Sony's latest PC/TV combination

I'm a big fan of converged PCs with monitors (yes, I know Apple did it first), so was happy to see the latest TV/monitor/PC combination from Sony, the VAIO LS1. The system will be available in mid-September for about $2,100 at Sony Style stores and other retailers, but you can pre-order one today at the Sony Web site.

The LS1 includes a flat-panel 19-inch LCD (1,680 by 1,050 resolution), Intel Core Duo processor, 2GB of RAM and a 250GB hard drive. To minimize cable clutter, the system will come with a wireless mouse, wireless aluminum keyboard and internal wireless LAN (802.11b/g) connectivity. The unit will ship with Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005, but Sony says the unit will also be Windows Vista capable and Windows Vista Premium-ready.

Other features include a built-in NTSC TV tuner with DVR capabilities, a built-in DVD burner and Sony's Click to DVD software, as well as an audio/video "quick resume" switch that turns off the display and audio output without needing the PC to enter sleep mode. An integrated camera and microphone for video conferencing rounds out the system.

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