The SB51G was a pure joy to put together. It took us less than a half hour to put the system together since there really wasn’t much to add. Just pop in a processor, some memory, a hard drive, and CD ROM drive and you’re all set. The system comes with so much functionality already built in that there is really no need to expand it.

Though it uses the older Intel 845GE chipset, the SB51G provides solid performance based around the older Pentium 4 400/533 line of processors. In fact, if you do not need the performance of an 800 MHz FSB, then going to the SB51G is a very attractive economic option. Of course, Shuttle was nice enough to include some overclocking capabilities on the SB51G. If you feel that your Pentium 4 processor isn’t up to snuff – try raising that Front Side Bus a bit.

We used the SB51G for nearly a week and had nary a problem with it. Of course having a system based around the reputable Intel 845 chipset helps too. The box does get slightly warm to the touch in the right rear since the power supply resides in that location. However it isn’t anything to worry about for the long term.

Shuttle’s ICE heatpipe technology works very well with the SB51G. Not only does it keep the temperatures down, it also lowers overall system noise. The loudest device in our setup was the Lite-On DVD-ROM drive spinning away during application installations. There is still some light ambient noise emanating from the SB51G but most users will find it easy to overlook.

The SB51G performed adequately given the 845 chipset. The system should satisfy most users out there as it stands though some of you may want to utilize the two expansion slots to offer even better audio/video performance. Gamers will want to upgrade the Intel Extreme Graphics support to an AGP card. The on board sound is adequate as well though a Creative Audigy 2 card is preferable.

This box will more than likely serve as my new future home theater PC system. The goal will be to outfit the SB51G with an ATI All-In-Wonder card and an Audigy 2 card and Media Center PC here we come! More on this some other time.

Summary

If you’ve been thinking about jumping into the Small Form Factor PC market, now is the time to do so. There are so many great options available to the computer enthusiast and the SB51G exemplifies that. Though the SB51G is no longer the top of the line XPC from Shuttle, it is by no means a slouch either. The 845 chipset offers good performance when coupled with DDR 333 memory and a 533 FSB based Pentium 4 processor. If you want the absolute best performance XPC, then you will need to look at the new SB61G2 which offers support for the 800 MHz Pentium 4 processor. However, if you don’t need that high end power and you’d like to shave off a few dollars, then definitely consider the SB51G. It comes packed with features and also offers enough expandability for the performance seekers. This barebones system can now be found for well under $300 dollars and is a great way to enter the SFF space. If you have any comments or questions, please post them here in our forums.