Kirk Steers

Dell Dimension L933

If you're looking for a bare-bones PC to handle office applications, consider the Dimension L933. For $948, this machine pairs a speedy Pentium III-933 processor with a capable 17-inch monitor. Its PC WorldBench 2000 score of 149 proves that it can handle almost any task you choose, and its sharp display of text and color extends to resolutions of 1154 by 864. Adding expansion cards and drives is much easier than with similar minitower cases: A single latch allows easy access to the interior, where you'll find two open PCI slots and a single open drive bay. All three are easy to reach, thanks to a hinged power supply that swings out of the way. The Harman Kardon speakers produced impressive bass tones.
Not surprisingly, graphics performance is the weakest part of the package. Like other systems sporting the integrated graphics and shared memory architecture of Intel's 810e chip set, the Dimension L933 couldn't run part of our Quake III demo because it lacks 32-bit color capability, and it posted generally poor frame rates on all three of our test games. To accompany a generous three-years parts warranty, Dell offers a stingy one-year labor warranty. (You can upgrade to a three-year onsite labor warranty for $50).
The system's well-written manual covers most use and maintenance issues, and a setup poster with big, easy-to-follow illustrations aids setup. The Dell Quietkey keyboard feels sturdy. The only useful bundled software is Microsoft Works Suite 2001.
The Dimension L933 makes sense if you're buying a second PC on a tight budget and you don't need great graphics performance.

Buying Information

Dell Dimension L933 PC WorldBench 2000 score of 149, Pentium III-933 CPU, 128MB of PC-133 SDRAM, 256KB of L2 cache, Windows Me, 20GB hard drive, 20X-48X CD-ROM drive, integrated Intel 810 graphics with UMA, 17-inch Dell E770s monitor, Creative Audio PCI 64 sound card, Harman Kardon speakers, V.90 modem, minitower case, Microsoft Works Suite 2001. Three-year parts warranty, one-year labor warranty; free, unlimited 24-hour, toll-free tech support daily. $ 948 PC WorldBench 2000 score of 149, Pentium III-933 CPU, 128MB of PC-133 SDRAM, 256KB of L2 cache, Windows Me, 20GB hard drive, 20X-48X CD-ROM drive, integrated Intel 810 graphics with UMA, 17-inch Dell E770s monitor, Creative Audio PCI 64 sound card, Harman Kardon speakers, V.90 modem, minitower case, Microsoft Works Suite 2001. Three-year parts warranty, one-year labor warranty; free, unlimited 24-hour, toll-free tech support daily. http://www.dell.com 800/388-8542