On August 26, CNET launched a substantial redesign of its Web sites. As part of the changes, we've altered the rating system to include numerals (1 through 10 with decimals) and a five-star system, with half stars. Nothing changed regarding how we test products or calculate their ratings. (Read more about this process below.) You can send feedback by clicking on the link at the top of this page.
- Reviewed by:
- John P. Falcone
- Reviewed on:
- 04/25/07
- Updated on:
- 04/25/07
- Click here to see CNET editors' review for Pinnacle PCTV To Go HD Wireless
- Design:
- 6.0
- Features:
- 8.0
- Performance:
- 7.0
- Overall score:
- 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. On the product review page and elsewhere on the Web site, the overall rating is displayed as a series of stars, based on a five-star scale with half stars (see conversion details below). 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:
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
9.6 to 10.0 = 5 stars (Spectacular):
This exceedingly rare score is reserved for a product that is as perfect as it could be.
9.0 to 9.5 = 4.5 stars (Outstanding):
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 = 4 stars (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 = 3.5 stars (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 = 3 stars (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 = 2.5 stars (Average):
A product that scores in this range is functional but unremarkable.
4.0 to 4.9 = 2 stars (Mediocre):
Products in this range are below average. They fall in the middle of the pack for most features, but suffer from a few additional major flaws.
3.0 to 3.9 = 1.5 stars (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 = 1 star (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 = 1/2 star (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.
0 - 0.9 = 0 stars
User reviews
- Average user rating: 2.0 stars out of 11 reviews
- My rating: 0 stars Write review
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Where to buy
Pinnacle PCTV To Go HD Wireless:
$119.00
| store | price | in stock? | rating |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Amazon.com Marketplace
|
$119.00 | Yes |
|
