MidWest Micro Business Solution XPP-550

MidWest Micro Business Solution XPP-550

SUMMARY

PRO: Easy-open case, includes Iomega Zip drive CON: Soft keyboard, generic system manual

Running Windows NT and shipped with MS Office 97 Small Business Edition, the MidWest Micro Business Solution XPP-550 lives up to its corporate-focused name. A PC WorldBench score of 300 places this PC among the fastest we've tested.

The easy-to-open case uses sliding locks instead of screws to provide entry from both sides. The interior's not roomy, but good hardware fills the slots, including an ATI Rage 128 graphics board, a Sound Blaster PCI128 sound card, a 3Com WinModem, and a network card. Outside the box, Altec Lansing's ADA 305 speakers-and-subwoofer set provides excellent sound; you can also connect the speakers to the USB port to gain access to enhanced on-screen digital controls.

However, we do have a few minor complaints about the system's hardware. The 17-inch KDS-7316 monitor couldn't operate at the maximum resolution the video card could provide (1600 by 1200), though text and images remained sharp at lower resolutions. The Business Solution XPP-550 includes an Iomega Zip drive, but its placement right below the floppy drive means you'll have to pay closer attention when you insert either variety of disk. The system also comes with a Microsoft Intellimouse, but the somewhat flexible keyboard's keys are mushy.

MidWest Micro ships the XPP-550 with a generic system manual that provides a decent level of detail and includes a glossary of computing terms. The company offers a five-year warranty on the processor and memory, and a three-year warranty that covers remaining parts as well as any labor charges.