Sony Unveils RA204 Desktop: A Showcase for Next-Generation AV-IT Features and Design

Strategic Insights -

The latest desktop from Sony, the RA204, is a power-packed machine designed for consumers seeking the ultimate PC experience. This cutting-edge device boasts a range of advanced features, including a Pentium 4 processor with Hyper-Threading, 16x PCI Express architecture, and a Serial ATA array with 400GB storage capacity. The RA204 also comes with a wireless networking component and a Network Media Receiver, enabling users to easily set up a high-speed wireless network and stream audio-visual content to their TV and Hi-Fi equipment.

Key Takeaways:

  • The RA204 features a Pentium 4 processor 560 with Hyper-Threading, running at 3.6GHz and using a 90-nanometre process, enabling higher clock frequencies at lower power consumption.
  • The system has 13 new SSE instructions to improve areas such as video compression, 3D graphics handling, and complex arithmetic algorithms.
  • The RA204 boasts a 16x PCI Express bus, doubling data flow to and from the graphics card and providing enhanced graphics performance.
  • The device has 1GB of extremely fast 400MHz dual-channel DDR memory, providing the underpinning for top performance regardless of the workload.
  • The RA204 includes a unique 'fly through' aperture in the upper section of the tower, allowing for improved airflow and efficient heat management.
  • The system features the DVD+R DL format, offering a total capacity of 8.5GB for video storage, as well as multiformat (DVD[+ or -]RW) DVD recording of standard capacity discs.

Statistics:

  • The RA204 processor has a 3.6GHz clock speed and uses a 90-nanometre process.
  • The system has 1GB of 400MHz dual-channel DDR memory.
  • TheSequential Access Time for the hard disk drive is 17.4ms average seek time.
  • The maximum data transfer rate for the Serial ATA interface is 150MBps.
  • The RA204 supports the DVD+R DL format, offering a total capacity of 8.5GB for video storage.

Sources:

  • M2 PressWIRE, September 14, 2004: "SONY: The RA200-Series: Experience The Power; Cutting-edge AV-IT features, next-generation system architecture and unique design - the RA200-Series is as radical as it looks"
  • Various online sources, including Sony's website, for further information on the RA204 features and specifications.