Space is so tight at most schools that they can’t consider getting traditional desktop PCs. Enter the latest round of all-in-one computers that combine everything from the processor, RAM and optical drive to graphics electronics and screen into a svelte package that is often only slightly larger than a monitor. Because they have control over every component, all-in-one PCs can cut costs and power use as well as space, making them must-haves for the classroom.
Based on an 18.5-inch display, Viewsonic’s VPC100 is thoroughly up to date and its Atom processor can handle most classroom or library activities, from Web research to word processing. It comes with 1GB of RAM, a 160GB hard drive and a Super Multi DVD drive that can work with a wide variety of discs, although not Blu Ray ones. On top of wired networking, the VPC100 includes wireless WiFi and Bluetooth so that it can connect with a slew of accessories. The PC costs $600 and consumes about 60 watts when being used, or about half that of a traditional desktop computer.
Forget about what a desktop PC costs, because an inexpensive system can cost
hundreds of dollars a year in electricity bills. Tangent’s VITA LT is an all-in-one PC with an 18.5-inch display that is small and uses only 24 watts, or about one quarter the typical desktop PC. On top of a built-in Web cam and networking, the VITA LT includes a flash card reader and DVD drive. Available in white or black, pricing for schools starts at $1,000.
