RESEARCH, people, research!
Find 3 or 4 different computers (Compaq, Dell, E-machine, and a custom build).
Decide what you want to
do with this computer.
Are you willing to open the case and get your own hands on it, or do you want a lifetime warranty (HAH!)
Compare hardware.
Are the HDs the same size, at the same speed?
What mobo is in them?
How much, and what kind of RAM?
Ask lots of questions of everyone you meet, every sales person, every tech, even your grandmother.
(You don't have to follow their opinion, it's just nice to have lots of them)
Keep notes!
Decide how much you want to learn, and how steep the learning curve is.
Purchase the machine that gives you
exactly what you want, regardless of price. (I say this because if you settle for second best, you'll be investing more money rather quickly to actually get what you wanted in the first place).
How good is the tech support? (Can you get, I mean
really get the help you need? Often the
big boys tech departments don't have a clue!)
Check out your local computer club!
Personal recommendation: Learn, buy, and build it yourself. You'll save a few $$, and become your own personal tech support. In the end, you'll save lots more $$ than an "off the shelf" system. (Small dig at Packard Hell goes here.)
Wow, this could go on....
------------------
Who needs a life?, I have
internet!
Cheers, Jim
www.nineworlds.net