Presario 5630: Does what you want, and does it well.
Written: Mar 23 '01 (Updated Mar 24 '01)
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Pros: Reliable; Somewhat Upgradable; Easy to Use; Great Customer Service; Good Features
Cons: Only Somewhat Upgradable; Some components cheap; Some components integrated
The Bottom Line: While it is a good computer for a beginner who wants a good all-around machine, it doesn't have the necessary upgradability, flexibility, and power to fulfill all users' needs.
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| Big_Brother_79's Full Review: Compaq Presario 5630 (334560-003) PC Desktop |
When I bought this computer, I was looking for a machine that would give me the power to do what I wanted to (Gaming, DVD-Watching, etc.), while providing me with an inexpensive and easy-to-use platform for everyday use. This computer has pretty much fulfilled those qualifications, and here's why:
Setup/Getting Started
The setup of this computer was very easy and straight-forward. The cords, including the mouse, keyboard, speakers, and monitor are all color-coded. Additionally, all of the ports are labeled on the back of the computer. The software came pre-installed, and a setup program takes you through all of the setup and registration process. Again, this was REALLY, REALLY easy.
Reliability
The reliability of this computer has never been an issue for me. It has always performed admirably, and the hardware has never had any problems. The software (Windows 98) can be a little buggy sometimes, but if you download all of the updates, it really helps. Compaq also has an update program that will update your drivers and other Compaq-related software as patches and updates come out.
Customer Service
While I did not have to contact Compaq in regard to fixing this computer, I have had contact with them in other cases. They are always very helpful, and will come out to your house to fix your computer. While the wait time can be a little long sometimes, they try their best to help in any way possible.
Upgradability
Some computers are built entirely from components. That is, they are all separate, independent pieces put together in a case to make a computer. Many of the larger computer makers simplify the process by integrating the components into the motherboard. That is, they hardwire things like the video card and sound card into the motherboard. This Compaq has an integrated sound card. Other than that, the hardware is pretty much components. That allows for some level of upgradability. I have added a CD-RW, a better video card, and even a better sound card (having to disable the built-in one), and have had no problems with compatibility. Everything has gone very smoothly, and this computer has plenty of open PCI slots for new items.
I have also upgraded the OS to Windows 2000 with no problems whatsoever. All of the hardware was supported and recognized very well.
While this machine takes upgrades relatively well, you aren't going to be able to put anything over a 550Mhz processor in it. You also can't overclock it, and it's not going to support the features on newer video cards.
Specifications\Hardware
Processor: Pentium II - 400Mhz
Memory: 128 MB RAM
Video Card: ATI 3D Rage Pro AGP 2X
Drives: 12.0 GB Hard Drive
2x DVD-ROM Drive (about 20x CD-ROM)
100 MB Zip Drive
3.5" Floppy Drive
Modem: Rockwell HCF 56K Winmodem
Sound: ESS Maestro-2 Sound Card
Ethernet Card: 10BaseT Card
Features: USB Ports
Firewire Ports
Overall, this is a great computer, but it is showing its age. You can buy much faster computers at this time, so I would go for those instead. But, if you are looking to buy one of these from someone else, and you just need a basic computer that runs really well, I would recommend the Presario 5630. It will serve you well and not require a lot of maintenance.
Here is a good site for some more info:
http://www.compaq.com/athome/support/msgs/5600/
Recommended:
No
Amount Paid (US$): 1200.00
Operating System: Windows
Processor: Intel Pentium II
Processor speed: 301-400
RAM: 128
Internal Storage: DVD
Hard Drive (GB): 13-20
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Epinions.com ID:
Big_Brother_79
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Location: Los Angeles, CA
Reviews written: 18
Trusted by: 3 members
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