Description:
The Basics Taking advantage of several recent technological innovations yet priced in the same ballpark as many desktops that do not, Gateway’s 500GR Desktop PC is a powerful yet affordable computing centerpiece ideal for virtually any office, personal or leisure environment. Businesspeople will appreciate the unit’s powerful Pentium 4 processor and huge hard drive, while multimedia buffs will love the comprehensive connectivity and advanced DVD recording facilities. Gamers will probably want to upgrade the unit’s 3D graphics capabilities or explore other Gateway computers such as the more expensive yet more capable 550GR. 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. The Gateway 500GR features an Intel Pentium 4 530 CPU. New for 2004, this is an upgraded version (nicknamed "Prescott") of the venerable Pentium 4 chip, featuring one full MB of Level 2 cache and a more generous data "pipeline" than prior models. Operating at a scorching 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 is a strong CPU that’s ready for any situation. 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. For the Gateway 500GR, Gateway has installed 512 MB of 400 DDR memory, configured in a dual channel setup for even faster response. This is an average RAM allotment for a computer of this caliber, but its rated speed is comparatively quick. As such, it is more than enough for most multitasking situations and complex applications. Moreover, the system’s mainboard is constructed to support RAM upgrades to a whopping 2 GB. Video
CPU’s are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translating visual output 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 "shares" the system’s main memory, as it will better handle complex procedures. The Gateway 500GR features an Intel Graphixs Media Accelerator 900 with 64 MB of shared video memory. Though this is a "shared memory" card, it is part of Intel’s brand new lineup of integrated video controllers that purportedly offer 170% faster performance than prior shared memory controllers. Hence, the system will deliver good performance in 2D applications and satisfactory performance in most low-end and midlevel 3D applications. However, gamers and 3D artisans who utilize the latest software and demand solid frame rates and extremely high resolutions will nevertheless want to upgrade to a graphics card with at least 128 MB of dedicated video memory. Display:
Gateway has not included a display screen, thus allowing you to continue using your current monitor or select from today’s many alternatives. Sound
The Gateway 500GR produces stereo and surround sound via an Intel High Definition Audio chipset with support for six distinct audio channels and one subwoofer. Gateway has also enclosed a pair of amplified desktop speakers, though serious audiophiles may want to upgrade to a three-piece subwoofer-enhanced set or a surround sound configuration. Hard Drive
At 200 GB, the unit’s internal hard drive is 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 exceptionally quick -- sporting a fast 7200 RPM speed, an 8 MB buffer, and a futuristic 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 a CD). This system features two optical drives -- a CD-ROM drive for playing music and data CDs, and a DVD +/- RW drive through which you can do everything else listed above. Moreover, this drive supports "double layer" DVD recording, which effectively delivers nearly twice the capacity of the traditional DVD format. Connectivity and Expansion
With a truly grand total of seven high-speed USB 2.0 ports, you’ll have plenty of room for plug and play gadgets such as digital cameras and printers. Gateway has also included a trio of IEEE 1394 "FireWire" ports (commonly used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders) and a versatile 8-in-1 Digital Media Manager for reading memory cards from devices such as digital cameras, PDAs and more. Communication options include a standard 100 Mbit Ethernet adaptor for high-speed Internet and network communication, and a V.92 data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections. Operating System and Software
The Gateway 500GR features a comprehensive software package headed by Microsoft’s beefy Windows XP Home Edition operating system. Gateway will also pre-install Microsoft’s Money 2004 financial center, Microsoft’s Works 7.0 productivity package, Microsoft’s Picture It Premium photo and graphic editing suite, and a variety of high-end multimedia utilities such as the superb Nero 6 Suite CD and DVD burning package. Control
The system includes a Gateway Premium Multimedia Keyboard and a two-button mouse with scroll wheel.
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