Gateway 550GR Desktop PC (3.20 GHz Pentium 4 (Hyper-Threading), 512 MB RAM, 200 GB Hard Drive, DVD+-RW Drive, CD-ROM Drive)

The Basics Taking advantage of several recent technological innovations yet priced in the same ballpark as many desktops that do not, Gateway’s 550GR Desktop PC is a powerful yet comparatively affordable computing centerpiece ideal for virtually any office, personal or leisure environment. Businesspeople will appreciate the unit’s powerful Pentium 4 processor and huge hard drive, multimedia buffs will love the comprehensive connectivity and advanced DVD recording facilities, and gamers should get along quite well with the system’s solid 3D graphics performance. Though you can certainly spend more for a desktop computer, the Gateway 550GR delivers most everything a demanding user needs at a reasonable price point. Processor At the heart of any computer lies the CPU (or processor), a massive collection of miniature transistors that governs the speed and power of the entire unit. The Gateway 550GR features one of today’s fastest CPUs, an Intel Pentium 4 540. New for 2004, this is an upgraded version (nicknamed 'Prescott') of the venerable Pentium 4 chip, featuring one full MB of Level 2 cache and a more generous data 'pipeline' than prior models. Operating at a scorching 3.2 GHz and of course sporting Intel's Hyper-Threading technology (Hyper-Threading allows a single CPU system to behave at times as a dual CPU system, thus adding substantially more speed to some high-end applications), this is a strong CPU that’s ready for any situation. Memory Computers typically store information on their hard drive, but they keep frequently and recently accessed data in Random Access Memory (RAM) for faster retrieval. More RAM means more efficient computing, superior multitasking and less strain on your hard drive. For the Gateway 550GR, Gateway has installed 512 MB of 400 DDR memory, configured in a dual channel setup for even faster response. This is an average RAM allotment for a computer of this caliber, but its rated speed is comparatively quick. As such, it is more than enough for most multitasking situations and complex applications. Moreover, the system’s mainboard is constructed to support RAM upgrades to a whopping 2 GB. Video CPU’s are usually so busy doing basic calculations that they need help translating visual output to the viewing screen. This is the duty of the graphics card (or graphics controller). A graphics controller with 'dedicated' video memory is preferable to a controller that 'shares' the system’s main memory, as it will better handle complex procedures. The Gateway 550GR features an ATI Radeon X300 SE PCI-Express, a strong graphics card with 128 MB of dedicated video memory. This card is capable of accurately displaying virtually any 2D application and delivering smooth frame rates and immersive, lifelike visuals to the 3D animations found in most computer games and 3D animation packages. Hardcore gamers and 3D artisans who demand perfect frame rates at extremely high resolutions may want to upgrade to a far pricier 256 or 512 MB video card, but this card should be quite adequate for the majority of users. Display: Gateway has not included a display screen, thus allowing you to continue using your current monitor or select from today’s many alternatives. Sound The Gateway 550GR produces stereo and surround sound via an Intel High Definition Audio chipset with support for six distinct audio channels and one subwoofer. Gateway has also enclosed a pair of amplified desktop speakers, though serious audiophiles may want to upgrade to a three-piece subwoofer-enhanced set or a surround sound configuration. Hard Drive At 200 GB, the unit’s internal hard drive is spacious enough for a massive allotment of files and applications and a comprehensive music, video/photo and multimedia library too. Furthermore, this particular hard drive is exceptionally quick – sporting a fast 7200 RPM speed, an 8 MB buffer, and a futuristic Serial ATA connection. These are all comparatively recent innovations, each increasing the overall speed and performance of the system. Optical Drive An optical drive is essential in today’s computing world. A 'CD-ROM' drive allows you to install CD-based applications and play music CDs. A 'CD-RW' drive adds CD 'burning', so you can also backup your important files to long-lasting discs and create personalized music CDs. With a DVD-ROM drive you can enjoy all of the above plus watch the same big budget DVD movies you watch on your home entertainment system. And with a DVD-RW drive, you can also 'write' home movies to durable discs and archive files to DVD (DVDs boast more than seven times the storage capacity of a CD). This system features two optical drives -- a CD-ROM drive for playing music and data CDs, and a DVD +/- RW drive through which you can do everything else listed above. Moreover, this drive supports 'double layer' DVD recording, effectively delivering nearly twice the capacity of traditional DVDs. Connectivity and Expansion With a truly grand total of seven high-speed USB 2.0 ports, you’ll have plenty of room for plug and play gadgets such as digital cameras and printers. Gateway has also included a trio of IEEE 1394 'FireWire' ports (commonly used for fast data transfer from digital camcorders) and a versatile 8-in-1 card reader for reading memory cards from devices such as digital cameras, PDAs and more. Communication options include an integrated Gigabit networking interface (substantially faster data transfer rates than traditional 100BaseT Ethernet) for Internet and network communication, and a V.92 data/fax modem for low-speed dial-up connections. Operating System and Software The Gateway 550GR features a comprehensive software package headed by Microsoft’s beefy Windows XP Home Edition operating system. Gateway will also pre-install Microsoft’s Money 2004 financial center, Microsoft’s Works 7.0 productivity package, Microsoft’s Picture It Premium photo and graphic editing suite, and a variety of high-end multimedia utilities such as the superb Nero 6 Suite CD and DVD burning package. Control The system includes a Gateway Premium Multimedia Keyboard and a two-button mouse with scroll wheel.

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Gateway 550GR Customer Review(s):

Summary: A fantastic deal
Rating: 5 (out of 5)
Comment: I've had the Gateway 550GR for about three weeks now, and I'm completely pleased with performance and, especially, value.

After all, this system has a LOT going for it: A fast processor, Pentium class, with hyper-threading; a rather large hard drive; a DVD writer plus a second CD-ROM bay; a good video card (the ATI Radeon X300 SE PCI-Express, with 128 MB of memory -- it's not top of the line but it's a good solid card for the average user or even the occasional gamer). All of this plus your basic software packages (MS Works, MS Money), trial versions and basic versions of a few others. The DVD writer (dual-layer capabilities, no less) and the large hard drive alone, at this price, make this unit a bargain. Another perk: a bountiful amount of USB 2.0 ports, onboard FireWire, and a multi-format multimedia card reader, built in.

If I had to name a flaw here, it's RAM -- the system comes with only 512 MB of RAM, which is really the bare bones for new systems today. 1 GB would have been a huge improvement. The system's mainboard is constructed to support RAM upgrades to 2 GB, but of course this is an added expense for the buyer.

Obviously, with emergent technologies moving at light-speed, soon this model will be outdated and outpaced. But for right now, it's one of the best bargains on the market.
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Gateway 550GR Desktop PC (3.20 GHz Pentium 4 (Hyper-Threading), 512 MB RAM, 200 GB Hard Drive, DVD+-RW Drive, CD-ROM Drive) | Site Map