I wanted to get into touch screen computing and the HP TouchSmart IQ816t desktop seemed like the place to start. I've had the HP TouchSmart for around two-weeks and in short, I like it. The model has a Windows Vista 64-bit Edition OS to accommodate the 4-GB RAM and a 750-GB 7200 RPM SATA hard drive.

The 2.16 GHz speed Intel Core2 Duo processor is a little weak, but overall it moves the mammoth Vista and NVIDIA GeForce 9500 M GS graphics along pretty well. There's a lot to say about the HP TouchSmart all-in-one, I will highlight the what I have discovered so far. The price is right at less than $2,000.

Interesting Features:

The HP TouchSmart IQ816t desktop has a Blu-Ray player and a SuperMulti-DVD burner. I mention this feature because it was a necessary point in my selection process. The model has dual-format NTSC or over-the-air ATSC high-definition TV tuner capabilities. This is pretty cool for watching TV shows without the need for cable service.

I wanted a HDMI connection, loads of USB ports, Ethernet 10/100/1000, 802.11n wireless and a SD/SDHC slot. All of my buying guide points were satisfied and then some. It has an outstanding 800 Mhz Front Side Bus. The built-in Web cam and speaker system is another outstanding feature. I have never seen a more vivid and clear Web cam on any PC. No blur-outs or video-swoosh on the HP TouchSmart.

The functionality and versatility of the HP TouchSmart cannot be praised enough. It is definitely an all-in-one, with a 25.5-inch diagonal touch screen including a full HD and Blu-Ray resolution display. The optical mouse, TV tuner, remote and wireless keyboard come in the box with the PC display. Uniquely, I can move and tilt the screen around for an optimal view for gaming or computing. This feature is excellent.

Lastly, it comes with a huge assortment of software. Some of the Microsoft and security software is trial ware. However, HP includes some really nice graphics, music management and another software. The HP TouchSmart software is impressive and I consider it useful. As an added bonus the model has an Energy Star certification and satisfies EPEAT standards for not wrecking the planet.

I am still getting used to the HP TouchSmart IQ816t desktop, but so far it is as good if not better than I expected. Try this model out and I think you will be impressed.