Net PCs are scaled-down machines that derive most of their power from a central server. They don’t contain CD-ROMs or disk drives, and their hard drives are meant to be used as a local memory cache. The server performs most of the work such as storing data and processing applications. As a result, Net PCs are relatively easy to install and manage, which may keep you total cost of ownership (TCO) down. If you’re considering Net PCs for your computing needs, here are a few models you’ll want to check out.
Gateway e1000N
Processor: Intel Pentium 200 MHz
Hard Drive: 2 gigabyte Ultra ATA
RAM: 32 MB, expandable to 256 MB
Cache: Integrated 256KB
Graphics: Integrated ATI PCI graphics accelerator with 2MB DRAM (dynamic RAM)
Slots: two 32-bit PCI
Operating System: Windows 95
Warranty: 3-year limited, upgradeable
List Price: $1079 (sources from Gateway indicated that by the time you read this, the price will have plunged below $1,000)
800.846.4208
Compaq Deskpro 4000N
Processor: Intel Pentium 166, 200, or 233 MHz
Hard Drive: 1.6 or 2.1 gigabyte EIDE
RAM: 32 MB, expandable to 256 MB
Cache: 256 KB level 2 (resides on a separate chip from the microprocessor)
Graphics: enhanced 64-bit integrated
Slots: one PCI
Operating System: Windows NT 4.0
Warranty: 3-year limited, upgradeable
List Price: $1,039 (for 166 MHz processor)
800.888.0396
Hewlett-Packard Net Vectra
Processor: Intel Pentium 166 or 200 MHz
Hard Drive: 1.6 gigabyte Ultra ATA
RAM: 16 or 32 MB, expandable to 192 MB
Cache: 256 KB
Graphics: 64-bit integrated
Slots: two PCI
Operating System: Windows NT 4.0
Warranty: 3-year limited, upgradeable
List Price: $1,286 (for 166 MHz processor)
800.752.0900
56K Modems: Ditch that download downtime!
If your schools rely on dial-up access to the internet, a high-speed modem is a great investment. These are some of your best 56K options. Keep in mind, though, that 56K refers to download (receiving) speeds only, so they’re not ideal for two-way, data-intensive applications. If you plan on videoconferencing or exchanging large files back and forth, you might prefer ISDN technology.
Diamond SupraExpress
Protocol: K56Flex
Type: external/internal
Price: $140/$120
800.727.8772
The SupraExpress is easy to install, easy to use, and offers a great software package. The internal speaker model received PC Magazine’s Editors’ Choice award.
Motorola ModemSurfr 56K
Protocol: K56Flex
Type: External/internal
Price: about $100
800.426.6336
ZDNet called the ModemSurfr “a solid performer.” It comes with toll free tech support, caller ID support, and a 5-year warranty.
IBM 56K Modem Internet Kit
Protocol: x2
Type: External/internal
Price: $179
800.426.2968
The IBM 56K received PCComputing’s top honors among 56K modems. IBM says it’s also the only model that comes with 24-hour toll free tech support.
Cardinal Connecta 56K
Protocol: x2
Type: External/internal
Price: $199/$179 ($159 for Windows model)
800.947.0808
Like the ModemSurfr, the Connecta 56K comes with a 5-year warranty and toll free tech support. Both ZDNet and PCComputing rate it highly in performance tests.
