Lenovo debuts "fit anywhere" Q700 home entertainment PC
By Donald Melanson 
posted Aug 12th 2009 5:01PM
posted Aug 12th 2009 5:01PM
Looking for something in between a nettop and a full-fledged, sometimes HTPC? Then you might want to consider Lenovo's recently announced Q700 system, which the company describes as the "perfect fit" for anywhere in your home. That's apparently assuming you have some less-than-demanding computing needs, however, as the Q700 is currently only available with a Pentium Dual-Core E5200 processor, along with 4GB of RAM, a max 640GB hard drive, a built-in DVD burner, and the usual integrated Intel X4500 graphics. It does pack an HDMI out, TV tuner, and plenty of other media-friendly features, however, not to mention a starting price of just $499 and a form-factor that lets it be neatly tucked away in your home theater rack. Hit up the link below to get your order in, or a closer look if you're still undecided.
[Thanks, David]
[Thanks, David]
Oooh. This actually looks tempting, assuming it's quiet.
From what I can tell, the Atom/Ion boxes aren't happy with full-screen YouTube/Hulu videos. This should have plenty of oomph for that.
The big question is the X4500 -- if it's up for 1080p videos, $500 is pretty good.
Likes like quite a nice little box and would be perfect for an HTPC. The only slightly negative aspect is the processor. I would have liked to have seen a Core processor rather than a Pentium but in the end this probably makes no difference if being used for an HTPC. Pretty cool all in all.
You do know that the current "Pentium" actually is a Core 2, right? It's just at a slower clock and less cache. The Pentium name just has a lot of wieght with the uninformed masses, and they think it's a good proc just for the name. Good marketing on Intels part though as it will sell better than it would if they called it a Celeron, which everyone knows means bottom of the barrel.
Anyway, for future proof HTPC use, I just don't think the x4500 cuts it. Last I heard, they never could get it to play 24 hz Bluray right and of course it doesn't support bitstreaming. I'm still waiting for bitstreaming on an integrated graphics chip to upgrade my htpc.
Lazarus, you are right. My mistake. The E5200 processor is indeed based on the Core architecture rather than the previous Netburst architecture. However, I do find it strange that Lenovo is using the term "Pentium Dual Core" for this processor because almost no one calls the Core processors Pentium anymore. That's what threw me. As a matter of fact, when the Core architecture was released, Intel designated that "Pentium" was now the moniker for what would now be their 'lower end' processors. But after a quick check of the Lenovo website, they are indeed calling all E5200 processors "Pentium Dual Core". Strange...
It's not strange. That's Intel's brand name for them. They're basically Core 2 Duos with less cache.
I built a $300 PC with this very processor and similar features (better video card, though), running XP, and it handles all my streaming needs perfectly. I stream to my PS3 with TVersity and PlayOn, using both internet and local content -- in HD when available -- and it's rock solid. These dual-core Pentiums (which can be hugely overclocked if that's your thing) are a great bargain and very cost-effective. I have no doubt this Lenovo would make a very capable HTPC.
PLEASE! tell me how you made it for only $300! I want to make one SO BAD!
Does it have an IR receiver?
Looks like IR receiver is integrated:
http://shop.lenovo.com/ISS_Static/WW/AG/merchandising/US/PDFs/qseries_techspecs_080409.pdf
http://shop.lenovo.com/SEUILibrary/controller/e/web/LenovoPortal/en_US/catalog.workflow:expandcategory?current-catalog-id=12F0696583E04D86B9B79B0FEC01C087¤t-category-id=1BBF8032E5314C7BACC6315B57622815&tab=2#tab-container-4
i wish they
could include
this slick wireless
keyboard and mouse * see link above from lenovo A Series
If you buy this,
it doesnt include any keyboard or mouse?
or your only choose is a clunk logitech s510
it defeats the purpose of fit all.
i hope the marketing people of lenovo should reconsider this option
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The old glory was gone long time ago, change is inevitable. It's now up to us to make change work for us. - jcombalicer
http://jcombalicer.blogspot.com
I am mystified why none of the nettop makers (or apple) do not include blu rays in their home media computers.. it is the next purchase for many
including a blu ray would make me pull the trigger on something like this
Me too... I'm wondering if a USB external Blu-ray drive would work. I don't see why not, but I too would much rather have it installed
cable card
must support cable card for my beloved FiOS
(cheaply)
Anyone got a cable card Haiku?
How bout a FiOS Haiku?
Richard,
What is your hardware BOM (especially the MB)? I'm itching to build my own, but I don't have the cash to mess around too much trying stuff that isn't solid and quiet.
I was under the impression that in order to replace my commie-cast DVR, that I'd need a specially configured TV Tuner card to receive HD. I can't find anything at Lenovo about this. Am I going to be up a creek if I buy the high end one with the tuner?
Yup, you'll be up a creek if you expect to be able to tune to any encrypted channels like TLC, Discovery, Animal Planet, etc. But this thing will tune to ABC, CBS, NBC, FOX, PBS, and any other local unencrypted channel in your area.
Thanks Loban!
I'm physically restraining myself from buying this.
Crummy Lenovo marketing: I can't figure out why the 1BU unit is not available for sale, the description lacks some of the typical feel-good specs from the all-in-one box vendors, the Tech Sheet has empty/missing footnotes, the purchase information contradicts the Tech Sheet, blah blah blah.
What's the point in this product. AppleTV is almost there and with but a couple of more tweaks in the pipeline you can have a problem free tried and tested product.