Dell Desktop Computers for the Home and Small Office

Dell Desktop Computers for the Home and Small Office

by Allyn Perdue

Revised October 6, 2008

This is a summary of Dell's desktop lineup for U.S. Home and Home Office markets and for similar Vostro™ series computers in the Small Business Division. Optiplex™ and Precision™ Workstations are not included.

Processor Options, Hardware Notes including chipset model and vintage, power supply (PSU) maximum output ratings, RAID storage capability, and adapter slot types and quantities.

Computer shoppers should generally configure new computers with at least two gigabytes (2 GB) system memory (RAM) which is now standard with most Intel desktop systems. Avoid configurations of less than 1024 MB (one gigabyte or 1 GB).

Anyone considering frequent multimedia creation such as audio and video editing and large photographic image manipulation should opt for 2 GB or more RAM. The same applies to anyone interested in advanced gaming and simulations.

Avoid Dell extended service contracts with Inspiron and mainstream XPS desktop computers. Such contracts are not worth the money and aggravation dealing with overseas tech support. Instead, invest in learning how to backup your important data.

Dell have discontinued offering Windows XP for most systems. However, surprisingly high demand for Windows XP has convinced Dell to resume offering Windows XP Professional with the Inspiron 530/530s and the XPS 630. Additionally, Windows XP Professional will remain available via downgrade rights with all Dell Small Business Division computers through January 31, 2009.

Dell is now offering Microsoft Windows Vista in 64-bit versions. Shoppers should ensure their third party software is fully 64-bit compatible before committing to 64-bit operating systems. It is important to note that 64-bit Windows is well on its way to becoming the preferred PC operating system by 2010.

The Studio Hybrid Desktop series uses Intel laptop/notebook processors. This trend will spread among other computer manufacturers in response to consumer demand for more compact, space-saving systems. It is likely that Dell will reduce the number of standard desktop processor models in the coming year.

The Inspiron desktop brand is Dell's entry level computer. All Intel equipped models have Intel G33 Express Chipset motherboard technology that support recent technology Intel 45 nanometer "Penryn" family processors. Otherwise, their internals are essentially identical to previous models.

The Dell Inspiron 518 is a "family PC" designed for expandability and value. It is capable of accepting a wide variety of Intel Core Micro-Architecture processors in a low-cost and simplified micro-ATX format case with an attractive piano black finish similar to the custom Sonata series by Antec.

For best performance, shoppers are advised to choose a quad core or dual core processor.

Processor Options:
Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600 or Q9400
Intel Core 2 Duo E7200
Intel Pentium Dual Core E2200

Hardware Notes:
Intel G33 Express Chipset (2007) with integrated Intel GMA 3100 Graphics with VGA connector and 2 GB RAM standard. Features one PCI slot, one PCIe-16 graphics slot, and two PCIe-1 slots. No IDE-PATA connector: SATA and Floppy only. RAID 0,1 capable
PSU: 300 watts.
Inspiron 518 Technical Specs

Allyn's opinion: With the optional Core 2 Quad Q6600 or Q9300 processors, the Inspiron 518 is a very potent computer capable of advanced multimedia operations. However, the Inspiron 518 is not for advanced video games. Presently, the only video card option offered by Dell is the ATI 2400 HD Pro 256 MB.

Gamers on a budget should exercise caution if shopping for an aftermarket video card. The Inspiron 518 lacks a high-capacity power supply and cannot power any video card requiring a six-pin auxiliary power connector without first purchasing a four-pin to six-pin adapter. Power supply replacement/upgrade may be required for optimum performance.

The term "gaming" does not include Solitaire and other card games. Any modern video adapter can handle simple card games.

Be aware that Dell has undertaken major cost-cutting moves. The case for this computer is an example. Though initially highly attractive, it will likely be prone to blemishes and scratches due to its enameled finish.

The Dell Inspiron 519 is now available online in the United States. It should soon appear in retail stores such as Wal-mart, Staples, and Best Buy. The Inspiron 519 features the new AMD RS780 Chipset for top-flight integrated graphics performance, among the best available anywhere without buying an add-on video card.

Processor Options:
AMD Phenom X4 9550 or 9650
AMD Phenom X3 8450 or 8750
AMD Athlon 64 X2 5000+ or 5200+

Hardware Notes:
AMD RS780 Chipset (2008) with integrated ATI Radeon™ 3100 graphics and 2 GB RAM standard. Features one PCIe-16 graphics expansion slot and two PCIe-1 slots.
PSU: 300 watts. No RAID capability.

Allyn's opinion: The Inspiron 519 is a fine mainstream computing solution for the average consumer when using the excellent integrated video (the best currently offered by Dell). The configuration priced at $349 with 2 GB RAM (no monitor) is a superb buy for the money.

The Dell Inspiron 531 and Inspiron 531s AMD-equipped computers are available in limited numbers in retail stores such as Best Buy, Wal-Mart, and Sam's Club. They are also available online in two processor configurations; a basic model with an Athlon 64 X2 4400+ and a mainstream performance configuration with an Athlon 64 X2 5600+.

Hardware Notes:
Nvidia MCP 61 (nForce 430) (2006) with integrated Nvidia 6150 SE graphics. Features one PCIe-16 graphics slot and two PCIe-1 slot. RAID 1 capable.
PSU: 300 watts.

Allyn's opinion: The Inspiron 531/531s are very good to excellent mainstream computing solutions for the average consumer when using the excellent integrated video. But if considering adding a high performance video card, the Inspirons 518, 530, and XPS 420 are better choices.

The Dell Inspiron 530s can be configured with various Intel® Core™ Micro-Architecture processors. For best performance, shoppers are advised to choose a dual core processor. The Celeron 450 in the list below is single core and may not perform satisfactorily with most imaging and security suites or with AOL Software.

Processor Options:
Intel Core 2 Duo E7200 or E8300
Intel Pentium Dual Core E2180 or E2200
Intel Celeron 450 - Celeron is not recommended!

Hardware Notes:
Intel G33 Express Chipset (2007) with integrated Intel GMA 3100 Graphics and 2 GB RAM standard. Features two PCI slots, one PCIe-16 graphics slot, and one PCIe-1 slot. No IDE-PATA connector: SATA and Floppy only. Half-height PCI and PCIe adapters required.
PSU: 250 watts.
Inspiron 530s Technical Specs

Allyn's opinion: The 530s is the space saving version of the 530 and should serve most users well.

The Dell Inspiron 530 is an excellent choice capable of accepting a wide variety of Intel Core Micro-Architecture processors. Except for case color and a wider range of processor options, the 530 is identical to the Dell Vostro 200 Mini Tower computer available via Dell Small Business.

For best performance, shoppers are advised to choose a quad core or dual core processor. The Celeron 430, 440 and 450 are single core with greatly reduced L2 Cache (on-chip memory) and may not perform well with security and/or printer/photo suites installed. Intel Celeron desktop processors are not advised for AOL users under any circumstance.

Processor Options:
Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600, Q8200 or Q9400
Intel Core 2 Duo E7200, E8300 or E8400
Intel Pentium Dual Core E2180 or E2200
Intel Celeron 430, 440 or 450 - Celeron Processors are not recommended.

Hardware Notes:
Intel G33 Express Chipset (2007) with integrated Intel GMA 3100 Graphics and 2 GB RAM standard. Features two PCI slots, one PCIe-16 graphics slot, and one PCIe-1 slot. No IDE-PATA connector: SATA and Floppy only. RAID 0,1 capable
PSU: 300 watts; 350 watts when equipped with Quad Core processors.
Inspiron 530 Technical Specs

Allyn's opinion: With the optional Core 2 Quad Q6600 or Q9300 processors, the Inspiron 530 is a very potent computer capable of advanced multimedia operations.

The Inspiron 530 with dual core processors is not for the most advanced video games. Dual core models come with a 300 watt power supply that lacks appropriate power reserves and cabling. Quad core models feature a 350 watt power supply with a six-pin auxiliary power plug for video cards such as the Nvidia 8800GT. Top tier cards that require more than 80 watts from the power supply when under load should not be used with the Inspiron 530.

The term "gaming" does not include Solitaire and other card games. Any modern video adapter can handle simple card games.

The Dell Studio Desktop family features a new Intel chipset with improved integrated graphics. Highly customizable, this line is a good choice for multimedia shoppers watching their dollars. Processor offerings include high end dual core and quad core models for fast and efficient performance.

The new Dell Studio Desktop and Dell Studio Slim Desktop feature Dell's new black styling and Intel's G45 Express Chipset. These nicely equipped systems are targeted at multimedia and home entertainment aficionados.

Processor Options:
Intel Core 2 Quad Q8200, Q9400 or Q9550
Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600
Intel Core 2 Duo E7200

Hardware Notes:
Intel G45 Express Chipset (2008) with integrated Intel GMA X4500HD Graphics. Features 2 GB RAM, integrated HDMI (standard desktop only), media card reader and 1394 (Firewire) adapter, one PCI slot, one PCIe-16 graphics slot, and two PCIe-1 slots. No IDE-ATAPI or floppy connectors; SATA drives only.
PSU: 350 watts

Allyn's opinion: This new line is targeted to the the lower mainstream multimedia market. It has a power supply limited at 350 watts and lacks drive backup systems such as Dell DataSafe/RAID. In essence, the Studio is a simplified version of the premium priced XPS 420. But it's a very good basic multimedia computer and should do well for many years.

Persons upgrading to this model should be aware that this model does not natively support floppy or IDE-ATAPI drives. A total of four Serial ATA (SATA) hard drives and optical drives in non-RAID configurations are supported.

Dell offers video card upgrades with this model. For best results, stay within the range of Dell options. Buying outside of Dell is possible but users must research power requirements and not exceed 80 watts for a video card at maximum load. Current top-tier aftermarket video cards far exceed that limit and should not be used with the Studio Desktop.

Processor Options:
Intel Core 2 Quad Q8200, Q9400 or Q9550
Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600
Intel Core 2 Duo E7200

Hardware Notes:
Intel G45 Express Chipset (2008) with integrated Intel GMA X4500HD Graphics. Features 2 GB RAM, integrated HDMI and 1394 (Firewire) adapter, eSATA, one PCI slot, one PCIe-16 graphics slot, and two PCIe-1 slots. No IDE-PATA or floppy connectors; SATA drives only.
PSU: 250 watts

Allyn's opinion: This is the slim version of the 540. It features a 250 watt power supply but lacks drive backup systems such as Dell DataSafe/RAID.

Persons upgrading to the 540s should be aware that this model does not natively support floppy or IDE-ATAPI drives. Only Serial ATA (SATA) hard drives and optical drives in non-RAID configurations are supported.

In the past I have not been especially excited about small format computers. This time it's different. The Dell Studio Hybrid Desktop is a superb small format computer that is ideal for the typical home user. It is made possible thanks to major improvements in processor manufacturing technology that have led to low power consumption and cool operation while still yielding high performance.

It's called a Hybrid because the computer is made from laptop components. Everything from the main circuit board to the processor to the mechanical drives; all are from laptop/notebook computers such as the Dell Studio series.

This new line may become Dell's best selling home computer family. Truly, the Studio Hybrid is a remarkable concept. Let's hope its reliability bears that out.

The Dell Studio Hybrid 140g is much smaller than the image above leads one to believe. It is only slightly larger than a CD/DVD drive or an external 3.5 inch hard drive case. Though not capable of advanced gaming, this compact powerhouse is ideal for today's typical lifestyle, taking advantage of the trend away from conventional desktop systems. Additionally, the Studio Hybrid is made largely from recycled materials, helping to make it a truly "green PC" that is friendly to the environment.

For a closer look at interchangeable color options and the Studio Hybrid's remarkable compact features, click here.

Processor options include super efficient dual core Intel "Penryn" T8000 and T9000 series models.

Processor Options:
Intel Core 2 Duo T9500, T9300, or T8100 (T9500 is overpriced.)
Intel Core 2 Duo T5850 or T5750
Intel Pentium Dual Core Duo T2390 (Upgrading to Core 2 Duo T5750 recommended.)

Hardware Notes:
Intel GM965 Mobile Chipset (2007). 2 GB RAM standard. Features Intel GMA X3100 integrated graphics with DVI-D and HDMI connectors (no analog VGA), integrated Gigabit LAN with internal wireless N option, a low-profile CD/DVD RW drive, front and rear panel audio and USB 2.0 ports. Also includes IEE1394b port.
PSU: 65 watts.

Allyn's opinion: Configured with an Intel Core 2 Duo processor and at least 2 GB RAM, the Studio Hybrid should be a fine performer, the right compromise between a full desktop case and a notebook/laptop computer. It is the ideal space saving desktop PC.

Frankly, this new design makes many other "empty" desktop computers obsolete. For a review from PC Magazine, click here.

Dell have numerous business computers that at heart are often very similar to their consumer lines. The main differences are in the lack of pre-installed "nagware" and the addition of comprehensive service plans tuned to small and medium businesses. Oh, yes, price is much higher, even if the components are the same as the consumer systems.

Only one model is currently listed here, the intriguing Vostro 410. It's the only full ATX format system in Dell's inventory with the Intel G33 Express Chipset. It is definitely worth considering as a home multimedia/gaming computer.

Available from the Dell Small Business division, the Dell Vostro 410 Full Tower is a full size, highly customizable ATX format computer. Supplied with a conservatively rated 350 watt power supply, the Vostro 410 as delivered is capable of most anything including most fast action gaming.

Vostro computers do not come with any "bonus" software other than an operating system. This actually improves reliability and decreases the odds of compatibility problems sometimes experienced with Inspiron systems.

Processor Options:
Intel Core 2 Duo E7200 or E8400
Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600, Q9400, or Q9550
Be aware that Dell have grossly overpriced the Q9000 series.

Hardware Notes:
Intel G33 Express Chipset (2007). Features three PCI slots, one PCIe-16 graphics slot, and one PCIe-1 slot. One floppy drive connector. No integrated IDE-PATA connector: SATA only. RAID 1 capable
PSU: 350 watts.
Vostro 410 Technical Specifications

Allyn's opinion: With the optional Core 2 Quad Q6600 or Q9000 series processors, the Vostro 410 is a very potent computer capable of advanced multimedia operations.

Beware of Dell's CPU pricing; Dell wants a ridiculous amount of money for some upgrades.

Gamers should note that this system is not Nvidia SLI or ATI Crossfire capable. However, the Vostro 410 when equipped with the Nvidia 8800GT video adapter is an excellent gaming computer.

Note: The term "gaming" does not include Solitaire and other card games. Any modern video adapter can handle simple card games.

Featuring improved support packages and the latest technology, XPS systems represent the top-of-the-line and are priced appropriately higher than Inspiron models. The XPS 700 series competes against high-end computers such as Alienware (now owned by Dell), Falcon Northwest, and VoodooPC (now owned by Hewlett-Packard), among others. The less expensive XPS 420 is aimed at the mainstream power user. The XPS 630 is squarely aimed at gamers but makes an excellent multimedia computer.

All XPS desktop systems are presently offered with a minimum of two gigabytes (GB) RAM.

The Dell XPS One is an all-in-one computer designed in a similar fashion to the Gateway Profile and new Gateway One series, IBM NetVista, and Apple iMac. The XPS One comes in four variants.

Notes: Intel GMA 3100 integrated graphics is fully certified for Windows Aero. Dell indicates that later processor options include new 45 nm technology "Penryn" processors such as the E7200 and E8200. These new processors run much cooler and can help extend the life of other internal components through better thermal management.

Allyn's opinion: The XPS One should be a fine computer for basic and intermediate multimedia and imaging manipulation tasks. It is not for advanced gaming because of video adapter limitations.

I like the XPS One's service features such as the easily removed rear cover and unblocked access to the hard drive and other components. And the XPS One is certainly convenient and space saving.

The Dell XPS 420 is designed for high performance with variable budgets. The XPS 420 accepts Intel 45 nm "Yorkfield" and "Wolfdale" core processors for high performance and high efficiency.

Processor Options:
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9650
Intel Core 2 Quad Q9450 or Q6600
Intel Core 2 Duo E8500 or E8400

Hardware Notes:
Intel X38 Express Chipset (2007)* RAID 0, RAID 1 with Dell DataSafe capability
PSU: 375 watts or 425 watts, depending upon processor, video card, and other selections.
Dell XPS 420 Technical Specs

Allyn's opinion: Physically, the XPS 420 superficially resembles the Centurion line of quality custom computer cases from CoolerMaster. Very nice.

If spending this much money for a computer, go for a video card upgrade. I advise choosing the AMD-ATI HD 3870 512 MB DDR4 for better all around video performance and superb fast action gaming.

*Special Note: The XPS 420's Intel X38 Express Chipset does not natively support any Parallel ATA/IDE (PATA) devices. All add-on hard disk and optical drives must be Serial ATA (SATA) or an adapter must be used.

The Dell XPS 630 is a highly customizable gaming and multimedia computer offered with Intel quad core and dual core processors. The XPS 630 comes with the ATI Radeon HD3870 video card as base equipment. XPS 630 is offered with Windows XP Professional as an option.

Dell now offers the XPS 630 with 6 GB RAM with Windows Vista 64-bit operating system.

Operating System:
Windows Vista Home Premium 32-bit or 64-bit w/SP1
or
Windows XP Professional (via painless downgrade rights option at order)

Initial Processor Options:
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX6850
Intel Core 2 Quad Q9400 or Q9550
Intel Core 2 Duo E8400 or E8500
Intel Core 2 Quad Q6600

Hardware Notes:
Nvidia nForce 650i Chipset Dell Edition (2007) RAID 0, RAID 1. The nForce 650i Dell Edition offers extensive peripheral options including dual video cards in Nvidia SLI or AMD-ATI Crossfire configurations. It is the most flexible mainstream system offered by Dell. Online reports suggest future desktop models will all be ATX format layouts with non-proprietary parts.
PSU: 750 watts
Dell XPS 630 Technical Specs

Allyn's opinion: The Dell XPS 630 is a highly customizable gaming machine that implores home computer enthusiasts to reconsider building their own computers. Not only made for gaming, when equipped with a quad core processor the XPS 630 is a superb choice for a multimedia center and/or imaging manipulation/video editing system. In sum, the XPS 630 is one of the best computers anywhere at a surprisingly affordable price.

The Nvidia nForce 650i Chipset cannot support Intel "Penryn" family 45 nm Extreme Edition processors. Also, Intel has stopped taking orders for the 65nm QX6850. Unless Dell have reserved a number of of QX6850 processors or plan to offer up to the new Core 2 Quad Q9650, the XPS 630 may be discontinued in the near future.

The Dell XPS 730 features Intel's top of the line 45 nanometer technology "Penryn" family processors for maximum speed and efficiency.

Processor Options:
Intel Core 2 Duo E8400
Intel Core 2 Quad Q9450 and Q9550
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9650 and QX9770

Allyn's opinion: The XPS 730 solves the "Penryn" upgrade issue that unexpectedly plagued the discontinued XPS 720. Now Dell have produced one of the quickest computers available capable of doing anything except travelling. The XPS 730 would make a fine desktop system but is really overkill for most users.

The Dell XPS 730 H2C, Dell's top-of-the-line desktop system, features factory overclocked Intel Core 2 Extreme processors mated with an advanced hybrid Peltier cooling system.

Video adapter options include dual AMD-ATI 3870X2 1024MB video cards
or
Single or dual Nvidia 9800GX2 1024 MB cards. Dual is SLI and effectively yields four (4) GPUs for the fastest game play on the planet!

Processor Options:
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9650 factory overclocked @ 3.67 GHz
Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9770 factory overclocked @ 3.80 GHz

Allyn's opinion: The XPS 730 H2C is the fastest computer for the money a non-builder can buy. Home builders can assemble a similar computer for less money but will be challenged by the cooling requirements to overclock the processor. Dell have nicely customized the XPS 730 H2C if one can afford it.

The XPS 730 series will remain Dell's top of the line through at least November 2008. Intel have announced the QX9650 and QX9770 processors will be discontinued in early 2009.

Alienware of Miami, FL was purchased by Dell a few years ago. Now Dell is finally promoting Alienware as the "gaming boutique" product it is with special cases and typically high end power supplies for most systems.

Look for weekly specials from Dell. Usually, discounts or upgrade promotions are available and are rotated between models. Also, visit DealMeIn.net and other such sites to look for Dell promotions.

RAM stands for Random Access Memory. In computer terminology, memory refers to a quickly accessible temporary storage cache expressed in megabytes or gigabytes. More memory reduces the time required for typical and complex tasks and vastly improves performance of fast action games and image rendering and manipulation applications such as Pinnacle and PhotoShop. Startup and shutdown times are also faster. As a bonus, more system memory reduces the workload of modern hard disk drives by reducing page file access.

System RAM is volatile; at full shutdown or power loss, data in RAM is lost. In certain sleep modes, power to RAM is maintained for quick recovery.

The North American versions of Windows Vista require an absolute minimum of 512 MB system RAM. This configuration is not recommended as the computer will run poorly.

For best overall performance, two GB (2048 MB) or more system RAM should be specified for all new computers regardless of usage or Windows Vista version.

Dell offers a choice between AMD and Intel brand processors (CPUs). Presently, Dell offers consumers AMD desktop processors only with their Inspiron 531 computers. Dell also offers AMD processors with their Small Business Division Optiplex series computers.

Single core desktop processors (CPUs) are out of favor because of their poor handling of antivirus and security suite programs and because of competition from better performing low cost dual core CPUs. Shoppers who choose to purchase systems with single core processors should be aware that Norton Internet Security, McAfee Internet Security, Trend Micro Internet Security, America Online, and some photo and imaging suites will cause significant performance problems with their new budget system. So do think twice before going with single core. I recommend choosing dual or quad core for all new computers.

AMD single core offerings include Sempron and Athlon 64 models (note that Athlon 64 X2 and Athlon X2 are dual core).

Intel single core processors include the Celeron 400 series scheduled for discontinuance in 2009.

Consumers are strongly advised at the minimum to choose a dual core CPU to better handle today's demanding security applications and photo/imaging and printer suites. Entry level dual core CPUs are now very inexpensive on the open market thanks to intense competition between AMD and Intel.

Presently, quad core Intel Core 2 Extreme and Core 2 Quad CPUs dominate the performance charts at the top end. The Intel Core 2 Quad Q9300 is overall the best buy in a high performance processor today. However, the Q9450 is worth the extra money for top-end systems.

AMD manufactures the only triple core CPUs as the Phenom X3. These are only offered with Dell Optiplex business systems.

In the mainstream, AMD and Intel each offer equivalent performing processors. Under heavy loads such as video encoding and/or gaming, Intel Core 2 Duo products are more efficient. But for email, surfing, and basic image manipulation there are no significant differences.

In the lower end, the dual core Athlon 64 X2 4400+ performs nearly equal to the Intel Pentium Dual Core E2200. The Athlon 64 X2 4400+ and the Pentium Dual Core E2200 are suitable for the majority of Sun City residents' needs.

Those who frequently use multimedia and imaging applications should choose at the minimum Intel Core 2 Duo processors. Frequent video editing is best done with a quad-core system.

Note that processor numbering can only be used to compare relative performance within AMD or Intel product lines. The numbers themselves do not reflect processor clock speed but do indicate relative performance within the same brand and series.

65nm indicates older 65 nanometer (65nm) process technology. All others are 45nm.

Within manufacturer, the list is ordered by increasing performance. Be advised that this list currently only applies to Dell Home and Home Office systems. Dell Small Business offer a much larger number of AMD processors via their Optiplex 740 series.

Intel Celeron Processor 450 65nm
Desktop Celeron models are not recommended due to limited L2 Cache RAM and performance.

Intel Core 2 Extreme processors are offered as expensive options ($750+) with the XPS 420, XPS 630, and XPS 730 series computers. These quad-core processors are delivered with unlocked clock multipliers which allow simple performance customization. Dell have taken advantage of this feature to factory-overclock some models with spectacular results.

The hard drive is the permanent storage location for the operating system, programs, and data files such as documents, images, videos, etc. At shutdown, all data in memory is transferred to the hard drive for retrieval at start up.

After processor speed, hard disk drive capacity is the most over-emphasized component of a PC and continues to be confused with system RAM or memory.

Most of us still don't use more than 15 GB of hard drive space. Truthfully, eighty gigabytes (80 GB) is still plenty for the average user. However, storing photos, videos, and music for quick retrieval is much easier with a large capacity drive. Therefore, shoppers should get all they can afford; having excess hard drive space is infinitely preferable to not having enough.

Serious photo buffs should consider a minimum of 250 GB for hard drives and should also consider a RAID 1 configuration for hard drive backup in addition to an external hard drive.

RAID stands for Redundant Array of Independent Drives. It is a special hardware configuration that allows spreading data across multiple hard disk drives.

RAID 0 performance is excellent but it is not redundant at all. Users of RAID 0 must religiously backup their data as all is lost in the event of a single drive failure.

Disclosure: I use RAID 0 with my homebuilt desktop system and have critical data backed up to a separate internal drive, an external drive, and to DVD.

RAID 1 mirrors the other drive(s) and provides full redundancy. However, performance is not as good as RAID 0. RAID 1 does not guarantee data integrity caused by poor security management. It provides hardware redundancy only.

Most Dell motherboards are capable of supporting RAID 0 and RAID 1. While instructions are provided in the owner's manual to enable RAID, it is best to have it preinstalled by Dell as most end users (about 98%) are uncomfortable doing their own RAID configuration.

Dell markets their version of RAID 1 as Dell DataSafe. It is typically combined with a recovery software option such as Symantec/Norton Ghost.

Dell DataSafe Online is offered at no cost with certain hard drive purchases. It is currently free for one year with up to 3 GB online storage for Inspiron models and up to 10 GB for XPS computers.

For those who wish to continue using floppy diskettes, internal drives are still available or external USB drives may be purchased for up to $50.

The recommended minimum drive is the 16x DVD/RW model with dual-layer, dual format capability which can also write to CD disks. A second drive is advised for those planning to do frequent copying and/or duplication.

High definition Blu Ray disk drives are becoming more popular but they are still quite expensive. Now that the HD/Blu Ray format war has declared Blu Ray the winner, expect Blu Ray options to proliferate as the technology is licensed to more manufacturers and prices fall as the technology matures.

Today's flat-panel LCD monitors have become the preferred choice of many because of their power-efficient, space-saving designs. Buyers should thoroughly read included instructions for setup and maintenance; the screens are pliable and sensitive to pressure.

Dell Ultra-Sharp monitors have added DVI-D connectors and convenient side-mounted USB ports. The DVI-D interface facilitates a sharper image at native resolution (1280x1024 for 19" and most 17" displays) by eliminating analog-to-digital conversion and digital-to-analog conversion stages from the video adapter to the monitor. An add-in video card with a DVI-D connector is required to take advantage of this feature (All Dell-supplied video cards have a DVI-D connector). A DVI-D cable is supplied with Ultra-Sharp monitors.

Widescreen LCD monitors are becoming popular because of today's intense interest in digital media. Their aspect ratio of 16:9 is ideal for viewing movies and for editing video.

There is a drawback to this shape: with smaller sizes of 19" and less, there is little vertical image (actually less than a 17" LCD) for working on documents which means more scrolling. For that reason, the best results with a wide-screen monitor will come from 22" and larger sizes. Prices have recently dropped making the 22" models more attractive.

This author still uses a 4:3 ratio 20" Dell 2001FP. It's wide enough for an acceptable movie experience yet tall enough for easy document work and Internet surfing.

Graphics adapters create what we see on computer monitors. To enjoy a more intense, immersive experience, more powerful hardware is required, especially for the full feature-set of the next Microsoft operating system, Windows Vista.

This section only describes graphics adapters available from Dell at initial system order. A world of video upgrades may be found at NewEgg and other online retailers as well as stores such as CompUSA and Best Buy.

Staples is not a good source for high-performance video cards as there is not a significant stock and what is offered is not competitively priced.

Add-on video cards are typically reviewed and tested with gaming benchmarks to determine relative performance. The faster cards are able to process movement and scenery changes significantly better than integrated or base offerings in the Inspiron and XPS 420 computers. XPS 630 and XPS 730 series computers come with gaming cards as standard with the option to upgrade to the best available.

The integrated graphics offered with Inspiron systems and with the Studio Hybrid are perfectly capable of handling basic games such as Spider Solitaire and Hardwood Spades.

Advanced games and simulations such as Oblivion, Far Cry, Flight Simulator 2004, and Flight Simulator X at the minimum require mid-range add-on cards such as the AMD-ATI HD 3650 256 MB. Fans of Crysis should consider the AMD-ATI HD 3870 512 MB GDDR4 at the minimum.

Inspiron 531 models come with decent performing Nvidia GeForce 6150 series integrated graphics.

Inspiron 530 and 530s feature Intel GMA 3100 graphics. The 530 can accept a video card upgrade; the 530s accepts only half-height adapters for upgrading.

The Studio Hybrid 140g features Intel GMA X3100 integrated graphics that can not be upgraded.

The XPS 420, XPS 630, and XPS 730 series require add-in cards because they do not have integrated graphics.

AMD-ATI RADEON X1300 - This is a lower end 128 MB adapter. It is is ideal for meeting the Windows Vista Premium Ready PC specification without impacting system RAM. Offered with Dell Inspiron 53ns slimline systems.

AMD-ATI HD 2400 PRO 128 MB - A low-end adapter offered as the base for several models.

AMD-ATI HD 2400 PRO 256 MB - A low-end adapter offered as the base for several models.

AMD-ATI HD 2600 XT 256 MB - A mid-range adapter offered as the base for several models.

AMD-ATI HD 3650 256 MB - A good midrange video card from AMD. A good choice for casual gamers.

AMD-ATI HD 3870 512 MB GDDR4 - Excellent high performance value! An excellent high performance card for video game buffs.

AMD-ATI HD 3870x2 - The latest from AMD-ATI, this is possibly the fastest video card available for SLI configurations such as that found in the new XPS 730 H2C. Very expensive!

Nvidia 8800 GT 512 MB - This is an excellent video adapter offered only with the Vostro 410. The 8800GT is being phased out.

Nvidia 9800 GT 512 MB - Nvidia's new high performance value video card. Offered by Dell in single and Scalable Link Interface (SLI) configurations.

Nvidia 9800 GX2 - Nvidia's new top-of-the line offering. Designed for increased power efficiency, this is by a small margin perhaps the best available. Top end XPS gaming computers can handle two of these cards in Scalable Link Interface (SLI) mode. Upgrade pricing for SLI configuration is around $1200, the cost of an entire high-performance mainstream computer system!

Dell computers no longer include parallel printer ports as standard equipment. Be sure to check your current printer for USB compatibility.

Dell is presently promoting free shipping of all of their home office computers when ordered online. Small Business Division typically charges $29.99 for 3-5 day shipping.

All Dell Home and Home Office desktops are fully compatible with all versions of Windows Vista when equipped with at least 1 GB RAM. For best results, shoppers are advised to choose 2 GB RAM and to select a dual-core processor for improved performance and maximum compatibility with future software releases.

To see Dell's full offering of Home and Home Office desktop computers, click here.

The author and/or SCHHCC are not responsible for errors. Data is believed to be accurate as of 10/06/2008.