Other features include a 3.0 GHz Intel Pentium 4 631 processor, 160 GB hard drive, 1 GB of installed RAM (2 GB maximum), ATI Radeon Xpress 1100 video processor (with 128 MB of dedicated memory), and a multiformat, dual-layer DVD burner (which can also create CDs) with LightScribe capability. It comes preinstalled with Microsoft Windows Vista Home Basic, which delivers a safer, more reliable, and more productive computing environment. Vista integrates new search tools throughout the operating system, includes new parental control features, and offers new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures.

The Basics

• Processor: While it's not as sexy as its newer multiple core siblings, this hyper-threading Intel Pentium 4 631 processor (3.0 GHz) still provides more than enough power and speed for home multimedia use and helps make this desktop an overall affordable package. It also features a decently fast 533 MHz front-side bus (FSB) speed and a large 2 MB L2 cache. (An L2, or secondary, cache temporarily stores data; and a larger L2 cache can help speed up your system's performance. The FSB carries data between the CPU and RAM, and a faster front-side bus will deliver better overall performance.) This processor sits in the middle of its class (as of January 2007).

  A hyperthreading processor helps a PC run several demanding applications at the same time. This technology enables the processor to execute two threads (parts of a program) in parallel, boosting performance during key high-drain procedures. This results in more efficient software performance, such as faster reaction times in gaming applications, and enhanced multitasking.

• Hard Drive: The 160 GB Serial ATA (SATA) hard drive (7200 RPM) is about average in size for desktop PCs. This SATA hard drive has a 3Gb/s interface speed that enables up to 300MB/s data transfer rates (double the speed of the current SATA interface of 1.5Gb/s).
  
• Memory: The 1 GB of installed RAM (PC4200, 2 x 512 MB, 533 MHz) is a good start, but you'll want to add more RAM to handle today's demanding multimedia and productivity suites. This desktop has a good 2 GB maximum RAM capacity (2 x 1 GB). Also, to receive the benefits of the dual-channel DDR2 RAM, any RAM additions require memory modules of same capacity and clockspeed.
  
• DVD/CD Drive: This multiformat DVD/CD drive is compatible with writing both DVD+ and DVD- disc formats as well as dual-layer (DL) DVD+/-R discs, which can store up to 8.5 GB of data. It features 4x DVD-R DL Write Once, 8x DVD+R DL Write Once, 16x DVD+R, 8x DVD+RW, 16x DVD-R, 6x DVD-RW, 5x DVD-RAM, 40x CD-R, 32x CD-RW write speeds and 40x CD-ROM, and 16x DVD-ROM read speeds.

  This LightScribe DVD+/-RW drive lets you laser-etch silkscreen quality text and images on to CDs and DVDs . Your software, PC and discs work together for a no-hassle way to burn just the labels you want. After you burn content, just flip the disc over, reinsert and burn your label--anything from a simple title to a full-disc work of art.
  

• Keyboard & Mouse: It comes with a Compaq keyboard and scroller mouse (both with PS/2 connections).

Networking, Connectivity & Expansion
For expansion, this desktop has three PCI slots (two available), one PCI Express x16 slot (available), two 5.25-inch external bays (one available), one external 3.5-inch bays (available), and one internal 3.5-inch bay (occupied). It comes with the following external connections:

• 4 USB 2.0 ports for connecting a wide range of peripherals--from digital cameras to MP3 players (2 in front, 2 in rear)
• 2 PS/2 ports for connecting keyboards and mice
• 1 VGA monitor port
• 1 headphone (front)
• 1 microphone/line-in/line-out (rear)

Operating System
Windows Vista Home Basic is the operating system for users with basic computing needs, such as surfing the Internet, corresponding with friends and family using e-mail, or performing basic document creation and editing tasks. Additionally, Windows Vista Home Basic integrates new search tools throughout the operating system to help you quickly find the precise file or program you need.

Every edition of Windows Vista provides the essential tools and technologies to help protect you whether you are browsing the Internet, connecting to a wireless network, or just reading e-mail. All editions of Windows Vista include new tools that can warn you of impending hardware failures long before you have lost any important personal data. And, all Windows Vista editions include parental control features that allow you to manage and monitor your family's use of games, the Internet, instant messaging, and other activities.

Preloaded Software
Includes Microsoft Works, Symantec Norton Internet Security 2007 (with 60 days of Live Update), Roxio Creator, DVD Play, and HP Total Care Advisor.

Dimensions & Weight
This desktop measures 7.15 x 16.25 x 15.4 inches (WxDxH) and weighs approximately 24 pounds.