IBM NetVista A40

WHAT'S HOT: The NetVista A40 comes in a smart desktop case that can also rest on its side as a minitower (and is available in any color you want, as long as it's black). It offers a network interface coupled with IBM's Universal Manageability tools (which provide a range of remote-administration features, such as remote auditing of components, and chassis-intrusion alarms) a case lock, and other security features (including boot and password protections)--an excellent selection of corporate features.

WHAT'S NOT: The Pentium III-800EB inside earned only a lackluster PC WorldBench score of 145--4 points below the average for similarly-configured system running Windows 98 SE, though that difference shouldn't be noticeable in everyday use. This NetVista A40 lacks a reset button and includes only a quick-reference manual with basic system information. Although the system has four empty PCI slots, you can use only the two that are located on a riser card, and only short PCI cards will fit. You can't use the AGP slot on the motherboard at all.

WHAT ELSE: Thanks to two switches on the sides, the case pops off (and goes back on) easily. The IBM G76 17-inch monitor displayed deep, rich colors, with crisp text that blurred only at the highest resolution of 1600 by 1200. Integrated video, audio, and speakers provide acceptable (albeit somewhat tinny) performance for office environments, but the NetVista A40 won't make the grade as a multimedia system.

BEST USE: The high-end features of this $1889 NetVista will appeal to corporate users, but the limited expansion options may discourage some.

SUMMARY

IBM NetVista A40 PC WorldBench 2000 score of 145, PIII-800EB CPU, 256KB of L2 cache, 128MB of SDRAM, Windows 98 SE, 20GB hard drive, 10X-24X CD-ROM drive, integrated Intel 815e graphics, IBM G76 17-inch monitor, integrated Intel 815e sound, integrated speakers, Lotus SmartSuite 2000, Lotus Notes client, desktop case, three-year parts warranty, one-year labor warranty, free unlimited 24-hour tech support $1889 888/746-7426 www.ibm.com