Skip this Lineup - HP Strikes out.
Written: May 03 '00
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Product Rating:
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Pros: CDRW, Keyboard HP Name and Support
Cons: Flimsy Design, Internet Setup.
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| gormly's Full Review: Hewlett Packard Pavilion 6640C (D9287A#888) PC Des... |
A great deal for the price, but there are some big drawbacks to this system.
I am a tech/buyer for a company that resells computer parts and systems. This is the most recent line of HP’s we have been selling. I have since stopped buying this particular model. Below you will find a review for a relative newcomer to computers. If you are an advanced user, this review will only help point out some of the crucial flaws.
Specifications (The low Down on the internals)
Processor - AMD-K6®-2/500MHz
15 Gig Hard Drive
64 Megs of Ram
8 Meg Video (basic 3D)
HP CD Writer Plus (4x Write -4x Re-write -2ox Read)
Tons of Included software
Overload of Internet choices (see below)
MS Works, Money and Encarta 2000
And Basic Financial software.
Excellent HP CD writer software is also included.
Features:
One of the best features of this computer is the included CDRW. With this system you can record your own cd’s without a significant investment, and with a very small learning curve. The One touch Keyboard is a nice change from basic Win98 type with Internet access, System Volume and Standby mode assigned to the buttons on top. The Monitor (sold separately) is a nice addition. If you buy this system, pick up the monitor, don’t bother with a cheapy, spend the extra few bucks on the HP
Strengths:
The HP name. HP almost always lives up to a high standard. This computer will last you a long time, not in terms of technology, but in parts life. I never have any ‘real’ problems with HP computer systems. But see below for the overall design flaws of the computer. HP support has always been great for newbies, and I don't expect it to change here.
Weaknesses:
There are two big flaws with this HP system and most other in this line.
One: Bundled Internet software. There are so many choices that new users have a very tough time deciding and figuring out who to sign up with, how to do it. Although HP tries to make it easy with Wizards, the sheer amount of choice (9 Options) is just too much for a new user. I delete half of the installed Internet Service offers before sending these out to a customer.
Two: Overall the design is flimsy, the gray transparent case Cracked along the edge as I took one out of the box. The speakers are very difficult to get attached and will be easily broken by someone with less than lengthy patience.
Who should buy:
Someone looking for a quality computer built to last (parts wise) who is on a tight budget. It would be best if you have a working knowledge of computers and plan to upgrade the system yourself down the road.
Also, If you are familiar with the Internet, this will be a no brainer. If you are new to the Internet, the choices will be daunting.
Who shouldn’t buy:
A New user with no clue. Stay away, the connections, Internet setup and parts will make you phone support faster than you get the box open.
Someone who has a bit more to spend, and is semi-experienced in computers. This is a ‘starter’ computer, and if this isn’t going to be an additional computer in your home, skip it.
Bottom Line:
I didn’t like this computer from the beginning due to the flimsy case parts and the difficult speakers. The accessory box is like a puzzle and first time users will be a bit put off. The Internet software and Service Provider choices also disturbed me. HP packed so many choices and additions into this system, they forgot the main rule of beginner computer sales: KISS (keep it simple stupid)
Once you get the system up and running however, the HP quality takes over and you can be assured of a lasting product with great support.
Recommended:
No
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gormly
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Member: Eric Gormly
Location: Waterbury, Ct
Reviews written: 124
Trusted by: 188 members
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