HP`s small form factor offering, the HP e-pc, is proving to be a cost-effective alternative to a standard desktop PC. In addition, the product provides a high level of manageability and reliability for both the end-user and for IT departments.
"The pricing of the e-pc provides excellent value, and Axiz has immediate availability of this product," says Margie Adam, HP desktops and notebooks product manager at local distributor, Axiz. "While it has a full specification, the HP e-pc is simpler than a classic PC. The model currently available at Axiz features an Intel Pentium 4 1.6Ghz processor, 128MB of SDRAM, 20GB HDD, LAN and VGA graphics."
With only four modules - memory, hard-disk drive, system chassis and external power supply - the design of the e-pc brings serviceability to a level where end-users do not have to wait for a technician to swap parts, resulting in reduced downtime. This is complemented by the fact that it is simple to transport and stock because of its small size and weight.
Because of its simplicity and innovative design, the HP e-pc is much smaller than a traditional PC: about the size of a dictionary, it only occupies one quarter of the space of a normal desktop. Its versatility means it fits almost anywhere -you can place it vertically, horizontally, integrated with an LCD monitor, or even rack it in the optional mounting brackets. This is the ideal solution for environments where space is limited, such as sales points. The external power supply and optimised cooling make it a very quiet system, giving end-users even more comfort.
"For standardised environments the `sealed box` concept of the HP e-pc prevents unauthorised hardware changes, and with its unique Port Control system you can control the addition or removal of connected devices," says Adam.
This is a real advantage for companies who want to reduce the life cycle cost of PCs through standardisation. IT departments can control the PCs they deploy to make sure that no unauthorized hardware changes are made. The Port Control system is a cover placed on the back of the e-pc that cannot be removed once locked.
The HP e-pc is manufactured with the same quality standards as other HP PCs, but its design brings more reliability. By design the e-pc avoids all the PCI, ISA or floppy drive failures. The second important factor is that fewer components mean fewer problems. Because the e-pc is simplified, the average failure risk is 35% below normal. This improved reliability directly translates into cost savings for the customer in terms of the support costs.
Axiz is a distributor of products from market leaders HP, Microsoft, Intel and LG, and also carries a wide range of leading brand components and solutions. More information is available at www.axiz.com
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