The Bottom Line
- 1GB System Memory
- Good Software Bundle
- Lightscribe Compatible Drive
- Lacks Dedicated Graphics
- Lightscribe Feature Requires Compatible Media
Description
- Intel Pentium 4 540 (3.2GHz, 1MB) Processor
- 1GB PC3200 DDR Memory
- 250GB 7,200rpm SerialATA Hard Drive
- 16x DDVD+/-RW Lightscribe Burner and 48x CD-ROM Drives
- Intel High Definition Audio
- Intel GMA 900 Integrated Graphics Processor
- v.92 56Kbps Modem and 10/100 Ethernet
- Seven USB 2.0, Two FireWire and 9-in-1 Media Reader
- One PCIe 16x and Three PCI Slots
- Windows XP Home, MS Works 8, NAV 2005, MS Money, WinDVD, iTunes, RecordNow
Guide Review - HP Pavilion a830n
2/19/05 - HP's Pavilion a830n is definitely a standout system when it comes to mainstream desktop. The reason for this is that the system comes standard with 1GB of PC3200 DDR memory, double what other systems in the same price range offer. This matches well with the very strong Pentium 4 540 (3.2GHz) processor that allows it to do even the most intensive tasks of digital video editing.
To compliment the a830n's strong computing power, HP includs a very sizable 250GB Serial ATA hard drive. This expands on its already good profile for being used as a desktop video platform. Add into this the 16x DVD+/-R burner with Lightscribe and the system becomes almost ideal. Lightscribe allows for custom labels on compatible media, but that media is slower than traditional DVD+R discs the drive is also capable of using.
Graphics is the one area that the a830n could use some improvement. It uses the integrated Intel GMA 900 for graphics. This is perfectly acceptable for basic graphics work, but leaves much to be desired when it comes to 3D graphics. Thankfully, the a830n does come equipped with a 16x PCI Express slot for future upgrades.
Rounding out the Pavilion a830n is a very strong software bundle. Most of the applications that the average user should require are included with the system. All of this adds up to make the Pavilion a830n one of the top choices currently for the mainstream market. It still has its flaws with the graphics, but they can be overcome.
