NVIDIA DIY GeForce PC Barebones Kit

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: February 11, 2010 08:36PM
Author: Dale Shuck

NVIDIA has come up with an idea for those who feel like they could build their own computer if only they knew where to start. The company has gathered together all the necessary parts to build an Intel LGA775 system. The kit includes:

• MSI G31TM-P21 Motherboard
• Intel Pentium Dual Core E5300 Processor
• GlacialTech Igloo 5058 Socket775 95W CPU Cooler
• Corsair Value Select (2GB) 2048MB PC5400 DDR2 Desktop Memory
• XFX GeForce 9800 GT 512MB PCIe w/Dual Link DVI Video Card
• LG GH22NS40 22X SATA SecurDisc DVD RW Internal Drive
• Seagate ST9250410AS Momentus 7200.4 Hard Drive
• Microsoft Comfort Curve Keyboard 2000
• Microsoft Basic USB Optical Mouse
• Cooler Master NV-334-KWN1-GP Elite 334 Nvidia Case
• Ultra LS500 Lifetime Series 500W Power Supply

Also included is an easy-to-follow manual to guide the customer through the entire installation process from start to finish and also provides them a useful primer on PC technology in general. So for someone looking to get their feet wet in the PC building game, this is a good way to get started. NVIDIA has taken care of the intimidating parts selection process and all the needed hardware is included. The kits are being marketed through TigerDirect for $499.99.

Digital Storm Launches Black|OPS Gaming Desktops

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: February 11, 2010 03:46PM
Author: Ben Grantham

If you frequent our forums, then you are likely the type of person who enjoys picking out components and building your own system rather than opting for something pre-built. Looking at Digital Storm's new Black|OPS range of gaming desktops might well tempt you to let someone else do the job, with it offering the latest hardware in a thoroughly tested package. According to Digital Storm, each system goes through a 72-hour stress test before it is shipped out and if you want some of your components overclocked then they can do that for you too (at a cost, naturally). Overclocked machines are still covered by a three year parts and labour warranty.

The range starts out with the Performance model, equipped with a Core i5 750, 4GB of DDR3 1600MHz RAM and an NVIDIA GTX 275 for a base price of $1,709, which rises to a base price of $3,102 for the Extreme model (Core i7 960, 6GB RAM, Radeon HD 5870 and 1250W PSU). The number of customization options is extensive, including overclocking, cooling system (including H2O tube colors) and chassis mods and a healthy list of component choices. All in all you can drop upwards of $10K on an Extreme model system if you feel so inclined. That would certainly give you something mighty impressive, but maybe not the feeling of satisfaction gained by putting it together yourself (plus a considerably lighter wallet of course). Digital Storm's video, which demonstrates how its systems are put together and tested is also worth a look.

Apple Tries to Fix 27 Inch iMac, Again

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: February 2, 2010 10:46AM
Author: Nick Harezga

Ever since Apple introduced the new 27 inch iMac, it has been plagued with problems. Notably cracked screens, yellow screens, and other graphical issues. Apple tried to fix the issue in December, but users reported that the issues that Apple hoped the firmware could fix were still affecting their systems. Firmware updates of course couldn't fix the cracked screens. Another firmware update has just been released, which Apple hopes will solve all remaining problems. I still don't get how companies can let issues that seem to happen to so many consumers out the door without catching them in testing.

Acer Announces New Netbook

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: January 3, 2010 03:01PM
Author: Nick Harezga

The Aspire One AO532h from Acer will take advantage of the newest technology, by using the Intel Atom N450. The N450 runs at 1.66GHz, and features integrated memory and graphics processing. This integration should provide the extra boost to performance over the N270. Other notable features include a 10.1” screen, 10 hours of battery life, and Wi-Fi. The 1” thick netbook will only weigh 2.5 pounds, making it extremely portable. It will be available in blue, red, or silver for the price of $299.99. If you are in the market for a netbook, it may be a good idea to hold off until this one is available.

Acer Aims to Bring Chrome OS to Netbooks Before Anyone Else

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: December 2, 2009 07:13AM
Author: Nick Harezga

The Chairman of Acer has stated that his company will be the first to release a netbook running the Chrome OS from Google. The netbook is set to be released in the second half of next year, following the projections from Google. However, Acer has been working on the netbook for a few months now and could have a head start on the competition. Dell has already made a custom build of Chromium OS for its mini10v, which users can get for free. There are several other companies that will be releasing their own netbook based on Chrome OS, so consumers will have a wide array of choices.

Smoke in Your Mac is an OSHA Violation

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: November 22, 2009 09:01AM
Author: Nick Harezga

Two complaints have surfaced against Apple from people who had their repair claims denied by Apple techs. Two different users reported that Apple denied their repairs because the computers contained smoking residue. Apple refused to work on these computers as they were ruled to be an OSHA violation. Both Macs were covered under the Applecare warranty program, but neither of them were fixed. One user was able to clean his computer with compressed air, while the other appears to be up a creek without a paddle. There is no mention of smoke damage voiding the users warranty in the Applecare contract.

Dell Comes Out With Zino HD

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: November 14, 2009 11:49AM
Author: Brentt Moore

Lined up in its Inspiron computer models, the new Dell Zino HD is a small computing box that provides decent processing and graphics power for home entertainment. The new computer is similar to a Mac Mini, but sports the Windows operating system and a bit different layout and design. Various upgrades can be applied to the system such as a 1TB hard drive, a Blu-ray drive, 8GB of RAM, as well as a discrete ATI Radeon graphics card instead of the included ATI graphics chip. Though the price of the new Dell Zino HD starts at just $229, the price can easily go up with all the upgrades that can be applied, along with even more powerful processors. Many people are expected to buy the system now that it is available in the United State, especially in a home theatre setting with the computer measuring in at just 7.75-inches and 3.5-inches tall.

Apple Continues To Defy Recession, Releases New Hardware

Category: Networking, Mobile, Input Devices, Prebuilts
Posted: October 21, 2009 03:35AM
Author: d3bruts1d

On Monday Apple announced their FY09 Q4 earnings which ended on September 30, 2009. Net profit for the company rose nearly 46-percent to $1.67 billion on sales of $9.87 billion. During the quarter, Apple sold:

• 4.7 million iPhones, a 7% growth over a year ago,
• 3.05 million Macintosh computers, a 17% increase over a year ago, and
• 10.2 million iPods, which while it appears to be a staggering number, is actually a decline of 8% from last year.

"We are thrilled to have sold more Macs and iPhones than in any previous quarter," said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. "We’ve got a very strong lineup for the holiday season and some really great new products in the pipeline for 2010."

Continuing on the momentum of the Q4 earnings, Apple on Tuesday released a slew of new hardware in a very un-Apple-like way. Rather than a big media event, Apple simply pushed out the new hardware with a press release and update splash page on the main Apple website.

Magic Mouse - Apple introduced multi-touch technology as a new way to interact with mobile devices on the iPhone and Mac Book, and now they are taking it to a new level with the "Magic Mouse". The low-profile seamless top is a multi-touch surface that allows you to scroll in any direction with one finger, swipe through web pages and photos using two fingers, and click or double click anywhere on the device. Apple claims that the sensor inside the mouse can determine when you are simply resting your hand on the device, swiping, or clicking. It will be interesting to see how well the device works, as previous Apple mice have been less than stellar.

iMac - The iMac lineup comes in 21.5" and 27" varieties. While the 21.5" iMac uses the Intel Core 2 Duo processor, the new 27" offers an Intel i5 or i7 quad core option. Both screens are LED-backlit, and the 21.5" supports a resolution of 1920x1080. Screen space on the 27" is increased by 78% more pixels and has a resolution of 2560x1440. Sony may use the slogan "Beyond High Definition" for Blu-ray, but it certainly applies to the 27" iMac. Speaking of Blu-ray, it would have been nice to see that as an option in the 27" iMac. Also used in the 27" iMac is a ATI HD 4850 video card. Apple is also really happy about the design of the new iMacs, check out the video (Quicktime) for more on that.

MacBook - The $999 MacBook now has a unibody design with rounded contours to make it easier to pick up and slide in or out of a bag. The rugged polycarbonate body makes it ideal for everyday usage by students and those on the go. It also has added a glass trackpad with, you guessed it, multi-touch support. The non-removable battery claims a 7 hour battery life, with 1000 charges. Some will be said to learn that along with the update, the MacBook lost its FireWire port. Interested in what the MacBook looks like on the inside? iFixit already has a teardown of the device.

Mac Mini & Mac Mini Server - The Mac Mini is a nice little system, though often feels neglected by Apple. It was nice to see it get an update in processing power and memory. What is interesting here is not the updated specs, but Apple has finally decided to embrace the little system as server worthy. For years now many people have taken the Mac Mini and used it as a cheap, entry level OS X server. Small business now have a more affordable server option, the Mac Mini Server. For $999 you get a nice little system than can easily be tucked away some place, but you also get OS X Server with unlimited users, no extra client access license fees required. Anyone who has ever spec’ed out a Windows Server will know that the CALs for the Server OS can end up costing more than double the hardware. TUAW goes into the other big possibilities of the Mac Mini Server.

Other Stuff - Apple's Mighty Mouse has been renamed to Apple Mouse due to the lawsuit by Man and Machine. An updated Apple Wireless Keyboard was release, the new version only requires 2 AA batteries whereas the previous used 3. A new 60W MagSafe power adapter has an aluminum connector to make it more durable. The Apple remote is now aluminum, looks goofy, and can control your iPhone or any iPod connected to the Universal Dock. The AirPort Extreme Base Station and Time Capsule devices now have a bigger and more powerful antenna which promises 50% better Wi-Fi performance and 25% better range, and are certified 802.11n.

Compaq Making a Comeback

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: October 16, 2009 02:41PM
Author: Nick Harezga

Compaq, the formerly popular computer manufacturer that was purchased by HP in 2002, is starting to make a resurgence. HP revealed that it plans to release a new line of desktops and laptops that will bear the Compaq name. The computers will be targeted at those users with very tight budgets, as evidenced by the CQ61z. The 15 inch laptop will feature an AMD Sempron processor and run Windows 7. However, the laptop will cost only $400, putting it in direct competition with less powerful netbooks. In addition, a desktop system will be available for as little as $309 after rebate. The systems will be available on October 22, and could shake up the pricing in the computer industry.

Systems Being Built Around i5 Chips

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: September 8, 2009 03:07PM
Author: Nick Harezga

The recently launched Intel Core i5 processors based on the Nehalem architecture will be making their way into new computers from Dell and Falcon Northwest. The Dell systems will be added to the Studio XPS line of desktops, with the 8000 and 9000 models. The systems start at $799 and are targeted at users who want power but don't want to spend too much. Falcon Northwest will begin selling all systems in its Talon line standard with the i5 processors. The systems will start above $1000, but a minimal system may be available for under $1000. For more information on the Core i5 chips, be sure to check out the official OCC review.

Google Chrome Partners with Sony Vaio

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: September 1, 2009 04:08PM
Author: Nick Harezga

Sony and Google have signed a deal to package the Chrome web browser on new Vaio PCs. Chrome will be included in addition to Internet Explorer, so users will still have a choice as to which they want to use. This will open the door for thousands of users who may never use Chrome otherwise. Google is currently in talks with other PC manufacturers to strike similar distribution deals. However, the possibility of Chrome becoming the new goto browser anytime soon are slim, as only about 3% of internet users browse with Chrome.

MSI Wind Top AE2010 All-in-One PC

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: August 26, 2009 08:04PM
Author: Dale Shuck

MSI today unveiled the Wind Top Ae2010, its latest addition to it all-in-one computing lineup. Based on the AMD Athlon X2 dual core 3250e processor and the RS780G and SB710 chipset, the AE2010 offers a larger screen and better performance than that of its predecessor, the AE1900. The unit features onboard ATI Radeon HD 3200 graphics with 128MB DDR3 memory to drive the 20-inch touch widescreen at a resolution of 1600 x 900.

The AE2010 also features 4GB DDRII 533MHz SDRAM, a 320GB hard drive, built in 1.3MP webcam and microphone, tray-load DVD drive, Gigabit LAN and 802.11 b/g/n wireless connectivity.  MSI has set an MSRP of $649.99 but didn't say when the AE2010 will be available.

The Apple Tablet Rumor Mill

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: August 13, 2009 06:15PM
Author: Ben Grantham

If you tend to read around various web sources to pick up your tech news, then you will have noticed a lot of speculation going around regarding the release of a tablet computer by Apple recently. In fact, it may have been surprising to you that the subject hasn't really been talked about much here on the front page of OCC. The last time we reported on the rumor, it was unclear what form the device would take. Since then, various sources have contributed to the discussion, which seems to have come to the conclusion that it will be a 10-inch touch-screen tablet that could essentially resemble an enlarged iPhone. Of course there are no shortage of mock ups floating around the web, but until something official comes through it seems counter productive to settle on any of those as representative of a final product. Different media outlets have also focused on different potential uses for the device.

A story from the Financial Times at the end of last month was one of the first from a mainstream source that talked about Apple's plans for a new device and claimed the company was working with major record labels in an effort to boost sales of CD-length music. As album sales have declined in favour of individual track purchases it reported that bundling compelling interactive album material with purchases may provide a reason for consumers to modify their buying habits. The article also mentioned the possibility of the device becoming an alternative to Amazon's kindle.

Other articles have alluded to the potential of the hardware as a platform for games, and today an 'insider' talking with Gizmodo even suggested that the device could provide secondary screen/touchpad functionality for Macbooks and iMacs. That same Gizmodo source also hinted at two versions of the tablet, one commercial (with a webcam) and one for educational use. The whole thing also provides analysts with plenty of scope for making predictions, one even going as far to make the prediction that Apple could ship as many as 2 million units in 2010. Release date predictions range from fall this year into early 2010.

All this is before we get down to the nitty gritty hardware details, which are just as up in the air as anything else. The platform may or may not end up being similar to that found in the current iPod touch (that could see it running an adapted iPhone OS), with 64GB of flash memory being one possible configuration, with WiFi a given and the possibility of some kind of 3G data provided by AT&T or Verizon and maybe even an OLED screen? Expected pricing of the hardware also varies from anything as low as $600 all the way up to around $900. It is clear that Apple is the only one that knows exactly what is going on and so far it has been keeping characteristically quiet. All of that could change of course, at a (yet again) rumored September keynote event.

The rampant speculation and hype between Apple product launches has almost become a tradition in these past few years, intensifying since the release of the original iPhone. I'm sure Apple appreciates the amount of brand exposure this brings them, and people have theorised that it actually employs a strategy which encourages such behaviour. That certainly wouldn't be that far-fetched, but will there be a point at which people simply stop caring? Or has that point already arrived? The number of articles certainly suggests that isn't the case. At least not yet.

Additional Info

Video of the tablet OS?
No Apple tablet until 2010
More 'alleged' tablet videos
Kindle may face a problem

CyberPower Offers Street Fighter IV/NVIDIA PC Bundle

Category: Video Cards, Gaming, Prebuilts
Posted: July 24, 2009 08:37PM
Author: Dale Shuck

CyberPower today announced it is offering what it calls a "knock out gaming bundle" in celebration of the release of the PC game Street Fighter IV. Customers who purchase a CyberPower gaming system equipped with an Nvidia 200-series graphics card will also receive a free copy of Street Fighter IV. Released earlier this month for the PC, Street Fighter IV offers a combination of classic elements from previous Street Fighter games with realistic 3D backgrounds for a more compelling visual experience. The game also features new characters and moves and what better way to experience the game than on a new CyberPower gaming rig powered by an Nvidia GPU?

Point Of View Launches ION Netbook

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: July 21, 2009 12:25PM
Author: Ben Grantham

When we saw NVIDIA's Ion platform demonstrated back at CES in January, it looked as though it could deliver the kind of power that would make netbooks more capable. We have seen the Ion platform appearing in so called 'nettop' computers such as Acer's AspireRevo, but so far netbooks that make use of it have been thin on the ground. Point Of View is a name you will likely associate with graphics cards, but it is now launching the Mobii ION 230 netbook (or "mini notebook" as POV calls it). The styling may raise eyebrows, with two-tone black and brightly colored casing, though fortunately an all black version will also be available. The CPU choice is also slightly strange, opting for the Atom 230 generally found in nettops, which features a TDP of 4W, rather than the 2.5W of the N270 / N280 usually found in netbooks. The 9400M GPU should mean it'll handle 1080p content, though you'll need to use the HDMI output to display at that resolution. Battery life of a reputed 4hrs is somewhat disappointing compared to some rivals and suggests that something bigger than the 4400mAh 6-cell battery may have been preferable. European prices are expected to be around €349 when it becomes available in the next few weeks, with Linux being the default OS choice. You can view more details (and marketing fluff) on Point of View's website.

ASUS Eee PC 1005HA Seashell Released

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: June 24, 2009 08:42PM
Author: Dale Shuck

ASUS has announced the release of the 1005HA Seashell Eee PC based on the Intel Atom N280 processor. The 10.1" netbook features an LED backlit screen and Super Hybrid Engine technology that enables its 6-cell Li-ion battery to power the unit for up to 10.5 hours on a single charge. The 1005HA is the first Eee PC to offer ASUS’ new Eee Docking software which provides easy access to utilities and software from a dock at the top of the screen. The 1005HA comes with Windows XP Home and also includes a large 92% keyboard with full size shift keys. Other features include 1GB memory which can be upgraded and a 160GB SATA II hard drive. The Seashell is available for preorder now at an introductory price of $389.99US and comes in either black or blue.

Disney NetPal - Pretty in Pink

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: June 17, 2009 08:11PM
Author: Dale Shuck

Disney and Asus have just announced the NetPal netbook designed for kids. The result of collaboration between the entertainment giant and ASUS, the 8.9” netbook ships with Windows Home Edition and features an Intel Atom N270 CPU and 1MB of memory. In a nod to parents, each net book comes with  enhanced web-browsing security in the form of over 40 parental control items which promises a safer surfing experience for you kids. It also comes with a reinforced mechanical design and a spill proof keyboard. Disney will be selling through the retail channel at stores like Best Buy and Toys "R" Us at a suggested retail price of $349.99.

New Macbook Pro Family Unboxed, 13-inch Version Gets Teardown Treatment

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: June 10, 2009 04:46PM
Author: Ben Grantham

Apple announced during its recent WWDC event that the Macbook Pro family would be expanding down the line to the 13-inch version. The guys over at Engadget have gotten their grubby mitts on the whole lineup and have given them a documented unboxing, underlining the fact that presentation and packaging really are things that Apple has a talent for. They should have some more in depth impressions and benchmarks soon, so we can see if the new Pro models are up to task. If all of that is a bit vanilla for you, then you might be more interested in seeing what makes the 13-inch version tick, as iFixit gives the littlest Pro its traditional teardown treatment. I certainly wouldn't want to be the one attempting to put that back together!

CyberPower Announces New Fang Series Gaming Computers

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: June 3, 2009 08:29PM
Author: Dale Shuck

CyberPower PC is a custom builder of performance gaming machines and sponsored the grand prize in OCC's Christmas Contest last year. Now, hot on the heels of Intel's release of its latest flagship desktop processor, CyberPower has some news of its own with the announcement of its Fang series of gaming machines. The new series includes the Black Mamba Venom and the Cobra Venom which feature the Intel Core i7 975 Extreme Edition CPU.

The Black Mamba takes a Cooler Master Storm Sniper case and stuffs it full of high-performance parts starting with a the Core i7 975 factory overclocked to 4.0GHz, a Gigabyte GA-EX58-UD5 Intel X58 motherboard and 6GB of Corsair Dominator DDR3 1600MHz memory. Throw in an Asetek water cooling system, a pair of Western Digital VelociRaptor drives in RAID 0, an additional 1.5TB drive for your data and top it off with two Nvidia GeForce GTX 285 graphics cards, and you've got some serious performance on your hands. The Cobra Venom is a bit more modestly configured though it's no slouch by any means. It features the same CPU running at stock speeds, but comes with a single 1TB hard drive, one GeForce GTX 285 videocard in an Azza Solano 1000 full-tower chassis.

CyberPower has set the starting price of the Black Mamba Venom at $3999US with the Cobra Venom coming in at $2999US and both are available immediately directly from CyberPower.

Dell Studio 14z Goes For The Middle Ground

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: May 28, 2009 06:09PM
Author: Ben Grantham

Dell unveiled its new Studio 14z today, a product that on first appearances seems to be going for something between the currently popular netbook and a fully fledged notebook. The Studio 14z goes for a 14" screen (obviously), in either 720p or 900p flavors, which we'll assume means 1280x720 and 1440x900 (Dell doesn't specify). You also get more processing power than a netbook, with Pentium Dual core or Core 2 Duo options and can specify up to 5GB of DDR3 RAM, up to 500GB HDD and also throw in an 8-cell battery that Dell says is good for up to 6 and a half hours. While going for the more powerful options puts you no where near netbook pricing, the base model does offer the Pentium Dual Core T2400 (2.0GHz), 3GB RAM, 250GB HDD and NVIDIA 9400M graphics for a reasonable $649.

One trait the Studio 14z does share with netbooks is the absence of a built in optical drive, meaning you'll need to go for an external option if discs are an important part of your life. If you can do without an optical drive, then the extra features could be tempting for a potential netbook buyer, providing that the standard 6-cell battery can offer decent running times of course. It will be intriguing to see what first impressions are when someone gets a hold of one in the flesh (oh yeah, how about right here). You can of course check out all the details on Dell's Studio 14z product page.

CyberPower Announces LAN Party Commander System

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: May 11, 2009 04:17PM
Author: Ben Grantham

Whether you are lugging your PC to a gaming session hosted by a few friends or transporting your system to a major LAN Party event, you are going to need suitable hardware for the job. CyberPower provide a number of pre-built PC options, including those that cater to serious gamers, and it thinks it has the ideal LAN Party rig in the new LAN Party Commander system. Of course a major component in a LAN Party system is a suitable case, and CyberPower has opted for CM Storm's Scout case, which includes features such as handy carrying handles, a way to secure your peripherals and plenty of cooling options to keep hardware happy. Speaking of hardware, the LAN Party Commander starts with a base configuration including a Core i7 920 processor, 6GB of triple channel memory, Radeon HD 4870 1GB and a 1TB HDD. Pricing starts at $1129, but with a multitude of customization options that total could easily creep up should you opt for more power.

HP MediaSmart Server LX195 Becomes Available

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: April 29, 2009 07:31PM
Author: Brentt Moore

Intel Atom processors have been very popular in compact desktops, as well as netbook systems. HP has decided to combine a 1.6GHz Atom processor, along with 1GB of RAM, and 640GB of storage space in the LX195. This compact media server comes in at a size of four inches wide and eight inches tall. Currently the price set for the new MediaSmart Server is set for $400, which is around $200 less that the EX485, which features faster components such as a Core 2 Solo processor, 2GB of RAM, and a 750GB hard drive. Along with the four USB ports and the ethernet port it boasts, the product can also upload photos directly to websites such as Picasa, Facebook, Flickr, and Snapfish by using the HP Photo Publisher software. Sadly the LX195 does not feature tool-less access to the single drive bay, but RAM and the drives in the server can be altered by the user if need be.

HP's Pavillion dv2 Goes On Sale, Gets Unboxed

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: April 6, 2009 03:52PM
Author: Ben Grantham

While the market for netbooks continues to grow, AMD has been notable for its lack of any real presence in the sector. Rather than looking to go into competition with Intel's Atom processor, AMD has its own Neo processor, which is now debuting in HP's Pavillion dv2 notebook. The Neo platform is aimed above that of what would commonly be described as a netbook, offering more processing power along with 12 inch screens rather than than the 10 inch or smaller models commonly found with the Atom platform (though we have seen some larger exceptions to this appearing). The inclusion of ATI graphics and the fact that the dv2 runs Vista Home Premium x64 means that it is edging towards a fully fledged laptop. The guys over at cnet have managed to get a hold of a dv2 and have taken a few unboxed shots. We were told at back at CES in January that prices would start at $699, and the configuration that cnet grabbed came in at $749, which isn't too far away. You can also buy that very same configuration right now direct from HP. For that price you get a 1.6GHz Neo processor, 4GB of RAM, a 320GB HDD, 1280x800 LED screen, Radeon HD 3410 graphics, 802.11 a/g/n and an external DVD-RW drive.

New Inspiron Desktops Come Forth

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: March 30, 2009 05:21PM
Author: Brentt Moore

Earlier this year, Dell introduced a new overhauled design to the Studio XPS line, which offered a more sleek look to the already manufactured computer. Dell is following up with that previous decision by offering new Inspiron Desktops that come in a total of eight different colored faceplates and more configuration options possible than before. While the systems will start at a low price tag of just $299, the total amount can clime quickly with things such as discrete graphics, better processing power in both Intel and AMD forms, and more memory as options for the consumer. Hard drive space can also be upgraded, to a maximum size of 750GB for the slim model and 1TB for the mini-tower desktops. Currently the company is only debuting the new systems in China, but will make them globally available  sometime later this spring.

More Netbook Options On The Horizon

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: March 23, 2009 12:57PM
Author: Ben Grantham

As a still growing area of the market, we have seen more and more options appearing for consumers who want a small, cheap laptop for carrying out basic tasks. Screen sizes more commonly found on fully fledged ultra portables, as well as slight variations on the core platforms used have all been popping up. Intel's Atom series of processors continues to be ubiquitous, though more are opting for the updated platform that comes paired with the Zxxx series chips. Today we saw announcements for a number of new models, which adds to the already potentially confusing array available. Samsung announced the successor to its NC10 in the shape of the N110, which sticks closely to the same formula while making some cosmetic changes, as well as offering improved battery life for $469. Another new model from Samsung, the NC310 also comes in with a 10.1" screen and familiar specifications, though the CPU and graphics combination used is still under wraps for now. The NC310 also happens to offer an 11-hour enhanced battery option, which shows that companies are paying attention to benefits offered by low power devices and how consumers expect to use them.

Expanding beyond a 10" screen has become more popular recently, and Acer is planning to follow up on its popular Aspire One with a larger, 11.6" version. That increased screen size allows for a 1366x768 resolution, which should benefit those who find smaller netbook screens a little too restrictive. It also means a more sensibly sized keyboard. Using the Atom Z530 CPU, battery life should apparently top 4 hours, with a high-capacity option looking to double that. No word on how the new model will be priced. Not to be left out, LG announced that its 3G HSPA equipped X120 will be hitting Japan later this month, followed by 20 other countries during April.

Lenovo Reveals New Green Desktops

Category: Manufacturers, Prebuilts
Posted: March 10, 2009 06:20PM
Author: Brentt Moore

While Lenovo has seen some popularity in their line of notebooks, they have been also somewhat in the game regarding their desktop systems. The company is officially introducing a new set of green desktops, known as the ThinkCentre A58 and M58e. These new products are aimed mostly at budgets users as well as businesses, since the products will contain up to 4GB of RAM, a Core 2 Duo or Core 2 Quad processor, onboard graphics, up to 1TB of hard drive storage space, and optional Blu-Ray compatibility. Either model, the ThinkCentre A58 and the M58e will start selling for a set price tag of $399 sometime in the next month, though enthusiast users will not be interested.

Touch-Screen Apple Netbook?

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: March 10, 2009 05:45AM
Author: Brandon McDonald

It looks like the Taiwan based Wintek will be supplying Apple with some small, LCD touch-screens, possibly for use in an upcoming netbook from the well known computer company. According to a Chineese report in Commercial Times, Apple is planning a release of the newest netbooks in their lineup. Although neither company is willing to set down a time frame, Wintek has hinted at a shipping date somwhere in the second half of this year. With the netbook market growing, an Apple product in the market would certainly attract a lot of attention. Of course, that is assuming the sources are accurate. I'd wait for some more solid evidence on this one before you start saving those pennies.

Dell Intros New Studio XPS 435 Desktop

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: February 25, 2009 06:08PM
Author: Ben Grantham

Dell's XPS line has always been the reserve for it high end gaming machines and now with the Studio XPS, multimedia powerhouses. The Studio XPS 435 will take its place as Dell's mulimedia flagship, with options on Core i7 processors up to the 965 Extreme Edition, up to 24GB of DDR3, up to 4.5TB of storage and HD 4870 graphics. There are also options for Blu-ray drives and X-Fi soundcards, while the machine also features an IR receiver for a media centre remote. Everything is quiet on the pricing front for the moment, but being a top end model it is bound to take a bite out of your wallet. At least you'll get a reasonably pretty case to look at.

CyberPower Announces Phenom II X4 Gaming PCs

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: February 7, 2009 03:35AM
Author: Ben Grantham

CyberPower announced its new Gamer Dragon series of custom pre-builts yesterday, utilizing AMD's Phenom II X4 CPUs. There are three models in the series, starting with the entry level Gamer Dragon 8000, followed by the mid-range Gamer Dragon 9000 and topped off with the high-end Gamer Dragon CrossFire X Ultimate. The CrossFire X system features the AMD Phenom II 940 CPU, an Asetek liquid cooling system and a pair of 2GB HD 4870 video cards all wrapped up in a NZXT Khaos chassis. That will set you back $2235, with the Gamer Dragon 9000 and 8000 offering more affordable single graphics card configurations. All models have a wide range of customization options and come with a 3-year limited warranty and free lifetime labor and phone support.

German Company Joins Psystar in Offering Mac Clones

Category: Prebuilts
Posted: February 6, 2009 09:27PM
Author: Dale Shuck

A German company is offering Mac clones to customers in the UK claiming it has discovered a loophole in German law that makes it legal. HyperMegaNet UG is selling its PearC starting at €500. The machine is fully customizable including an option for a Core i7 965 Extreme Edition processor. Apple has historically been very protective of its property rights and is currently in a legal battle against Miami, Fla based computer maker Psystar which began selling its own cloned versions last year.