If you are searching for a sleek-looking PC that fits in a small space, or if you need a compact sized Home Theatre PC (HTPC), then the Acer Aspire R3610 may be for you.
The specs for this device are:
- Intel Atom 330 / 1.6 GHz – Dual Core, 64-bit Processor
- 2 GB or 4GB, DDR 2 SDRAM
- 250 GB or 500 GB
- Wired Gigabit LAN and Wireless N Networking
- Video: 1GB (Shared), NVIDIA Ion – HDMI or VGA
- eSATA Port, 6 USB Ports
- Multi-in-One Card Reader, Wireless Keyboard and Mouse
- SPDIF Optical Out
I’ve used this compact PC myself as a HTPC and I have also seen it practically used in a teaching environment. The foremost benefit of this PC is its size and the fact that it comes with Windows 7 Home Premium installed on it. The dimensions for this machine are 19 cm x 19cm (5.5 inches both ways) and is an inch deep. That can help when you don’t want a bulky-looking PC in your home or your office. The bundling of Windows 7 gives you the flexibility of a newer OS (compared to Windows XP or Vista) and supports the feeling that you have updated hardware and drivers. The HDMI output is great for hooking up with HDTVs as you don’t need separate input and output cables for the audio.
The main issue I have with this PC is that it is underpowered. Playing a simple YouTube video can be a chore for this machine. I’ve had flash video on YouTube slow down or just simply freeze. HD video is totally out of the question. I bought this PC with the intention of making it my complete HTPC solution, but this device cannot handle HD videos. I have also tried gaming, but this PC is just too underpowered.
As I mentioned, I’ve seen this PC work great in a classroom setting where it was hooked to a projector using the HDMI connection. The wireless keyboard and mouse make a great addition and allow for more flexibility in terms of where you mount this PC.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a small, compact, and sleek PC for basic Internet and e-mail use, then this PC may be for you. But, if you need something that can play media on your HDTV, then this machine will not perform to your liking.
Dcoderr 