One of the neatest new trends in the tech world today is the increase in compact, self-contained computers. Net tops are one example of this idea, and the Medion X9613 (thanks Gizmodo!) is another. The X9613 is a 24" multitouch PC that runs Windows 7. Unlike all the net tops we've seen, this Medion is actually has a lot of horsepower behind it.

In addition to a multitouch screen, it packs a Core 2 Quad Q9000 processor, an Nvidia GT240M graphics card, 4 GB of RAM, a Blu-Ray drive, and a miniature Sideshow monitor at the bottom. Its screen is said to be fingerprint friendly, and it is currently priced between $2100 and $2700. An exact price is difficult to figure because the X9613 has been announced only for Europe at the moment.

I doubt it will take long for a gadget like this to cross the pond. The X9613 is pretty much a perfect self-contained home entertainment system. The price is a bit excessive right now, but that won't take long to drop. Once this hits stores a bevy of low-cost, low-powered alternatives are certain to follow.