The HP Compaq t5710 is a compact thin client released in 2004, designed primarily for enterprise deployments. Despite its intended purpose as a lightweight networked device, it has become a surprisingly capable platform for DOS and Windows 98 gaming — particularly for retro enthusiasts with limited space.
I first purchased one after moving to New York in 2019, seeking a retro PC that didn’t take up much apartment space. Its small footprint hides a surprisingly flexible system that supports classic DOS audio, early Windows 9x gaming, and even PCI graphics expansion.
Why the t5710 is interesting for retro use
Thin clients aren’t usually associated with gaming, but the t5710 has several features that make it attractive:
- Compact, low-noise, and energy-efficient
- Onboard legacy support:
- PS/2 keyboard/mouse
- Serial header for classic input devices
- A PCI expansion slot, uncommon in small thin clients
- Fully DOS-compatible audio:
- Sound Blaster Pro support
- AdLib FM synthesis
- Windows 98–friendly hardware once configured
Despite being a 2004 device, it covers nearly every retro use-case in a single, low-cost, ultra-small form factor.
Specifications
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | Transmeta Crusoe, 800 MHz |
| RAM | 256–512 MB DDR2 (expandable depending on model) |
| Graphics | Integrated ATI Radeon 7000M with 16 MB dedicated graphics memory |
| Storage | 44-pin IDE for Disk on Module or Compact Flash storage |
| Audio | SBPro–compatible audio; supports DOS Sound Blaster / AdLib |
| Expansion | 1× PCI slot |
| I/O | PS/2 keyboard/mouse, 4x USB 2.0, serial port, parallel port, VGA output |
| OS Compatibility | DOS, Windows 98 SE, Windows XP |
| Form Factor | Thin client (small footprint, fanless design) |
DOS and Windows 98 compatibility
The t5710 shines in DOS and early Windows environments:
- Native DOS audio works out of the box:
- Sound Blaster Pro emulation
- AdLib FM synthesis fully functional
- Windows 98 installation is achievable with minor tweaks
- PS/2 keyboard input works reliably, and USB can be used if necessary
- Storage: a CF-to-IDE adapter provides reliable disk access for Win98
After trial and error, I was able to successfully install and game on Windows 98.
PCI expansion: 3dfx Voodoo 2
The single PCI slot opens the door to more ambitious retro builds:
- After testing, I successfully installed a 3dfx Voodoo 2 PCI card
- This allowed for classic Glide acceleration in Windows 98 and DOS games
- Combining onboard SBPro-compatible audio and Voodoo 2 graphics produces a surprisingly authentic retro experience
This is particularly notable because most thin clients of this era do not support legacy PCI expansion for 3dfx hardware.
Practical retro notes
- PS/2 splitter: I was able to use a working Monoprice PS/2 splitter for reliable keyboard and mouse input
- Sound: Both native DOS and Win98 sound work well; MIDI playback and FM synthesis are accurate
- GPU: While onboard S3 graphics are adequate for early DOS titles, Voodoo 2 PCI support enables higher-end Glide games
- Form factor: Ultra-compact; ideal for small desks, apartments, or dedicated retro setups
Known quirks and limitations
- Limited RAM (256–512 MB) may require careful configuration for Windows 98 or XP
- Only one PCI slot: expansion choices are limited
- Onboard graphics performance is weak for later 3D titles
- Storage options may require adapters or compact drives
None of these are deal-breakers, but they require planning for optimal retro performance.
Summary
The HP Compaq t5710 is a remarkable “hidden gem” for retro enthusiasts. It combines:
- Small footprint
- Authentic DOS / Windows 98 sound
- Reliable PS/2 input
- PCI expansion for Voodoo 2 and other legacy cards
For compact retro PC setups where space is at a premium, the t5710 delivers a surprising amount of capability in a single, tiny package.
I can thoroughly recommend it for anyone exploring classic DOS, early Windows
