WHAT'S HOT: The latest model in NuTrend's high-performance Ultra 2 line, our test system was built around an Athlon-1400 processor and 256MB of 266-MHz DDR memory. Running Windows 2000, it earned a score of 233 on our PC WorldBench 2000 tests--about average for similarly configured PCs and noticeably faster than other systems. Users of digital cameras or camcorders will appreciate the handy IEEE 1394 (FireWire) add-in card and its three IEEE 1394 ports. The 19-inch ADi MicroScan G66 monitor displayed our test images in bright, rich colors, and text remained legible up to the maximum resolution of 1600 by 1200.

WHAT'S NOT: We rated NuTrend's tech support only Fair in our recent anonymous calls. Its representatives sometimes answered our questions vaguely. Accessing the interior of the case is more difficult than opening the cases of other PCs--it entails removing two screws with a screwdriver.

WHAT ELSE: The Athlon Ultra 2 has a Leadtek WinFast GeForce3 graphics board with 64MB of RAM for fast, smooth video. The 16X/10X/40X CD-RW drive offers speedy backups and quick burns of audio CDs, and a 16X DVD-ROM drive lets you watch movies. Inside the standard beige NuTrend midsize tower, cables are neatly bundled and taped to the side, providing clear pathways for upgrades. Only one PCI slot is open for expansion, but one internal drive bay and two externally accessible drive bays are free. A Microsoft Internet Keyboard with ten Web and multimedia buttons allows crisp and quiet typing. Both a modem and a network adapter provide connectivity. Documentation and software (including WordPerfect Office 2002) come packaged in a color-coded binder. Documentation includes a setup poster, manuals for individual components (except the monitor), and a profusely illustrated overall manual with general information on troubleshooting and upgrading.

UPSHOT: This Athlon Ultra 2 offers enough performance and ports for anyone who wants a fast, all-purpose machine.

SUMMARY

NuTrend Athlon Ultra 2 PC WorldBench 2000 score of 233, Athlon-1400 CPU, 256MB of DDR SDRAM, 256KB L2 cache, Windows 2000, 80GB hard drive, 16X DVD-ROM drive, 16X/10X/40X CD-RW drive, Leadtek WinFast GeForce3 graphics card with 64MB of DDR SDRAM, 19-inch ADI MicroScan G66 monitor, Creative Labs Sound Blaster Live sound card, Creative Cambridge SoundWorks Digital speakers, V.90 modem, network card, midsize tower case, WordPerfect Office 2002. Three-year parts warranty, lifetime labor warranty; free 9-hour weekday tech support. $1699 888/482-6678 www.nutrend.com