HP Compaq dc7800 Small Form Facto

[pa06has]

Product Reviews

Desktop computers

HP Compaq dc7800 Small Form Factor [PC Pro]

 

 

 

Verdict: Excellent performance and fine design make this a good, if slightly pricey, business PC.

 

HP has a strong track record when it comes to business PCs. Well-built, cleverly designed systems with keen prices, such as the dc7700 (web ID: 104794), perform the tricky task of keeping users, IT administrators and accountants happy. The dc7800 range replaces the dc7700 and, as before, splits the desktops into three units: the Small Form Factor (SFF), the Ultra Slim and a larger desktop-sized unit.

 

Every PC in the dc7800 range, except those with Celeron processors, is compliant with Intel's vPro platform. This is a double-edged sword: while system administrators will appreciate the kind of remote access, diagnostic and troubleshooting vPro allows, the system requirements for the badge - a Core 2 Duo, Intel's Q35 chipset and Intel Gigabit Ethernet - are reflected in the price.

 

The dc7800 SFF is a good example. In our application benchmarks, it scored 1.21, courtesy of 1GB of RAM and a 2.66GHz E6750. It's a fine result, and one that makes this configuration (part code GV965ET) suitable for intensive applications such as media handling. But it's a gratuitous amount of power if all you need is a system for tapping out emails and gentle web browsing.

 

With dimensions of 340 x 390 x 105mm (WDH), it's perfect for hiding away under a desk. But, unlike the Ultra Slim, it's built entirely from desktop-sized components. This is a clear benefit when it comes to replacing parts, with desktop components easier to handle and cheaper than their laptop equivalents.

 

The hard disk, for instance, is a standard 3.5in model. The 160GB capacity is practical for Vista and a comprehensive application library, plus a healthy smattering of after-hours music. The three hard disk options range from 60GB through to 250GB.

 

There's similar flexibility when it comes to the core components. While the model we looked at comes with a Core 2 Duo processor, those with more modest performance demands will be happy with the bottom-of-the-line Celeron 420 version. But the systems available "off the peg" all have Core 2 Duo CPUs

 

It's all housed in a well-designed chassis. Push the two buttons on opposite sides of the case simultaneously and the lid pops off, although there's a padlock lug at the back to prevent illicit access. Everything is neatly put together, with most component replacements a mere five-minute job. It isn't entirely tool-less, but even relatively advanced tasks such as installing a PCI card or exchanging the hard disk don't require a screwdriver.

 

There's even some upgrade potential, with a spare PCI slot, as well as a spare 16x PCI Express slot for adding a half-height card later, and a pair of PCI Express 1x slots. Two of the four DIMM slots are spare, too, and there's even a free 3.5in drive bay. A spare SATA port on the motherboard allows for another hard disk here, although the slot has a removable faceplate, so you could install a floppy drive instead. There aren't any spare USB headers, with the only header on the board connected to a 1GB ReadyBoost module, rather clumsily secured to the inside of the chassis with Velcro.

 

On the sysadmin front, there's an ultra-configurable BIOS. It's quick and easy to navigate, with plenty of options to control who can do what to the system. Those with security concerns can lock out some or all of the USB ports, as the supplied keyboard and mouse are PS/2 models. Those with environmental concerns, on the other hand, can specify a startup time for the system, so you can have it springing into life in the morning, five minutes before your staff arrive.

 

Security is bolstered further by the inclusion of a TPM 1.2 chip. No fingerprint option is available, but HP's credential manager prompts you to securely store network and internet passwords when you first enter them. Then, once you've logged on to your PC, you won't need to enter any more passwords until the system is locked again.

 

So should a small business opt for a fleet of small form factor dc7800s? The size and design of the system is undeniably attractive and, if your current budget is being swallowed by complex visits from tech support, you'd do well to consider vPro systems. The dc7800 range, in particular, has some strong benefits, not least its performance and the fact that HP won a Highly Commended award in the last PC Pro Reliability & Service survey.

 

But while the SFF has some clear upsides, there's tough competition. The Fujitsu Siemens Esprimo E5916 is some £62 cheaper, for instance. For that money, the HP admittedly delivers a faster Core 2 Duo and 512MB more RAM, yet chassis accessibility is about the same. Before you buy, though, check with HP - or your preferred retailer - for a specification of the dc7800 SFF that better meets your budget.

 

SPECIFICATIONS:

2.66GHz Intel Core 2 Duo E6750 1GB 667MHz DDR2 RAM custom HP motherboard 60GB Seagate hard disk Intel GMA X3100 graphics SoundMAX Integrated Digital HD audio dual-layer DVD writer D-SUB out 8 x USB parallel port COM port 2 x PS/2 Gigabit Ethernet TPM 1.2 1GB ReadyBoost Windows Vista Business Edition 3yr on-site warranty 340 x 390 x 105mm (WDH)

 

Grab yourself a bargain

[pa06has]

heres the pic

[pa06has]

Just realised that i can get these even cheaper! They RRP at £550. inc vat ,but i can get them for £330.00

 

any takers?

[michael]

I found them for that earlier but didn't want to mention it on your "grab yourself a bargain" post

[pa06has]

thanks mikey!

[michael]

I'm in the market for a PC at the moment but it would have to be a tower I think.

[pa06has]

fair enuf! if i get a couple of interests it may be cheaper! if ur interested!

[pa06has]

BUMP - £300 need to get rid asap!