I have to buy a Windows computer, Ugh!

Sep 23, 2006 at 3:32 AM Thread Starter Post #1 of 38
Todd R

Todd R

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My son is taking some online classes and the lessons come on CDROM that are Windows only programs.

This is painful for a lifetime Mac user, but I am looking for a basic laptop (to save space) for him to use.
The computer needs to be reliable, but cheap. Also needs to be able to either wirelessly connect to the internet (I have a Linksys router) or at least an Ethernet port so I can hardwire him in.

What are the system requirements?
Pentium III processor, Windows XP Pro (preferred), Windows 2000, Windows ME, or WIN 98 Second Edition Operating System, 256 MB of memory, 200 MB of Hard disk space, 800 x 600 or higher resolution monitor, 16 bit color, CD-ROM drive, and 10/100 MHz Ethernet network interface card. Seems like it's not requiring anything too new or expensive.

So, any suggestions for a good used computer seller, or possibly something new from Worst Buys that won't crap out after a month or two?
TR
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 4:01 AM Post #3 of 38
A brand new cheap Dell shouldn't set you back that much. Dells sell now for what, $500? But make sure to get at least 512 MB RAM, or Windows will be slower than a turtle.
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 4:19 AM Post #4 of 38
Ok...being totally blunt, Dell sucks! It's heavy, overheats and feels cheap. You will have better luck with a used IBM T series. The oldest is T40, then T41, T42, T43. My T40 is slightly more than 3 years old. You could probably get one from ebay from a certified reseller for a good price. Average price is about $500.
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 4:44 AM Post #5 of 38
I'm a huge fan of the Thinkpad line, like nabwong suggested. They're excellent computers and can last forever. The older IBM ones (T40, etc.) are usually available for reasonable prices, I might check out ebay. New ones are made by Lenovo, just for your information.

However, some of the Dell computers are pretty nice also. You might want to look into the D600 computers, not sure what they sell for now, but shouldn't be too much. Metal cases, non-widescreen, decent battery life, option for a Centrino configuration (basically means the Pentium M, intel pro/wireless, and the Intel 915 chipset, this combo results in even better battery life). I'd look into used prices for both the D600 or one of the Thinkpad computers
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 4:52 AM Post #6 of 38
hey, I noticed a FS thread that had an older p3 700mhz thinkpad for like $150US. Run there now!
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 5:47 AM Post #7 of 38
One of the on-sale Dells can't hurt. Most name brands (Compaq, HP, Acer) are pretty reliable as well; try to find one that's on sale.
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 6:41 AM Post #9 of 38
Quote:

Originally Posted by xxlMusikfreak
What about Parallels or Bootcamp?


Quote:

Originally Posted by Todd R
This is painful for a lifetime Mac user, but I am looking for a basic laptop (to save space) for him to use.


That's why.
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 7:08 AM Post #10 of 38
Quote:

Originally Posted by roastpuff
That's why.


There is always a 13.3" Macbook.
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 7:20 AM Post #11 of 38
Quote:

Originally Posted by roastpuff
One of the on-sale Dells can't hurt. Most name brands (Compaq, HP, Acer) are pretty reliable as well; try to find one that's on sale.


Personally, I've had terrible experiences with Compaq/HP. In fact, the current laptop I'm typing this on has had its motherboard replaced twice, battery replaced once, and the cd drive replaced. The screen also has colored lines going up and down on about the left 1/4 line (not continuous), and one time when it came back for repair, it came back with a "tumour" to the left of the power button, which is right about the keyboard. This lump is now cracking the case. Maybe I got a lemon, I don't know, but I'm not pleased with them. Oh yeah, my hard drive is also going out, and *something* inside of it has started to make a funny sound.

On the other hand, with a fair bit of maintenance this laptop has been running for 2 years now, and I have certainly gotten my money's worth out of it.
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 11:32 AM Post #12 of 38
Quote:

Originally Posted by xxlMusikfreak
What about Parallels or Bootcamp?


I would but my Mac isn't one of the new ones with the Intel chip (it's about 3 yrs old).
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 11:41 AM Post #13 of 38
Quote:

Originally Posted by Todd R
I would but my Mac isn't one of the new ones with the Intel chip (it's about 3 yrs old).


Do they still make/sell VirtualPC or SoftWindows?
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 12:00 PM Post #14 of 38
Quote:

Originally Posted by jpelg
Do they still make/sell VirtualPC or SoftWindows?


Apparently Virtual PC is still around, but it's expensive and I hear it doesn't work so well. Besides, everyone in the house is always fighting to get their turn on the computer, so a second machine would be welcome.
TR
 
Sep 23, 2006 at 12:34 PM Post #15 of 38
Virtual PC is really annoying - I wouldn't recommend it. But when there has to be a new PC - why not an intelbased Mac?
I personally haven't worked with Parallels or Bootcamp but it should be possible - at least when Leopard finally arrives.

But you would probably get a cheaper Win-machine. I would also look for old Thinkpads - they are really great.
 
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