Cheap PhotoExplorer 7.0 (Software) (Windows 98, Windows 95, Windows NT) Price

The colorful interface is deceptively simple; though the main options are easy enough to find and use, some neat tools are buried in the menu bars. The main screen shows pictures and screen shots organized by directory, and permits very simple additions, deletions, and reorganization. Files can be renamed, rotated, and annotated, then arranged in slide shows. Internet options are many and varied, from simple publication (using iMira.com or others) to the scanning of Web sites for pictures and video clips.

One disadvantage of Photo Explorer 7.0 that will concern more than a few users is its memory requirements. Though Ulead Systems (the manufacturer) says only 32 MB RAM is required, most users will want twice as much at minimum, as the software uses more than 30 MB for normal operation. This can lead to crashes if multiple programs are running, even on 128 MB machines. Still, users who aren't worried about RAM constraints will find the package a simple, powerful, and expedient way to collect and maintain digital media albums. --Rob Lightner