Compaq Deskpro EN SFF

WHAT'S HOT: A bit larger than a library dictionary, this diminutive system packs all the features to suit a corporate environment--including a Pentium III-1000 processor, management software for remote troubleshooting and software upgrades, chassis intrusion detection, and tool-less access to all components. The beige compact case pops off when you press buttons on each side, and the rest of the PC comes apart just as quickly. The PCI card cage snaps out for easier access to the three empty slots, the drives tilt up and slide out once you flip the appropriate switches, the power supply swings up and out on hinges, and the rear port panel snaps off, allowing you to slide the motherboard out.

WHAT'S NOT: Even with a hefty processor and 256MB of PC133 RAM, this $1533 Windows 98 SE system earned a score of only 159 on our PC WorldBench 2000 tests--6 points lower than the average 1-GHz Windows 98 machine with only 128MB of 133-MHz memory. No business applications are included. There are no open drive bays on the Deskpro EN SFF, and the occupied external bay holds only a 14X-48X CD-ROM drive. The tiny case lacks a reset button. In our latest reader survey, Compaq earned a score of Good for reliability but just Fair for service.

WHAT ELSE: Text on the 17-inch Compaq P710 monitor looked a bit fuzzy during our graphics tests, though colors were bright and rich. The Deskpro EN SFF ships with a nice collection of Compaq manuals--a quick setup booklet, a safety and comfort guide, a getting started guide, and a troubleshooting manual--but they're generic for all systems in the Deskpro EN line. The sturdy Compaq keyboard lets you type smoothly and very quietly; it includes eight extra hot keys for Web and multimedia access.

BEST USE: This PC is an attractive little package for a corporation seeking a space-saving workstation with easy access and desktop management features.

SUMMARY

Compaq Deskpro EN SFF PC WorldBench 2000 score of 159, Pentium III-1000 CPU, 256MB of SDRAM, 256KB L2 cache, Windows 98 SE, 20GB hard drive, 14X-48X CD-ROM drive, integrated graphics, 17-inch monitor, integrated sound, network card, compact case. Three-year parts and labor warranty; free, unlimited, 24-hour toll-free tech support daily. $1533 800/345-1518 www.compaq.com