Introduction

I would like to thank ASRock for providing the review sample.

This is the second ION based HTPC system we have on our test bench. It differs fundamentally from the Zotac MAG ION in terms of looks and also comes with a few unique features. The ASRock ION 330HT can be had in white or black and you also have the option to go with a normal DVD drive or a Blu-Ray one. We got the black ION 330HZT-BD, which comes with the new generation optical drive and represents the top-of-the line offering from ASRock.

*MSRP shown, retail may be a bit cheaper - especially online shops.

The ASRock ION 330HT-BD has a few very distinctive features. While the Blu-Ray drive is one of the most obvious, you will also find an eSATAp port (p for power) and a remote control as part of the package - but I am getting ahead of myself here.

Packaging

The unit comes packed in a very compact cardboard box. It is smaller than that of most power supplies or even some graphic cards. You will find an image of both the black and the white version of the ASRock ION 330HT-BD. A sticker also mentions the fact, that it includes a BD-ROM drive. The rear of the white box has the exact same image, but lacks further information because all the details have been placed on the sides of the box. On one, you have the specifications, while the other is filled by a set of icons to point out the general features of the HTPC.


ASRock does an excellent job at packaging the unit. It is sandwiched between two foam spacers and all the extra contents come neatly packaged in a separate brown box.

Contents

There are multiple manuals to help you with installation and setup of the unit. ASRock also includes a small, circular mousepad, but no mouse. You also get all the cabling for an additional SATA device along with a set of screws, a HDMI to DVI adapter and the power cable. The latter is of the same type as those found with many notebooks, so it should be easy to grab a replacement one if needed. ASRock has also decided to include a media center remote matching the color of the enclosure. It is fully featured and feels surprisingly good to the touch. The round shape makes it a pleasure to hold, and the construction quality is excellent.


Taking a quick look at the PSU - which is refreshingly compact. It is rated for 19V and 3.42A, which translates into 65W max. The unit is just as compact as the one which ships with the Zotac MAG and also delivers the same amount of power.