Gateway 820GM Media Center Desktop PC (3.00 GHz Pentium 4 (Hyper-Threading), 1024 MB RAM, 250 GB Hard Drive, DVD+/-RW Drive, CD-ROM Drive)

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 820GM Media Center Desktop PC features one of today's fastest CPUs, an Intel Pentium 4 530. 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 an 800 MHz front side bus for a more generous data "pipeline" than prior models. Operating at a beefy 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 820GM Media Center Desktop PC, Gateway has installed a whopping 1024 MB (1 GB) of 400 DDR memory, configured in a dual channel setup for even faster response. This is a ton of memory even for a high-end machine, and its rated speed is comparatively quick. As such, it is more than enough for any multitasking situation or complex application. Moreover, the system's mainboard is constructed to support RAM upgrades to an amazing 4 GB, though most users will never have the need.

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" built-in video memory is preferable to a controller that's integrated on the mainboard and "shares" the system's main memory, as it will better handle complex procedures.

The 820GM Media Center Desktop PC features an ATI Radeon X300 SE PCI-Express, a strong standalone graphics card with 128 MB of dedicated video memory. This card is capable of accurately displaying virtually any 2D application and delivering smooth frame rates and immersive, lifelike visuals to the 3D animations found in most computer games and 3D animation packages. Ultra-hardcore gamers and serious 3D artisans who demand perfect frame rates at extremely high resolutions may want to upgrade to a far pricier 256 or 512 MB video model, but this card should be quite adequate for the majority of users.

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 820GM Media Center Desktop PC produces stereo and all-encompassing surround sound via an Intel High Definition Audio chipset with support for seven 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
Even the busiest users will have a tough time ever filling this computer's hard drive. At 200 GB, it's 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 Double Layer Multi-Format 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, with two optical drives you can make extremely fast CD copies.

Connectivity and Expansion
With no less than 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 (often used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders) and a versatile 8-in-1 card reader for reading memory cards from devices such as digital cameras, PDAs and more. Communication options include an integrated Gigabit networking interface (substantially faster data transfer rates than traditional 100BaseT Ethernet) for Internet and network communication, and a standard 56K data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections

Operating System and Software
The 820GM Media Center Desktop PC features a comprehensive software package headed by Microsoft's Windows XP Home Edition operating system. Gateway will also pre-install Microsoft's Money 2004 financial center, Microsoft's Works 8.0 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.