If you're tired of desktop computers that take up most of your desk, check out HP's Pavilion Slimline s7200 series. At a third the size of a traditional tower PC, the Slimline series has an extremely small footprint and is easily ported from one location to another, making it a great system for a college student or second system for a non-traditional location such as a kitchen or bedroom.

They're not the most powerful of systems, but the processor and memory are adequate for most home computing tasks. The s7220 flagship model of the line ships with a 1.5GHz Intel Celeron M 370 processor and 512MB of DDR2 memory. They're not the most upgradeable of systems either, as there's only one memory slot--if you want more RAM, you'll have to buy a larger module to replace the 512MB of default memory. Luckily, those specs work fine for Web browsing and most application use.

We say "most" application use because the Slimline features integrated graphics, which limits its 3D gaming potential. These graphics share memory with the main system RAM, so some of today's latest games may run slowly or not at all on this PC.

The rest of the system's components, however, are top-of-the-line. That includes the massive 200GB 7,200rpm hard drive, which provides loads of storage space for multimedia files and application installations.

Even more impressive is the 16X DVD+/-RW double layer drive with LightScribe technology. This drive can burn to both traditional DVD+/-R media as well as the new double layer media that can house up to four hours of video or 8.5GB of data on a single disk. LightScribe technology allows you to etch professional quality monochrome labels on the surface of compatible disks--just turn them upside down in the tray and the drive's laser burns in the label. Double layer and LightScribe media is still a bit more expensive than typical DVD disks, but the prices are coming down nicely, making them affordable to use.

The small silver chassis of the Slimline is one of the tiniest cases we've seen this side of an all-in-one. Measuring a little over four inches wide and less than 10 inches tall, it fits easily in the corner of a desk or on a kitchen counter. HP has included a good amount of connectivity ports on the Slimline: there's a USB 2.0 port on the front for easy hookup of a digital camera with a Firewire and four more USB ports on the rear of the system.

There's no floppy drive, but HP replaced it with a 9-in-1 media card reader, letting you pop in your CompactFlash, Smart Media, Secure Digital, Memory Stick, or other multimedia card from your PDA or digital camera and transfer files and photos onto the Slimline quickly.

The lack of expandability isn't limited to just the memory. All of the slots and bays in the tiny tower are already taken up, so you won't be able to add any new components without removing some of the current ones. Like the graphics, audio is also integrated, but the high definition sound supports up to eight speakers.

HP includes both a modem and a built-in network interface so you can hook the Slimline up to the Web via a dial-up or a broadband service provider. It can also be connected to a home network, although if you want it connected wirelessly, you'll have to spring for a USB adapter (HP offers a Linksys model for $50).

There's no monitor paired with the Slimline, so that's another cost to add on to the system. HP offers some appropriately slim LCD models in matching silver. The 15-inch LCD runs for $230 after a current rebate, while the 17-inch model is easier on the eyes and costs $280.

HP bundles a good selection of software with the Slimline, including Microsoft Works 8 to let you bring documents home from your office, Microsoft Money Standard and Quicken 2005 financial software, and their own Image Zone for editing and sharing digital photos.

There's a one-year limited warranty on the Slimline series, which includes toll-free 24/7 tech support as well as replacement parts shipped via next-day air if needed. You can extend the coverage for more peace of mind. Two years is an additional $100 while bumping it up to three adds $150 to the price tag.

Input devices match the silver color scheme of the Slimline chassis nicely and feature an HP multimedia keyboard with programmable hotkeys although the mouse is non-optical. You can upgrade to the HP Wireless Keyboard and Mouse combo for $50, with the cordless freedom especially useful if you are going to use the Slimline in a non-standard location.

Even without the monitor and the very limited expansion room, the HP Pavilion Slimline s7200 series is appealing both in terms of size and price. If you need a tiny system that offers decent performance and some great multimedia components, the Slimline is a great one to carry home.

Pro: Very tiny, large hard drive and cutting-edge DVD burner
Con: Limited expandability, no monitor

FOR MORE INFORMATION
Hewlett-Packard
3000 Hanover Street
Palo Alto, CA 94304-1185
650-857-1501
http://www.hp.com

Warranty
1-year limited