Dell Inspiron Zino HD

This can turn the idiot box a little more intelligent, and it looks nice too

Whether you are looking for entertainment or information, there is more of it on the internet than on today’s TV channels. The TV in your home, therefore, needs much more than just a media server. It really needs a full-fledged PC. The latest 8 inch x 8 inch Zino HD from Dell fits the bill. HD stands for ‘high definition’. And just so it would look nice next to a TV, it comes in brilliantly coloured packages as well as whacky and floral patterns.

The Zino comes preloaded with Windows 7 (you can choose between the Business or Home Edition). Its default configuration is 2GB Ram, 320 GB hard disc (which can be upgraded to 1 TB), running an AMD Vision Triple Core Phenom II X3 P840. There are two USB ports on the rear and a slim DVD writer on the front, which can be upgraded to a Blu-ray.

Sadly, there is no Wi-Fi on this unit and you will need to run either an Ethernet cable or buy a separate USB Wi-Fi card. The built-in sound card gives you 2.1 output and if you use HDMI or S/PDIF connectivity, you can get 7.1, with THX Premium audio affects. Sadly, not all its upgrade options are available in India. I will wait till they are offered. I also don’t like the fact that I have to compulsorily buy an 18.5 inch LCD display with it. If I want to use it as a home theatre PC, the display unit would be useless to me. However, I am glad that Dell has an infrared remote control on offer for an additional Rs 700.

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