Dell's OptiPlex SX260 is a space-saving PC system that trades flexibility for a compact design. While the SX260 is no larger than many thin client terminals, it is a full-function PC that can be fitted with processors up to the latest 3.06GHz Pentium 4 and with up to 2GB of memory. However, because of the compact design, it lacks the expansion options of conventional desktop models.
Desk space is at a premium in many companies, and Dell is clearly addressing this with the OptiPlex SX260. At 24.7x8.4x24.2cm, the system is much smaller than a standard desktop, and could prove popular in such environments as call centres, receptions or ticketing counters.
Dell also supplies a mounting bracket that allows the unit to be fixed to the underside of a desk or behind a flat-panel monitor.
Despite this model's compact size, Dell has not compromised on performance. In tests, our review unit with a 2.8GHz Pentium 4 and 512MB of memory returned a Business Winstone 2002 benchmark score of 25.2, which compares with a score of 25.6 from a 3.06GHz reference system supplied by Intel. All SX260 models also have Gigabit Ethernet connectivity as standard.
In many respects, the OptiPlex SX260 follows in the footsteps of HP's e-PC range, now called the Evo D510 e-PC. Both designs have a lockable side panel to prevent access to the inside of the case, and both have an optional cover that can be fixed in place to control access to the rear I/O ports.
However, the original e-PC featured a single lock that secured both the case and the port cover at the same time. Dell's design has a lever at the rear of the case that frees the panel, and which is secured by fitting the port cover. But the port cover itself can only be secured by fitting a Kensington lock, which could also be used to chain the system down. We found the Dell port cover somewhat flimsy, and it could probably be pulled apart without much effort.
One notable feature of the OptiPlex SX260 is a media bay that accepts the same drive modules as Dell's Latitude laptop range. For firms using Latitudes, this could cut the number of peripherals that their IT department needs to keep in stock. Our review unit shipped with a combination DVD/CD-RW drive, but a dummy module can be fitted to prevent unauthorised software being loaded in this way.
Continuing the easy maintenance theme, the OptiPlex SX260's hard drive is located behind a side panel in the case, so it can be replaced without opening the system up. Also inside this panel is a mechanism that locks the media bay so modules cannot be removed.
Inside, the OptiPlex SX260 has a Dell motherboard based on an Intel 845G chipset. Its integrated Intel Extreme graphics functions take up to 64MB of memory from the system for the display. Two Dimm slots are on the motherboard, one of which was fitted with a 512MB module in our review system. Apart from PS/2 keyboard and mouse ports, expansion is limited to six USB ports, two on the front and four on the rear.
The OptiPlex SX260, which will ship this month, is priced from £589 + VAT for a 1.7GHz Celeron with 128MB memory. Our review unit came with a 15in TFT display and Windows XP Professional and was priced at £1,299 + VAT.
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Price: £1,299 + VAT as reviewed
Contact: Dell 0870 152 4699
