Asus EEE BOX PC

Energy-Efficient Web Surfing




ASUS has developed a reputation for building small, useful PCs on the cheap. The company is expanding the idea with the Eee Box PC, a Windows XP "net-top" system with the Intel Atom processor and impressive energy efficiency (using only 18 watts of power).

This 7-by-1.2-by-8.8-inch (HWD) slab comes with a Linux-based quick-boot environment called Express Gate, which also reduces the time it takes to get online and is fine for Web surfing and making VOIP calls. Running Win XP slows the Eee Box down, because of its poky processor and integrated graphics. The system also has Skype, a chat client, and a photo viewer.

The Eee Box connected in seconds to our 802.11n wireless router. If you don't have a wireless network, you can connect via Ethernet. Though this system had abysmal benchmark test scores. It handles its primary task of web surfing adeptly enough.

In addition to the Eee Box's small size, the system also has RoHS and Energy Star certification. It lacks EPEAT certification, however, so it just missed receiving our GreenTech Approved seal. Nonetheless, his is a cheap, compact, and energy-efficient system that does everything it promises in a predictable manner. - Joel Santo Domingo



Specs: 1.6-GHz Intel Atom N270 procesor, 1GB 533-MHz DDR2 SDRAM. 80GB 5,400-rpm SATA hard drive, Intel Integrated GMA 950 Graphics, four USB 2.0 ports, Windows XP Home Edition.

PC Media November 2008
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