PCV-E
This page is currently WIP!!
Overview
The Sony VAIO PCV-E is a series of desktop computers released by Sony in 1998 and 1999. It was a refresh to the previous PCV-2** series desktops released in 1997. This was the first VAIO series to include "Digital Studio" models, which added i.LINK (IEEE1394) ports on the front and back, one S/PDIF audio output on the back, improved graphics capabilities, and a VAIO Smart keyboard compared to the non-DS PCV-E models. All US PCV-E models included a 3.5" floppy drive, a single disc drive (CD, DVD, or CD-RW), and two USB ports. Being VAIOs, they included several applications for for photo and video editing and management, including Adobe PhotoDeluxe, Adobe Premiere LE, Sony Digital Media Park, and Sony PictureGear.
Based off of Sony's marketing, the DS models were aimed at DV editing in combination with the included DVgate Motion and DVgate Still applications, by capturing still and video images off of camcorders, then cataloging content for fast, easy storage and retrieval.
Detailed Specs
Processor: Pentium II (Deschutes), Celeron, or Pentium III (Katmai)
Graphics: ATi Rage Pro Turbo (2-4MB memory) for non-DS models or Matrox G200 (8MB memory) for DS models
Chipset: Intel 440EX for non-DS models or 440BX for DS models
Memory: 32-128MB (Standard), 256MB (Maximum) DIMM PC66/100 SDRAM
Display: 15 or 17 inch CRT Monitor, optional for some models.
Storage: 4.3-17.2GB IDE HDD
Weight: unknown
MSRP: Starting at $999.99 for the PCV-E201 with no display, $1699.98 for the PCV-E203 with a 15" CRT (CPD-120VS), and $2399.98 for the PCV-E205 with a 17" CRT (CPD-220VS). In April 1999, the PCV-E518DS was $2799 with a 17" CRT.
Daily Usage Today
The Sony VAIO PCV-E has limited use today. It is best suited for basic tasks from the late 90s, utilizing the included software. DOS gaming may be limited due to lack of ISA slots, and Windows gaming may also be limited due to lack of an AGP slot.
Resources
PCV-E201, PCV-E203, and PCV-E205 Recovery Discs