Description:
Not all computer users are created equally, and neither are all Compaq computers. In fact, the Compaq desktop and notebook lineup is several dozen deep, each model configured slightly differently than the next in order to reach every segment of the computing populace. Compaq's most affordable machine, the Presario 5400US desktop unit is designed to appeal to those who can't afford or don't require the capabilities of its midrange and high-end machines or the portability of its notebooks. Slightly less machine than other Compaq computers, the Presario 5400US offers just enough power and accouterments to handle most basic personal computing needs at a price so low it may initially look like a misprint. Included in this package are the Compaq MV540 15-inch monitor, as well as their IJ650 color inkjet printer. However, bereft of a DVD drive, this system won't play movies. Sporting a midlevel 8 MB video card, it's not well suited to demanding visual applications such as the latest animated graphic programs or 3-D games. And with just 128 MB of RAM, it won't effectively handle heavy-duty multitasking and barely meets the recommended RAM for its bundled Home Edition of the Windows XP operating system. Fortunately, users are able to upgrade their RAM allotment to an impressive 512 MB. Regardless of its RAM configuration, the 5400US is more than adequate for a wide variety of users. Certainly it should suffice for basic everyday tasks such as simple accounting, word processing, light graphics, and homework. Teachers, students, home financial strategists, and children should find it quite acceptable, as should gamers who gravitate to older titles. Obsessive Internet addicts will have to supply their own network card and cable modem to really get up to speed, although the unit's 56K modem will handle less-demanding surfing. Music fans will love the integrated 8x CD-RW drive for burning and playing their own CDs, although they must provide their own set of PC speakers. Though indeed a budget computer, the Presario 5400US in many ways doesn't feel budget. Its Compaq USB Internet keyboard offers a number of one-touch Internet, e-mail, and multimedia controls in addition to its standard allotment of keys. Its compact case features a variety of external connections and amenities, including a 3.5-inch floppy disk drive, four USB ports for plug-and-play peripherals such as joysticks and scanners, a speaker output and microphone jack, and a set of RJ11 phone-in and -out jacks. The 5400US is powered by a 1.2 GHz Intel Celeron processor, which delivers plenty of juice for fundamental tasks. Its 20 GB hard drive, though somewhat below the norm for most current desktop systems, is certainly sizable enough to store and operate all the software Compaq has bundled with the unit, a list that includes Microsoft Money 2001, Microsoft Works 6.0, Selective QuickRestore, Quicken Financial Center/Quicken New User Edition, Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0, America Online 6.0, Netscape Navigator 6.1, and a one-year subscription to Microsoft Encarta Online Deluxe Encyclopedia.
| 
