The Presario S5200nx Desktop is driven by a price-conscious Intel Celeron processor operating at 2.7 GHz –- an adequately fast CPU but not nearly as capable or as forward-looking as Intel's flagship processor, the Pentium 4. Compaq has added a satisfactory allotment of 512 MB DRR SDRAM memory (expandable to 1 GB) and an integrated Intel Extreme Graphics controller with 64 MB of shared (not dedicated) video memory. As such, the system is not recommended for advanced 3-D graphics or heavy-duty business use.

To store and transfer your data, the Presario S5200nx Desktop is equipped with a surprisingly accommodating 120 GB hard disk (perfect for storing oodles of MP3s), a convenient 3.5-inch diskette drive, and a combination CD-RW/DVD drive that supports CD burning and playing and DVD playback but does not permit DVD writing. The system features a variety of connectivity options, including serial and parallel ports, a 56K V.90 flex modem for low-speed communication, a high-speed 10-Mbps/100-Mbps Ethernet network port, and a half-dozen high-speed USB 2.0 ports for plug and play peripherals. Monitor and speakers are sold separately, thus allowing you to choose from the many options available today.