IBM IBM ThinkCentre A50p P4 2.80GHz, 256MB, 120GB, CD-RW/DVD-ROM Combination, WXP Home, 10/100 Ethernet, 128MBATI RADEON 9600 (IBM-8194E6U)

WHAT'S HOT: The ThinkCentre A50p is the first system we've seen with IBM's new ThinkCentre styling, including a utilitarian black case raked toward the back and a handle grip at the top front to make it easier to move from desk to desk. It's approximately the size of a minitower (the handle adds about another inch to its height). If you plan to put the case on the floor, you'll appreciate the way IBM has tilted the drive cages toward the back, letting you more easily access the CD-RW and floppy drives.

The ThinkCentre series is designed for large offices. Management features in this unit include both Wake-on-LAN and IBM's own Director software, which allows an administrator to remotely manage the PC--disabling serial, parallel, and USB ports, for example. Other tools include IBM's Embedded Security Subsystem 2.0, which encrypts and decrypts data on the hard disk, and Rapid Restore Ultra, which restores a system to its original state with the press of a button. Additionally, ImageUltra, another IBM utility, helps IS managers deploy customized drive images system-wide--a potential time-saver when rolling out the A50p to users who need different sets of applications.

We saw impressive text quality from the 17-inch IBM ThinkVision L170 LCD monitor bundled with this unit. On test screens, text was sharp and easy to read at all sizes. In our tests using both photo screens and a DVD movie, however, we saw slightly dark and muted colors. But the panel swivels easily and is height adjustable.

We appreciated the direct access to the hard drive--you don't need to take off a side or top panel. IBM claims it is the first tool-less hard drive bay. To remove the drive, you push a button on the back of the PC that releases the front panel; squeeze two latches to swing open the bay where the drive is mounted; then, finally, squeeze two plastic tabs to release the drive caddy. The caddy slides out reasonably easily, although a plastic strap for tugging the drive is flimsy and actually broke during one drive extraction. Still, the whole process is a breeze compared to systems that require removing panels and undoing screws, and would be a real benefit for companies that want to secure their data overnight or when moving PCs.