Diamond XtremeTV PVR660 USB 2.0 Power Pack Edition

CNET Editors' rating explained for Diamond XtremeTV PVR660 USB 2.0 Power Pack Edition

Reviewed by:: Dan Ackerman
Edited by:: Katy Sullivan
Reviewed on:: 08/30/06
Updated on:: 08/30/06
Released on:: 07/01/06
Click here to see CNET editors' review for Diamond XtremeTV PVR660 USB 2.0 Power Pack Edition
Design:: 7.0
Features:: 8.0
Performance:: 7.0

Editors' rating: graphics cards
We rate graphics cards on a scale of 0.0 through 10.0 (see "What the numbers mean" below). The editors calculate the overall rating from a series of subratings, on a scale of 1 to 10, that gauge key aspects of the product. The graphics cards we review generally can be divided into two classes: graphics cards and multifunction graphics cards. Each subrating is weighted based on its relative importance within a specific product class. For example, a graphics card's features subrating is weighted more heavily for a multifunction graphics card than it is for a nonmultifunction graphics card.

The rating criteria with the weightings by class are:

Features
Assesses the features of a graphics card relative to its class. This includes the graphics processing unit (GPU), memory, and connectors. Additionally, the package as a whole is evaluated, including bundled software and games. Multifunction cards are also evaluated on the capabilities and quality of features such as a TV tuner and video capture.

Graphics card: 20 percent
Multifunction graphics card: 50 percent

Performance
Gauges the overall performance of the graphics card relative to its class. This rating is based on results of independent, industry-standard benchmark tests, and popular gaming applications. For more details on the benchmarks we use and our test methodology, see the CNET Labs site.

Graphics card: 70 percent
Multifunction graphics card: 40 percent

Service and support
Assesses the company's service and support policies, including the term of the warranty and technical support via phone, e-mail, and the Web.

Graphics card: 10 percent
Multifunction graphics card: 10 percent

What the numbers mean
10.0 (Perfect):
This exceedingly rare score is reserved for a product that is as perfect as it could be.

9.0 to 9.9 (Spectacular):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores high on all of its rating criteria. It succeeds at meeting all of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful drawbacks.

8.0 to 8.9 (Excellent):
A product that receives a rating in this range is superior in so many ways that its relatively few drawbacks are not very important.

7.0 to 7.9 (Very good):
While the strengths of a product scoring in this range certainly outweigh its weaknesses, it has some minor faults that certain users should be aware of.

6.0 to 6.9 (Good):
This range represents a product that is above average. Its strengths slightly outweigh its weaknesses, making it good for most uses but not a standout.

5.0 to 5.9 (Average):
A product that scores in this range is functional but unremarkable.

4.0 to 4.9 (Mediocre):
Products in this range are below average. They fall the middle of the pack for most features, but suffer from a few additional major flaws.

3.0 to 3.9 (Poor):
You probably should not consider a product in this range or lower. There may be one or two specialized circumstances, however, that could justify the purchase of this product for a very low price for a specific demand.

2.0 to 2.9 (Terrible):
A product that receives a rating in this range scores low on all of its rating criteria. It does not satisfy any of its intended users' needs and has no meaningful strengths.

1.0 to 1.9 (Abysmal):
A product in this range should never have been produced. This product has no redeeming qualities and worse, may actually harm you or your productivity.