Zt Systems Affinity 7310Mi-40 Budget Desktop PC

Apr 30 2009 - The Zt Systems Affinity 7310Mi-40 is a good mix of performance for its price that will appeal to those looking for a solid performing system on a budget. The quad core processor combined with 4GB of memory allow it to breeze through most tasks and even multitask with little problem. The large one terabyte hard drive will also provide plenty of space for those that have lots of media files. The biggest downside is that the smaller power supply will prevent those thinking about doing some graphics upgrades for gaming.

Apr 30 2009 - With Intel's release of the Core 2 Quad Q8300 quad core processor, higher performance systems desktops for multitasking are available for much less. This new low cost processor from Intel provides the Zt Systems Affinity 7310Mi-40 to have some very strong performance for a low cost desktop. Much of this is helped from the 4GB of DDR2 memory that allows Vista to run smoothly even with multiple applications open.

One of the biggest features on the Affinity 7310Mi-40 is the storage. Many companies are sticking with smaller less expensive 500GB hard drives for their budget desktops. Zt Systems includes a large one terabyte hard drive that allows for plenty of space for programs and media files. A dual layer DVD burner is included for reading or recording CDs and DVDs. The system also comes with a built-in 19-in-1 card reader for reading the most common types of flash memory for peripherals.

The Zt Affinity 7310Mi-40 uses an integrated NVIDIA GeForce graphics processor. This provides it with slightly better graphics performance for 3D graphics but still lacks the ability to be used for even casual gaming. While the graphics do have the ability to handle high definition video streams, output to the monitor might be problematic as it only includes an analog VGA port. Users can install a PCI-Express graphics card into the system but the 300W power supply will prevent any real high performance cards from being installed.

Some might run into problems trying to attach peripherals to the Affinity 7310Mi-40. It comes equipped with only six USB 2.0 ports for external peripherals. It would be nice to see a FireWire or eSATA port be included for use with digital video cameras or high speed external storage.