Although the Inspiron started off as the entry-level brand of laptop PCs from computer technology company Dell Inc., it eventually graduated to mid-level computer system status. One of the representatives of this progression was the Dell Inspiron 530. A desktop PC released in 2007, the Inspiron 530 was presented as an option for home users who needed a machine with little more than basic computing capabilities.
Operaing System and Processor
Each Dell Inspiron 530 ran on the Microsoft Windows Vista Home Premium operating system. The processor installed on the desktop was usually a single-, dual- or quad-core chip from the Intel Celeron, Intel Pentium or Core 2 brands. The processing speed ranged from the high 1s to mid-2s in gigahertz.
System Memory
Depending on model, the Inspiron 530 had two or four DIMM (dual in-line memory module) slots, with pre-installed memory of 512 megabytes, 1 gigabyte or 2 GB. Since the 530a and 530c models had four slots, the system memory was expandable to a maximum amount of 8 GB; the others could only contain up to 4 GB. Running on a speed of 667 or 800 megahertz, it adhered to the second generation of synchronous dynamic random access memory, or DDR2 SDRAM.
Disk Drives
The hard drive space of the Dell Inspiron 530 usually peaked at around 320 GB, with a rotational speed of 7,200 revolutions per minute. The optical drive was suitable for playing and burning CDs and DVDs. Both disk drives were connected to the desktop using its Serial Advanced Technology Attachment interface.
Audio, Video and Graphics
Although the standard video/graphics controller was integrated on the motherboard, some 530 laptops received a dedicated, more advanced Nvidia or Advanced Micro Devices card instead. The regular 530, 530a and 530c received a Realtek ALC888, which was also integrated on the motherboard and supported 7.1-channel audio. The 530b and 530d models got a less impressive 5.1-audio channel Realtek ALC662 instead.
Networking and Connectors
For wired local area networking, Dell included a 100 megabits per second Ethernet, accompanied by a RJ-45 jack. Other external interfaces included six USB 2.0 ports, six audio jacks and VGA connector for the computer monitor.
Physical Measurements and Power
With a weight of about 28 lbs. and a silver finish, the Dell Inspiron 530 measured 14.2 inches in length, 6.7 inches in width and 17.1 inches in depth. Power is provided by a 300-watt AC adapter, although Dell packaged a 350-W power supply with the Inspiron 530 models that had the Intel Core 2 Quad processor.
Tags: Dell Inspiron, 530a 530c, integrated motherboard