 3.5" bays (one occupied), 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 VGA monitor port
• 2 composite video/audio inputs (front and rear)
• Coaxial input (VHF/UHF)
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack
• 1 S/PDIF (Sony/Philips Digital Interface) digital optical connector
• 1 line input/output

Preloaded System and Software
This PCV-RS630G comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it features Microsoft Works 7.0 (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). Sony's Giga Pocket built-in software converts TV signals to digital MPEG2 format and lets you watch and record TV programs right on the PCV-620G, watch while you record with the Slip Playback feature, and burn shows directly to DVD It's also loaded with Sony's Vaio Creative suite of multimedia applications, which includes PictureGear Studio (digital photo), SonicStage (digital music), Sony MovieShaker, DVGate Plus (digital video), VAIO Media (network file sharing), and Click to DVD (for burning DVD discs). Other preloaded titles include a 60-day trial of Microsoft Office, Quicken 2004, Norton Internet Security (with 90-day trial subscription), InterVideo WinDVD, and a 90-day trial of AOL.

Dimensions and Weight
This desktop PC measures 7.2 x 15.6 x 14.9 inches (WxHxD) and weighs 26.5 pounds.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCV-RS630G desktop PC, IR remote control, keyboard, mouse, and set of two speakers. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

SONY DOES IT AGAIN!
I usually do not write reviews, but I am so happy with the PCV-RS630G that I would like to share my enthusiasm.

Most recently I had a Sony Pentium 3 VAIO desktop purchased in 2001 which I felt was ready for replacement.

Unlike the previous reviewer who had problems "out of the box" (which can happen to anyone), my computer purchased at Circuit City was up and running immediately. With previous computers, I was always able to get programs running but often had problems connecting to the Internet. This time, my Earthlink DSL connection worked right away. All my programs loaded properly and ran ok with no error messages. There were a few minor issues using Outlook for sending and receiving e-mail, but Earthlink helped me work them out within five minutes. It was an Outlook issue because I could immediately send and receive e-mail through the Earthlink e-mail program.

The hyper-threading technology seems to be very good since I am able to run many programs simultaneously and do things like anti-virus and spyware checks in the background while doing other tasks without anything slowing down.

Specific points:

I cannot comment about the speakers that come with the PCV-R630G since I run my VAIO through an external audio system. But I can tell you that audio CD's sound crisp and clean so this system must use very good digital converters. DVD's also look top notch using Windows Media. I have not used it yet for burning DVD's.

I cannot make any comments about gaming since I am slightly out of the computer gaming demographic.

So far I have been using this new Sony desktop for two weeks with excellent results. There has not been even one instance of freezing up, or where I have needed to "inform Microsoft of the problem!" Likewise, I have never had to restart the computer other than by choice.

Earlier VAIO's had operating system discs and lots of bundled software. Those days appear to be over. Sony suggests you make a back-up of XP which is probably a good idea, although since I bought Windows XP for my last VAIO, I have XP discs should the need ever arise.

If you use Microsoft Office for Word/Excel/Outlook/Power Point, you will note that you are teased with a 30-day free trial. When you realize you are hooked, you will have to go through a conversion (this is not a religious procedure) to switch from free trial to "I actually now own this expensive Microsoft software!" You can accomplish this online with a "key" to unlock the program. But if you want the packaging, you can simply go to your nearest Staples/Office Depot-type outlet and buy an Office 2003 Upgrade edition which will work. Since this is not backward compatible, you cannot use a previous version of Office (i.e. Windows 2000). You will need to buy an upgrade of Office 2003. But it's worth it. I think it has some nice refinements from Office 2000 and besides, Bill Gates really does need your money.

Also, a new trend seems to be not to include hefty booklets with software anymore. You get the computer (slightly less weight than previous VAIO's in a more compact box), with just basic "how to turn it on" instructions with the advice that you can find anything about the computer's operation at a VAIO website online. XP is already preloaded as are the few other programs and games so you can literally turn the computer on and be ready to roll.

The only part of the design that doesn't thrill me is the design of the CD and DVD trays. It would have been better if you could use the same external button to close the trays which you can use to open them. You have to put just the right amount of pressure on the tray so it closes all the way. On my VAIO, too little pressure will leave the tray partially closed. If you have people using your computer (i.e. tiny tots), make sure you show them how to load the trays and close them because they are a tad fragile.

One last point: I bought the 17" Sony Flat Screen monitor which looks great but does not have the greatest refresh rate (typical of LCD monitors.) I did some research online and found that Hitachi LCD's have a faster refresh rate so I returned the Sony to Circuit City (which charges a 15% restocking fee which I was unable to beat even with a certain amount of begging and groveling and resorting to those "Circuit City has now lost me as a customer for the rest of my life" veiled threats which the store managers probably hear all day long and laught at!) It cost me about $80 for having had the monitor for just ten days. Oh well.

Anyway, I wound up buying a Hitachi CML175SXW 17" LCD monitor online. Unfortunately the Hitachi monitors are not sold at any retail stores. It is, however, the same price as the Sony but I feel a better product. When scrolling, it refreshes better than the Sony so you do not have quite the same blurring issues. This attractive LCD display also comes in 15" and 19" sizes.

All in all, you cannot go wrong with this new desktop from Sony. Highly recommended and I feel well worth the price.

Not as bad...in fact, it is a pretty good system!
RS630G is a new model based on Sony's website. However, in stead of using a 3.4 GHz P4 CPU, it used a 3.2 GHz to bring the price down to compete with other desktops in this category. It supports 2Gb RAM but only has 512 MB installed. The speakers are a pair of cheap ones that might cost $20 if you buy them in a local computer store. Windows XP Home edition also brings down the cost.
Pros:

1. It is a Sony! It comes with good sony software that no other computers can compete -- if you plan to use your desktop computer to do a lot of multimedia project -- this is the machine you can choose. The machine comes with Sony's Giga pocket TV/video recording program; Sony's DV Gateplus video capturing/editing software; Drag'n Drop to DVD and Click to DVD disc authorizing program; Sonicstage music editing and managing program; Picture Gear picture editing and managing program plus Quicken, Microsoft Works suite, and a couple of trial programs such as Internet Security (a terrible program by Symantec) and Microsoft Office Standard version, both are 60 day trial. Compare to former Sony desktops, this one has a lot less application programs, but the ones that come with the computer would be good enough for anyone to complete pretty sophisticated multimedia projects.
2. It comes with a few card reader slots and seven USB-2 slots.
3. Good size hard drive (250 GB) and unlike former Sony desktops, the hard drive was not divided into two partitions.
3. It is fast and quiet.
4. It does not come with a recovery disk, but you can make a set using a simple program that comes with the machine and don't need to buy. You may choose to use CD or DVD for the recovery disk set. I spent about 15 minutes to produce a set using one DVD-R and one CD-R media although the program indicated that the process may take an hour to complete.
5. The ATI Radeon 9200 graphic card has 128 MB video memory, enough for most of the new games.
6. It can be used as a media server, which you can connect to your TV and stereo components.

Cons:

1. There are only two IEEE 1394 ports, one in the front (6-pin) and one (9-pin) in the back. I have yet had a change to test the front one. According to my past experience with Sony VAIO video studios, the front one will not be recognized unless you are hooking up with a Sony DV camcorder and fire up Microsoft Movie maker. This really sucks.
2. The modem port lacks a port to connect the telephone. Usually, the internal modem card should have two ports: line-in and line out to phone, but this one, like Dell machines, only has one port for line in. I don't know how you can connect both your computer and your phone without buying a spliter.
3. This machine is intending to market the Home users, but in fact, it is more suitable for experienced computer users. For example, the machine has a good TV tuner, but unless you use the machine as a media server for your home network, you won't be able to enjoy the TV using its 3x2 inch TV setup window. Sony's RZ series that come with Windows XP media edition might be a better option if you want a better GUI to enjoy TV, VCR, DVD functions.

My machine did not have any problem upon its arrival and I have kept it on for two weeks now and still runs great. Everything has been working.

Some notes for buyers:

1. Delete Microsoft Office Trial Edition before you install one that is not trial, otherwise they may conflict with each other.
2. Delete Internet Security. After 60 days, you have to purchase it anyway. It is cheaper to buy Symantec's Norton Antivirus then get a free personal firewall through www.zonelabs.com. Internet Security is a terrible program if you are using DSL or any home wireless network.
(...)

So disappointed!!! SONY brings me a lot of pain ... ...
Most electronics in my home are from SONY. But, this time I am so disappointed with the purchase at Sonystyle.Com.

1) When I opened the computer, the computer can not be started. I spend much much time to call the custom service. Unfortunately the custom service is very difficult to be reached.

2) It gave a lot of difficulties to return this big stuff. So I decided to send it to a SONY authorized Service Ctr. There is only 1 in Massachusetts. It needs 7 bussiness days to repair - Oh, my god!

3) I spent $2150 for the computer and 19" LCD monitor at sonystyle.com. But, no computer manuals, no software manuals, no recovery discs (you need to buy it!) with the computer. You need to spend much time to call them for every detail.

So bad service, which waste me a lot of time and feeling. I will never buy SONY again. I feel so bad with SONY ... ... SONY brings me a lot pain ... ...

So disappointed!!!
Most electronics in my home are from SONY. But, this time I am so disappointed with the purchase at Sonystyle.Com.

1) When I opened the computer, the computer can not be started. I spend much much time to call the custom service. Unfortunately the custom service is very difficult to be reached.

2) It gave a lot of difficulties to return this big stuff. So I decided to send it to a SONY authorized Service Ctr. There is only 1 in Massachusetts. It needs 7 bussiness days to repair - Oh, my god!

3) Rebate cheating:
(...).

4) No computer manuals, no software manuals, no recovery discs (you need to buy it!) with the computer. You need to spend much time to call them for every detail.

So bad service, which waste me a lot of time and feeling. I will never buy SONY again. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

HP makes multimedia easy for the whole family with the a815n desktop PC, featuring a wide range of connectivity options for all your peripherals, preloaded HP Image Zone photo editing and management software, and a dual-layer, multiformat DVD/CD burner. It comes loaded with 512 MB of RAM, which can be bumped up to an amazing 4 GB. It also features an extra-large 160 GB hard drive, and a multiformat memory card reader that's compatible with today's most popular digital camera formats.

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: The 3.06 GHz Intel Pentium