The PC Made Easy: Shuttle XPC Barebone SG33G5M

Shuttle is a company that for some time now is specializing itself in small form factor (SFF for short) computer systems. It now introduces the new mini barebone computer for media centers and offices. Built around the Intel G33 Express chipset, the Shuttle XPC Barebone SG33G5M comes as a big surprise in terms of performance, silence and energy savings.

The SG33G5M is definitely Windows Vista ready, making it an ideal addition to an office or a living room.
SG33G5M supports several Intel processors like the powerful Core 2 Quad, Core 2 Duo E6000/E4000 series, Pentium Dual-Core E2000 series or the more cost and energy oriented Celeron processor line. The little barebone computer is able to accommodate a maximum amount of 4GB of DDR2 memory running at a frequency of 800MHz in dual channel mode for increased bandwidth. An important multimedia feature is that the little SG33G5M supports the playback of protected HD content through HDCP and thanks to its HDMI output, picture and sound are both sent digitally over only one cable.

As a graphics card, just like most barebone systems, the SG33G5M comes with an integrated graphics device, the Intel GMA 3100 that supports high screen definitions optimally. Because of full hardware compliance and compatibility with DirectX 9.0, its video and 3D performance is superior to other integrated graphics solution employed elsewhere. The many features of Windows Vista's media center interface can be accessed easily, using a remote control and because of the VFD display situated in front of the unit information on the playing song, TV program or DVD is easily available to users even from a distance.

A Gigabit LAN network solution is integrated as well, in order to provide users with an easy way to surf the Web, while the I.C.E. heatpipe cooling system with linear fan control ensures low noise operation while a long life is guaranteed by the main board's high quality solid capacitors. As far as connectors go, the Shuttle XPC Barebone SG33G5M comes with both USB version 2.0 and FireWire ones and an 8-channel audio with Dolby Digital Live! and DTS Connect.