Shuttle G5 8300h

Shuttle's G5 8300h desktop computer is great for those looking for a small system for a desk but don't want to sacrifice performance or expansion by getting a notebook computer.

2/20/05 - Shuttle has been a major manufacturer of small form factor kits for consumers, but many people would rather buy a completed system than building it themselves. Because of this, Shuttle now sells completed systems based on their XPC line of small form factor kits.

The G5 G8300h is based on the SB83G5 kit . It is powered by an Intel Pentium 4 540 (3.0GHz) processor that allows it to perform no different than any standard sized desktop system. It is matched up with 512MB of PC3200 DDR memory. Since it is a smaller system, the number of memory slots is limited for expansion.

Storage on the G5 8300h is a bit below average. It uses a smaller 80GB Serial ATA hard drive and a 52x CD-RW combo drive. Since there is room for only a single CD/DVD drive, it is advisable that users who wish to have a DVD burner in the system to upgrade to it at the time of purchase. With the low cost for even the 16x DVD burners, it would be nice to see it as a standard item.

Graphics on the G5 8300h are average for the mainstream segment now. It uses the Intel GMA 900 integrated graphics controller that works well for standard graphics but leaves much to be desired for 3D applications such as games. Thankfully, the SB8300h still has enough room for a single PCI Express x16 slot to add in a dedicated graphics card.

Overall, the Shuttle G5 8300h is a great choice for those who want desktop PC performance in a small package.