Features:
- Intel Celeron D Processor
- 2.53GHz, 512MB
- 80GB, Combo, XPH
Description:
The Basics
With computer capabilities and processor speeds going thru the roof and prices rising accordingly, it is good to remember that the majority of common tasks simply don’t require an over-the-top level of power and expense. If you use your computer primarily for standard functions such as word processing, finances, CD burning, photo enhancement, Internet surfing and the like, HP’s affordable Pavilion A612X Desktop PC may be all you need. Though it won’t be the fastest PC in the neighborhood and will undoubtedly require some rather serious upgrades if you plan to play the latest games or run high-end business or 3D graphics software, it has all the tools many home-based users will ever need. 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. For the Pavilion A612X, HP has installed an Intel Celeron D 325 processor running at 2.53 GHz. This is a satisfactory yet extremely cost effective chip that certainly won’t be mistaken for one of Intel's high-end Pentium 4s but is fast enough for most routine applications. Moreover, the Celeron D CPU sports several architectural enhancements over traditional Celerons that allow it to perform faster than earlier versions of CPUs in this entry-level lineup. 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. The Pavilion A612X features 512 MB of PC2700 DDR SDRAM main memory (expandable to two full GB), which is considered an average allotment in today’s desktop market. As such, it is perfectly satisfactory for most single task and multitasking assignments. 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). The Pavilion A612X features an Intel Extreme Graphics chipset that's integrated on the mainboard and sports 64 MB of shared (not dedicated) video memory. Shared video memory is not as desirable as dedicated video memory because it temporarily "borrows" memory resources that are normally reserved for general computer operation. While quite capable of accurately displaying most any 2D application such as word processing, Internet browsing or 2D graphics work, the system will struggle to smoothly display advanced 3D animations such as those found in the latest high-end computer games. Indeed, gamers and 3D animation artisans will need to upgrade this component in order to achieve acceptably smooth, detailed visuals. Display
HP has not included a display screen, thus allowing you to continue using your current monitor or select from today’s many alternatives. Sound
The Pavilion A612X produces sound via an audio chip integrated on its mainboard. This is a typical setup for midlevel PCs, delivering satisfying but not earth-shaking output. Speakers are not enclosed. Hard Drive
The internal 80 GB hard drive pales in comparison to some of the 250 GB-plus monsters found in some of today's high-end machines, but will nevertheless comfortably store a typical allotment of files and applications and a small music or multimedia collection too. Optical Drive
An optical drive is essential in today’s computing environment. 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 a CD-RW/DVD drive through which you can do all of the above but record DVDs. Connectivity and Expansion
With five high-speed USB 2.0 ports -- one of which is conveniently positioned on the front -- you’ll have plenty of room for plug and play gadgets such as printers and joysticks. HP has also included two IEEE 1394 "FireWire" ports (commonly used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders) and a 9-in-1 card reader for reading memory cards from high-tech toys such as PDAs and digital cameras. Communication options include an integrated 10/100Base-T networking interface for fast Internet and network communication and a V.92 data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections. The system’s two available PCI slots may be used for add-on audio cards, video cards, and the like. Operating System and Software
The Pavilion A612X is preloaded with an impressive software package headed by Microsoft’s Windows XP Home Edition operating system. HP will also pre-install Microsoft's Woks 7.0 productivity suite, Quicken's New User Edition 2004 financial center, and oodles of multimedia, music, online and security utilities. Keyboard and Mouse
A standard PS/2 Internet keyboard (with one-touch hotkeys) and a PS/2 mouse with convenient scrolling wheel are enclosed.
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