I know you said you don't want a mac, but a mac mini really would be ideal for this. $600 gets you an i5 processor, 4GB RAM and a 500GB HDD in a very efficient and reliable package. Adding windows would probably cost you $150 or so more, but even then I have found Parallels runs Windows better than my PC's.

A refurbished Mini off of eBay could probably get you below $500 after installing Parallels and Windows.

[Link: sonnettech.com]

Run Windows on it.

Guys, thanks for suggestions.
I do have an extra license for Win7, so OS costs are not a factor.
Mac Mini without OS is just a small PC, and there outta be boxes with same hardware without Apple markup on them.

apple doesnt OEM their PCs. I do agree that maybe their should be something similar you probably wont. Considering the amount of capitol apple has to design these triumphs over most other companies.

i found this one but your not going to get much and the power specs are almost double that of apples [Link: staples.com]

for a few dollars more you get a computer that is twice as fast, meets your requirements and stays cool. My vote is mac mini with windows.

I have used a couple entry level Acer Aspire slim desktops in racks. HP also has slimline desktop models. Asus has the EeeBox. I would just go grab a basic i3 slimline desktop computer from BB or such for around $400 - 500 ready to go with warranty.


Acer example: [Link: bestbuy.com]

HP example: [Link: bestbuy.com]

If you don't care about a disc drive...HP has some new mini computers that are about the same size as the Mac mini and priced about the same.

[Link: www8.hp.com]

Build your own using a j1900 mother board such as this
[Link: newegg.com]

it even has a power port when you can use any 19v power supply. It draws very little energy and should have enough computing to accomplish your tasks.

Just drop an ssd in there 2x2gb ram and get any mini itx case you like.

If you don't want to go down this route, an intel nuc would be just as good or an asus brix.