Advent T1

Advent's latest desktop PC packs a Pentium 3.2GHz system into a smart all-in-one package. The T1 is a designer desktop with Media Center-style functions, built around an attractive 17in widescreen TFT display.

Perhaps following the example set by Apple's latest iMacs, the T1's main components are integrated into the monitor stand. The result is a tidy and space-saving design that's perfectly suited to either an office desk or a living room.

There's a snazzy slot-loading dual-format recordable DVD drive on the right-hand side, a memory card reader combined with USB and mini-FireWire ports on the left, and the usual array of ports at the back, including a connector for the built-in modem.

The T1 also comes with an integrated webcam. It's a neat extra and ideal for a spot of simple video chat, using a messaging program such as MSN, AIM or Yahoo, although its range of movement is somewhat limited. On the whole, the system's wireless networking facilities will be of far more use.

The screen itself is crisp and clear with a native resolution of 1280 x 768 pixels. Its front glass panel is also highly reflective; you can actually see yourself and almost use it as a mirror. Although there's no swivel option, the screen can be extended upwards and tilted back to get the best view.

Advent supplies a wireless keyboard and mouse with the T1. While perfectly usable, they look and feel a little cheap compared with rival products and the rest of the system. The receiver for these also takes up a valuable USB port and should really have been integrated.

Something that definitely should have been built-in is the TV tuner and video capture module. Instead, this is supplied as separate unit with a lead that connects to two more USB sockets, leaving only two for attaching other peripherals.

Used in conjunction with the supplied PowerCinema software and remote control, the TV tuner lets you watch and record TV and video. You can also pause or 'time-shift' live TV and then carry on from where you left off later.

The T1 comes with a 250Gb hard disk, providing plenty of room for the likes of video clips and digital audio files along with your office documents. Due to the nature of its design, however, the T1 can't easily be upgraded. The same goes for the PC's 512Mb of memory.

Gamers will find the integrated Intel graphics processor limiting. This just doesn't compare to the latest ATI and nVidia chips, scoring poorly in our 3D tests. It's fine for typical office work and watching DVDs, though, especially using the T1's six-channel sound and built-in subwoofer.

Bundled software includes Windows XP Home, utilities for the keyboard and webcam and the excellent Microsoft Works 8. There's also Cyberlink's Power2Go for burning CDs and DVDs, and the aforementioned PowerCinema.

The latter is very easy to set up and use, though its responsiveness was decidedly sluggish when choosing certain options using the remote control. In addition, we'd like to have seen the option to burn music and video clips to disc from the PowerCinema's 'easy media' interface.

Advent's T1 is a feature-packed and expensive designer system with an impressive display. However, it's let down by graphics performance that's no better than that of a notebook, and a lack of upgrade options.

Contact: PC World 08705 464464
www.pcworld.co.uk

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