I'm getting a new desktop

[fmb]

Okay everyone!

I'm going to get a new desktop computer; I thought about a new laptop, but figured my current laptop is working just fine (for now). Anyway, what do you folks recommend? I'm asking because I'm not the most computer literate kinda guy; if you've dealt with me in the past, you know I'm a user of technology, not a manipulator of it...

What will I do with the computer? Mostly word processing, some power point, and may venture into some photo manipulation stuff.... Also, I'd like to work on a magazine; probably something that will be emailed to folks with similar interests.

I don't play computer games, but do watch some of the videos posted here and at other sites on the internet.

What am I working with right now?? Laptop with 1.3 gig processor, 256 mb RAM, unknown video card, and a 30 gig hard drive. (XP, of course...)

Help!!

[Bigeme]

if you don't mind building one (its a lot easier than you think) you could get a pretty good one for pretty cheap - like 1/2 the cost from say dell

[CWB]

Originally Posted by Bigeme

if you don't mind building one (its a lot easier than you think) you could get a pretty good one for pretty cheap - like 1/2 the cost from say dell

yeppers , you can get a lot of bang for the buck . as an added bonus , you won't have a bunch of pre-loaded bundled crapware .

there is a way around your "enduseritis" ... have you got a reliable friend that is hip on comps ?
of course , you could always ask for help here if you run into any problems .

[elfoozo]

fmb don't listen to the computer nerds. Off the shelf hardware will work fine for you. Just stay away from the low buck low RAM Vista laptops because they're pretty slow. You won't feel like you "bought up". Pretty much anything else you'd pick up is current enough and would suit what you describe your needs to be.

[fmb]

Thank you all for the information. Honestly, it never occurred to me to build my own, but it sounds like something I could do. I have a friend that can help me with any issues. If I build a computer, I assume I'll have to purchase the software I want and install the software. How would I do that if there isn't anything on the hard drive? I've only had computers where the software was loaded when the computer was purchased.

Thanks for the guidance!!

[CWB]

you purchase a copy of the operating system (eg : XP) and load that onto the HD . it is a pretty straight forward and easy process . XP as well as a lot of other OS'es contain the software for formating the HD , basic drivers for hardware , video cards , etc etc .
most motherboards come with a disk that contains the software needed in order to update the bios and so-forth .
it is not as hard as one would imagine it to be ... if you can read , ask questions , use basic hand tools and follow directions you will have a system up and running before you know it .

building a comp is much easier than it was twenty years (or better) ago . i recall the days when one had to sit and flip switches for an hour just to give a comp enough smarts to read a paper tape .

[raptor_85]

If i were you, I would stick with XP whatever you do (buying from dell or building). I tried it and there were so many little problems and glitches that I went back to XP. Mainly driver issues etc. so if you go with Vista make sure your printer and other periferals have drivers for it.

As for components, pretty much any processor being sold now will be OK for you, core 2 duo would be the best, but you probably wont utilize it. Make sure you get at least 1 gb of ram if you plan on doing the image editing (and especially if you decide on Vista). If you decide to build your own and want to order the parts online, check out Newegg. They are decent priced and reliable.

Don't count the cheap Dells out, they will do what you want and can undercut built ones. They get you on the upgrades though, and your better off buying that extra hard drive afterwards instead of from Dell with a huge markup. They also kill you when upgrading RAM.

[A_S_man]

in addition to Raptor's suggestion (to check out NewEgg .com) also try out tigerdirect .com. i've had good luck ordering from both. You may consider checking out a bundle/kit if you want to build a desktop. Might save a few pennies.

Also, when I bought my dell laptop i got a pretty good deal by searching for leaked coupon codes. i think the site i found was got apex .com or something like that.

And if you like waking up early, there's always black friday at circuit city

[fmb]

Sorry I've been away for a few days; I've been EXTREMELY busy at work. Thanks for the thoughts!! I'm toying with building a computer because I've never built one; I think it would be nice to be able to say "I did that", especially if it works!

Getting a package deal might not be too bad; I have a 22" flat screen I bought last year and I'll probably stick with my screen...

Friday sales? In an electronics store?? Heck no, not me! My son and I will still be sleeping while those folks are having a helluva time with "hand to hand" shopping!!