Shuttle rolls AMD Phenom-based barebones PC
updated 03:00 pm EDT, Fri July 18, 2008
Shuttle H7 Phenom PC
Shuttle has switched its attention back to AMD with the launch of one of its first small form factor barebones systems designed with AMD's Phenom processor in mind. The SN78H7 can handle at least some versions of the tri-core and quad-core AMD chips and comes with a 300W power supply to handle both the processor as well as peripherals attached to the system. The mainboard also comes with GeForce 8200 video built-in that can take on most of the workload for processing Blu-ray movies in home theater systems as well as providing enough 3D power for Vista Home Premium.
The breadbox-sized system also caters to more advanced gamers and theater hobbyists with a free PCI Express X16 slot for faster video hardware, 7.1-channel audio out with Dolby Digital Live and DTS Connect surround, and an HDMI output as its default digital output (a DVI adapter is included). Budget-conscious users can outfit the system with an Athlon 64 X2 or Sempron and have two Serial ATA ports for hard drives.
Shipments have already started for the SN78H7 in some areas and typically price the kit at about $450 with the case, a preinstalled mainboard, and power supply. Shuttle hasn't said if or when it plans to offer a pre-assembled Phenom system.
