7. Hardware Tour

Base System

Table 3 summarizes the z556's key computing specs and Figure 11 provides a top view into the open chassis. The z556 comes with a modest 512 MB of Samsung PC3200 RAM divided into two sticks of 256 MB. While 512 MB is sufficient for the HTPC to function, a memory upgrade to 1 GB (the maximum recommended by HP) is a relatively inexpensive way to give you a more comfortable amount of headroom for multitasking.

Since the z556 is only 4.4 inches (11.1cm) high, it needs to employ a low profile video card and a riser card assembly for the taller PCI cards (more on this later). All of the three available PCI slots in the riser card assembly are full and interface with a proprietary back plate, so don't count on being able to expand the z556 with more PCI cards.

The power supply is a difficult-to-replace shape and puts out a slim 250 watts. The low wattage is great for your power bill, but don't count on doing many alterations to the z556 without risking a power shortage. Fortunately, the z556 is not short on options from the factory so the limitations on expansion shouldn't weigh too heavily on your soul.

Figure 11: Inside of the z556 (note the riser card at left top of photo)

There is one small intake fan on the side of the case (Figure 12). With so little air intake, the CPU cooler needs to pull extra duty.

Figure 12: Intake fan pulls fresh air into the left side near the PCI riser card assembly