The Bottom Line
- Dual Core Processor
- Full Gigabyte of Memory
- Includes Monitor
- Smaller Hard Drive
- Lacks FireWire
- No Productivity Software
Description
- Intel Pentium D 820 (2.8GHz) Dual Core Processor
- One Gigabyte PC2-5300 DDR2 Memory
- Seagate 120GB 7200rpm SATA Hard Drive with 8MB Cache
- Sony 16x DVD+/-RW Dual Layer Burner
- Intel High Definition 5.1 Audio with Creative SBS260 Speakers
- Intel GMA 900 Integrated Graphics with 128MB Shared Memory
- Intel Gigabit Ethernet
- 17" Avidav LCD Monitor
- Eight USB 2.0 Ports
- Windows XP Professional x64
Guide Review - Polywell Poly 945GX
8/25/05 – Unlike most mainstream desktop computer systems, the Poly 945GX system is based around the new Intel Pentium D 820 processor. While this has a slower clock speed, the dual core processor allows the system to do extremely well in multithreaded applications or with multitasking. This processor is matched up with a full gigabyte of PC2-5300 DDR2 memory to give it enough to run through even memory intensive applications.
Storage for the Poly 945GX is a bit below average for the mainstream desktop market. The 120GB Seagate hard drive still performs quite well, but it is definitely smaller than average for computers in this price segment. The Sony 16x DVD+/-RW dual layer burner allows the system to create music, movie or data CDs and DVDs. It does lack a digital memory card reader that is found in most other mainstream desktops.
Graphics are average for the 945GX. Like most other systems, it uses the Intel GMA 900 integrated graphics processor. This is fine for most 2D and the basic 3D applications but lacks the power for 3D gaming. Thankfully, the system does have a 16x PCI Express graphics slot for future expansion. The system also comes with a 17” LCD monitor, something often left out of most computer systems.
Another surprise for the Poly 945GX is the inclusion of the Windows XP x64 Professional operating system. This gives the system a 64-bit operating system even if there is a lack of 64-bit applications.
