I am a holdout Windows 98 user (800 MHz Pentium III processor, 256 MB RAM). After every new RELEASE of a Microsoft OS since then, I've heard each one has significant problems which kept me from getting a new system. My computer will be 8 years old in June, but now I'm having problems with the sound not functioning unless I re-boot several times - sometimes when I go to shut down I get blue screens saying I have fatal exception errors OE & OD and when I go to any Web sites that require Shockwave, that really upsets my system.

I've been shopping around for a new system and wanted some advice on what is a good brand to buy, what OS to get, RAM speed, memory, processor, etc. The choices are much more numerous than 8 years ago. Any advice appreciated. Thanks.Before we give you any recommendations...

What's your price range?

What will you be using the computer for?

Once we have that...we can make some recommendations to you.Probably not over $1000. Just basic computer use like word processing and spreadsheet database. Internet browsing with email access and online gaming (not high-end gaming, though).Your price range is well within the means of getting you a decent PC for what you'd like to do with it.

I'm not going to recommend any custom build information, because...based on your post, you'd probably want someone to recommend a specific brand...with some great specs, to satisfy the replacement of your currently outdated system.

If you're looking to get a decent PC for the price...there are several computer manufacturers you can go to: Dell, Gateway, HP...the list goes on and on.

One thing you may want to keep in mind, though, when looking at pre-builts: Always take into consideration the support you get from them. Most of the afore mentioned manufacturers outsource their support...so if you have a problem...and call them...you'll be speaking to someone who doesn't have a good grasp of the English language...and will sound like they're reading from a manual.

Another aspect is the operating system...do you want the latest Windows OS (Vista), or would you rather have XP? You could also look into a MAC, but if you want to keep the price LOW...then stick with a Windows based PC...and I would strongly recommend XP over Vista...any day. However, this will probably cause an argument here...and I'll just leave it at that.

I'd like you to take a look at a couple of websites I'm going to be sending your way...

This is what you should know about them: They are USA based manufacturers and their support is maintained in the USA...not India...if you catch my drift.

The two companies are: Micron PC and Systemax. Their computers are well built...reasonably priced...and supported here in the USA.

MPC has a desktop you can configure (E-2610) starting at about $600. Of course, you can configure it the way you'd like...but the standard specs should suit you just fine. The only thing I'd add is maybe a little more memory and a monitor of your choosing. Still within your price range.

Systemax also has some great desktops...the Venture H356 is reasonably priced...also configurable to your liking.

Again...I'd recommend Windows XP...minimum P4 processor, at least 1GB RAM, a decent size hard drive (at least 80GB), on-board video and sound is sufficient for what you have in mind...a DVD/RW or CD/RW, or a combo drive. The addition of a monitor will still keep you within your budget...and I'm more than positive you'll be quite happy with your purchase.

If I can be of any further assistance, please feel free.


All my best...Thanks for the advice and your detailed and honest reply. It just seems so much more complicated with more brands and more components than 8 years ago. Even the processor - Intel (Pentium or Celeron) or AMD (K6, Duron, Athlon or Thunderbird). I get dizzy thinking about it.Just keep in mind, what you're going to be using the computer for...or what you may intend to use it for in the future.

You'll want a computer that can handle any upgrades...and last you another 8 years.

...and you're welcome...

I certainly hope I was able to help without making it too confusing for you. It's really not that difficult, when it comes down to it.

Again, all my best...

Keep us posted as to what you decided to do...

BTW...if you decide to get an HP, Compaq, or eMachine from Walmart...DON"T...a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away...I used to work for them...and I know how truck loaders and/or unloaders handle the merchandise.LOL. I hear ya about the "big box" store computers. I did look at the MPC ANS Systemax Web sites. Only Systemax is offering Windows XP that I could determine. What's the difference between XP Home and XP Pro? Which would be better for me in a home, non-business setting?windows xp pro version has more advanced features, such as better networking. If you can get XP professional over XP home, then go for it. i have personally have always used XP proQuote from: programming_pat on May 27, 2008, 06:21:21 AM

windows xp pro version has more advanced features, such as better networking. If you can get XP professional over XP home, then go for it. i have personally have always used XP pro