Test Pilots Wanted

This touchscreen is an unlikely "Kitchen Computer" (HP's term), but it does have enough new features - including Vista - to interest almost anyone. The dongles in and widgets out promise the fun of a new erector set.

The hardware, dual processor and all, is a well designed and a departure from your father's computer. In addition to the standard keyboard-mouse, it utilizes input from the touch screen AND a TV style remote.

The hard wired monitor (looks like a MAC, configures like a laptop screen) is bright and beautiful and performed well for this user. But the modest size, 19" wide screen, begs for a second monitor. And guess what - there is only a mini-VGA output. (I know, I hadn't heard of those either). They include the ever necessary mini to real world converter cable, but analog VGA? On a Vista media computer? If they hadn't heard of HDMI, maybe a DVI?

Of course, standard TV output (e.g. S-Video) is available. I hope the TV picture is better than full screen TV on the monitor.

Also, others are saying the processor may disappoint power users.

The software is promising, with Vista, a touchscreen, and media center capabilities.

But you're on your own in adapting to their concept. No one else has this "thing" yet, and, so far, web resources are scant. The manual is limited. For example, the promising touchscreen has not proven very useful so far. It must be my fault.

HP's reputation for (no) customer service is well deserved. After 10+ minutes on hold, the first rep has never heard of the product. After 10+ minutes more, the second rep couldn't understand anything said. Even spelling didn't work - both "b" and "d" were heard as "t". But, hey, maybe the lines to India aren't always clear. Anyway, it was waste of time - 30 minutes in all.

This could be a great computer - if your friend the early adopter nerd has had one for a while, and can guide you thru it. But a month hasn't been long enough for this nerd, so don't rush.