Product Description

Awesome Gaming Experience

Better Gaming Performance
Stunning 3D graphics with the PCI Express® ATI RADEON®XPRESS 200 graphics supporting DirectX™ 9 and Open GL technologies. Plus a PCI Express slot for future upgrades.

Ready for the future with 64-bit Computing
Escape into an astonishing, movie-like gaming experience and get set for the next wave of 3D interactive games. Optimize tomorrow ’s superfast 64-bit software with today ’s 64-bitprocessor -- the AMD Athlon 64 with Enhanced VirusProtection and Hypertransport technology

eMachines Internet Security Pack
Protect your new computer from the unknown with pre-installed Norton Internet Security 2005 (Anti-Virus, Anti-Spam, Firewalland Parental Control), McAfee Anti-Spyware, eMachines BigFix® software to solve problems before they arise and the latest AMD Athlon 64 processor with hardware to reduce certain types of viruses.

Optical Drive Speeds:
This model features two optical drives:

• a Dual Layer DVD+/-RW drive
  • Create a Double Layer DVD+R at a maximum 4X Write speed
  • Create a DVD-R at a maximum 16X Write speed or a maximum 6X Rewrite speed
  • Create a DVD+R at a maximum 16X Write speed or a maximum 8X Rewrite speed
  • Play a DVD at a maximum 16X Read speed
  • Create a CD-Rom at a maximum 40X Write speed
  • Create a CD-RW at a maximum 24X Rewrite speed
  • Play a CD-Rom at a maximum 40X Read speed
• a CD-Rom drive
  • Play a CD-Rom at a maximum 48X Read speed

Amazon.com Product Description

Bring together the worlds of entertainment and information technology with the HP Media Center m1160n desktop PC. You'll be able to watch and record your favorite TV programs, easily edit digital video, andcreate your own CDs and DVDs (including 8.5 GB dual layer discs). The m1160n features a powerful AMD Athlon 64 3000+ processor, a GeForce FX5200XT video card with 128 MB of DDR video RAM, a super-sized 200 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, multiformat DVD/CD burner, and HP's Image Zone Plus still imaging software package.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The massive 200 GB Ultra DMA hard drive (7200 RPM) offers a wealth of storage space, perfect for storing a vast multimedia collection or for editing digital video. It's also roomy enough to easily store dozens of hours of recorded TV programming.
• Processor: AMD's Athlon 64 3400+ processor is built for tomorrow's 64-bit applications, which will require a processor with significant power. This 2.2 GHz 3400+ processor (similar in performance to a 3.4 GHz Intel Pentium 4 chip) offers a speedy 1600 MHz system bus and 1 MB L2 cache, and includes such AMD features as HyperTransport Technology (which increases the communication between integrated circuits) and Cool'n'Quiet Technology that conserves power while also keeping the PC nicely quiet.
• Memory: The m1160n comes with 512 MB of installed RAM (PC3200 DDR SDRAM, single module), which will need to be upgraded to take advantage of all the digital video and multimedia applications that this PC offers. It can be expanded to 2 GB.
• CD/DVD Drive: The m1160n offers the latest in DVD writing technology with a that's compatible with DVD+R dual-layer discs. Double-layered DVD+R discs can store up to 8.5 GB of data and can be written at 2.4x speed. It's also compatible with standard DVD+R/RW and DVD-R/RW discs (which can be written at 8x and rewritten at 4x). You can write and rewrite CDs at 24x. It also includes a standard CD-ROM drive (48x).
• Keyboard & Mouse: This desktop comes with an HP two-button, scrolling optical mouse and HP Media Center keyboard with full multimedia control. It also includes a remote control with IR (infrared) receiver.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
The m1160n has three PCI expansion slots (one available), two external 5.25"" drive bays (occupied), 1 internal 3.5"" drive bay (occupied), one AGP (accelerated graphics port, occupied) slot and the following external ports:

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

Additionally, the m1160n includes HP's Personal Media Drive, a 160 GB mini hard drive that can slide right into the PC's chassis. It provides easy access to all your multimedia files for transfer to a notebook or use with a compatible stereo, and it offers USB 2.0 transfer speeds.

Preloaded System and Software
The pre-installed Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 is essentially Windows XP Professional Edition with a variety of tools to help you to create, organize, and enjoy digital media ranging from music to home movies to photo slide shows. Additionally, it enables you to control your television with the included remote and record and pause programs (much like a DVR--or digital video recorder--such as Tivo or ReplayTV). With the 200 GB hard drive, you'll be able to record and store up to 140 hours of video programming. It's compatible with cable, digital cable, satellite TV and antenna inputs, and it includes an FM tuner.

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

Other preloaded software includes InterVideo WinDVD Creator and WinDVD SE player, Apple iTunes, Sonic RecordNow, Norton AntiVirus 2004 and Personal Firewall 2004 (with 60 days of live updates), Microsoft Works 7.0, MSN Encarta Standard, Microsoft Money, and Quicken 2004 New User Edition.

Dimensions and Weight
It measures 15.5 x 7.5 x 16 inches (H x W x D).

What's in the Box
This package contains the HP Media Center m1160n desktop PC, keyboard, mouse, remote control, HP Personal media drive, and power cord. It is backed by a 1-year limited warranty. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Sporting a distinctive style and a design that liberates valuable desktop real estate from annoying cables and wires and clunky computer boxes, the Sony VAIO PCV-V100G is far removed from the typical PC. The VAIO PCV-V100G features an elegant all-in-one design that combines a 15-inch flat-panel LCD viewing screen, speakers and all internal components inside a single futuristic module. The PCV-V100G also features an 80 GB hard drive, 512 MB of installed RAM, a DVD-ROM/CD-RW combo drive, and a wide array of pre-installed multimedia software--including the Giga Pocket TV recording application.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: Whether used in the office or in other rooms, the 80 GB hard drive(ATA-100 Ultra) is roomy enough for your multimedia needs--from digital audio and images to recorded TV programs.
• Processor: The 2.4 GHz Intel Pentium 4 processor offers enough speed for your work today, though it is at the midrange of speeds for this processor. It has a rather fast front-side bus (FSB) of 533 MHz and a 512 KB L2 cache.
• Memory: The 512 MB of built-in memory (PC-2700, DDR SDRAM) is a good start for power users. It has two memory slots in total, with a maximum memory expansion up to 1 GB (2 x 512 MB).
• CD/DVD Drive: It comes equipped with two drives: a DVD-ROM (8x speed) and a CD-RW for saving data to disc and burning your favorite playlists to CD. The CD-RW drive has 8x write, 4x rewrite, and 24x read speeds.
• Keyboard & Mouse: The system also includes a wireless keyboard and wireless mouse, thereby freeing your working surface from even more clutter.

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
You get a decent (but not overpowering) range of external connectivity options with the PCV-V100G, including:

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

Preloaded System and Software
This PCV-V100G comes with the Windows XP Home Edition operating system, and it features Microsoft Works (for working with word processing and spreadsheet documents). Preloaded Sony software includes PictureGear (digital photo), DVgate (digital video), SonicStage (digital music), VisualFlow, DigitalPrint, and Smart Capture. Other preloaded software includes Intuit Quicken 2002, Adobe Photoshop Elements and Acrobat Reader, Norton Internet Security (with 90-day trial), Apple QuickTime, RealNetworks RealOne Player, and CyberLink PowerDVD.

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.

Dimensions and Weight
The compact PCV-V100G measures 15 x 13 x 7 inches (W x H x D), making it the perfect desktop companion. It weighs 16.8 pounds.

What's in the Box
This package contains the Sony Vaio PCV-V100G desktop PC, wireless keyboard and mouse. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

The easy-to-use HP m7070n Media Center Photosmart PC is the complete home PC system that delivers more entertainment choices, and brings them together in one place with easy access from anywhere in the room. With the m7070n, you can watch, record, and pause live TV programming as well as schedule the PC to record upcoming episodes or entire series. It's powered by a blazing fast, hyper-threaded Pentium 4 processor and Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005. It features a roomy 250 GB hard drive, 1 GB of installed RAM (4 GB maximum), a multiformat memory card reader, a multiformat, dual-layer DVD/CD burner and included Image Zone photo editing and management software.

The Basics

• Hard Drive: The massive 250 GB Serial ATA hard drive (7200 RPM) offers a wealth of storage space, perfect for storing a vast multimedia collection or for editing digital video.
• Processor: The hyper-threaded 3.2 GHz Intel Pentium 4 640 processor allows a single CPU system to behave in some aspects like a dual-CPU system, helping to deliver faster transistors and increased performance. It also features a large 2 MB L2 cache and a blazingly fast 800 MHz front-side bus speed, which measures how fast a processor and the main memory communicate. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance.)

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

• Memory: The 1 GB of installed RAM (PC3200) is a good start for this multimedia-centric desktop PC, so you'll want to take advantage of the ultra-roomy 4 GB of total RAM capacity (2 x 2 GB)for such multimedia needs as video editing and immersive 3D gaming.
• CD/DVD Drive: Offering the latest in DVD writing technology, the m7070n multiformat DVD/CD drive is compatible with both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats as well as dual-layer DVD+R discs, which can store up to 8.5 GB of data. It features16x DVD+R, 8x DVD-R, 4x DVD+/-RW, 2.4x DVD+R DL, 16x DVD-ROM, 40x CDR, 24x CD-RW, and 40x CD-ROM ROM speeds. It features the LightScribe direct disc labeling feature, which enables CD, DVD images and disk labels to be permanently etched onto discs--eliminating messy marker-scrawled labels. This desktop also has an additional 16x DVD-ROM drive.
• Keyboard & Mouse: This desktop comes with an HP multimedia keyboard and optical mouse (both PS/2).

Connectivity and Expansion Slots
The m7070n has three PCI expansion slots (all occupied), two external 5.25 drive bays (occupied), 1 internal 3.5 drive bay (occupied), one HP Personal Media Drive bay (available), three standard PCI slots, one PCI x16 Express slot (occupied), and the following external ports:

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

Preloaded System and Software
The pre-installed Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 is essentially Windows XP Professional Edition with a variety of tools to help you to create, organize, and enjoy digital media ranging from music to home movies to photo slide shows. Additionally, it enables you to control your television with the included remote and record and pause programs (much like a DVR--or digital video recorder--such as Tivo or ReplayTV). With the 250 GB hard drive, you'll be able to record and store up to 180 hours of video programming. It's compatible with cable, digital cable, satellite TV and antenna inputs, and it includes an FM tuner.

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

Other preloaded software includes InterVideo WinDVD Creator and WinDVD SE player, Muvee autoProducer, Apple iTunes, Sonic RecordNow, Norton AntiVirus 2005, Microsoft Works 8.0, MSN Encarta Standard, Microsoft Money, and Quicken 2004 New User Edition.

Dimensions and Weight
This desktop measures 15.16 x 7.6 x 15.54 inches (HxWxD).

What's in the Box
This package contains the HP Media Center m7070n desktop PC, keyboard, mouse, remote control, and power cord. It is backed by a 1-year limited warranty. ... Read more

Product Description

eMachines Internet Security Shield
Protect your new computer from the unknown with pre-installed Norton Internet Security 2005 (Anti-Virus, Anti-Spam, Firewalland Parental Control), McAfee Anti-Spyware, and eMachines BigFix® software to solve problems before they arise.

Burn, Rip, Create
CD-RW/DVD combo bundled with the Nero 6 software for easycreation of photo slide shows and burning CDs or watching your favorite DVD.

ProductivityRight Out of the Box
Read and edit Word and Excel documents and view PowerPointpresentations with Microsoft® Works 8 software. Your finances,your wayfast and hassle-free with Microsoft® Money 2005.

Notes:

• This model is pre-loaded with Service Pack 2 for the Microsoft Windows XP Operating System.
• A 1.44MB 3.5-inch Floppy Disk Drive is not included.

Reviews (1)

Nice eMachine
Intel Celeron D processor 335 (2.8 GHz)
256KB L2 Cache
533MHz FSB
256MB of PC2700 Dual Channel DDR SDRAM (expandable to 2GB)
Intel Extreme Graphics 2 with 64MB of shared DDR memory (memory is taken from the main system)
AC '97 Audio
80GB HDD
CD-RW/DVD-ROM Drive - (write speeds) up to 48x CD-R & 32x CD-RW
CD-RW/DVD-ROM Drive - (read speeds) up to 16x DVD-ROM & 48x CD-ROM
56k v.90 Fax Modem
Ports - 10/100 Ethernet, 6 USB 2.0 (2 front / 4 back), 1 VGA, 1 Serial, 1 Parallel, & 2 PS/2 (keyboard & mouse)
Slots - 3 PCI (2 available)
Bays - 4 3.5" (3 available) & 2 5.25" (1 available)

Ok, looking at those, unless you know a lot about computers, you probably have no clue what any of this means.

Intel Celeron D processor 335 (2.8 GHz)

A processor demands on speed and workness of programs. If you are a big gamer, the T3882 may not be very good for you. However, if you are using this to just surf the web, burn CDs, use Microsoft Word, etc., then this computer is perfect.

256KB L2 Cache

I honestly have no clue.

533MHz FSB

This is good. The processor speed is fast, so this should open a program in a matter of 3 seconds. This is excellent for impatient people.

256MB of PC2700 Dual Channel DDR SDRAM (expandable to 2GB)

I would expand the memory. This could make programs run slower if you are using more than 5 programs at a time, which could easily freeze your computer.

Intel Extreme Graphics 2 with 64MB of shared DDR memory (memory is taken from the main system)

This is probably the biggest positive of the computer. This means you have an excellent screen at all times. Games will look more real, and programs will look more stand-out.

AC '97 Audio

This is very good. The audio (using the supplied eMachines speakers) is very great sounding, featuring big bass and clear treble.

80GB HDD

This is excellent. For this, you can store thousands of files.

CD-RW/DVD-ROM Drive - (write speeds) up to 48x CD-R & 32x CD-RW
CD-RW/DVD-ROM Drive - (read speeds) up to 16x DVD-ROM & 48x CD-ROM

This is excellent. Though you cannot burn DVDs, you can watch them with PowerDVD (installed on all systems). You can make complications, and listen to music on the drive. All in all, if you enjoy entertainment, this computer is excellent.

56k v.90 Fax Modem

If you use a telephone line for your internet, you can use it on this computer.
Ports - 10/100 Ethernet, 6 USB 2.0 (2 front / 4 back), 1 VGA, 1 Serial, 1 Parallel, & 2 PS/2 (keyboard & mouse)

If you have a DSL or broadband connection, the T3882 has an ethernet cable line installed as well. The T3882 also features a mouse, and a multimedia keyboard (very nicely made keyboard, with easy access to Internet Explorer "the internet").
Slots - 3 PCI (2 available)
Bays - 4 3.5" (3 available) & 2 5.25" (1 available)

More connections for optional hardware.

Also, one moe thing, I purchased the bundle pack with the monitor included. The item at amazon.com is not the bundle pack, but the bundle (featuring the eView monitor) can be found at Best Buy and CompUSA. The monitor is very nice. Though it is a CRT monitor (with a big back), it is a flat screen monitor, which is great for games and movies.

Overall, the T3882 isn't the fastest computer, it is a very nice computer with tons of features anyone can enjoy. Recommended.
... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The Basics
Targeting multimedia enthusiasts who relish the thought of manipulating photos, editing home movies, burning and playing digital music and building a library of all of the above, the Sony VAIO VGC-RB43 Desktop PC is in reality quite capable of finding a home in most environments. Although it isn't adorned with high-end audio-video connectivity or a high-end 3D graphics card, the unit does feature a midlevel but cost-effective processor, excellent optical drive facilities and oodles of data storage space. Ultimately, the VAIO VGC-RB43 is a smart choice for those who know they can't afford state-of-the-art computing but appreciate a solid base from which to grow.

Processor
At the heart of any computer lies the CPU (or processor), a massive collection of miniature transistors that governs the speed and power of the entire unit. For the VAIO VGC-RB43, Sony balances power with affordability by incorporating an Intel Pentium 4 630. This is one of Intel's recently upgraded Pentium 4 chips, featuring two full megabytes (MB) of Level 2 cache for even faster real world operation than last year's model, which sported an already impressive one MB Level 2 cache. Operating at a snappy but definitely not top-of-the-line 3.0 GHz and of course sporting Intel's Hyper-Threading technology (Hyper-Threading allows a single CPU system to behave at times as a dual CPU system, thus adding substantially more speed to some high-end applications), this CPU delivers enough raw horsepower for most home, home office, business and entertainment purposes.

Memory
= Computers typically store information on their hard drive, but they keep frequently and recently accessed data in Random Access Memory (RAM) for faster retrieval. More RAM means more efficient computing, superior multitasking and less strain on your hard drive. Currently, 512 MB of RAM is considered sufficient for most applications and multitasking situations, though demanding users will want more. Fitted with a full one gigabyte (1034 MB) of high-speed PC3200 400 MHz RAM, the VAIO VGC-RB43 delivers instant response even when you're running several programs simultaneously.

Video
CPU's are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translating visual output -- particularly the demanding 3D visual output of games and 3D animation packages -- to the viewing screen. This is the duty of the graphics card (or graphics controller). A graphics controller with "dedicated" video memory is preferable to a controller that's integrated on the motherboard and "shares" the system's main memory, as it will better handle complex procedures and display a more sophisticated, smoother image.

The VAIO VGC-RB43 features a relatively new style of video controller -- a hybrid of sorts between high-end standalone "dedicated memory" cards and less capable integrated "shared memory" controllers. It's called the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900, a module that is indeed fitted to the motherboard but features more refined components than older integrated controllers. It also commandeers more of the system's main memory -- up to 224 MB -- than traditional integrated controllers. Accordingly, the system's huge 1 GB allotment of main memory really comes in handy.

Ultimately, this controller is sufficient for all 2D and most 3D tasks (including most 3D games) and is far superior to a standard integrated controller. However, a dedicated video card with 256 MB or more of built-in memory is a necessary upgrade if you want to experience a truly smooth frame rate and all the high-end visual effects of the latest top-of-the-line 3D games.

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-RB43 generates stereo and surround sound via an audio chip integrated on the motherboard. This arrangement doesn't offer the power or the sophistication of a dedicated sound card, but it's more than sufficient for the enclosed set of stereo desktop speakers.

Hard Drive
Hard drives have experienced a real growth spurt in the last year. As such, current mid-priced drives are significantly more spacious than they were even twelve months ago. This system's 200 GB drive isn't near the top of the current curve, but it's certainly spacious enough for a massive allotment of files and applications and a comprehensive music, video/photo and multimedia library too. Furthermore, this particular hard drive is quick -- sporting a fast 7200-RPM speed, an 8 MB buffer, and a cutting-edge Serial ATA connection. These are all comparatively recent innovations, each increasing the overall speed and performance of the system.

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

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

Connectivity and Expansion
If you want upscale connections such as S-Video, composite audio-video and coaxial, you'll need to look at other, pricier models in the VAIO VCG-RB series. Nevertheless, the VAIO VGC-RB43 features all the basics, including six high-speed USB 2.0 ports (two on the front, two on the rear) for plug and play gadgets such as digital cameras and printers, two IEEE 1394 "FireWire" ports (commonly used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders), and a multimedia card reader for uploading data from today's most popular memory cards. Communication options include a standard Ethernet LAN interface for fast network and Internet access and a 56K data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections.

Operating System and Software
Sony will equip the VAIO VGC-RB43 with today's most popular operating system, Microsoft's Windows XP Home Edition. Also enclosed are Corel's WordPerfect word processor, Corel's Quattro Pro spreadsheet program, Adobe Photoshop Elements 3.0 image editing utility, and several of Sony's own top notch multimedia tools.

Control
You'll control your system with a VAIO Keyboard and a standard PS/2 mouse. ... Read more

Product Description

Continuing to raise the bar for 2-way dense computing, the ProLiant DL380 G3 offers integrated lights-out management and enterprise-class uptime, optimized for a variety of application usages - still in a 2U form factor. The ProLiant DL380 G3 is the next generation of the award-winning dense 2-way line and combines Integrated Lights-Out (iLO) with the next generation of performance technologies to give customers more control and performance in the same space-saving form factor. ... Read more

Amazon Product Description

The BasicsTargeting multimedia enthusiasts who relish the thought of manipulating photos, editing home movies, burning and playing digital music and building a library of all of the above, the Sony VAIO VGC-RB42G Desktop PC is in reality a capable and versatile machine ideal for most computing environments. Though it isn't adorned with a top-notch 3D graphics card, the unit does feature a solid processor, excellent optical drive facilities and oodles of data storage space. Serious gameplayers and 3D animators will probably want to add a dedicated graphics card but the VAIO VGC-RB42G is otherwise a strong yet cost-effective choice for those who know they can't quite afford state-of-the-art computing but don't want to settle for middle-of-the-road.

Processor
At the heart of any computer lies the CPU (or processor), a massive collection of miniature transistors that governs the speed and power of the entire unit. For the VAIO VGC-RB42G, Sony balances power with affordability by incorporating an Intel Pentium 4 630. This is one of Intel's recently upgraded Pentium 4 chips, featuring two full megabytes (MB) of Level 2 cache for even faster real world operation than last year's model, which sported an already impressive one MB Level 2 cache. Operating at a snappy but not top-of-the-line 3.0 GHz and of course sporting Intel's Hyper-Threading technology (Hyper-Threading allows a single CPU system to behave at times as a dual CPU system, thus adding substantially more speed to some high-end applications), this CPU delivers enough raw horsepower for most any home, home office, business and entertainment purpose.

Memory
Computers typically store information on their hard drive, but they keep frequently and recently accessed data in Random Access Memory (RAM) for faster retrieval. More RAM means more efficient computing, superior multitasking and less strain on your hard drive. Currently, 512 MB of RAM is considered sufficient for most applications and multitasking situations, though demanding users will want more. Fitted with a full one gigabyte (1034 MB) of high-speed PC3200 400 MHz RAM, the VAIO VGC-RB42G will deliver instant response even when you're running several programs simultaneously.

Video
CPU's are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translating visual output -- particularly the demanding 3D visual output of games and 3D animation packages -- to the viewing screen. This is the duty of the graphics card (or graphics controller). A graphics controller with "dedicated" video memory is preferable to a controller that's integrated on the motherboard and "shares" the system's main memory, as it will better handle complex procedures and display a more sophisticated, smoother image.

The VAIO VGC-RB42G features a relatively new style of video controller -- a hybrid of sorts between high-end standalone "dedicated memory" cards and less capable integrated "shared memory" controllers. It's called the Intel Graphics Media Accelerator 900, a module that is indeed fitted to the motherboard but features more refined components than older integrated controllers. It also commandeers more of the system's main memory -- up to 224 MB -- than traditional integrated controllers. Accordingly, the system's huge 1 GB allotment of main memory really comes in handy.

Ultimately, this controller is sufficient for all 2D and most 3D tasks (including most 3D games) and is far superior to a standard integrated controller. However, a dedicated video card with 256 MB or more of built-in memory is a smart upgrade if you want to experience a truly smooth frame rate and all the high-end visual effects of the latest, greatest 3D games.

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-RB42G generates stereo and surround sound via an audio chip integrated on the motherboard. This arrangement doesn't offer the power or the sophistication of a dedicated sound card, but it's more than sufficient for the enclosed set of stereo desktop speakers.

Hard Drive
Hard drives have experienced a real growth spurt in the last year. As such, current mid-priced drives are significantly more spacious than they were even twelve months ago. This system's 250 GB drive is one of the largest currently available and offers more than enough room for a massive allotment of files and applications and a comprehensive music, video/photo and multimedia library too. Furthermore, this particular hard drive is quick -- sporting a fast 7200-RPM speed, an 8 MB buffer, and a cutting-edge Serial ATA connection. These are all comparatively recent innovations, each increasing the overall speed and performance of the system.

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

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

Connectivity and Expansion
Featuring an S-Video input, VGA output, composite audio-video inputs and a coaxial input, the VAIO VGC-RB42G offers all the connectivity you'll need to integrate your PC into your home entertainment world. The system also sports all the latest data connections, including six high-speed USB 2.0 ports (two on the front, two on the rear) for plug and play gadgets such as digital cameras and printers, two IEEE 1394 "FireWire" ports (commonly used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders), and a multimedia card reader for uploading data from today's most popular memory cards. Communication options include a standard Ethernet LAN interface for fast network and Internet access and a 56K data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections.

Operating System and Software
Sony will equip the VAIO VGC-RB42G with today's most multimedia-savvy operating system, Microsoft's Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005. Also enclosed are Corel's WordPerfect word processor, Corel's Quattro Pro spreadsheet program, Adobe Photoshop Elements 3.0 image editing utility, and several of Sony's own top notch multimedia tools.

Control
You'll control your system with a VAIO Keyboard and a standard PS/2 mouse. ... 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 trend towards racking servers is continuing as data center and remote site space is becoming more costly and sparse. Not only are customers counting how many tiles of floor space they can save, they are beginning to count how many U's of rack space they can conserve. With this increasing space sensitivity, customers are demanding more space-saving racking solutions, but are not willing to compromise on flexibility, availability, serviceability or manageability.With the ProLiant DL380 G2, Compaq is redefining again the standard for functionality for the dense rack server solution. Setting a new standard for 2-way dense computing, the new ProLiant DL380 G2 is the first density-optimized server to provide enterprise class availability and performance for demanding Internet and business applications - all in a 2U form factor. ... Read more

Product Description

Stormtek PCs incorporate leading components, the latest technologies and 15 years of manufacturing experience to deliver unparalleled value. Every system we build goes through an extensive multi-point Quality Control process to deliver exactly what our customers are looking for. ... Read more

Features

• Intel Pentium 4 3.2GHz CPU, 1GB DDR SDRAM
• 160GB UDMA HDD, 12X DVD+-RW Drive, 16X DVD-ROM, 1.44MB Floppy
• 128-Bit True Color Graphics (64MB), 5.1 Channel Audio, 10/100 NIC
• Mid Tower Case with LED Light, Windows XP Professional
• 1 Year PArts & LAbor Warranty, Toll Free Support

Product Description

Stupendous Savings! Powerhouse eMachines T3256 Desktop PC! One of the greatest PC deals we’ve ever offered! A super-fast eMachines desktop computer that’s just loaded with powerhouse components! All for an incredibly low price. eMachines has earned legendary status for delivering the best combination of economy and performance in the industry. But this refurbished T3256 desktop stunner takes the cake! You will not find another computer of this caliber at this cost. Check out these absolutely astonishing features. AMD’s awesome Athlon XP 3200+ processor. 512MB of lightning quick DDR memory. A huge 160GB 7200RPM hard drive that will store a virtual universe of electronic data. A great 48x CD-ROM drive as well as a DVD+/-RW drive you can use to play your favorite movies, video games, and back up important data. All running on Microsoft’s splendid Windows XP Home Edition operating system for smooth, efficient performance, and multimedia options all the way. The classy eMachines T3256 sports a great looking semi-gloss black chassis with an attractive front bezel, easy-to-remove side panels with thumb screws (you can let your screwdriver collect dust!), and rounded inside edges to prevent injury. This marvelous PC is a beauty inside and out! And at this price? Holy cow – what a great deal! ... Read more

Features

• AMD Athlon XP 3200+ Processor
• Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Operating System
• 512MB DDR RAM Memory
• 160GB Hard Disk Drive
• DVD+/-RW Optical Drive

Product Description

Value Priced eMachines Performance PC! Intel Celeron-D 2.66GHz Processor! 512MB DDR, 80GB HDD, DVD-ROM/CD-RW! One of the greatest PC deals we’ve ever offered! An eMachines desktop computer that’s just loaded with tons of powerhouse components all for an unbelievably low price! eMachines has earned legendary status for delivering the best combination of economy and performance in the industry. But this refurbished T2893 desktop stunner takes the cake! You will not find another computer of this caliber at this cost. Check out these absolutely astonishing features. Intel’s awesome Celeron-D 2.66GHz processor which is the perfect mix of economical pricing and cutting-edge performance. 512MB of lightning quick DDR memory. A huge 80GB hard drive that will store a virtual universe of electronic data. DVD-ROM/CD-RW combo drive you can use to back up important data, watch the latest Hollywood movies and play your favorite video games. All running on Microsoft’s splendid Windows XP Home Edition operating system for smooth, efficient performance, and multimedia options all the way. The classy eMachines T2893 sports a great looking semi-gloss black chassis with an attractive front bezel, easy-to-remove side panels with thumb screws (you can let your screwdriver collect dust!), and rounded inside edges to prevent injury. This marvelous PC is a beauty inside and out! And at this price? Holy cow – what a great deal! ... Read more

Features

• Intel Celeron-D 2.66GHz Processor
• Microsoft Windows XP Home Edition Operating System
• 512MB DDR RAM Memory
• 80GB Hard Disk Drive
• DVD-ROM/CD-RW Combo Optical Drive

Product Description

For home, work, or play, PowerSpec offers systems for every use and every budget, from fully integrated systems to top-of-the-line multimedia power systems. By driving down manufacturing costs and eliminating extra expense layers PowerSpec has been able to "offer an affordable approach to computing." ... Read more

Product Description

A reliable, easy-to-use system for home and Internet use. Filter out spam, block pop-up ads, and resist most spyware, viruses and worms. Includes a personal firewall wizard, Firefox tabbed browsing, Thunderbird e-mail, and free worldwide calling with Skype. Drag-and-drop CD and data DVD burning (DVD writer required). Full-featured office suite. Seamless file and print sharing on Windows networks. Automatic update alerts and single-click access to a huge inventory of free Linux software. ... Read more

Product Description

Stormtek brings you amazing performance without breaking the bank. From the blazing 2.8GHZ Intel Prescott CPU, 512MB of fast RAM, the awesome 120GB HDD and the multimedia features of the CDRW-DVD drive, we give you everything. Grab one today and don't miss out on your savings!! ... Read more