Dell Dimension XPS Desktop (Dell-DXPSRH)

Minor nips and tucks to the Dimension XPS's sturdy case include a new (and less awkward) way to access the system's interior. Instead of pressing oval latches on the top and underside of the case (as with old-style Dimensions), you use only one large latch (which nicely fits your palm) on the side panel. Once you move the latch, you can open the case like a book. The well-conceived design merges the front of the case and the drives into the opening side panel, allowing easier access to the drives and bays as well as providing more room to access system memory and the expansion slots.

WHAT'S NOT: In a tower this large, we expected to have more expansion options. Our review unit had room for just two extra drives (one of which must be a hard drive.) And although this system is already loaded, only one PCI slot is free, which means you'll have to think hard about what you may want to add. Finally, gamers take note: Dell locks some BIOS settings so that the processor can't be overclocked. It's necessary to prevent overheating and damage to the CPU, the company says.

WHAT ELSE: For connecting USB devices, the Dimension XPS has an impressive total of ten USB 2.0 ports--two up front behind a door located on the top portion of the front panel, and eight on the back of the case. The PC also has one FireWire port up front and three (included with the Movie Studio Plus add-in) in back, for connecting compatible digital camcorders, hard drives, or other high-speed devices. Movie Studio Plus also includes a breakout box that gives you the connections you need to convert analog video to digital or vice versa.

Dell's documentation includes a setup poster and system-specific user manuals filled with helpful tips for troubleshooting and system upgrades. The keyboard has eight hot-keys, plus a separate bank of controls for adjusting volume settings and navigating CD and DVD tracks. The bundled software sticks pretty much to home office applications, including Windows Office XP Small Business Edition, as well as Britannica 2003 and Roxio VideoWave Movie Creator for video authoring, but no preloaded games--somewhat surprising in a gaming-oriented PC.

UPSHOT: This snazzy-looking XPS has plenty of multimedia muscle for gaming and movies. But you'll have to supply your own games.