Product Description

IBM ThinkCentre A50 systems for small and medium business bring the best blend of essential features and technology, including Intel Extreme Graphics 2 performance, six USB 2.0 ports, numerous security features, and powerful software tools to backup and protect your data - all at an affordable price. ... Read more

Product Description

Powerful Intel-based blade server delivers uncompromising performance for your mission-critical applications.Designed to support the Intel Xeon processor and packed with high-availability features, IBM eserver BladeCenter HS20 delivers density without sacrificing processor performance or availability. Highly scalable and modular in design, you can XpandonDemand - adding capacity only when you need it. ... Read more

Product Description

The IBM eserver xSeries 226 provides superb availability at a price that small and midsize businesses can afford. New support for 64-bit extensions through Intel EM64T as well as up to 16GB DDR2 memory provides outstanding performance and helps protect investments for future growth.PCI-Express provides high-speed I/O enhancements to support 64-bit applications you may implement now or in the future.New, integrated IBM ServeRAID-7e (RAID-0 and -1) provides additional flexibility as a standard feature on the x226. In addition, support for new simple-swap Serial ATA models provide affordable storage that is easy to manage without needing to open the server.ASF 2.0 - along with IBM Director - provides a new level of systems management functionality, helping you save administrative time and lower expenses. Its remote power on/off capability uses rich security to enable administrators to power clients on or off remotely - often even if the operating system is not responding. The optional Remote Supervisor Adapter II simplifies management with support for out-of-band management, monitoring and alerting to manage your server at virtually any time, from virtually any place. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

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

The Basics

• Hard Drive: Though it's not the largest on the market, the large 160 GB Ultra ATA/100 hard drive (7200 RPM) offers a wealth of storage for all your media storage--from digital audio to TV programs.
• Processor: The 3.0 GHz Pentium 4 processor with Hyper-Threading technology (which allows a single CPU system to behave in some aspects like a dual-CPU system--see more in Tech Talk section below) is one of the fastest processors currently available on the market. It also has a 1 MB L2 cache
• Memory: The installed 512 MB of RAM (400 MHz DDR SDRAM) is sufficient for starting out, but you'll want to add more memory power to take full advantage of the PCV-RS520's multimedia capabilities (it's expandable to 2.0 GB). It also has an FSB (front-side bus) speed of 800 MHz.
• CD/DVD Drive: It is equipped with a combo DVD+/-RW and CD-RW drive. For DVD-RW discs, it has a 4x write/2x rewrite/2x read speed, while for DVD+RW discs it has a 4x write/2.4x rewrite/2.4x read speed. For CDs, it has a 16x write/10x rewrite/32x read speed.
• Keyboard & Mouse: It comes with a Sony Vaio keyboard and mouse (with PS/2 connector).

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
You get a wide range of connectivity options with the PCV-RS520 (including a floppy disk drive), such as three PCI expansion slots (one available), one 8x AGP (accelerated graphics port, occupied) slot and the following external ports:

• 8 USB 2.0 ports (4 in front, 4 in rear) for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players
• 2 FireWire (also known as IEEE 1394 or i.Link; 1 4-pin in front and 1 6-pin in back) ports for connecting digital video camcorders and other peripherals
• 1 parallel port for connecting older printers and scanners
• 2 PS/2 ports for connecting keyboards and mice
• 1 RGB monitor port
• 1 headphone jack and 1 microphone jack

Preloaded System and Software
The PCV-RS520 comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it also features Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents) as well as a 60-day trial for Microsoft Office 2003. Preloaded Sony software includes Click to DVD (DVD creation), PictureGear Studio (digital photo), DVgate Plus (digital video), SonicStage (digital music), and VAIO Media (Network file sharing). Other preloaded software includes InterVideo WinDVD, MoodLogic 2.5 Trial, Intuit Quicken 2004 New User Edition, Adobe Acrobat Reader, Apple QuickTime, RealNetworks RealOne Player, Norton Internet Security (90-day trial).

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

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCV-RS520 Digital Studio PC, keyboard, mouse, and set of two speakers.

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

Reviews (6)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Product Description

The IBM eserver xSeries 346 delivers outstanding performance, availability and capacity - all in a space-saving 2U rack design. Ideal for storage hungry applications and data for your networked environment or space constrained data center. The x346 supports the latest Intel Xeon processors technology to help provide customers with the computing power they need to match their business needs and growth. The new IBM Extended Design Architecture initiative is evident inside its 2U rack design, the x346 offers impressive scalability, including dual processor support, up to 16GB of memory and six high-performance, hot swap hard disk bays and the ability to support an internal tape backup. If you need a balance of high-performance 2-way processing, large internal storage and superior manageability in a rack-dense environment, the x346 is the ideal system. ... Read more

Product Description

The IBM eServer xSeries 255 delivers economical high performance and combines high availability features with tremendous internal storage. The x255 is ideal for business-critical applications such as messaging/collaboration, databases, file/print, enterprise resource planning and customer relationship management. This flexible, stand-alone server for businesses with remote locations or data centers delivers massive internal storage and tape backup options to store and help protect data. Its high availability features help keep your business running smoothly. ... Read more

Product Description

The IBM eServer xSeries 255 delivers economical high performance and combines high availability features with tremendous internal storage. The x255 is ideal for business-critical applications such as messaging/collaboration, databases, file/print, enterprise resource planning and customer relationship management. This flexible, stand-alone server for businesses with remote locations or data centers delivers massive internal storage and tape backup options to store and help protect data. Its high availability features help keep your business running smoothly. ... Read more

Product Description

The ThinkCentre M50 model features a tool-free chassis design, which simplifies and enhances usability. Encased in a durable steel chassis, components inside the machine, such as the hard disk and memory, can easily be removed by the customer, making the PC serviceable and upgradeable, helping to limit the downtime and cost associated with on-site support. Cable routing is bundled out of the way for easy access to components and cable ends and user touch points are colored blue to be easily identified by the user.ThinkCentre models also feature an innovative "caddy" that surrounds the hard disk drive, locking it into place without the use of tools or screws. Rubber bumpers on the caddy decrease vibration and deliver quieter operation. Other mechanical improvements have been made to the overall design of the ThinkCentre PCs, including improved airflow and reduced noise. The ThinkCentre range includes many of the latest industry standard technologies to improve overall system performance and efficiency. ThinkCentre models incorporate the latest Intel processors. ... Read more

Product Description

The IBM eserver xSeries 346 delivers outstanding performance, availability and capacity - all in a space-saving 2U rack design. Ideal for storage hungry applications and data for your networked environment or space constrained data center. The x346 supports the latest Intel Xeon processors technology to help provide customers with the computing power they need to match their business needs and growth. The new IBM Extended Design Architecture initiative is evident inside its 2U rack design, the x346 offers impressive scalability, including dual processor support, up to 16GB of memory and six high-performance, hot swap hard disk bays and the ability to support an internal tape backup. If you need a balance of high-performance 2-way processing, large internal storage and superior manageability in a rack-dense environment, the x346 is the ideal system. ... Read more

Product Description

The ThinkCentre S50 desktops feature a tool-free chassis design, which simplifies and enhances usability. Encased in a durable steel chassis, components inside the machine, such as the hard disk and memory, can easily be removed by the customer, making the PC serviceable and upgradeable, helping to limit the downtime and cost associated with on-site support. Cable routing is bundled out of the way for easy access to components and cable ends and user touch points are colored blue to be easily identified by the user. ThinkCentre S50 desktops also feature an innovative "caddy" that surrounds the hard disk drive, locking it into place without the use of tools or screws. Rubber bumpers on the caddy decrease vibration and deliver quieter operation. Other mechanical improvements have been made to the overall design of the ThinkCentre PCs, including improved airflow and reduced noise.The ThinkCentre S50 is a full-feature enterprise PC offering image and platform stability in an extremely small form factor. With dimensions of just 12.2 inches wide by 14.1 inches deep by 3.3 inches high, the ThinkCentre S50 is 62% smaller than a standard IBM desktop. It allows for flexible placement, either horizontally or vertically. The ThinkCentre S50 also features an internal power supply, two full-size PCI slots, three bays, and an industry-standard desktop optical drive. These features allow customization and easy upgrading, which is uncommon for a small form factor PC. ... Read more

Product Description

The ThinkCentre S50 desktops feature a tool-free chassis design, which simplifies and enhances usability. Encased in a durable steel chassis, components inside the machine, such as the hard disk and memory, can easily be removed by the customer, making the PC serviceable and upgradeable, helping to limit the downtime and cost associated with on-site support. Cable routing is bundled out of the way for easy access to components and cable ends and user touch points are colored blue to be easily identified by the user. ThinkCentre S50 desktops also feature an innovative "caddy" that surrounds the hard disk drive, locking it into place without the use of tools or screws. Rubber bumpers on the caddy decrease vibration and deliver quieter operation. Other mechanical improvements have been made to the overall design of the ThinkCentre PCs, including improved airflow and reduced noise.The ThinkCentre S50 is a full-feature enterprise PC offering image and platform stability in an extremely small form factor. The ThinkCentre S50 is 62% smaller than a standard IBM desktop. It allows for flexible placement, either horizontally or vertically. The ThinkCentre S50 features allow customization and easy upgrading, which is uncommon for a small form factor PC. ... Read more

Product Description

The ThinkCentre S50 desktops feature a tool-free chassis design, which simplifies and enhances usability. Encased in a durable steel chassis, components inside the machine, such as the hard disk and memory, can easily be removed by the customer, making the PC serviceable and upgradeable, helping to limit the downtime and cost associated with on-site support. Cable routing is bundled out of the way for easy access to components and cable ends and user touch points are colored blue to be easily identified by the user. ThinkCentre S50 desktops also feature an innovative "caddy" that surrounds the hard disk drive, locking it into place without the use of tools or screws. Rubber bumpers on the caddy decrease vibration and deliver quieter operation. Other mechanical improvements have been made to the overall design of the ThinkCentre PCs, including improved airflow and reduced noise.The ThinkCentre S50 is a full-feature enterprise PC offering image and platform stability in an extremely small form factor. With dimensions of just 12.2 inches wide by 14.1 inches deep by 3.3 inches high, the ThinkCentre S50 is 62% smaller than a standard IBM desktop. It allows for flexible placement, either horizontally or vertically. The ThinkCentre S50 also features an internal power supply, two full-size PCI slots, three bays, and an industry-standard desktop optical drive. These features allow customization and easy upgrading, which is uncommon for a small form factor PC. ... Read more

Product Description

The eServer xSeries 225 is packed with power to support environments such as file-and-print serving and distributed workgroup applications. Feature-rich and scalable up to two processors, the x225 offers new levels of redundancy and availability at prices you can afford.The xSeries 225 universal servers are flexible tower servers which deliver affordable flexibility for entry servers running entry and workgroup applications. These two-way, Xeon-based servers are designed for customer installation of features to handle future expansion to meet changing reliability needs. Their functionality with the attractive price points makes the xSeries 225 servers an excellent choice for small business customers and workgroup applications. ... Read more

Product Description

The xSeries 336 server is designed to handle compute-intensive, Web-based, or enterprise network applications. Optimized for Intel's EM64T, the xSeries 336 server enables customers whose applications could benefit from greater memory addressability to migrate to 64-bit computing. This highly manageable, ultra thin, 1 U high, rack-optimized server features two-way SMP-capable processors, high availability, and scalability. ... Read more

Product Description

The ThinkCentre S51 series is the next stable platform from IBM that offers a blend of essential features and technology, including Intel processors, USB ports, numerous security features, and powerful software tools to backup and protect your data - all at an affordable price. ... Read more

Product Description

The ThinkCentre S50 desktops feature a tool-free chassis design, which simplifies and enhances usability. Encased in a durable steel chassis, components inside the machine, such as the hard disk and memory, can easily be removed by the customer, making the PC serviceable and upgradeable, helping to limit the downtime and cost associated with on-site support. Cable routing is bundled out of the way for easy access to components and cable ends and user touch points are colored blue to be easily identified by the user. ThinkCentre S50 desktops also feature an innovative "caddy" that surrounds the hard disk drive, locking it into place without the use of tools or screws. Rubber bumpers on the caddy decrease vibration and deliver quieter operation. Other mechanical improvements have been made to the overall design of the ThinkCentre PCs, including improved airflow and reduced noise.The ThinkCentre S50 is a full-feature enterprise PC offering image and platform stability in an extremely small form factor. The ThinkCentre S50 is 62% smaller than a standard IBM desktop. It allows for flexible placement, either horizontally or vertically. The ThinkCentre S50 features allow customization and easy upgrading, which is uncommon for a small form factor PC. ... Read more

Product Description

Cutting-edge performance features on ThinkCentre M Series models include the latest powerful Intel Pentium 4 Processors with Hyper-Threading Technology, to help you accomplish more tasks at once with improved processor performance and system responsiveness (select models). New ThinkCentre M51 models include the Intel 915G Express chipset, providing the latest technology and faster performance; integrated Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900 with an upgradeable 16X PCI Express slot; DDR2 memory; a range of optional optical devices, and a choice of optional, award-winning IBM ThinkVision monitors - all wrapped up in a newly designed chassis. ... Read more

Product Description

The ThinkCentre M50 model features a tool-free chassis design, which simplifies and enhances usability. Encased in a durable steel chassis, components inside the machine, such as the hard disk and memory, can easily be removed by the customer, making the PC serviceable and upgradeable, helping to limit the downtime and cost associated with on-site support. Cable routing is bundled out of the way for easy access to components and cable ends and user touch points are colored blue to be easily identified by the user.ThinkCentre models also feature an innovative "caddy" that surrounds the hard disk drive, locking it into place without the use of tools or screws. Rubber bumpers on the caddy decrease vibration and deliver quieter operation. Other mechanical improvements have been made to the overall design of the ThinkCentre PCs, including improved airflow and reduced noise. The ThinkCentre range includes many of the latest industry standard technologies to improve overall system performance and efficiency. All ThinkCentre models incorporate the latest Intel processors. ... Read more

Product Description

As technical applications have matured, the bounds of 32-bit computing have become a daily reality - memory swapping for complex 3D models, glacial rendering times, elaborate workarounds - not merely a theoretical limit. Meanwhile, UNIX shops coveting the mounting advantages of mainstream workstations count their own woes, from high initial cost to lagging graphics performance. The transition to a standards-based 64-bit solution was deadlocked in an either/or world... until IBM turned the tide.Consider the IntelliStation Z Pro with Intel Xeon processor, featuring Intel Extended Memory 64 Technology (EM64T). Set a faster pace with familiar 32-bit software while growing into key 64-bit applications, optimizing your workflow and maximizing ROI. With IBM, it's all about making the choice easy: 32- and 64-bits, Microsoft Windows and Red Hat Linux, 2D and 3D graphics tuned to your applications - whatever's best for you. ... Read more