TnErnie
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posted on April 13, 2006 06:35:44 AM new
I'm getting ready to purchase a new computer but can't decide what to get...been 4 years since I bought my last one and they've changed somewhat! lol
We don't have any reliable computer dealers here in town, so I'm looking really hard at ordering one from Dell.
I haven't really kept up with this sort of stuff for several years and I don't even know where to begin on selecting options for the hardware. I'm looking in the $1,000 - $1,500 price range, but less would be even better. 
I was hoping since everyone here uses their computers for pretty much the same thing I do...you might be able to offer opinions, advice, forewarnings, etc.
[ edited by TnErnie on Apr 13, 2006 06:37 AM ]
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eauctionmgnt
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posted on April 13, 2006 07:02:23 AM new
Get an Apple!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
As an IT professional, I deal all the time with both Apple and Windows Computers. Apple computers are much easier to maintain and operate... not to mention that they use much more advanced technology (in both hardware and software). You can get a good iMac for the price range you're looking at. Apple's do not have problems with Spyware, Adware or Viruses... which can cripple even the most expensive, latest hardware Windows computer.
Keep in mind that Apple just released "Boot Camp" which allows you to install a dual-boot system (so that you can run OSX on one partition and Windows on another). That way if you have Windows only programs (which are fairly few, most major ones are available on a Mac), or simply don't want to invest in new software right away... you can run those particular programs in your Windows environment, and do the rest of your work in the Apple environment.
Really... Apple is the way to go. You'll be happy if you make the switch.
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eauctionmgnt
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posted on April 13, 2006 07:04:23 AM new
PS...
ESPECIALLY since you don't have reliable computer dealers in town... get an Apple!!! No matter what Windows computer you get, you will have problems at some point! If you can't get it repaired... you've got a $1000 paper-weight.
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glassgrl
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posted on April 13, 2006 07:15:20 AM new
I got one from Dell and I like it. BUT I bought through Small Business and you don't have to be a business to buy like that. I just got another flyer yesterday and they had some good deals. On the back page is a Dimension 1100 with a free 19" flat panel for $479. E value Code 65006-550401cp
http://www1.us.dell.com/content/default.aspx?c=us&cs=04&l=en&s=bsd
I like my 4700 and haven't had any problems with it except when the hurricane caused a power surge that knocked out my hard drive. I lost everything but Dell sent out a Tech within 2 days and installed a new hard drive that was double in size since they didn't have my size on hand - so that was sweet for me!
I requested no AOhell and no virus software but it came with it anyway.
I installed a non-brand DVD recorder in my second bay a couple of months ago and it was really easy.
They are coming out with some really nice Latitude notebooks now and if I ever buy a new one I'll probably buy a Dell.
PS you can get some really good prices on Dell add-ons on Ebay. Cheaper than what Dell sells them for....like speakers or such. But I wouldn't buy a computer from Ebay. No way.
[ edited by glassgrl on Apr 13, 2006 07:23 AM ]
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TheFamilyBiz
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posted on April 13, 2006 07:16:06 AM new
TnErnie, Go with a Dell. Their customer service we've seen over the past 4-5 years has been good (with a rare bad experience - just a delay in the local service person they sent to fix a problem with a laptop).
You won't have many people as evangelists for PCs - just not the mindset. You will, however, run into those who endorse Apple products like their lives depend on it and anyone who challenges their assertions will be dispatched with haste.
It's good that you're getting opinions - then take a look at the deals you can get. We just bought a 2nd Dell laptop a few months ago after considering all other options very carefully.
Wayne
Never explain -- Your friends do not need it and your enemies will not believe you anyway.
~ Elbert Hubbard
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hwahwa
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posted on April 13, 2006 07:28:11 AM new
I just bot my second Presario from HP-Compaq online,like you,my old one is 5 years old and a lot has changed!!
It takes awhile to learn the new features(Window XP versus Window 98 second edition).The pc is fine but the customer support from India is not the greatest!!
For that kind of money,you can get a very nice PC from most vendors,good luck!!
/ lets all stop whining !! /
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glassgrl
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posted on April 13, 2006 07:29:47 AM new
oh. I forgot to ask - are you phone line or cable?
Most of the Dell's don't have phone line capability. You can add one (sometimes through them) but I just wanted you to be aware of it.
It slipped past me when I was ordering. That's the MODEM in human terms.
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hwahwa
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posted on April 13, 2006 07:32:51 AM new
cant imagine why Dell does that?
My Presario has both and when cable is down,I can still go online with the phone line.
/ lets all stop whining !! /
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glassgrl
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posted on April 13, 2006 08:05:00 AM new
golly gee. imagine that.
it's the Business part of Dell Small Business. They can't imagine anyone not having cable modem and wanting to use a phone line instead.
the Home division of Dell probably has phone lines. I just think the customer service and computers are a teeny bit better with Small Business.
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neglus
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posted on April 13, 2006 08:23:58 AM new
I think you can add a "telephony" modem to the 1100 DEll deal for $40 - you can also upgrade RAM (must do that) etc..hit the "customize" button to see all the options.
THe Apple users are certainly rabid fans! I will say that my daughters' iPods both have needed a lot of repair and Apple has been excellent about it - but WHY so many repairs in the first place???
My nearly 5 year old emachine keeps on keeping on though I think it's getting about time to replace it. The reason it has lasted so long is that I upgraded to 512 RAM when I bought it. I wouldn't know about repairs because it has never needed any. I bought the 3 year extended warranty contract thinking that probably the CD player would go and Best Buy said they would replace the whole unti....but alas NOTHING has broken and the contract is long expired! I have never even defragged it! LOL
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http://stores.ebay.com/Moody-Mommys-Marvelous-Postcards?refid=store
[ edited by neglus on Apr 13, 2006 08:25 AM ]
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hwahwa
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posted on April 13, 2006 08:33:03 AM new
Small business would want to go online and stay online when cable is down,in my area,cable can be down for hours and it is frustrating.
/ lets all stop whining !! /
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eauctionmgnt
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posted on April 13, 2006 09:02:02 AM new
Boy... you issue an opinion and all of a sudden you're a "rabid fan"!
First of all, let me say that if you feel the need to stick with Windows... I agree with those that suggest DELL. They do use better components and offer better customer service than others (such as Gateway, Toshiba, IBM, etc...)
Next... if you wonder why Apple users are loyal to their brand... think about these facts (these are not opinions by the way... they are indeed facts)
1) There are no SPYWARE or ADWARE on Apple computers. This can really cripple Windows machines (and all it takes is for you to visit the wrong website at the wrong time).
2) Viruses are also not a problem (unless you run Windows on a partition using Boot Camp). Although some conceptual viruses have been created in lab environments, nothing has really been distributed.
3) All the major new technologies have always been embraced by apple FIRST. Think about it. The mouse. The Graphical User Interface. Digital Cameras. PDA's (apple's Newton). Firewire. Abandoning floppy disks for CD-RW drives. Gigabit Ethernet, Digital Video Displays. (heck… even the World Wide Web was highly influenced by Apple’s Hyper-Card program!) None of this would be the same if it hadn’t been for Apple’s innovation. So why wait months or years for the same technology to come out on the Windows side? (p.s. I’ve seen Vista… it looks very much like OSX tiger, which has been out for ages now!)
4) Stability. It’s just a matter of programming, people. The Macintosh OSX system is built on a UNIX Shell. It is stable. The Microsoft Operating system is built on… well… years of Microsoft bugs that have been patched, hacked, re-patched… Think of it as being able to build a house on a foundation of concrete versus a foundation of duct-tape.
I could go on and on (and be labeled as a rabid fan, I guess)… but the best way to understand it is to experience it. I’d really recommend that anyone looking at a new computer at least does some research into Apple computers. You’ll probably like what you see. I’m not saying that Windows and Microsoft might not be a necessary evil at times… but at least now with Boot Camp you can run programs like Microsoft Access, without needing two computers (or using dreadfully slow emulation software). You may think it funny for Apple users to stick by their machines… but I think it’s funny that Windows users stick by theirs…
[ edited by eauctionmgnt on Apr 13, 2006 09:09 AM ]
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max40
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posted on April 13, 2006 09:24:19 AM new
If you decide on a Dell, it will pay you to check out this site. They are constantly updating the best deals from Dell and others.
http://www.hotdealsclub.com/
[ edited by max40 on Apr 13, 2006 09:24 AM ]
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fenix03
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posted on April 13, 2006 09:24:27 AM new
Neglus - What type of repairs? I have had my iPod for about a year and a half. It goes everywhere with me. I wear it when I go to the post office to the gym, even grocery shopping. I've never had a single problem with it.
TN - seriously - do check out a Mac. Go to an Apple store and have the sales person show you the Man Mini. Starts at $600.
~~~ • ~~~ • ~~~ • ~~~ • ~~~
Never ask what sort if computer a guy drives. If he's a Mac user, he'll tell you. If he's not, why embarrass him? - Tom Clancy
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TnErnie
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posted on April 13, 2006 09:29:47 AM new
eauctionmgnt - I considered an Apple, but I have so many Windows only based programs it wouldn't really be feasible. One of the reasons I'm leaning towards Dell is they have a plant only an hour away where we can have repairs done.
glassgrl - Thanks for the e value coupon! They sent me one the other day, but it was for laptops and I'm looking at desktops. I would never even consider eBay for an purchase this expensive, but I will definitely check out the add-ons.
I've got DSL service so hopefully that won't be a problem.
I've been looking in the Home/Home Business section, but I'll take a look at the Small Business section now too.
TheFamilyBiz - I've always heard Dell had good customer service. It's nice to hear you confirm it.
hwahwa - The computer I'm replacing is an el cheapo Presario. It's been pretty good. Unfortunately, the one and only dealer we had here that could service them has gone out of business.
Neglus - I wish mine has 512 RAM! lol This poor old thing I'm replacing is only a 128 RAM!
Max40 - I'll definitely give that site a look. Thanks!
fenix03 - I think the closest Apple store is two hours from here, but I am going to at least look at their online store.
Does anyone know what the main difference is between the Dell Dimension and the XPS?
[ edited by TnErnie on Apr 13, 2006 09:41 AM ]
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neglus
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posted on April 13, 2006 09:40:51 AM new
Fenix - I have one sitting here for DHL pickup - something about a "sad apple" (won't turn on I think). Hers is about 1 1/2 years old too and this is the second repair (Apple is honoring warranty though) - they send the box, the tape...everything!
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http://stores.ebay.com/Moody-Mommys-Marvelous-Postcards?refid=store
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neglus
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posted on April 13, 2006 09:43:08 AM new
eauction - sorry didn't mean negative when I wrote "rabid fan" - you gotta admit you guys are enthusiastic though!
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http://stores.ebay.com/Moody-Mommys-Marvelous-Postcards?refid=store
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eauctionmgnt
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posted on April 13, 2006 09:45:22 AM new
Neglus,
Makes you wonder why, doesn't it?! 
(don't worry... no offense taken!)
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sanmar
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posted on April 13, 2006 09:46:19 AM new
Personally I like HP. They are GREAT on service. One survey out had them in #1 spot. I don't know why everyone thinks Dell is so great, actually they are no better or worse than some others, they just advertise more. Go on line to HP.com & check their store prices. You can save a lot by buying on line from them.
Life Is Too Short To Drink Bad Wine
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hwahwa
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posted on April 13, 2006 09:56:02 AM new
If you have old software loaded on your old pc with window 95 or 98,and you want to move them to your new PC,you may need to do some upgrading .
My HP printer/copier/scanner combo,my photo editing software,my sandisk memory card all need some tweaking,you can download the upgrades from their websites.
/ lets all stop whining !! /
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fenix03
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posted on April 13, 2006 10:09:06 AM new
Neglus - Sounds like she crashed the hard drive. Have you tried reformatting it from the CD that came with it?
Should be a quick and simple fix. If she is loading it from a PC it's possible she infected it with a virus or just overloaded it.
~~~ • ~~~ • ~~~ • ~~~ • ~~~
Never ask what sort if computer a guy drives. If he's a Mac user, he'll tell you. If he's not, why embarrass him? - Tom Clancy
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TnErnie
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posted on April 13, 2006 10:12:30 AM new
Sanmar - My biggest problem with HP is no close service if a problem arises, whereas with Dell it's just an hour away max.
hwahwa - Luckily, I had upgraded to Windows XP, so most of my programs and stuff will work with a new one. The pain is going to be transferring stuff. 
Speaking of printers - Are the Dell printers any good? I currently have an HP All-in-one, but it's starting to have problems. The Dells do offer discounts if you get the printer when you get the computer, so I may consider adding one.
I've just always had a hard time finding a printer that could beat HP on print quality for the price and I hesitate to change.
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eauctionmgnt
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posted on April 13, 2006 10:17:16 AM new
TnErnie,
I'd stay far away from Dell Printers. If I remember correctly, they're actually manufactured for Dell by Lexmark (one of the worst printer companies out there). We have a Dell color printer that they gave us for FREE for evaluation... and I think we paid too much for it...
You're best off if you stick with the big names... either HP or Epson. Their cost to operate is MUCH lower than Lexmarks. And their quality is really pretty good. Personally, I prefer Epson over HP... but have seen good results with both.
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TnErnie
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posted on April 13, 2006 10:21:22 AM new
eauction - Thanks!! I tried a Lexmark for two days and took it back. The print quality was terrible compared to my less expensive HP. Guess I'll stick with HP on that one.
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stonecold613
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posted on April 13, 2006 10:49:30 AM new
Be sure to specifically ask to have a floppy drive installed. They no longer put them in unless you ask for it.
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fenix03
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posted on April 13, 2006 10:58:58 AM new
For as frequently as they are used, forget having one installed - just get a USB external for $15.00.
~~~ • ~~~ • ~~~ • ~~~ • ~~~
Never ask what sort if computer a guy drives. If he's a Mac user, he'll tell you. If he's not, why embarrass him? - Tom Clancy
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pixiamom
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posted on April 13, 2006 11:25:11 AM new
I love my Canon i960 printer- uses 6 ink cartridges which produce superior photos and you only replace each color as you need to and generic inks work great in it
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toollady
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posted on April 13, 2006 11:38:41 AM new
I'm impatiently waiting for UPS to arrive with my new Dell today!
I bought the B110 with the Pentium4 2.80 processor, 1gig of ram, 80 gig hard drive (I currently have a 60gig with 85%free space)DVD dual layer writer and 17" flat panel monitor...total cost $539.00
I also purchased the Dell 924 all-in-one copier/scanner/printer for an additional $29.00 or $39.00.(can't remember right now)
Shipping was on special for $29 for the computer and free for the printer.
After reading some of the comments about the modem, I checked - it does come with a 56K modem for dial up.
I got it through one of Dell's 10 days of deals on the home side of the site. I think they now have a new round of specials.(Each day the deal changes)
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tOMWiii
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posted on April 13, 2006 11:44:49 AM new
"Lexmark (one of the worst printer companies out there..."
URBAN LEGEND?? Or True story:
Remember the old IBM SELECTRIC (ball) TYPEWRITERS?
The story goes that when typewriters became dinosaurs, the factory was re-tooled to make PC printers, & thus...the BIRTH of LEXMARK!
I think their "disposable" printers are great! I usually buy an ALL-IN-ONE (printer/scanner) for around $50 & chuck it after 18mos!
For my everyday printing, I use a SAMSUNG LASER I bought for $99 -- love it!
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mikes4x4andtruckrepair
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posted on April 13, 2006 12:16:00 PM new
I'll just through in my 2 cents. I have a HP Pavilion ZV5300US laptop running Windows XP Pro and love it. Have been using it for about 1 1/2 years with no problems. I have also owned Dell laptops. Still have my last one and it still works. Also never had a problem with that one either. Just slow as pond scum. It was top of the line in it's day though.
 Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former. - Albert Einstein
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