New Computer Needed?

Once again someone has asked me to build a "standard" style desktop. I don't do this anymore. You should shop online at Dell and Hewlett-Packard then check your local retailers. Compare models and prices then make your decision. This is a good place to start. Dell or HP? They are equally priced and both are solid manufacturers that stand behind their product. Don't rule out Compaq. They are part of the HP family of technology.

Buying locally may cost you a few dollars more, but it can't be damaged in route. Well, you might drop it on the way home. There is nothing wrong with open box or refurbs as long as you make sure everything is included with the unit (cords, manuals, etc.). Usually a refurb has been checked more thoroughly than a new unit. Stay away from the cheapies. And hey, nothing wrong with buying a system from Wal-Mart. Just be careful.

My online parts buying is limited and the volume to build new "standard" machines does not exist. However, I will build servers and gaming machines. There is a small profit in these builds and the quality of parts is high enough that warranty problems won't exist or can be expedited. These machines are very solid and usually need minor tweaking after installation. Very serviceable units.

If you desire a server, it can be tailored to suit you particular needs and you won't have to pay for options not needed. For instance - dont' buy a tape back up. Use USB portable hard drives. Get a pair of them. Very low cost. With two, you can always keep one backup off premises in case of fire or some other disaster. Don't worry about fancy smancy backup software. The backup applications in XP and Vista are fine.

Gaming machines are uber builds. Always, and I emphasize ALWAYS, buy the best equipment you can afford. Work with a tech that is an online gamer and he will know what are the latest, greatest parts available. Unless you are a master geek please seek help in such an undertaking. The right video cards with the right motherboard, the correct memory, type of hard drive and many more items come into play. If you don't know your way around a BIOS or how to pin out a front panel then don't attempt this type of build without assistance.

I'll gladly work with someone to help them choose the right machines. Hope this helps.

"I want to stay as close to the edge as I can without going over. Out on the edge you see all kinds of things you can't see from the center."
~Kurt Vonnegut, Jr., Player Piano