Kevin Savetz' Guide To Buying a Ridiculously Cheap PC

Kevin Savetz' Guide To Buying a Ridiculously Cheap PC
Wal-Mart's $548 IC Power CN5560 laptop

If you are looking for a reasonably powerful notebook computer that costs less than many regular desktops, the Model CN5560 is definitely worth consideration. Equipped with a 40GB hard disk, a 1.6GHz Mobile AMD Sempron 2600+ processor and loaded with Windows XP, this laptop provides an inexpensive option for students and businesspeople. Moreover, with a built-in microphone and its ability to support high-speed wireless Internet, it could be easily used to communicate using VoIP.

However, the model appears to be slightly heavier and bulkier than some of the higher-priced branded models. While the laptop comes with 6 Li-ion cells, it is not known how long it can function without needing a recharge of the batteries.

Considering that includes Windows XP, the CN5560 laptop is a reasonably good deal at $548 (plus shipping). Of course, users are recommended to upgrade the memory of the laptop to the maximum 1GB so as to enjoy higher performance.

IC Power 15-inch laptop, Model CN5560
Processor AMD Mobile Sempron 2600++, 1.6GHz
Installed RAM 256 MB DDR SDRAM
Maximum RAM 1 GB (Supports DDR 333/400 SDRAM)
Hard drive 40 GB
Includes CD-ROM Yes, CD-RW/DVD-ROM Combo-Drive
Includes keyboard Yes
Includes mouse Yes, a Synaptics PS/2 touch pad with 2 buttons
Includes speakers Yes
Includes monitor Yes, 15-inch LCD panel supporting 1024 x 768 resolution (XGA)
Includes floppy drive No
Includes Modem Yes
Ethernet jack 10/100
PCI slots 1
USB ports 4 USB 2.0 ports
Motherboard SiS M760
Power supply 110V or 220V
Installed OS Windows XP Home
Warranty 1 year
Bottom Line
Price $548 + shipping
Pros Good processing speed; comes with Windows XP and allows wireless access to the Internet
Cons Weighs almost 7 lbs.
Shop IC Power 15-inch laptop

Updated August 18 2005


Go Back