Dell introduces quiet Dimension 5100 and 5100C PCs
By Donald Melanson 
posted June 29th 2005 9:20AM
posted June 29th 2005 9:20AM
Dell introduced a pair of new desktop PCs today that incorporate BTX specs and use the company's new QuietCase technology, which it says reduces noise and improves reliability and cooling. Both systems use Intel's 945G Express chipset and have up to 4GB shared DDR2 memory, integrated 7.1 audio support, 10/100 network controller, optional IEEE 1394 port, TV tuner and 9-in-1 media card reader. The Dimension 5100C (seen at right) adds support for Intel dual-core processors and, most importantly, it looks a whole lot less ugly. Both will be available next month with the 5100 starting at $899 and the 5100C starting at $1,049 — but right now Dell is running a promotion that'll knock 25% off those prices.
It's looking pretty good, nice move Dell. I think they want to get their pc's into the living room. Anyway, I'll get the PS3/xbox360 for that.
The first Dell PC that I've seen that doesn't look completely repulsive. I could definitely see myself owning one.
Apple better watch their backs if this is the direction Dell is going in terms of design. That is one of the only Dell machines I've ever seen w/ the exception of the Lattitude X1 (which is a rebadged laptop, can't remember the manufacturer...) which I like the appearance/feature set of...
Oh come on, dell's standard black cases aren't as bad as everyone makes them out to be. I actually think their pretty cool. The problem is that beige was in, then black, now silver is the in color. So Dell has to adapt to the trend and release silver and brushed metal cases. The new BTX form factor will allow for much smaller case designs as well.
Too bad the 5100C doesn't allow for an internal TV tuner.
I think Dell just doesn't _get_ the whole Media Center concept. The 5100C looks like the perfect size to fit in your entertainment center, but then is also crippled by its dimensions.
So until they do, Media Center pc's are relegated to niche manufacturers or high-priced boxes from Sony and HP.
Apple better watch their backs if this is the direction Dell is going in terms of design. That is one of the only Dell machines I've ever seen w/ the exception of the Lattitude X1 (which is a rebadged laptop, can't remember the manufacturer...) which I like the appearance/feature set of...
Preliminary Ship Date
7/26/2005
So much for that.
What I find incredible is that the Dell pricepoints for these new Pentium D based MCE machines are actually much higher than pre-built systems from HP. I got a m7170n for ~$500 less than a similarly configured system at Dell. The other beauty of it is that I picked one up at Compusa two weeks ago and din't have to wait til the end of July, which is when the 5100/9100 will ship. Nothing wrong with that. Go HP.
I had a lousy day at the office and was able to overcome only because I knew my new Dell 5100C (ordered online)had been delivered and I could spend the evening happily transferring files and playing with my new system. After I unpackaged and hooked up the system, I turned on the computer and zzzZZZZZZZZZ Crrr.....rrr; it sounded like a coffee grinder. Immediately called Dell, who did NOT have my "express service" number in their database. I was told to remove the chassy cover and shake the unit to see if anything was loose. I refused to do this, but did disconnect the fan from the motherboard only to determine the noise continued. Am waiting 2-3 days for a service tech who is going to replace the power supply that the gentleman on the phone in wherever decided was the problem. If this doesn't work, I am getting my $$ back and buying from a different manufacturer at a brick and mortar store.
My new 5100C is so noisy. My old 8200 Dimension just sat their quietly, doing its thing but with this little silver tower....no. It hums, whines, and is downright annoying.
I found this group as a result of trying to figure out why my beautiful new Dell 5100C makes so much noise. The humming is like the pure punishment only my ex could have dreamed of! :-)
The machine is only 2 weeks old straight out of the box.
Anyone find out what could be causing it?
Just started up the new 5100C. The fan sounds like a stuck throttle on a small turbine. Any new info on this screw up?
I have an old Dell 4300S that has always been incredibly loud -- the fan noise is a constant drone that drives me nuts. I thought the new 5100 would be the answer to my prayers. Guess not. Any ideas on a quiet PC with similar specs?