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In the Forums... |
Written By: Keith "Farrel" McClellan Posted: February 13, 2000 Service, Manual, etc. This is definitely a place of ups and downs for the Talon system. The computer came with a complete invoice, a list of original settings, a checklist of quality tests taken, etc. However, the manual for the computer was an HTML file on your system with a link on the desktop. This would have been just fine and dandy (I'm not a real big fan of online manuals, but they don't bother me too much) except that the instructions for how to use the recovery CD were in it. This is definitely information that needs to be printed out, because if someone could get access to the html file and read it, they most certainly don't need to use the recovery CD. Now, I'm not saying that the recovery CD was terribly difficult to use (actually it was quite simple), but there are a few places where a less experienced user could get tripped up - printed instructions would have been nice. The recovery CD itself, which I got the opportunity to use, was quite complete, and unlike some of the recovery CDs provided by large companies that occasionally include the wrong drivers or software because they use one CD for multiple types of systems, the CD I received was a perfect mirror of the files that were included on my system. Warranty service and technical support seem to be quite good, but because I live outside of North America I couldn't call in and check on wait times. Earlier I mentioned the poster, which was included with the system to help get you up and running - it was quite clear and concise, as well as kind of flashy. Point of note, if you open up the Talon cases, they are quite neat inside. The board was specifically designed to allow the CD analog out cable to fit between two of the RAM banks, and they used a silicon sealant on all of the drive cables to make sure they don't shake loose during shipping. In contrast, if I open up my Dell system, it is a mess. Conclusion This is a good, solid Athlon system that I wouldn't hesitate recommending to gamers on a budget that don't want to build their own systems but might be interested in upgrading in the future. The system was easy to get around inside of and fast to boot. [+] Pros - TV out on a Voodoo3 3000 Neat case internals allow for good airflow It's an Athlon and it's fast! No integrated components Good gaming mouse pad The ads have a hot chick ;) [-] Cons - You could build about the same system for less money Lacks a paper manual and a word processor Software driven modem |
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