Compact Desktop

robert_harper_2000

Hello Everyone!

I would like advice on getting a very compact desktop. It is to help us run our shop so it cannot be a laptop as customers would poke the screen, bird seed would get in the keys and most likely get nicked!

Our current s l o w one is one which is longer rather than the standard towers. It is just abit slow with running applications.

I guess I could upgrade? How could I find the specs on the computer to get advice on what needs upgrading if it is the RAM or the processor?

Cheers

wakandem

If your pc is more than 4 to 5 years old then replace it. If there are files on the system relating to the business you need a reliable system. Your best bet is to get a basic pc like one of these.
http://www1.euro.dell.com/content/products/features.aspx/desktops_good?c=uk&cs=ukdhs1&l=en&s=dhs&redirect=1

robert_harper_2000

I need two ethernet cards I think as I have broadband and my scales are linked to my computer.... how could I check I could add ethernet cards/?

f1charlie

The Dell Vostro range may be more suitable for you, especially the 200 ST (slim desktop):

http://www.dmxdimension.com/blogcategory/dell_vostro_deal_comparison.html

However I can't see where it tells you about spare PCI slots.

Hah, found the manual for the slimline model - it has two PCI slots:

http://support.euro.dell.com/support/edocs/systems/vos200/en/slim_tower/om_en/html/index.htm

Find manuals for other models here.

Having thought about it, when you spec the machine, if it gives you the option of adding a firewire card, then (assuming you don't need a firewire card) there must be at least one spare slot.

robert_harper_2000

nice one thanks!

chaucer

apart from space saving / appearance on the plus side

what are the drawbacks (and are they so big that most people still don't buy them) of slim towers?