Amazon.com Product Description

You can look long and hard and chances are you won't find many more affordable brand name computers than the Compaq Presario S3000NX Desktop PC. Not particularly powerful and bereft of some of the features found in today's mid and high-level systems, the Presario S3000MX is nevertheless a wise choice for budget-conscious individuals requiring a secondary or light-duty PC.

Powered by a cost-effective 1.67 GHz AMD Athlon XP processor 2000+ with QuantiSpeed architecture, 256 MB of PC2100 DDR SDRAM, and a integrated ProSaveageDDR KM266 graphics card with 32 MB of shared (not dedicated) memory, the system is clearly not intended for extreme multitasking, heavy-duty gaming and animation or complex business tasks. It is, however, all you need for Internet surfing, contact management, home office duties, and most 2-D games. HP has included an adequate 40 GB hard disk for permanent storage of your programs and files, a 3.5-inch diskette drive for older or smaller applications and backups, and a CD-RW drive through which you can burn and listen to audio CDs and archive your data to digital media.

The Presario S300NX system is not equipped with a DVD player or writer, nor does it include a monitor or external stereo speakers, though all of the above may be added at your discretion. The unit does feature a variety of amenities to enhance your everyday computing, including six high-speed USB 2.0 ports for plug and play peripherals, a Presario keyboard and a PS/2-style scrolling mouse, serial and parallel "printer" ports, an integrated 56K modem for basic Internet and email access, and a 10/100 Base-Y Fast Ethernet port for fast network and e-communication interaction.

To help get you started, Compaq has pre-installed a variety of software applications, including Microsoft's Windows XP Home Edition operating system, Microsoft Money 2003, Microsoft Works 7.0, and Quicken Financial Center. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

excellent bang for the buck!
I bought this computer a month ago and have had nothing but
excellent results. The Athlon XP 2000 processor blows away
the Celerons (2.0g, 2.2g)-How do I know? because thanks to
Circuit City's way cool return policies I've been able to try
out the bargain basement computers, then take them back and
keep the best one.

I use photoshop 6 , autocad inventor 5, cakewalk pro audio,
frutyloops, etc .. on a regular basis. the HP and Emachines
computers ... with the celerons couldn't keep up with
the compaq s3000nx. - same 256m ram- but they both locked up
continually when running autocad, downloading from the dsl,
and burning audio cds.....not the compaq! it hasn't let
me down.
okay, so the other computers had a dvd player and firewire
ports. big deal. I bought a FW card for 13 bucks, and don't
care about watching movies on a 20 inch screen.
also, the audio is way quieter- the compaq has true
headphone\line outs to drive my stereo amp (NAD 2100)
wheras the other two had speaker level outputs i could not
get to clean up no matter how low i set the volume.
i recommend this machine
(beware of "reviews" by "authors" who don't know the actual
equipment or "have used a similar model and were unimpressed"

Good price, not a high quality system
If you are looking for a high-end system - this isn't it. If you are looking for a decent computer for light computing task (internet, a few games, doing your taxes) then this is a decent option. The features are fine for a home user who doesn't need a lot of computing power and needs a bargain system.

Still there are some things you should know:

Because of the slow memory system and low-end embedded graphics this system is not suitable for a serious gamer (though there is an AGP slot for a video card upgrade) or anyone who needs cutting edge performance. The system is also not very rugged so don't plan on moving around too often (i.e. no LAN parties).

One other downside - it has a an old AthlonXP cpu. What's wrong with that? The heat-sink retention mechanism is flimsy and can fall off. These old Athlons and AthlonXPs don't have any temperature cutoff circuitry (unlike Intel Celerons P3s, and P4s or AMD Opterons) so the CPU catches fire and burns up in a few seconds. I know several people this has happened to and it's well known risk with Athlons.

So beware - it's cheap for reason. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Basics
Compaq’s new and exceedingly comprehensive 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 SR1170NX, is the flagship model of the series, delivering lots of power and enough features for all but the most demanding power users. Equipped with luxuries such as CD and DVD recording, strong 3D graphics support and a huge 200 GB hard disk, the system is ready for virtually any situation -- from entertainment and gaming center to office hub. Compaq has moderated the price by installing a potent but not quite top-of-the-line CPU, and therefore the unit is not ideal for those seeking absolute cutting-edge performance. But for anyone else, the Presario SR1170NX should suffice quite nicely.

Processor
At the heart of any computer lies the CPU (or processor), a massive collection of miniature transistors that governs the speed and power of the entire unit. For the Presario SR1170NX, Compaq has installed a fast yet comparatively cost-effective Intel Pentium 4 processor 2.80E processor, running at 2.8 GHz and supporting Intel's new Hyper-Threading technology. Hyper-Threading, a recent Intel innovation, allows a single CPU system -- which most are -- to behave at times as a dual CPU system, thus adding substantially more speed to some high-end applications. Sufficient even for challenging tasks, this CPU also delivers solid bang for the buck and is a wise choice for those who need power but don't want to pay for overkill.

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. The Presario SR1170NX features 512 MB of fast PC3200 DDR SDRAM memory (expandable to two full GB). An average allotment for today's high-end computers, this RAM module's rated speed is nevertheless faster than that of the majority of RAM chips in today's market. As such, it is more than enough for most single task and multitasking assignments.

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). The Presario SR1170NX features an nVidia GeForce FX5100XT AGP 8x graphics card with 128 MB of dedicated video memory (preferable to the "shared" memory found on many video cards). 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 industry leading computer games and 3D animation packages.

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

Sound
The Presario SR1170NX produces six-channel sound via an audio chip integrated on the motherboard. This is a typical configuration, producing satisfying surround sound for DVD movies and traditional stereo for music. Users may wish to add a dedicated sound card if audiophile-level output is a priority. Speakers are not enclosed.

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

Optical Drive
An optical drive is essential in today’s computing environment. A "CD-ROM" drive allows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A "CD-RW" drive adds CD "burning", so you can also 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 and archive files to durable DVD discs (DVDs boast more than seven times the storage capacity of a CD).

The Presario SR1170NX features dual optical drives - a 48X CD-ROM drive for playing music and data CDs, and a fast DVD+R/RW drive for all that other fun stuff. Having two optical drives also allows you to copy from one CD to another with much less effort and much more speed than with a single drive.

Connectivity and Expansion
With no less than seven high-speed USB 2.0 ports at your disposal -- three of which are conveniently located on the front of the unit -- you’ll have plenty of room for plug and play gadgets such as printers, scanners and joysticks. The system also includes two IEEE 1394 "FireWire" ports (commonly used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders) and a built-in 9-in-1 memory card reader for accessing information stored on a wide variety of removable memory cards. 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. Two available PCI slots may be used for add-on audio cards, video cards, and the like.

Operating System and Software
The Presario SR1170NX features an impressive software package headed by Microsoft’s Windows XP Home Edition 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, and an assortment of multimedia and Internet utilities.

Keyboard and Mouse
A Compaq multimedia keyboard and accurate, hassle-free optical mouse are enclosed. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

A desktop PC for a price like this is a bargain in anyone's books. Granted, the economical Compaq Presario S6000NX is not suitable for demanding environments such as 3-D graphic studios, multi-user offices or gaming and home entertainment setups. Still, for basic home and home office duties, this midlevel rig makes a great deal of sense.

The Presario S6000NX is driven by a cost-conscious Intel Celeron processor operating at 2.7 GHz. Compaq has added enough RAM memory for most single task situations -- 256 MB -- though users will want to double that for more intensive workouts and serious multitasking. The enclosed Intel Extreme Graphics graphics chipset features 64 MB shared video memory and as such is not as potent as graphics cards with dedicated memory. Though suitable for general 3-D tasks, it will not efficiently run most current high-end 3-D games.

The system sports average data handling capabilities. Its 40 GB hard drive is roomy enough for typical home environments but pales in comparison to the current 120-plus hard drive standard. Its optical drive allows you to play and burn audio CDs and archive your files, but doesn't support DVD functions. Yet its 3.5-inch diskette drive will allow you to back up or load smaller or older files to inexpensive diskettes.

The Presario S6000NX features a variety of connectivity options, including serial and parallel ports, a 56K V.90 flex modem for low-speed communication, a high-speed 10-Mbps/100-Mbps Ethernet network port for high-speed LAN and Internet access, and a half-dozen fast USB 2.0 ports for plug and play peripherals. Compaq has not included a FireWire port (normally reserved for fast data downloads from digital camcorders). Monitor and speakers are sold separately, thus allowing you to customize your desktop setup from the many options available today.

The impressive software bundle includes Microsoft's Windows XP Home Edition, Microsoft's Works 7.0 productivity suite, Microsoft Money 2004, Quicken New User's Edition 2004, and a variety of multimedia and e-communication utilities. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

One of Compaq's most affordable PCs, the Presario 4400US desktopcomputer is a solid choice for those who can't afford or don't require the speedand power of a pricey state-of-the-art machine. Powered by a reliable Intel 1.3GHz Celeron processor with 256 KB of L2 cache, 128 MB of 133 MHz SDRAM, and an 8MB accelerated video card, the 4400US offers plenty of oomph for applicationssuch as data management, word processing, Internet surfing, and some 3-D graphicdesign. It is, however, less suitable for demanding 3-D applications such ashigh-end graphics or gaming.

The 4400US is far from a bare-bones machine. Compaq has taken advantage ofrecent hard drive price drops to equip the unit with a sizable 40 GB hard drive.It has included a fast 24x (write) CD-RW drive for recording and playing musicand archiving data, a 3.5-inch disk drive for archiving and transferring smalleramounts of data, and a SoundMax III digital audio card for clean, accuratesound. A spare bay is reserved for future drive expansion, four USB ports forfun plug-and-play peripherals such as digital cameras and joysticks, a parallelport for non-plug-and-play printers, and a serial port for older mice andexternal modems.

Online fans will love the unit's incorporated Compaq Internet keyboard. Inaddition to the standard array of keys, it also offers several supplementarybuttons for convenient one-touch access to e-mail functions and favoriteInternet sites. Even the system's mouse is equipped with a Web-ready scrollwheel for easier navigation. An integrated 56K modem delivers basic Internetconnection speed.

In order to keep the price as low as it is, Compaq has not outfitted the 4400USwith a monitor or speakers. Prospective customers are thus given the freedom ofselecting separate components, a perfect situation for those who favor a certainbrand or style or may already own such equipment from a previous system. A copyof the latest and most stable Microsoft operating system, Windows XP, and avariety of multimedia, data protection, and Internet applications complete thepackage. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

good value!
Its pretty sweet. I thought all i would do with it was surf the web. But now i have a DVD ROM installed and put in an additional 256 MB of memory. the memory upgrade is necessary as Windows XP uses a lot of RAM. An additional 256MB should suffice.
i have an internet cable connection and downloads are a snap. the cd burner works well and viewing dvds with the graphic card provided is very good.
all in all i think this is a very good machine if u dont want extreme performance.
I would reccomend this machine as there is a lot of room for upgrades and the processor provides more than adequate performance.

A good, inexpensive family machine
Notice to hard-core gamers or bleeding-edge types: this isn't the computer for you!

But for anyone who wants solid performance at a reasonable price, I highly recommend this machine. Compaq's quality is well-known, and this package includes some nice features for a family computer. The 1.3GHz Intel Celeron provides speedy graphics rendering (though gamers would no doubt disagree!) for most home applications and kids' games, and 128MB RAM is a good start for most people. The 40GB hard drive should provide more than enough room to hold even the most bloated new applications (of course, I remember the days when I thought I could *never* fill up a 400MB drive!). A pre-installed V.90 modem and 10/100 network card make Internet connectivity a snap, as does the Windows XP network setup wizard (though, again, I did it manually as I was adding this machine to an existing network). By the way, for those running Win 98 or Me, XP is a great leap forward in operating system stability and speed. No more "blue screen of death" or inexplicable system lock-ups!

I did drop in more memory (512MB), which improved processing speed noticably, and also installed a GeForce AGP video card with 64MB VRAM. Most run-of-the-mill users probably wouldn't need to do that, but I run a few graphics-intensive applications and it helped them quite a bit. The cost of these additions was minimal.

There's no monitor included in the package, but quality 17- and 19-inch monitors are available very inexpensively these days. I completed my setup with a 19-inch ViewSonic, and it "gilded the lily" of this system.

If you're looking to upgrade from your older Pentium-based system, or want a second computer for the kids, I would recommend this package without reservation. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

No matter what level of computer you need, chances are that at least one model in Compaq’s wide-ranging Presario 6400 series of desktop computers is a good fit. Near the upper end of the scale lies the Presario 6450nx Desktop PC, a robust unit that lacks high-end 3-D performance and DVD burning but is otherwise capable of taking on most any leisure or business task.

Driven by a 2.53 GHz Intel Pentium 4 processor and 512 MB SDRAM system memory (expandable to 1024 MB), the Presario 6450nx sports a solid power base. However, its integrated 64 MB Intel Extreme Graphics chipset is not ideal for demanding 3-D applications such as games, animation and drawing. Data storage and handling duties are shared by a massive 120 GB hard disk, a 3.5-inch diskette drive, and a combination CD-RW/DVD drive that supports CD burning and playing and DVD playback but does not permit DVD writing.

The Presario 6450NX features a variety of connectivity options, including serial and parallel ports, a 56K V.90 flex modem for low-speed communication, a high-speed 10-Mbps/100-Mbps Ethernet network port, two FireWire ports for fast data transfer with external devices such as digital camcorders, and a whopping half-dozen high-speed USB 2.0 ports for plug and play peripherals. Compaq has included a convenient Presario Internet keyboard and Presario Scroller Mouse, but has not equipped the unit with wireless capabilities.

The impressive bundled software package features Microsoft Works 7.0, Microsoft Money 2002 Standard, Intuit Quicken Financial Center, and several audio-video utilities. The system does not ship with a monitor or speakers, thus allowing users to custom select their favorite models from the many options currently available. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Compaq's expansive Presario S5000nx series of computers is intended for light- to medium-use situations where cost is the overriding factor. This model, the Presario S5100NX Desktop PC, is the second most affordable in the series and therefore also the second least capable. Though its price is certainly right and it storage space surprisingly accommodating, it is not recommended for anything beyond general duties such as word processing, homework, CD burning and email.

The Presario S5100nx Desktop is driven by a price-conscious Intel Celeron processor operating at 2.6 GHz –- an adequately fast CPU but not nearly as capable or as forward-looking as Intel's flagship processor, the Pentium 4. Compaq has added an acceptable allotment of RAM memory – 256 MB (upgradeable to 1 GB) –- and an integrated Intel Extreme Graphics controller with 64 MB of shared (not dedicated) video memory. As such, the system will handle some 3-D graphics and a minimal amount of multitasking, but is not ready for advanced 3-D applications or demanding business applications.

To store and transfer your data, the Presario S5100nx Desktop is equipped with an adequate 80 GB hard disk (lots of room for a midsize MP3 library), a convenient 3.5-inch diskette drive, and a CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive that supports CD burning and CD and DVD playing, but no DVD writing. The system features a variety of connectivity options, including serial and parallel ports, a 56K V.90 flex modem for low-speed communication, a high-speed 10-Mbps/100-Mbps Ethernet network port for high-speed LAN and Internet access, and a half-dozen fast USB 2.0 ports for plug and play peripherals. Compaq has not included a FireWire port (normally used for fast data downloads from digital camcorders). Monitor and speakers are sold separately, thus allowing you to choose from the many options available today. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great Deal
A great computer for a cheap price. I would recommended upgrade the RAM as soon as possible to at least 512 MB. HP support is very fast and excellent. I was never on hold for more than 10 minutes. Support is from India but that probably the same for other computer manufacturers.

Compaq Presario S5100NX Terrific
I recently purchased the Compaq Presario at Best Buy. What a wonderful computer. I brought it home set it up and was on my way. After having so much trouble with my Gateway computer, I was leary about which brand to purchase. Several of my friends have tried Compaq Presario and love it. (Compaq/HP are now one and the same). You get a great computer for the price. The CD-RW drive, a DVD Drive, a huge 80GB hard drive, and plenty of Ram. It's expandible up to 1GB of ram. It doesn't come with a lot of software, but a lot of trial software programs. But at this price, I'm not complaining. If your looking for a nice snappy computer and a great price I'd give this one a try. Your pocketbook will thank you.

THAT'S A NEGATIVE STAR
Warning: I ordered a Compaq Presario desktop in Sep 2003 directly from Compaq and the computer would not boot up. When you need to call technical support it takes at least 45 minutes until you can speak with someone. After not getting the computer to work I had to send it back. Got another and it booted halfway and then froze up. Waited an hour to get to tech support and believe me: these people know nothing and are very unhelpful. These Compaq Presario desktops may be cheap....but that's because they are. LEMONS. Worst tech support in the computer industry. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Compaq Presario S6100NX is an affordable entry-level home computing solution for users who don't need a lot of bells and whistles. The 2.8 GHz Celeron processor offers a decently fast computing environment, perfect for word processing, family budget spreadsheets, and viewing multimedia on the Internet. It also features a CD-RW for burning digital music to disc and a DVD-ROM for playing movies, an 80 GB hard drive, 256 MB of installed RAM, and a bevy of pre-installed software to get you started.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The 80 GB Ultra DMA (7200 RPM) hard drive offers high speed (good for editing digital video--though an optional Firewire, or i.Link, PCI card will need to be installed) and a good amount of storage for all your documents, digital photos, and MP3 collection (though you will want a larger hard drive if you plan on editing a lot of videoor storing an extensive multimedia library).
• Processor: The 2.80 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. It has a front-side bus (FSB) speed of 400 MHz and an L2 cache of 128 KB.
• Memory: The S6100NX 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 (2 x 512 MB).
• CD/DVD Drive: The S6100NX offers two optical drives: a DVD-ROM and a CD-RW. The included CD-RW drive is quite fast, featuring 48x write, 24x re-write, and 48x read speeds. The DVD-ROM achieves 16x read speeds--double that needed for playing DVD movies.
• Keyboard & Mouse: This desktop model comes with a Compaq Productivity keyboard and scroller mouse (both with PS/2 connections).

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
For expansion, the S6100NX has two 5.25-inch external bays (both occupied), three 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:

• 6 USB 2.0 ports (2 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 RGB monitor port
• 1 serial port for older peripherals such as early PDAs
• 1 microphone and 1 headphone jack in the front

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 S6100NX 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 Microsoft Money 2004, Quicken New User Edition 2004, Norton Antivirus 2004 and Personal Firewall 2003, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Encarta Encyclopedia 2004 Standard Edition, Adobe Photoshop album (starter edition), and MusicMatch Jukebox.

Dimensions and Weight
This tower measures 14.6 x 6.9 x 16.6 inches (H x W x D) and weighs 35 pounds (packaged).

What's in the Box
This package contains the Compaq Presario S6100NX 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

With features such as CD burning, DVD playing, a comparatively large hard drive, and surprisingly gutsy processing, the Presario S3100NX is a great choice for those who need solid computing at an entry-level price.

Powered by a cost-effective yet punchy 1.8 GHz AMD Athlon XP processor 2200+ with QuantiSpeed architecture, 256 MB of PC2100 DDR SDRAM, and a integrated ProSaveageDDR KM266 graphics card with 32 MB of shared (not dedicated) memory, the system is clearly not intended for extreme multitasking or heavy-duty 3-D games. It is, however, all you need for most typical home and home office tasks, Internet surfing, and 2-D gaming. HP has included a large 80 GB hard disk for permanent storage of your programs and files, a 3.5-inch diskette drive for older or smaller applications and backups, and a CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive through which you can burn and listen to audio CDs, archive your data and enjoy the latest movies.

The Presario S3100NX features a variety of amenities to enhance everyday computing, including six high-speed USB 2.0 ports for plug and play peripherals, a convenient Presario Internet keyboard with hotkeys, a PS/2-style scrolling mouse, serial and parallel "printer" ports, an integrated 56K modem for basic Internet and email access, and a 10/100 Base-Y Fast Ethernet port for speedy network interaction and e-communication. The system is not equipped with a monitor or external stereo speakers, thus allowing users to custom select these components.

To help get you started, Compaq has pre-installed a variety of software applications, including Microsoft's Windows XP Home Edition operating system, Microsoft Money 2003, Microsoft Works 7.0, and Quicken Financial Center. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great PC
Ive had this pc since april and it has worked great- good value for the money- but of course you have to buy many other things to go with it. But its great value , its fast performance and ive had no complaints with it since purchase. It has dvd/cd rom -256 mb, 80 cb, and has a great look to it. This one shown is blue but mine came in Black/Silver color. Very nice/highly recomended. Worth Money.

Old news
This system cost as much as much faster systems. Why pay the money for a 1.8GHz CPU when you can have a 2.4GHz CPU? Maybe this was a good deal last year but it's out of date now.

MORE BANG FOR THE BUCK
I looked at several computers in this price range and this system for the money was the best. The fast speed of the AMD 1.8Ghz processor is great and with all of the software and expandibility this system simply can't be beat.Plays DVD'sand burns CD's flawlessly.My friend paid twice as much for another system and this Compaq(HP)package not only outperforms his but comes with more features. Highly recommend it. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Of all the computers in the Compaq lineup, the Presario 5430US desktopmay well be its most adept. Constructed only of top-level or near-top-levelcomponents, the 5430US easily handles most any application thrown its way andprovides plenty of room for expansion and future upgrades. If you're the typewho regularly challenges your computer with the latest and most demandingprograms, the 5430US is a smart choice.

Topping the unit's impressive list of features is one of today's most potentprocessors, Intel's 1.8 GHz Pentium 4. Although pricier than most alternativeprocessors, including Intel's own Celeron and Pentium III and AMD's Athlon andDuron, Pentium 4 chips are generally faster where it counts most--clock speed.And of the numerous Pentium 4 processors Intel currently markets, the 1.8 GHzmodel is just a few rungs from the very top.

For the 5430US, Compaq matches this capable Intel processor with more thanenough high-end memory to operate any program currently available and most anyconceivable level of multitasking. With 512 MB of RAM at your disposal, it maybe years until you even need to even contemplate upgrading to the one fullgigabyte the system supports.

The 5430US offers something else most prebuilt computers do not--a decent videocard. Packed with a generous 64 MB of video memory, the system's nVidia GeForce2MX graphics board will comfortably operate all 2-D and 3-D tasks and pump outsmooth frame rates and detailed textures at all but the absolute highest 3-Dgame screen resolutions. Truly serious gamers may want the additionalperformance perks of a GeForce3 or GeForce4 card, yet had best be prepared todrop quite a few more dollars in the process.

With the 5430US, data storage, movement, and backup should never be a problem.Its monstrous 80 GB UltraDMA hard drive offers oodles of space for even the mostsoftware-intensive workplace or gaming environment. Its 16x CD-RW drive permitsfast burning of audio and data backup or data transferal CDs. Its 3.5-inchfloppy disk drive supports any programs or files you might still store on afloppy disk, and its 16x DVD drive smoothly and accurately plays your favoritemovies. And if you ever do want to add another drive, the unit's two spareexpansion bays are ready to accommodate.

The 5430US is packed with a variety of tools to enhance day-to-day computing. Abuilt-in 56K modem supplies basic Internet connection speed, and a 10/100 MbpsEthernet card offers multiple computer networking and high-speed Internetpotential. The system's Compaq USB Internet keyboard sports an assortment ofconvenient one-touch multimedia and Internet controls, and its IEEE 1394FireWire port supports fast data transfer between computers and peripheraldevices such as camcorders.

Other important amenities include four USB ports (two of which are handilypositioned at the front of the case), a serial port for older mice and externalmodems, a parallel "printer" port, and an integrated AC97 Soundmax II Audio chipwith support for Dolby Digital surround sound. Compaq has not included a monitoror speakers in the package, allowing users to choose and configure their owndisplay and audio setup. The list of pre-installed software includes the HomeEdition of the Windows XP operating system, Microsoft Money 2001, MicrosoftWorks 6.0, Quicken Financial Center/Quicken New User Edition, and InterVideoWinDVD. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The Compaq Presario S6010NX-B is an affordable home computing solution for users who don't need a lot of bells and whistles. The 2.7 GHz Celeron processor offers a decently fast computing environment, perfect for word processing, family budget spreadsheets, and viewing multimedia on the Internet. It also features a CD-RW for burning digital music to disc, a 40 GB hard drive, 256 MB of installed RAM, and a bevy of pre-installed software to get you started.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The 40 GB Ultra DMA hard drive (5400 RPM) is small in relation to other desktop models, and will definitely need to be upgraded if you plan on storing a moderately sized multimedia library.
• 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. It has a front-side bus (FSB) speed of 400 MHz and an L2 cache of 128 KB.
• Memory: The S6010NX-B 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 (2 x 512 MB).
• CD/DVD Drive: The included CD-RW drive is quite fast, featuring 48x write, 24x re-write, and 48x read speeds.
• Keyboard & Mouse: The S6010NX-B comes with a Compaq Productivity keyboard and scroller mouse (both with PS/2 connections).

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
For expansion, the S6010NX-B has two 5.25-inch external bays (one available), three 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:

• 6 USB 2.0 ports (2 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 RGB monitor port
• 1 serial port for older peripherals such as early PDAs
• 1 microphone and 1 headphone jack in the front

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 S6010NX-B 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 Microsoft Money 2004, Quicken New User Edition 2004, Norton Antivirus 2004 and Personal Firewall 2003, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Encarta Encyclopedia 2004 Standard Edition, Adobe Photoshop album (starter edition), RecordNow 6.5 (for burning CDs), and MusicMatch Jukebox.

Dimensions and Weight
This tower measures 36.25 x 23 x 23 inches (H x W x D)and weighs 35 pounds (packaged).

What's in the Box
This package contains the Compaq Presario S6010NX-B 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

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Like its slightly more powerful cousin, the 5430US, Compaq's 5423USeasily handles most any application thrown its way and provides plentyof room for expansion and future upgrades. In addition to thecomponents that come standard with the 5423US, this bundle includesCompaq's ultraslim FP745A 15-inch, flat-panel monitor, making thisoption an even smarter choice for those seeking a state-of-the-artcomputing experience.

Topping the unit's impressive list of features is one of today's mostpotent processors, Intel's 1.6 GHz Pentium 4. Although pricier thanmost alternative processors, including Intel's own Celeron and PentiumIII and AMD's Athlon and Duron, Pentium 4 chips are generally fasterwhere it counts most--clock speed. And of the numerous Pentium 4processors Intel currently markets, the 1.6 GHz model is just a fewrungs from the very top.

For the 5423US, Compaq matches this capable Intel processor with morethan enough high-end memory to operate any program currently availableand handle most any conceivable level of multitasking. With 512 MB ofRAM at your disposal, it may be years until you even need to evencontemplate upgrading to the one full gigabyte the system supports.

The 5423US offers something else most prebuilt computers do not--adecent video card. Packed with a generous 64 MB of video memory, thesystem's nVidia GeForce2 MX graphics board will comfortably operate all2-D and 3-D tasks and pump out smooth frame rates and detailed texturesat all but the absolute highest 3-D game screen resolutions. Trulyserious gamers may want the additional performance perks of a GeForce3or GeForce4 card, yet had best be prepared to drop quite a few moredollars in the process.

With the 5423US, data storage, movement, and backup should never be aproblem. Its monstrous 80 GB UltraDMA hard drive offers oodles of spacefor even the most software-intensive workplace or gaming environment.Its 16x CD-RW drive permits fast burning of audio and data backup ordata transferal CDs. Its 3.5-inch floppy disk drive supports anyprograms or files you might still store on a floppy disk, and its 16xDVD drive smoothly and accurately plays your favorite movies. And ifyou ever do want to add another drive, the unit's two spare expansionbays are ready to accommodate.

The 5423US is packed with a variety of tools to enhance day-to-daycomputing. A built-in 56K modem supplies basic Internet connectionspeed, and a 10/100 Mbps Ethernet card offers multiple computernetworking and high-speed Internet potential. The system's Compaq USBInternet keyboard sports an assortment of convenient one-touchmultimedia and Internet controls, and its IEEE 1394 FireWire portsupports fast data transfer between computers and peripheral devicessuch as camcorders.

Other important amenities include four USB ports (two of which arehandily positioned at the front of the case), a serial port for oldermice and external modems, a parallel "printer" port, and an integratedAC97 Soundmax II Audio chip with support for Dolby Digital surroundsound. Compaq has not included speakers in the package, allowing usersto choose and configure their own audio setup. The list ofpre-installed software includes the Home Edition of the Windows XPoperating system, Microsoft Money 2001, Microsoft Works 6.0, QuickenFinancial Center/Quicken New User Edition, and InterVideo WinDVD. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Flat Panel Monitor SAVES SPACE!
Using the Compaq FP745A flat panel monitor with my Compaq Presario 5410 computer saves precious desk space. The system was good to go just plugging it in out of the box. No need to battle with bulky monitors any more! The screen is 100% clear to the edge. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Very impressive
I received this product within a few days after ordering and was extremely impressed with the product. Everything was included just as it said in the description. Will definetely do business again!

GREAT DEAL, ON COMPUTER
THIS IS ONE GREAT DEAL ,IT IS MORE THAN I HAD BARGINED FOR EVERYTHING WAS IN ORDER ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Not all computer users are created equally, and neither are allCompaq computers. In fact, the Compaq desktop and notebook lineup isseveral dozen deep, each model configured slightly differently than thenext in order to reach every segment of the computing populace.Compaq's most affordable machine, the Presario 5400US desktop unit isdesigned to appeal to those who can't afford or don't require thecapabilities of its midrange and high-end machines or the portabilityof its notebooks. Slightly less machine than other Compaq computers,the Presario 5400US offers just enough power and accouterments tohandle most basic personal computing needs at a price so low it mayinitially look like a misprint.

Included in this package are the Compaq MV540 15-inch monitor, as wellas their IJ650 color inkjet printer. However, bereft of a DVD drive,this system won't play movies. Sporting a midlevel 8 MB video card,it's not well suited to demanding visual applications such as thelatest animated graphic programs or 3-D games. And with just 128 MB ofRAM, it won't effectively handle heavy-duty multitasking and barelymeets the recommended RAM for its bundled Home Edition of the WindowsXP operating system. Fortunately, users are able to upgrade their RAMallotment to an impressive 512 MB.

Regardless of its RAM configuration, the 5400US is more than adequatefor a wide variety of users. Certainly it should suffice for basiceveryday tasks such as simple accounting, word processing, lightgraphics, and homework. Teachers, students, home financial strategists,and children should find it quite acceptable, as should gamers whogravitate to older titles. Obsessive Internet addicts will have tosupply their own network card and cable modem to really get up tospeed, although the unit's 56K modem will handle less-demandingsurfing. Music fans will love the integrated 8x CD-RW drive for burningand playing their own CDs, although they must provide their own set ofPC speakers.

Though indeed a budget computer, the Presario 5400US in many waysdoesn't feel budget. Its Compaq USB Internet keyboard offers a numberof one-touch Internet, e-mail, and multimedia controls in addition toits standard allotment of keys. Its compact case features a variety ofexternal connections and amenities, including a 3.5-inch floppy diskdrive, four USB ports for plug-and-play peripherals such as joysticksand scanners, a speaker output and microphone jack, and a set of RJ11phone-in and -out jacks.

The 5400US is powered by a 1.2 GHz Intel Celeron processor, whichdelivers plenty of juice for fundamental tasks. Its 20 GB hard drive,though somewhat below the norm for most current desktop systems, iscertainly sizable enough to store and operate all the software Compaqhas bundled with the unit, a list that includes Microsoft Money 2001,Microsoft Works 6.0, Selective QuickRestore, Quicken FinancialCenter/Quicken New User Edition, Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0,America Online 6.0, Netscape Navigator 6.1, and a one-year subscriptionto Microsoft Encarta Online Deluxe Encyclopedia. ... Read more

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The Basics
Compaq's new and exceedingly wide-ranging Presario SR1110NX series of desktop PCs targets most every segment of the computer buyer market -- from financially strapped students to high-power business executives. This model, the Presario SR1110NX, is an entry-level model that delivers basic computing capabilities at a rock bottom price. Demanding users and anyone who deals 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 SR1110NX exceedingly appealing.

Processor
Intel's cost-effective Celeron processor often forms the basis for entry-level machines, and the Presario SR1110NX 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 the size of current Celeron ships) and a 533MHz Quad Pumped Bus, a 33% improvement over traditional Celeron chips. The Celeron D in the Presario SR1110NX operates at 2.53 MHz, which would be considered a fast clock speed even if configured traditionally. Though it doesn't offer the power of Intel's Pentium chip, this is a strong entry-level CPU.

Memory
Compaq has partnered this processor with 256 MB of PC2700 DDR SDRAM main memory. This is considered today's minimal allotment of memory in a desktop PC. As such, the system is not an especially adept multitasker. Furthermore, with 256 MB rather than the 512 MB (or greater) in more costly PCs, the unit will rely more on the hard drive when retrieving information -- a slower process than if that data had been stored in "virtual" memory.

Video
An Intel Extreme Graphics video controller is integrated on the motherboard, featuring just 64 MB of shared (not dedicated) video memory. While perfectly capable of accurately displaying most 2D applications (word processing, Internet and email, 2D graphics design), the system will struggle to smoothly display advanced 3D graphics, animations, and many mid-to high-end games. A display screen is not enclosed, thus allowing you to continue using your current monitor or select from today's many alternatives.

Sound
Audio is produced via an audio chip integrated on the motherboard. This is a typical setup for budget PCs. Speakers are not included.

Hard Drive
The 40 MB hard drive sports enough room for an average home or home office situation or a student. However, if you maintain a sizeable multimedia or music collection, you'll quite probably need to upgrade this drive, occasionally transfer files to a compact disc, or add another hard drive.

Optical Drive
The system features a CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive that allows you to play and burn audio CDs, archive files to a CD, and watch DVD movies. DVD burning, often used to backup large amounts of data or copy home movies to long-lasting DVD format, is not offered in this stock configuration.

Connectivity and Expansion
With six high-speed USB 2.0 ports at your disposal, you'll have plenty of room for plug and play peripherals and 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. Communication options include an integrated 10/100Base-T networking interface for fast Internet and network communication and a low-speed 56K dial-up modem. 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 SR1110NX 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.

... Read more

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Of all the computers in the Compaq lineup, the Presario 5430US desktopmay well be its most adept. Constructed only of top-level or near-top-levelcomponents, the 5430US easily handles most any application thrown its way andprovides plenty of room for expansion and future upgrades. In addition to thecomponents that come standard with the 5430US, this bundle includes Compaq'sultraslim FP745A 15-inch, flat-panel monitor, making this option an even smarterchoice for those seeking a state-of-the-art computing experience.

Topping the unit's impressive list of features is one of today's most potentprocessors, Intel's 1.8 GHz Pentium 4. Although pricier than most alternativeprocessors, including Intel's own Celeron and Pentium III and AMD's Athlon andDuron, Pentium 4 chips are generally faster where it counts most--clock speed.And of the numerous Pentium 4 processors Intel currently markets, the 1.8 GHzmodel is just a few rungs from the very top.

For the 5430US, Compaq matches this capable Intel processor with more thanenough high-end memory to operate any program currently available and most anyconceivable level of multitasking. With 512 megabytes of RAM at your disposal,it may be years until you even need to even contemplate upgrading to the onefull gigabyte the system supports.

The 5430US offers something else most prebuilt computers do not--a decent videocard. Packed with a generous 64 MB of video memory, the system's nVidia GeForce2MX graphics board will comfortably operate all 2-D and 3-D tasks and pump outsmooth frame rates and detailed textures at all but the absolute highest 3-Dgame screen resolutions. Truly serious gamers may want the additionalperformance perks of a GeForce3 or GeForce4 card, yet had best be prepared todrop quite a few more dollars in the process.

With the 5430US, data storage, movement, and backup should never be a problem.Its monstrous 80 GB UltraDMA hard drive offers oodles of space for even the mostsoftware-intensive workplace or gaming environment. Its 16x CD-RW drive permitsfast burning of audio and data backup or data transferal CDs. Its 3.5-inchfloppy disk drive supports any programs or files you might still store on afloppy disk, and its 16x DVD drive smoothly and accurately plays your favoritemovies. And if you ever do want to add another drive, the unit's two spareexpansion bays are ready to accommodate.

The 5430US is packed with a variety of tools to enhance day-to-day computing. Abuilt-in 56K modem supplies basic Internet connection speed, and a 10/100 MbpsEthernet card offers multiple computer networking and high-speed Internetpotential. The system's Compaq USB Internet keyboard sports an assortment ofconvenient one-touch multimedia and Internet controls, and its IEEE 1394FireWire port supports fast data transfer between computers and peripheraldevices such as camcorders.

Other important amenities include four USB ports (two of which are handilypositioned at the front of the case), a serial port for older mice and externalmodems, a parallel "printer" port, and an integrated AC97 Soundmax II Audio chipwith support for Dolby Digital surround sound. Compaq has not included speakers in the package, allowing users to choose and configure their own audio setup. The list of pre-installed software includes the HomeEdition of the Windows XP operating system, Microsoft Money 2001, MicrosoftWorks 6.0, Quicken Financial Center/Quicken New User Edition, and InterVideoWinDVD. ... Read more

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The affordably priced Compaq Presario 5420US desktop is well equipped tohandle any level of business or task-oriented computing. At the heart of thesystem is one of the best combinations of value and high-end performance inAMD's processor lineup, the Athlon XP 1700+ CPU. This translates into extremelysnappy access to commonly accessed data and enough power for even the mostdemanding applications. To further ensure you won't get bogged down by continualhard drive accesses, Compaq has also included an enormous 512 MB of RAM.

With the 5420US, data storage, movement, and backup should never be a problem.Its huge 80 GB UltraDMA hard drive offers more than enough space for all theprograms and files most users will ever need. Its 16x CD-RW drive permits fastburning of audio, data backup, or data transferal CDs. Its 3.5-inch floppy drivesupports any programs or files you might still store on a floppy disk, and its16x DVD drive smoothly and accurately plays your favorite movies.

Clearly, the unit's weakest link is its support for 3-D gaming graphics.Although the integrated Savage4 AGP graphics card is fine for business andnon-entertainment 2-D applications and most games made prior to the turn of themillennium, its 8 MB of video memory simply isn't enough for today's mostdesirable titles. Some users may also see its lack of a monitor as a negative,though others will find the freedom of selecting their own monitor or using onefrom a previously owned system to be a distinct advantage. One thing iscertain--you must furnish your own set of speakers to enjoy the system's 3-Daudio capability.

Despite these potential drawbacks, the 5420US is packed with a variety of perksto enhance your computing environment. A built-in 56K modem supplies basicInternet connection speed. A 10/100 Mbps Ethernet connection permits multiplecomputer networking and high-speed Internet potential. The system's Compaq USBInternet keyboard sports an assortment of convenient one-touch multimedia,Internet, and e-mail controls, and its mouse features a scroll wheel. Otherimportant amenities include four USB ports (two of which are handily positionedat the front of the case), a serial port for older mice and external modems, aparallel "printer" port, and two spare drive bays for future expansion.

To help get you started, Compaq has installed the Home Edition of the Windows XPoperating system and an assortment of useful software applications, such asMicrosoft Money 2001, Microsoft Works 6.0, Quicken Financial Center/Quicken NewUser Edition, Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0, America Online 6.0, InterVideoWinDVD, Netscape Navigator 6.1, and a one-year subscription to Microsoft EncartaOnline Deluxe Encyclopedia. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Too good to be true
I bought the computer at circuit city and it was a nightmare. it freezes up constantly. not very good for games,microsoft office, typing papers,or watching dvd's and on a fast network in college it freezess constantly. I wouldnt recomend it to anyone except and older person who uses the computer for really simple tasks not for college or home users. It will bring headaches and you will only have to buy another computer anyway. i have to buy another computer now. if u are a colege student stay away from it.

Compaq computer review
The computer was nice, however I was shocked that the price only contained a hard drive but the set up was easy and the programs included are really great. It's a kick-a-- hard drive.

Another big step forward.
The 3rd in the 5400 line, this model doubles the RAM and hard drive size of the 5410 and like that model, includes a NIC (network interface card) to make networking and fast access connections to the Internet more simple. It also features a CD burner that's twice as fast (16x). More importantly, the Athlon CPU (Central Processing Unit, or 'the brain') is much better than the Celeron CPU found in the lower end models. This will allow for better gaming graphics and faster overall function. Few users would find this machine inadequate. ... Read more