The big selling point of HP's newest machine is size: stood on end, the EPC could pass for a strange-looking book; and combined with the TFT screen in this configuration, it cuts a slim figure.
However, the EPC is not another designer PC, and HP has put some real thought into the practicalities of the design. Open the easy-to-access (but lockable) case and, initially, there seems little room to move: components are packed together like sardines in a tin. But first looks are often deceiving.
Marking a definite improvement over its predecessor, this EPC has a free DIMM slot for more memory - and this is immediately accessible. Deeper down, the motherboard sits under the hard disk, which slides out on demand.
The processor, meanwhile, is hidden behind an enormous but near-silent fan. Admittedly the EPC is not made for upgraders, but HP has really considered ease of maintenance.
A notebook-sized CD drive and external power adaptor contribute to the EPC's compact dimensions.
Externally, the EPC is similarly uncomplicated, with colour-coded ports.
External expansion is easiest through the four USB ports, two of which sit at the front.
Performance is not the EPC's strong point, as a SYSmark score of 83 demonstrates. However, the 1GHz Intel Celeron processor, 256Mb of RAM and 20Gb hard drive will handle everyday office tasks.
This system configuration includes a fine flat-screen monitor - the HP L1520 - with built-in speakers and an (optional) All-In-Three Integration Kit for attaching the EPC to the back.
The asking price of £1,166.51 is reasonable but you could buy the EPC on its own for £703.83 and get a cheaper monitor.
The EPC is primarily for business use so isn't ideal for home users. It has a built-in network interface, but no modem; it runs the Windows 2000 Professional operating system rather than XP; the graphics chip will flag with games, and there is no floppy disk drive.
SPECIFICATIONS
- Intel Celeron 1GHz
- 256Mb of RAM
- 28Gb hard drive
- 24-speed CD-ROM drive
- HP L1520 15.1in flat-screen monitor
- Windows 2000 Professional
Contact
HP: 0870 241 1485 www.hp.co.uk
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