Comment on Acer Revo RL100-U1002 Desktop Computer (Black) by SteveFl.
Acer Revo RL100,
This is an ‘interesting’ approach to personal computing. The form factor of this machine alone is enough to make it stand out in a crowd. And as a PC — it works, but is only a middle-of-the-road box in terms of power, speed, and features. If form factor is something you need due to space requirements or ‘wow’, then this could be a good choice.
I’m using it as a HTPC, and was intially attracted by the HDMI output which really simplifies connectivity to the home theatre world. I’m using an HDMI splitter to enable video and sound to a small TV which is my ‘monitor’ and also to a Denon amp hooked up to a big-screen projector and full surround sound setup. I use the monitor to deal with the Windows 7 admin tasks and to schedule my programs. The Denon simply accepts the HDMI as another input. I also have the Acer linked to my NAS and to a Hauppauge PVR. As a side benefit, I can use Media Player to play music through the Denon. Further extensions to the system include WD Live TV Plus boxes in my living room and bedroom which also can ‘see’ my videos and music. This all works very nicely, although one could ask for better linkage between the Hauppauge and Media Center, but that’s a different review. As for the Acer:
Pros:
* It really looks nice. Small, elegant, super attractive design especially when placed upright on the included stand.
* Sexy keyboard/mouse device which docks into the PC body, removes easily, is wireless, and is generally a brilliant and unique piece of engineering.
* Reasonable amount of disk space — about 650GB usable. Not overly generous in today’s world, but not bad for this price point.
* A utility is included to create recovery DVDs which is nice because no OS disks come with the product. That’s normal these days.
* The DVD burner is quiet and works well.
* Performance is adequate. Actually pretty good considering the processors.
Cons:
* The sexy keyboard/mouse device is not completely intuitive and while it looks great and feels good in your hand, it’s really not what you want for dealing with a full-blown PC with all the associated tasks. You have to use it to set up the machine initially, but I very quickly switched to a wireless keyboard with a track ball (I can recommend the IOGear multi-media keyboard — very nice).
* The DVD drive on this model is not BluRay. Or if it is — it ain’t working.
* There are only 3 USB ports, and the HDMI port is the only other connection. It is assumed that you will use the HDMI for your monitor. There is no VGA or DVI.
* The usual amount of crapware. Everyone’s definition of crapware is different, but whatever your definition is — some of it is on this box. I recommend using CCleaner (the free version) before installing your own apps.
* The small size will limit add-ons severely.
The bottom line on this Acer is form factor and HDMI output. If you like it and have to have it — get it. There is nothing terribly wrong with this machine. And at this price it’s a fair deal. If you don’t need the tiny footprint, though, you might want to consider other PCs.
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As of 7/25, the DVD drive is not working. Also, the lack of processing power is making itself felt. I’ll get the drive fixed, but I’m pretty sure this will not be my go-to box for HTPC. Can always use another ‘pooter around the house, so no worries…
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