We were hoping we'd have at least one small form factor system submitted for review, and SATO and Friction came together to supply the Draco-M3.

Users keen on saving desk space need look no further; this is the smallest package computer we have ever reviewed. Combining the size and functionality of the Shuttle SB61G2 barebones and the power and flexibility of Intel's 865G chipset, this makes for a pocketful of dynamite.

Perfectly matched to the attractive silver look of the XPC is the combo DVD-ROM/CD-RW drive. The drive blends in seamlessly with the case, unlike the mismatched optical drive and floppy of the DigitalStar IntelliPro.

Although the size of the XPC inspired ideas of lounge or bedroom boxes for basic operation or as a DVR, these units are configured to survive both full entertainment functions and regular desktop usage. Optical in and out connectivity make it an ideal lounge box for TV capture or as a streaming point for audio. Its 2.8GHz Northwood core Pentium 4 processor is by no means a slouch -- quite the opposite. This is a gamer's delight, built with enough in the performance department to let you play in comfort and without sacrificing quality, but still able to be taken to LAN parties or out and about because of its compact size.

PCMark04 showed this unit has the goods, finishing around the middle of the pack against some tough competition. Although its position slipped slightly down to second-last during the standard resolution 3D testing under 3DMark2001SE -- returning 9,325 3DMarks.

What small form factor system would be complete without a monitor? Friction also includes the 15in CMV CT-522D display, including DVI and D-Sub connectivity. Not the biggest on offer, but excellent quality nonetheless.

For a box of its size, this machine offers plenty of grunt. If you're a mobile user who doesn't want to skimp on hardware for the sake of portability, this machine gives you the best of both worlds.