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Choose the right All-In-One PC from 25k to 75 k!

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PCQ Bureau
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AIO PC versus traditional desktop

All-in-one, as the name suggests is a form of PC that combines the computer with monitor, transforming the duo into a sleek and compact PC which not only consumes less space but is also more attractive. If the configuration is good, it can perform as good as a traditional desktop PC. Think back, when you were buying your first desktop. It may not have been easy, running from pillar to post, hunting for the best monitor, powerful processor, decent RAM, or a tough graphic card for gaming. And when you had it, you had to keep them in one corner to avoid the cables connecting the monitor to computer or the computer to switch, from getting caught into someone's leg. An all-in-one PC's biggest advantage is that there are no two or more devices that have to be connected.

Desktops are not easy to rule out yet

Apart from the compact shape and the unibody form, an all-in-one comes with a number of handy elements that no longer have to be got separately, for eg a web-cam, which comes in-built with most of the all-in-ones. And, if you are still not happy with it, you can a get a separate one. But with the likes of iMac, which has a face time HD cam with an image resolution of 2560x1600, the desire to have another one is remote. Moving on to more important things like the wireless connectivity, unlike desktops, it has built-in Wi-Fi support and can connect wirelessly to the network, eliminating the use of another cable for Internet connection. In all-in-ones not all components can be upgraded, whereas, a desktop can be opened at will and every component can be upgraded. However, some of the all-in-one makers have worked in that direction, thus upgrade of certain components, like RAM is available in them. The display, in an all-in-one is irreplaceable, whereas, in traditional desktops you just have to replace the monitor. Buying a desktop with good graphics capability and other features can cost you somewhere around Rs 20,000 to Rs 25,000; while an ordinary all-in-one starts from Rs 20,000.

AIO PCs are physically more viable

They are compact and more portable in comparison to desktop PCs, hence can be moved easily from one place to another. Features, such as in-built speakers and TV tuners make an all-in-one more than a PC. With TV tuner, it can work as TV and with powerful speaker already present; you don't have to hunt for a set of speakers. Simply speaking, buying an all-in-one may be costlier than a traditional desktop, but the whole process of buying becomes simpler and a lot more hassle free. An all-in-one can heat up and unfortunately, like a desktop it doesn't support cooling chassis, nor like a laptop can one rely on a cooling pad. For gamers, powerful gaming all-in-ones do exist, but at exorbitant rates. He is likely to go for an assembled dektop PC, but for a professional, who doesn't have the time for that, all-in-one will get the first preference.

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Gradually AIOs will pip out desktops

AIO PC is still a niche product with little flexibility. However, a homogenous movement from desktops to all-in-ones is highly unlikely. It will happen slowly from segment to segment. The area in which an all-in-one makes more sense than having a desktop is going to pave the pave for large scale mobility. Sooner or later all-in-ones are going to replace desktops.

Sectors where AIOs can be deployed

The new AIO Desktop PCs are the next generation of desktop computing devices. From a consumer usage point of view, they give the consumer a win-win, with a larger HD screen, integrated speakers, webcam, wireless LAN, DVD drive and a single wire plug & play experience. Manufacturers like HP believe that the new all-in-one PCs make sense for all consumers.

From a commercial stand point, the All-in-One PC would make sense in sectors where lower PC footprint (will save space) and lower power consumption (approx 50% lower than most other traditional desktops) would help organizations in better space management and lowering of the electricity consumption bills. Some of the sectors that would clearly benefit from All-in-one deployment would be:

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1. ITES, 2. Education, 3. Call centre operation

4. Retail, 6. SMEs, 7. Banking

Five features to look for in an all-in-one PC

a) AIO PC experience - Ensure that your AIO PC gives you a complete all-in-one PC experience. Some of the smaller features which may be missing in traditional desktops but in AIOs they just become regular stuff. Some of the features to look for include Wireless LAN, Wireless Keyboard/Mouse, integrated webcam, DVD reader/writer, graphics card and last but not the least is the space it needs on your desk.

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b) Video & Audio quality - The quality of the video and audio output would determine your experience as you use your All-in-one, so important to look out for a good quality HD or HD ready LED video output with good sound output. For e.g. HP Touch Smart 520 and Omni 220 that come with integrated beats audio for the perfect audio experience.

c) Upgradeability options - Your AIO may be power packed but in this era where innovation is a short term affair, even the latest can become out-dated in no time. Then a user will want to upgrade his AIO PC. Components such as RAM, hard drive, graphics card and processors can be upgraded in the latest AIOs, provided you are willing to bear the additional costs.

d) Serviceability - In case a service need arises, how reliable is the service network of the brand that you are buying. This info can be sought while you are buying the AIO. Just make sure to buy from the original brand stores.

e) Additional benefits- Bluetooth, TV tuner, touchscreen, wall mount support and stylish looks are some of the additional benefits that can help you decide what to buy in case you are confused between two comparable models.

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