Sony's New All-in-One Desktop PC

Sony just introduced their first all-in-one desktop computer. The new PC has a built-in, flat-panel display; keyboard; and speakers. By plugging in two cords -- the power cable and the mouse -- it is easy to be out of the box and on the computer in minutes. The VAIO W weighs just over 20 pounds and can be easily moved from room to room.

The body of the unit is neatly hidden behind a 15.3-inch, wide-aspect ratio, adjustable liquid-crystal display. A vertically retractable keyboard neatly folds back against the main unit when not in use.

With integrated speakers and a built-in CD player, the VAIO W desktop doubles as a stereo system. Even when the keyboard is folded up, the songs keep playing and the wide LCD can show both the artist and the name of the song on the screen via Sony's SonicStage music jukebox software.

Watching DVDs, working on spreadsheets and multi-tasking are a pleasure with the 16:9 wide-aspect ratio display. Part of the software package included with the VAIO W is Sony's PictureGear Studio application that can be used to create photo albums, slide shows and compress large picture files for easy e-mail attachments.

The VAIO W also comes with two handy PC card slots that allow users to take advantage of wireless Internet connection and other expansion possibilities. Sony's VAIO Media software, which has been added to all of Sony's new VAIO PCs, is a helpful tool to share images, music and content through home networking.

The VAIO W comes with two i.LINK, IEEE 1394 digital interface ports for digital imaging and printing connections, three USB 2.0 ports, and an optical mouse. Additionally, a Memory Stick media slot enables sharing photos and other digital content via this removable media with more than 300 compatible electronic devices from various manufacturers.

The VAIO W will be available in October for about $1,600. www.sonystyle.com