Joined on 02/23/03
Using as a desktop for gaming!
Pros: Yes, you can use this as a desktop, even for 3D gaming! It accepts Windows 7 64-bit drivers, has the nice Aero look and feel, and runs Steam, Minecraft, Chrome, Java, etc same as Windows 7. In addition, you get some neat Server features like accessing your files from the internet, streaming media to smartphones and DLNA devices like TVs/Android, and backing up other windows boxes.
Cons: Windows Media Center is not included, and Microsoft Security Essentials (Antivirus) will not install on Home Server. (Windows Defender is preinstalled.) Not a big deal for me, I use the free Microsoft Security Scan and Bitdefender Online Scanner periodically.
Overall Review: Overall, you can't beat getting a legit copy of Windows for less than half of the normal price. I'd recommend this for windows power users who are comfortable with a little tweaking. This OS is basically Windows Server 20008 R2, without AD integration.
Could not sustain 750W
Pros: Good (sale) price on an 80+ Gold certified supply.
Cons: Couldn't actually sustain 750W. Around 700W the supplies would start turning themselves off. (Verified with kill-a-watt.) I put up with this for a while, but then one of the supplies bit the dust, and wouldn't power on anymore, even on a bare motherboard, or by itself with green/black pins shorted temporarily.
Overall Review: I think it's a crime you have to pay for manufacturer RMA shipping on a relatively new product. Now I'm ending up paying more money for what turned out to be a poorly built product.
Don't mix SN41G2 and Kingston ValueRAM!
Comments: I've been wrestling for weeks trying to get this system to work, but any video intensive use would crash the system! Other symptoms were metallic sounding static and blue screens with "IRQ_LESS_THAN_OR_EQUAL_TO". The problem turned out to be the two sticks of PC2700 256M Kingston ValueRam. They tested fine in memtest86, but apparently are not compatible with the IGP... :-( Aside from the initial troubles, this system rocks! Buy from newegg!