The Basics
Compaq's new and exceedingly wide-ranging Presario SR1110NX series of desktop PCs targets most every segment of the computer buyer market -- from financially strapped students to high-power business executives. This model, the Presario SR1110NX, is an entry-level model that delivers basic computing capabilities at a rock bottom price. Demanding users and anyone who deals primarily in high-end multimedia or games will want to look at one of Compaq's upscale models, but anyone who prioritizes their budget should find the Presario SR1110NX exceedingly appealing. Processor
Intel's cost-effective Celeron processor often forms the basis for entry-level machines, and the Presario SR1110NX is no different. What is different is the configuration of this particular Celeron. Intel's newest Celeron is named the Celeron D, a tricked up version of the venerable chip that offers 256KB of level-two cache (twice the size of current Celeron ships) and a 533MHz Quad Pumped Bus, a 33% improvement over traditional Celeron chips. The Celeron D in the Presario SR1110NX operates at 2.53 MHz, which would be considered a fast clock speed even if configured traditionally. Though it doesn't offer the power of Intel's Pentium chip, this is a strong entry-level CPU.
Memory
Compaq has partnered this processor with 256 MB of PC2700 DDR SDRAM main memory. This is considered today's minimal allotment of memory in a desktop PC. As such, the system is not an especially adept multitasker. Furthermore, with 256 MB rather than the 512 MB (or greater) in more costly PCs, the unit will rely more on the hard drive when retrieving information -- a slower process than if that data had been stored in "virtual" memory.
Video
An Intel Extreme Graphics video controller is integrated on the motherboard, featuring just 64 MB of shared (not dedicated) video memory. While perfectly capable of accurately displaying most 2D applications (word processing, Internet and email, 2D graphics design), the system will struggle to smoothly display advanced 3D graphics, animations, and many mid-to high-end games. A display screen is not enclosed, thus allowing you to continue using your current monitor or select from today's many alternatives.
Sound
Audio is produced via an audio chip integrated on the motherboard. This is a typical setup for budget PCs. Speakers are not included.
Hard Drive
The 40 MB hard drive sports enough room for an average home or home office situation or a student. However, if you maintain a sizeable multimedia or music collection, you'll quite probably need to upgrade this drive, occasionally transfer files to a compact disc, or add another hard drive.
Optical Drive
The system features a CD-RW/DVD-ROM drive that allows you to play and burn audio CDs, archive files to a CD, and watch DVD movies. DVD burning, often used to backup large amounts of data or copy home movies to long-lasting DVD format, is not offered in this stock configuration.
Connectivity and Expansion
With six high-speed USB 2.0 ports at your disposal, you'll have plenty of room for plug and play peripherals and gadgets such as digital cameras and printers. Compaq has not included IEEE 1394 FireWire ports, most commonly used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders. Communication options include an integrated 10/100Base-T networking interface for fast Internet and network communication and a low-speed 56K dial-up modem. Two available PCI slots may be used for add-on audio cards, video cards, and the like.
Operating System and Software
Considering its affordable price point, the Presario SR1110NX features an impressive software package headed by Microsoft's Windows XP operating system. Compaq will also pre-install Microsoft's Works 7.0 word processing and productivity suite, Microsoft Money Standard 2004, Quicken New User Edition 2004, a one-year subscription to the MSN Encarta online information center, and a variety of multimedia and Internet utilities.
Keyboard and Mouse
A standard Compaq keyboard and Compaq mouse (with convenient scrolling wheel) are enclosed.
