Amazon.com Product Description

The Sony Vaio PCV-RZ54G is a full-fledged desktop PC--but it's also a television, a DVD player, an FM and Internet radio, and a personal video recorder. It's powered by the Microsoft Windows XP Media Center Edition 2004 operating system (compatible with cable, digital cable, satellite TV, and antenna), and it features a 3.2 GHz Pentium 4 processor (with Hyper Threading technology), extra-large 200 GB hard drive, and 512 MB of installed memory. For an even more powerful Media Center, you can step up to the Sony Vaio PCV-RZ56G with a 3.4 GHz Pentium 4 processor, a 250 GB hard drive, and 1 GB of installed RAM.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The massive 200 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 is well suited for high-performance gaming and professional-quality image, audio, and video editing. It also has A 512 KB L2 cache and an 800 MHz front-side bus (FSB).
• Memory: The PCV-RZ54G comes with a 512 MB built-in memory (2 x 256 MB DDR SDRAM, 400 MHz)--a decent amount for starters, but you'll want to add more to take full advantage of the capabilities of Windows XP Media Center. The motherboard has a maximum memory expansion of 2 GB.
• CD/DVD Drive: The PCV-RZ54G has two optical drives. The DVD-/+RW drive is compatible with both DVD-RW and DVD+RW discs as well as CD-RW. Both DVD-RW and DVD+RW discs write at 8x, rewrite at 4x, and read at 8x. You can record and rewrite CDs at 24x speed (and read them at 32x). It also features a 16x DVD-ROM drive.
• Keyboard & Mouse: It comes with a Vaio keyboard and optical mouse (PS/2).

Sound is delivered via a Creative Sound Blaster Audigy audio card, which delivers high-quality 5.1 channels of digital surround sound. The newer Audigy 2 card has 24-bit, 96 Hz recording capability and is preferred for professional-quality audio recording.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
The PCV-RZ54G has three PCI expansion slots (none available), one 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 VGA/DVI monitor port
• Multi-format memory card reader that is compatible with CompactFlash (Type I/II), MicroDrive, Memory Stick, and SmartMedia cards.

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. 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). You can even pause or rewind (up to 7 seconds) FM radio broadcasts.

Record and watch your TV programs with the Personal Video Recorder powered by Giga Pocket Engine. With the pre-installed Click to DVD software, you can turn your digital photos into a slideshow and burn it to DVD. You can plug in your analog video source (camcorder or VCR) and transfer video to DVD, or store it on the hard drive as a digital file.

Other preloaded software includes Adobe Premiere LE, Adobe Photoshop Elements, Sony Screenblast Acid, Sony Screenblast Sound Forge, Microsoft Works 7.0, Microsoft Office 2003 (60-day trial), InterVideo WinDVD, and Intuit Quicken 20042 New User Edition.

Dimensions and Weight
It measures 7.75 x 15 x 15.4 inches (W x H x D) and weighs 30.86 pounds.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony VAIO PCV-RZ54G Digital Studio PC, speakers (stereo) w/subwoofer, IR remote control and receiver, IR blaster, VAIO keyboard, and PS/2 optical mouse.

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.

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

Reviews (5)

Watch out for this one!
My husband and I purchased one of these to do dv recording and to convert to and edit mpeg2 files. Each time we tried to play a video in mpeg2 format - and we tried with multiple files - it REBOOTED THE MACHINE! (XP was set to reboot after a fatal error - but even when this was turned off, we still got a fatal error). After we spent hours and hours on the phone with tech support, trying multiple solutions, they concluded it had a faulty video chipset. Needless to say, we returned the pc immediately and got our $$ back. Doesn't Sony do QA testing on a common format like mpeg2??? All I can say is, I hope not many of these machines came out of the box like this one!

Rz54G Gigabit Ethernet slow
I purchased the Sony VAIO RZ54G and like the machine for the most part. I noticed that my home network was very slow though. I found that the GIGABIT ETHERNET built into the SOny was configured for 10MB/s (1% of it's max rate). My network only supports 100MB/s so I figured it should easily handle 100MB/S if it can do 10 times that... right? Wrong. I worked with support for two days reconfiguring the system and trying every immaginable option in the ethernet controller. We tried to clean install and even had the mother board replaced but still no more than 10MB/s. I can plug in my old dell or my wife's laptop and connect at 100MB/s no problem. Sony washed their hands and said I can put in an aftermarket ethernet card if I want this work. That is not an acceptable solution in my mind. Not happy with their cutomer dis-service.

XP Media Center need improvement go with the RS series
I bought the RZ50CG custom configure with comprable specs as the RZ54G. Sent it back because even though it says it's a Gigapocket desktop, it is not. It runs on the Gigapocket engine, but with Windows XP Media Center. The difference is noticeable.

Gigapocket is exactly like having a TV, where you can adjust color by right clicking on the screen, input your video device via the composite or S-video cable and have Gigapocket detect it the same way it would if you plugged it into your TV and used the TV/Video select button to view your recordings.

XP Media Center doesn't allow you to do that. You have to go through and reconfigure your settings each time, and then reconfigure it back to be able to play your TV channels (cable).

The benefit with the RZ is that you get the 9600 ATI Radeo video card vs. the 9200 in the RS model. The other benefit of the RZ model is the 5.1 capable Soundblaster Audigy card. You can't get that in the RS, but you can always add it if you want to.

The RS is the way to go if you're looking for seamless video to DVD recording or playback.

If you're going to spend the money, make the investment to get 1gb of RAM.

I Love It!!!
I purchased this computer about a month ago. It's amazing!!! It even has something like TiVo built in to the computer so you can record tv programs and pause live tv. It is super fast (it has a 3.2 ghz processor) and a very large hard drive. This computer is just a lot of fun.

Nice computer, but the power supply is lacking
Before you buy this PC, just beware; The power supply that comes with it is only 295 watts of power. That probably means nothing to people who just want a computer but don't want to upgrade. For those of us who do, the 295 watts may limit whats being put into the case such as more powerful graphics processors, more PCI boards, etc. Also, even if you wanted to change it out, the speakers that come with it use the DC power out from it so the speakers are useless even if you can find another one to fit its size in the back.
Now if none of this concerns you, then this PC is king. The hard drive is huge so you can save all your TV shows using the Gigapocket recorder, the speed of the processor is fast enough for any video editing, the DVD drives will record just about anything you throw at it, and the Radeon 9600XT is an amazing midrange graphics card. All in all, this PC is great for the amount of money spent on it. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The BasicsAs one of the most affordable members of Sony's distinctly upscale "R" series of desktop computers, the VAIO VGC-RA826G Digital Studio PC brandishes many of the same features Sony incorporates into its pricier R models but falls just short of state-of-the-art and does not include a viewing screen. Thusly, the unit is ideal for those who want high-end computing without paying top dollar. Designed to efficiently handle virtually anything you can throw at it, the VAIO VGC-RA826G is a great fit as the hub of 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.

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-RA826G incorporates one of the fastest CPUs currently in existence (at the time of this writing), an Intel Pentium 4 550. 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 3.4 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 any application or environment.

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-RA826G, 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-RA826G, 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 16x PCI Express 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-RA826G produces stereo and surround sound via an Intel High Definition Audio chipset with support for six distinct audio channels. Sony will also enclose a 2.1 speaker system with two desktop satellites for clean middle and high frequencies and a subwoofer for added bass support.

Hard Drive
At 250 GB, the unit's internal hard drive is one of the largest on the market and thusly 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 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 digital cameras 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-RA826G features a software package that's clearly aimed at fans of multimedia. Headed by Microsoft's Windows Media Center Edition operating system and Microsoft's Works 8.0 productivity pack, the bundle also features Adobe Premier LE video editing suite, Adobe Photoshop Elements digital imaging utility, and a half dozen of Sony's own top notch audio, video and photo tools.

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

Amazon.com Product Description

The HP Pavilion a630n is a great entry level PC that doesn't sacrifice in power or performance for those on a budget. It has a 2.80 GHz Pentium 4 processor (with Hyper-Threading technology), 512 MB RAM, and a 160 GB hard drive, and is powered by Windows XP Home Edition. 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: 160 GB Ultra DMA hard drive (7200 RPM) stores your digital photos, digital audio and video, and other files.
• Processor: Powered by a 2.80 GHz Pentium 4 processor, and featuring Hyper-Threading technology, it's fast enough to run all your applications, and it has a 1 MB L2 cache. Hyper-Threading helps a PC run multiple applications at the same time, which enables the processor to execute two threads (a part of a program) in parallel, boosting performance. This results in more efficient software performance (such as faster reaction times in gaming applications) and enhanced multitasking.
• Memory: 512 MB RAM helps your applications run faster and more efficiently--even games, digital audio, and digital video software. There is one available DIMM slot so you can add more memory in the future.
• CD/DVD Drive: A combo CD-RW/DVD+RW drive lets you read CD-ROMs at a speedy 48x and DVD-ROMs at 12x. You can also write to CD-R or CD-RW media at 24x and re-write at 10x, or write DVDs at 8x and re-write at 4x.
• Keyboard & Mouse: It comes with an HP Internet keyboard and HP scroller mouse.

Sound and Graphics
It includes an Intel Graphics Media Accelerator with 128 MB integrated video memory, along with an integrated audio card, configurable for 6-speaker set-up (speakers sold separately).

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
With an integreated 10/100Base-T Ethernet LAN, you can get online easily. It also has 3 free PCI slots, 1 free AGP slot, 1 free drive bay, and the following external ports:

• 7 USB 2.0 ports (3 in the front) for connecting to a wide range of peripherals, from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 2 IEEE 1394 FireWire ports (1 in front) to connect to digital video cameras or other peripherals
• 1 parallel port for connecting to printers or cameras based on older technologies
• 1 microphone/headhphone/line-in port on the front of the case
• A 9-in-1 memory card reader on the front of the unit to read Smart Media, xD, MultiMedia Card, Secure Digital (SD), Compact Flash I, Compact Flash II, IBM Micro Drive, Memory Stick, or Memory Stick Pro
• 1 VGA video out port to connect to a monitor

Preloaded System and Software
The HP Pavilion a630n is powered by Windows XP Home Edition, which makes it easy for you to get up and running as quickly as possible. It's packed with multimedia features to help you get your creative juices flowing. Windows Media Player lets you burn and play CDs, in addition to playing and organizing digital audio files. Windows MovieMaker is a basic video editing tool that helps you capture and edit digital video to save your memories and share them with others.

It also comes packed with RealPlayer, Wild Tangent, Symantec Norton Antivirus, Notebook Help & Support, Adobe Acrobat Reader, HP Printer Drivers (Deskjet & Photo printers), Restore CDs, InterVideo WinDVD SE Player, InterVideo WinDVD Creator, Apple iTunes and Apple iTunes Music Store, Adobe PhotoShop Album STE, Microsoft Works, Microsoft Money, MSN Encarta Plus, Microsoft Office 2003 Trial, Quicken New User's Edition, AOL Dial-Up; AOL for Broadband, Earthlink High-Speed, CompuServe Dial-Up, and SBC Yahoo! DSL.

Dimensions and Weight
It measures 7.5 x 15.2 x 16.5 inches (W x D x H) and weighs 38.0 pounds (packaged).

What's in the Box
HP Pavilion a630n desktop PC, HP Internet keyboard, HP scroller mouse, power cord, and phone cord. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The Basics
Whether you play games, edit videos, create graphics and animation or run a business, the stunning new Gateway 820GM Media Center Desktop PC has you covered, with room to spare. It may cost somewhat more than the average PC, but for good reason. Gateway has equipped this potent new machine with top notch amenities from top to bottom, thus providing you with assurances against future upgrades for some time to come. Sporting such desirable amenities as a full GB of memory, double layer DVD recording, a monstrous 250 GB hard drive and all the connectivity you'll likely ever need, the 820GM Media Center Desktop PC is tomorrow's computer today.

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 820GM Media Center Desktop PC features one of today's fastest CPUs, an Intel Pentium 4 530. 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 an 800 MHz front side bus for a more generous data "pipeline" than prior models. Operating at a beefy 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 is a strong CPU that's ready for any 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 820GM Media Center Desktop PC, Gateway has installed a whopping 1024 MB (1 GB) of 400 DDR memory, configured in a dual channel setup for even faster response. This is a ton of memory even for a high-end machine, and its rated speed is comparatively quick. As such, it is more than enough for any multitasking situation or complex application. Moreover, the system's mainboard is constructed to support RAM upgrades to an amazing 4 GB, though most users will never have the need.

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" built-in 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 820GM Media Center Desktop PC features an ATI Radeon X300 SE PCI-Express, a strong standalone graphics card with 128 MB of dedicated video memory. This card is capable of accurately displaying virtually any 2D application and delivering smooth frame rates and immersive, lifelike visuals to the 3D animations found in most computer games and 3D animation packages. Ultra-hardcore gamers and serious 3D artisans who demand perfect frame rates at extremely high resolutions may want to upgrade to a far pricier 256 or 512 MB video model, but this card should be quite adequate for the majority of users.

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

Sound
The 820GM Media Center Desktop PC produces stereo and all-encompassing surround sound via an Intel High Definition Audio chipset with support for seven distinct audio channels and one subwoofer. Gateway has also enclosed a pair of amplified desktop speakers, though serious audiophiles may want to upgrade to a three-piece subwoofer-enhanced set or a surround sound configuration.

Hard Drive
Even the busiest users will have a tough time ever filling this computer's hard drive. At 200 GB, it's 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 a CD).

This system features two optical drives -- a CD-ROM drive for playing music and data CDs, 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, with two optical drives you can make extremely fast CD copies.

Connectivity and Expansion
With no less than seven high-speed USB 2.0 ports, you'll have plenty of room for plug and play gadgets such as digital cameras and printers. Gateway has also included a trio of IEEE 1394 "FireWire" ports (often used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders) and a versatile 8-in-1 card reader for reading memory cards from devices such as digital cameras, PDAs and more. Communication options include an integrated Gigabit networking interface (substantially faster data transfer rates than traditional 100BaseT Ethernet) for Internet and network communication, and a standard 56K data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections

Operating System and Software
The 820GM Media Center Desktop PC features a comprehensive software package headed by Microsoft's Windows XP Home Edition operating system. Gateway will also pre-install Microsoft's Money 2004 financial center, Microsoft's Works 8.0 productivity package, Microsoft's Picture It Premium photo and graphic editing suite, and a variety of high-end multimedia utilities such as the superb Nero 6 Suite CD and DVD burning package.

Control
The system includes a Gateway Premium Multimedia Keyboard and a two-button mouse with scroll wheel. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The Basics
Sporting many of the high-tech innovations and amenities of Gateway's new top-of-the-line PCs but with less power, comparatively mediocre 3D graphics performance and half the memory, the Gateway 420GR Desktop PC is nonetheless a strong midlevel computer that delivers impressive bang for the buck. The unit is suitable for business, home, entertainment and all-purpose environments, though fussy and/or demanding users will probably need to upgrade one or more components relevant to their chosen applications and requirements. But even without upgrades, the Gateway 420GR is both ready for the future and nicely equipped for the vast majority of duties today.

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 Gateway 420GR features a fast Intel Pentium 4 515 CPU. New for 2004, this is an upgraded version of the venerable Pentium 4 chip, featuring one full MB of Level 2 cache for a more generous data "pipeline" than prior models. Operating at a 2.93 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 is a strong processor in all but the toughest situations.

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 420GR, Gateway has installed 512 MB of speedy 400 MHz DDR memory, configured in a dual channel setup for even faster response. This is a typical allotment for a midlevel computer, and more than enough for most multitasking situations and complex applications. Moreover, the system's mainboard is constructed to support RAM upgrades to a stunning 4 GB, though most users will never need to do so.

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 "shares" the system's main memory, as it will better handle complex procedures.

The Gateway 420GR features a new style of video controller -- a sort of hybrid between high-end standalone "dedicated memory" cards and less impressive 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 than traditional integrated controllers. However, though some variations of the Graphics Media Accelerator 900 can utilize up to 224 MB or more of the system's memory, thus generating better 3D performance, this particular controller is unable to use more than 64 MB. As a result, anyone seriously involved in 3D gaming or 3D graphic design will undoubtedly need to add a standalone graphics card. But if you're usually involved in 2D and/or undemanding 3D work, the system will suffice nicely as is.

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

Sound
The Gateway 420GR produces stereo and surround sound via an Intel High Definition Audio chipset with support for six distinct audio channels and one subwoofer. Gateway has also enclosed a pair of amplified desktop speakers, though serious audiophiles will undoubtedly upgrade to a three-piece subwoofer-enhanced set or a surround sound configuration.

Hard Drive
At 160 GB, the unit's internal hard drive is substantially less roomy and costly than today's latest high-end monsters yet 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 high-speed Serial ATA connection. These are all comparatively recent innovations, each increasing the overall 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 a CD).

Like its pricier Gateway brethren, this system features two optical drives -- a CD-ROM drive for playing music and data CDs, and a DVD +/- RW Double Layer Multi-Format drive through which you can not only do all of the above but also make use of double layer DVDs (twice the capacity of standard DVDs). What's more, with two optical drives you can make extremely fast CD copies.

Connectivity and Expansion
With a total of seven high-speed USB 2.0 ports, you'll have plenty of room for plug and play gadgets such as digital cameras and printers. Gateway has also included a trio of IEEE 1394 "FireWire" ports (commonly used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders) and a versatile 8-in-1 card reader for reading memory cards from devices such as digital cameras, PDAs and more. Communication options include an integrated 10/100Mbps Ethernet LAN interface for high-speed access to networks and the Internet, and a 56K data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections.

Operating System and Software
The Gateway 420GR features a comprehensive software package headed by Microsoft's beefy Windows XP Home Edition operating system. Gateway will also pre-install Microsoft's Money 2004 financial center, Microsoft's Works 8.0 productivity package, Microsoft's Picture It! Premium photo and graphic editing suite, and a variety of sophisticated multimedia utilities such as the excellent Nero 6 Suite CD and DVD burning package.

Control
Completing the system is a Gateway Premium Multimedia Keyboard and a two-button mouse with scroll wheel. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Basics
Compaq's new and exceedingly wide-ranging Presario SR1100NX series of desktop PCs targets most every segment of the computer buyer market -- from financially strapped students to high-power business executives. This particular unit, the Presario SR1120NX, is one of the least expensive yet most cost-effective models in the lineup, offering superior multitasking performance and quite a bit more storage space than its entry-level sibling, the Presario SR1110NX, for just a few dollars more. Demanding users and those who deal primarily in high-end multimedia or games will want to look at one of Compaq's upscale models, but anyone who prioritizes their budget should find the Presario SR1120NX exceedingly appealing.

Processor
Intel's cost-effective Celeron processor often forms the basis for budget-priced machines, and the Presario SR1120NX is no different. What is different is the configuration of this particular Celeron. Intel's newest Celeron is named the Celeron D, a tricked up version of the venerable chip that offers 256KB of level-two cache (twice that of standard Celeron chips) and a 533MHz Quad Pumped Bus, a 33% improvement over the norm. The Celeron D in the Presario SR1120NX operates at 2.66 MHz, which would be considered a fast Celeron even without the new and improved configuration. Though it doesn't offer the power of Intel's Pentium chip, this is a strong entry-level CPU.

Memory
Computers typically store information on their hard drive, though frequently accessed and recently accessed information is stored for faster retrieval in Random Access Memory. With more installed memory, your PC operates faster and permit more efficient multitasking. The Presario SR1120NX features 512 MB of PC2700 DDR SDRAM main memory (expandable to two full GB), which is considered an average allotment in today's desktop market. As such, it is perfectly satisfactory for most single task and multitasking assignments.

Video
An Intel Extreme Graphics video controller is integrated on the motherboard, featuring just 64 MB of shared (not dedicated) video memory. While quite capable of accurately displaying most any 2D application such as word processing, Internet surfing and 2D graphic design, the system will struggle to smoothly display advanced 3D graphics, animations, and many mid-to high-end games.

The system does not include a display screen, thus allowing you to continue using your current monitor or select from today's many alternatives.

Sound
The Presario SR1120NX produces sound via an audio chip integrated on the motherboard. This is a typical setup for inexpensive PCs. Speakers are not included.

Hard Drive
The unit's internal 80 MB hard drive is double the capacity of that in the entry-level Presario SR1110NX, sporting enough storage space for an average allotment of files and applications and a substantial music or multimedia collection too. But if you consistently work with jumbo-size video, 3D graphic and audio files, you'll may need to upgrade this drive or add another.

Optical Drive
The system features dual optical drives - a fast 48X32X48X CD-RW drive for playing and burning music CDs and archiving files to CD, and a DVD-ROM drive for playing DVDs. DVD writing, often used to backup extremely large amounts of data or copy home movies to long-lasting DVD format, is not possible unless you add a DVD burner.

Connectivity and Expansion
With five high-speed USB 2.0 ports at your disposal -- one of which is conveniently located on the front -- you'll have plenty of room for plug and play gadgets such as digital cameras and printers. Compaq has not included IEEE 1394 FireWire ports (most commonly used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders), though it has equipped the system with a built-in 9-in-1 memory card reader for accessing information stored on a wide variety of removable memory cards. This is a surprise find on a budget-priced PC. Communication options include an integrated 10/100Base-T networking interface for fast Internet and network communication and a V.92 data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections. The system's two available PCI slots may be used for add-on audio cards, video cards, and the like.

Operating System and Software
Considering its affordable price point, the Presario SR1120NX features an impressive software package headed by Microsoft's Windows XP operating system. Compaq will also pre-install Microsoft's Works 7.0 word processing and productivity suite, Microsoft Money Standard 2004, Quicken New User Edition 2004, a one-year subscription to the MSN Encarta online information center, and a variety of multimedia and Internet utilities.

Keyboard and Mouse
A standard Compaq keyboard and Compaq mouse with convenient scrolling wheel are enclosed.

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Amazon.com Product Description

Compaq’s Presario 6300 series lineup of desktop PCs includes an impressive range of models offering extensive combinations of performance, expandability, multimedia features, and bundled software. The entry-level Presario 6300 offers a strong mix of budget-priced computing power, expandability, networkability, and graphics and multimedia support for basic home office and gaming needs--particularly for consumers who already own a monitor and speakers.

A 1.4 GHz Intel Celeron processor delivers cost-effective, solid performance for running a wide range of productivity applications and popular PC games. The tower system’s 40 GB hard drive provides more than ample application and data file storage capacity for typical home office PC users. Its 128 MB of 133 MHz DDR SDRAM--expandable to 512 MB--and 32 KB of primary cache with 256 KB of secondary cache make it easy to run several productivity applications simultaneously.

The 14.5-by-16.6-by-6.9-inch Presario 6300 tower includes a 48x CD-ROM drive, a 3.5-inch 1.44 MB floppy disk drive, a 10/100Base-T Fast Ethernet port, and an integrated 56K V.90 modem. Expansion options include three PCI slots (two available), two 5.25-inch bays (one available), and one external and two internal 3.5-inch bays (one internal bay available).

Connecting peripherals to the Presario 6300 is flexible and easy through four USB ports (two front, two rear), an external VGA monitor port, and single serial and parallel ports. The system includes a Compaq PS/2 Internet keyboard and a Compaq PS/2 scroller mouse.

Installed software includes Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition, Microsoft Works 6.0, Microsoft Money 2002, Microsoft Encarta Online Deluxe, Intuit Quicken Financial Center/Quicken 2002 New User Edition, RecordNow powered by Veritas, Adobe Acrobat Reader 5.0, Norton AntiVirus 2002 with six months of free upgrades, and two free Game Channel titles. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Cheapest computer I could find...
I needed to replace an aging computer. With limited dollars to
spend I looked for the cheapest computer I could find. The
Compaq 6300 was it. After setting up the computer it turned on and worked! This is a bare bones computer great for email, word docs and internet surfing. On the minus side the box looks cheaply made. When a CD is inserted in the CD drive the drive is very noisy. If this computer last more than 4 years I will be
very happy. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

A good choice for a general purpose home office or family PC, the HP Pavilion a310n features a fast 48x CD-RW as well as a DVD drive for watching your favorite movies. This mini-tower desktop PC also offers a 2.70 GHz Intel Celeron processor, 256 MB installed RAM, and an 80 GB hard drive.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The 80 GB Ultra DMA (5400 RMM) hard drive offers a decent amount of storage for all your documents, digital photos, and MP3 collection, but it is smaller than what is offered with the latest PCs.
• Processor: The 2.70 GHz Intel Celeron processor offers fast and affordable performance which is perfect for everyday computing tasks--from making entries in Quicken to word processing to editing home digital video movies.
• Memory: The a310n comes with a 256 MB built-in memory (DDR SDRAM, 266 MHz), which is calling out for more power right out of the gate. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 1 GB. It also has an L2 cache of 512 KB.
• CD/DVD Drive: It is equipped with separate drives for DVD playback and CD writing. The DVD-ROM drive can read discs at 16x speed (the standard speed for DVD movie playback), while the CD-R/W drive offers a high-speed 48x (read)/24x (rewrite)/ 48x (write) capability.
• Keyboard & Mouse: The a310n comes with the HP multimedia keyboard and a scrolling mouse--both with PS/2 connection.

This computer does not include a monitor.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
The a310n has three PCI expansion slots (two available), two DIMM slots, and the following external ports:

• 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
• 6-in-1 memory card reader (divided into two slots) that is compatible with CompactFlash, MicroDrive, Memory Stick, MultiMediaCard (MMC), Secure Digital (SD) and Smaredia cards.

It also has an integrated 56K modem (V.92) and an RJ-45 LAN network port (for a 10/100 Ethernet connection to networks and DSL/cable modems).

Preloaded System and Software
The a310n comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it also features Microsoft Works 7 (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). Other bundled software titles include Encyclopedia Britannica Premium Service (with 1-year free subscription), Norton Antivirus 2003, Quicken 2003, Microsoft Money 2003, RecordNow (for creating your own music or data CDs), MusicMatch Jukebox (with 100 MP3 songs from EMusic.com), Arcsoft ShowBiz DVD (for editing digital video), and InterVideo WinDVD SE (for playing DVD movies).

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

What's in the Box
This package includes the HP Pavilion a310n desktop PC, keyboard, PS/2 scroller mouse, power cord, and operating instructions. It is backed by a one-year limited warranty. ... Read more