Question for the computer experts

[Dina Lerret]

On 6/15/06, justcarol67 <justcarol67 at yahoo.com> wrote:
> I rahter desperately need a new computer. Should I just order one
> online (Dell, for example), or is there a line/brand/chain that you
> would recommend for reliability, quality, and fair pricing?
>
> Carol, who is thinking of buying one from a local merchant but is
> afraid he'll be forced out of business by the big guys

Heh, get a computer at Costco.  They have a 'lifetime guarantee for
satisfaction' (or as long as Costco is open for business).  What some
folk are doing are buying electronics at Costco, and then a year or
two later, returning the equipment for refunds toward newer models.
Although, you can't abuse this system too much.  I kid you not.
Costco has a very liberal return policy.

Many of the 'major' computer companies allow you to customize and I'd
recommend doing so, unless you get such a honey of a deal to leave the
machine 'as-is' and it meets your needs.

As to 'major' computer brands, I've never bought a computer from Dell.
 I've bought a Compaq in 1995 (nice), Compaq in 1999 (worst machine,
evah!), Gateway in 2000 (my favorite that I'm using now but it's
showing signs of my use and abuse), a custom built AMD processor-based
model, and the computer I built myself this year.

Offhand, I used an Intel motherboard, Intel processor (BTW, Intel and
AMD prices will drop in their upcoming war as Intel releases a new
line of processors), Nvidia video card, Corsair RAM, Western Digital
Raptor drive (OS), Hitachi drive (storage), NEC DVD-+RW/CD-RW burner,
Thermaltake case and CPU fan/cooler, and I ripped out the floppy drive
from the 1995 Compaq.  I did choose a Dell flat monitor and Logitech
speakers (inexpensive and they do the job just fine).  No separate
soundcard yet because onboard sound is acceptable.

Oh yeah, I sleep on top of a 1995 Dell laptop I bought used years ago
with its hinges cracked/broken--when laptop computers were the size of
Samsonite luggage. ;-)

Dina