Like the HP a1100e series, the key features of the HP a1100y series are its versatility and scalability. Even at its basic configuration, it offers enough power and features to perform most routine word processing and office applications, including browsing the Internet and e-mail.
Since the PC can be customized to have two optical drives, you can not only burn music and video on CDs, but also create home videos using an optional DVD writer. The integrated Intel Extreme Graphics enables great digital photos and other visual content, but there's no AGP card for graphics upgrades. (You could use one of the two PCI slots for a graphics card.
When we checked, HP.com was offering special offers that let you bundle a printer and monitor and still get a great price. However, shipping on this system is expensive, at $99.
| HP a1100y series customizable PC (Default configuration) | |
| Processor | Intel Celeron D 336 (2.8 GHz, 533MHz FSB) |
| Installed RAM | 256MB DDR-333MHz SDRAM (1x256) |
| Maximum RAM | 1GB DDR2-300MHz SDRAM (2x512) |
| Hard drive | 40 GB 5400 RPM SATA Hard Drive |
| Includes CD-ROM | Yes, 48X Max. CD-ROM Drive |
| Includes keyboard | Yes |
| Includes mouse | Yes, HP scroller mouse |
| Includes speakers | No |
| Includes monitor | No |
| Includes floppy drive | No |
| Includes AGP slot | No |
| Includes Modem | Yes |
| Ethernet jack | 10/100 |
| PCI slots | 3 slots (two available) |
| USB ports | 2 USB 2.0 ports |
| Motherboard | i845GV |
| Power supply | 250W |
| Installed OS | Windows XP Home |
| Warranty | Limited 1 year hardware warranty |
| Bottom Line | |
| Price | $249 (after $50 mail-in rebate) + shipping (US$99) |
| Pros | Good entry level computer for personal use, configurable. |
| Cons | At $99, shipping is expensive |
| Shop | HP Pavilion a1100y desktop PC (click the link then click Pavilion) |
Updated November 20 2005