SMALL-FORM-FACTOR PCs are becoming more popular these days ? they take up much less desktop space and yet deliver similar computing power as bulkier desktop systems.

ASUA Eee Box is an affordable and powerful desktop PC that is as slim as a paperback novel.

Driven by an Intel Atom 1.6GHz CPU, it has an 80GB hard disk, 1GB memory, WiFi N, card reader, LAN and can even mount VESA LCD displays.

The base model comes with a Windows XP Home OS and is available in black (at launch).

Although there is no built-in drive (presumably to hold down costs and size), it is not a critical consideration.

What is more important is the ability to deliver viable computing power in a compact and affordable package.

How much: $699 (bundled with 19-inch LCD monitor), $439 (without monitor)