help with system configuration

[danthepixelman]

Im a new computer user teaching myself photoshop. I purchased an inferior machine a year ago. Not knowing how to turn on a computer, I didnt want to go in too deep in case I didnt end up using it. Now, Im into digital photography and scratching the surface of graphics and web page design. Problem is that my 400Mhz Gateway isnt cutting it. I need some advice on what to look for in a new system. Keep in mind that for the next year anyway, Ill only be a novice at best. I dont want to build it myself, dont want to break the bank, but most importantly, I want my next computer to be functional with Photoshop and similar applications. Any advice will we welcomed, danthepixelman

[Jenni]

I'd say basically you need: at least a 1GHz processor, at least 256 megs of RAM, and a fairly big HDD.

Might want to check out the deals www.tigerdirect.com has on new Dell computers. They have some great prices on systems that should meet your needs.