Buying a new computer

[dansbanners]

Hi,

I probably should buy a new computer soon. It's about 3 years and 8 months old. It currently loads a little slow and has some problems, even with high speed connection. It's also been repaired in the past. I also figured that rather than spending more to have the current computer repaired, I probably should start looking into purchasing a new one.

The first issue I'm wondering about is the wireless issue. I currently have a 54 Mbps Wireless Router in the living room and an Ultra Slim USB 2.0 Adapter inserted onto my computer.

How would that work with the new computer ? Can I just simply have the same wireless arrangement ? Or could this problem possibly be solved if this wireless capability comes built-in within the new computer or something ? :hrmm:

[Mandi]

When you say it "loads slow" - do you mean web pages load slowly, or the applications launch slowly when you click on them?

I think it *always* bears examination, to upgrade the present computer first. If you want to share the specs, I know we could make some good recommendations about that for you, between me and the other forum regulars.

Do you think you're technically savvy enough to do a system reinstall - wipe the hard drive (or maybe get a new one, depending) and reinstall Windows from the restore disk? Sometimes that makes *all* the difference.

For specs, here's what I'd like to hear:

- What is the computer, make & model? (so we can look up upgrade compatibility)
- How much RAM does it presently have?
- What size hard drive? How full is it?
- What is the make/model of that wifi card?
-How far are you from the living room router?

I don't know that internal wi-fi capability is necessarily a stronger receiver of signal than an adapter with an external antenna. My daughter gets decent wifi reception on her laptop with internal receiver, but I don't think I'd characterize it as actually better.

Is there any possibility of moving the router closer to the computer - is the modem cable or DSL? It may not be a big deal to have the ISP come locate an outlet near the computer. You could even be wired right into the router, then.

[Mandi]

Also, I notice from your thread about floppies that you apparently lack a CD and/or DVD burner too - true? That's a super cheap (and easy install) upgrade, and always worth it - vs. investing in a new machine just to get that functionality.

[Randall]

How would that work with the new computer ? Can I just simply have the same wireless arrangement ? Or could this problem possibly be solved if this wireless capability comes built-in within the new computer or something? It's very simple to move a wireless adapter from one computer to another, and your router will take it in stride.

Internal Wi-Fi is more common in laptops than desktops.

Randall

[dansbanners]

I think it *always* bears examination, to upgrade the present computer first. If you want to share the specs, I know we could make some good recommendations about that for you, between me and the other forum regulars.

Well, although I understand that one shouldn't be running off to buying a new computer at every little problem that comes up.

However, I just double checked my records and realized that I purchased my current computer sometime in March, 2004 for $762.45. And has had two repairs since then, one in 2005 and one in 2006 and spent over $ 500 combined in these two repairs.

So, you could see my thinking where I'm kind of not sure if it's worth it to spend more on repairs.

And perhaps that money could be better spent on buying a new computer altogether.

Is there any possibility of moving the router closer to the computer - is the modem cable or DSL? It may not be a big deal to have the ISP come locate an outlet near the computer. You could even be wired right into the router, then.

I happen to be renting an apartment with just one modem / outlet in it thus the need for the wireless router. I goofed, it didn't occur to me to check to see if there were at least two outlets in it. It was kind of a "get it over with" move knowing that I probably wouldn't be living in this place for too long and that I had to move out from the other community. As they say you sometimes learn from experience.

Thus, my renting an apartment does present another dilemma. That I don't have more to say on how I want certain arrangements. For instance, I've already been told I cannot make a hole in the wall and put the wire through it.

The ironic thing is that when the cable person first came to my apartment, the guy wanted to place a very long wire from the outlet to my computer. But I had some apprehensions about it and that cable person then went on his way. But as I thought about it, I decided to go ahead with it and called the cable company again. But this time this new cable person wouldn't do it, thus setting up the wireless router. Maybe he was concerned about people tripping over them or something. But I don't have much company anyway. I probably won't go back to that first option at this point, it would be regressive to do so.

Getting back to the idea of purchasing a new computer. The main reason why I started this thread is cause I was wondering how the current wireless situation would pan out with the new computer ? :hrmm:

[Randall]

Getting back to the idea of purchasing a new computer. The main reason why I started this thread is cause I was wondering how the current wireless situation would pan out with the new computer ? :hrmm: All you have to do is plug your wireless adapter into the new computer and install the drivers that came with it.

If you're not using wireless security on the router (which you should be doing, but deal with that when you get the new computer), it should connect right away. Otherwise you'll have to recreate the settings from the old one PC.

Randall

[dansbanners]

Internal Wi-Fi is more common in laptops than desktops.

Is that the idea behind laptops that they have internal wi-fi such that they can be moved around and used without any external connections right ?

And are there any disadvantages in using an internet wi-fi laptop as opposed to using a desktop with a wireless router ?

Thanks again !

[Randall]

Is that the idea behind laptops that they have internal wi-fi such that they can be moved around and used without any external connections right ? Yes, very convenient sometimes. You never realize just how much you've been chained to your desk all these years ... until you aren't chained to it anymore. :winky: And are there any disadvantages in using an internet wi-fi laptop as opposed to using a desktop with a wireless router ? No, the essentials are the same. As long as you can get a strong, reliable signal wherever your desk is, then a desktop PC will work the same. Just less portable. :wink:

Randall

[Jeff]

For general office-type work and web browsing, email, etc. I'd go with a notebook.

The disadvantages of a notebook vs. a desktop that I'm aware of are:
1.) for the same $ total, you can get a larger screen with a desktop than a notebook. Desktop screens typically are slightly better still than notebook screens, in my experience. Though of course you can always connect a notebook to a big external monitor too...
2.) desktop hard drives are typically much larger in capacity and faster than notebook hard drives, a factor if you're dealing with larger files or lots of data (and you have room for multiple hard drives for backup etc.)
3.) if you can fix computers yourself, desktops are cheaper and easier since the parts are more modular/generic whereas notebook parts are more model-specific and of course smaller and more difficult to work on, so if something breaks on the notebook it will tend to cost more to repair.

[Bruce]

The disadvantages of a notebook vs. a desktop that I'm aware of are:There's also:
4.) The ergonomics suck. If the keyboard is at the right height, the screen is way too low, causing neck strain. If the screen is at the right height, the keyboard is too high, causing all kinds of arm strain. And you either need to deal with a mouse in an awkward position by the keyboard or an external mouse requiring more space around you.

[tknterry]

Ive considered a laptop in the past also, but for the reasons stated above, I have not. The only compelling reason for a laptop is the mobility it allows. If you don't really need to take your own computer with you, a desktop version still makes the most economic and ergonomic sense.

[Mandi]

If the mobility is attractive but the ergonomics are daunting, you can get a port replicator that puts to use your old monitor/keyboard/mouse setup for laptop at-desktop usage. It's a good compromise for people who need/want the conveniences of both.

[Randall]

If the mobility is attractive but the ergonomics are daunting, you can get a port replicator that puts to use your old monitor/keyboard/mouse setup for laptop at-desktop usage. It's a good compromise for people who need/want the conveniences of both. Which is exactly what I do at the office. At home I'm usually flopped out in bed, with the laptop propped up on my legs. (Feels comfortable enough that I still haven't got around to clearing space on my pseudo-desk for the laptop, despite the attraction of my 20" LCD that's just collecting dust at the moment.)

Randall

[Andilinks]

Some thoughts I've had as I've watched this thread develop. Some stray a tiny bit from Dan's immediate question but relate closely to the desktop vs. laptop checklist for making this decision(s).

Some distinct and different types of mobility:

1. Overnight travel mobility. You often stay in hotels or private homes as a guest.
2. Daytrip mobility. You like computing in your car, in restaurants, etc.
3. Work/home mobility. You have two or more permanent locations.
4. Intrahome/intraoffice mobility. You like to move from room to room within one location.

Each type of mobility need has its own reason to favor a desktop over a laptop or vice versa. Obviously having both laptop and desktop is ideal for most people. If you switch often--as I do--it becomes routine to have all your changing files in one folder (or some equivalent system) to synchronize the two computers easily and quickly.

I've been thinking of adding a third screen device, a pda/smartphone, which is another reason to methodically look at all the options, advantages and drawbacks. And then there's this Leopard/iPod/iPhone thing on the horizon which adds multiple permutations. Following this thread or one like it to compare notes and ideas seems like a good ongoing project.

[dansbanners]

You all made good points about the pros and cons of a laptop versus a desktop.

One reason why I considered a laptop was cause of my current wireless router arrangement. If a laptop could solve the problem of having an internal wi-fi ?

There were times when I thought that my wireless router didn't work all that great. Thus I thought maybe a laptop would solve this problem.

On the other hand, I admit I use my computer mostly just at one location, at one desk and really don't have an urgent need to carry it around with me. Thus a desktop would probably be better in that regard.

If I could just solve the wireless problem ? :hrmm:

Although getting a new computer itself would probably be somewhat of an addition by subtraction. That generally speaking it should run and load faster than the current one with it being new as opposed to the wear and tear of the current one, etc.

[Randall]

1. Overnight travel mobility. You often stay in hotels or private homes as a guest.
2. Daytrip mobility. You like computing in your car, in restaurants, etc.
3. Work/home mobility. You have two or more permanent locations.
4. Intrahome/intraoffice mobility. You like to move from room to room within one location. #1 and 3 for me, definitely. Sometimes #4 too.

But my feeling is that if you're going to spend a lot of time on the laptop -- at home or elsewhere -- why not make it your only computer? The main advantages of a desktop machine are cheap upgrades and the ability to use more than two screens. If those are things you can live without those, then you can simplify your computing existence and have that mobility as well. If I could just solve the wireless problem ? Maybe I missed something back in the beginning -- are you saying that the wireless setup isn't working well for you right now? A laptop wouldn't necessarily be any better if you're having problems with interference or weak signals.

You can't run a cable all the way to your PC, but could you at least move the router closer to it? All you'd need is a longer cable between the router and the cable modem.

Randall

[Andilinks]

...the ability to use more than two screens. If those are things you can live without...Nope, I can't live without the luxurious expanse of wall to wall screen, some of which is superior CRT resolution. A full sized keyboard that doesn't move, and real speakers. But there's more. My computer works while I'm away, roaming all over the net finding and verifying stuff; these bots can use a lot of resourses, so I can do other things on the laptop. I'm thinking of using two desktops simultaneously again because even a Dual Core Pentium bogs down with all the stuff I do.

Besides it's reassuring and more professional (conducive to good work habits and discipline) to have a stable work space, a real desktop where my telephone and my supplies all have their place within reach. It is really like having a home.

Just a few minutes with a flash drive will put everything onto the laptop and I can fly away, assured that my desktop will be there as I left it when I get back. That's the simplicity and security of redundance.

[Randall]

Nope, I can't live without the luxurious expanse of wall to wall screen, some of which is superior CRT resolution. I know. That's why I mentioned it. :wink: A full sized keyboard that doesn't move, and real speakers. Just as easily done with a laptop. But for those who need mobility and a full-time slave at home, :rasberry: yes, two machines (or more) is better.

One other advantage of laptops: Built-in UPS. :yeah:

Randall

[Andilinks]

Just as easily done with a laptop...No. With every transition there must be a set-up time. The cables must be found and inserted, etc. It is much easier to just back-up to (and from) a flash drive and go. Because what will actually happen is a frustration with the set-up process and use of the inferior pointing device, keyboard, speakers, etc.

[Slim]

One other advantage of laptops: Built-in UPS. :yeah:

Randall

Up there near the top of my list. Having the laptop survive those 5 second power interruptions at work has turned what used to be a ruined day into a few minutes talking with my neighbors. Employers never would spring for UPS for the general development staff.

Why don't manufactures make desktops with a built in UPS, even if it's only good for a few minutes?

[Slim]

No. With every transition there must be a set-up time. The cables must be found and inserted, etc.

Docking stations.

[Bruce]

Why don't manufactures make desktops with a built in UPS, even if it's only good for a few minutes?Such power supplies do exist (http://www.globtek.com/html/specups.html), although what I've found seems to be relatively low on the total power output. External UPSes have become "cheap enough" to reduce the extra benefit from built-in UPSes. Besides, an external UPS can also power the monitor and other external devices.

[Randall]

Such power supplies do exist (http://www.globtek.com/html/specups.html), although what I've found seems to be relatively low on the total power output. And probably add three pounds to the weight of the machine. It would be just our luck if the manufacturers went back to all-steel cases, too. :eeww:

Edit: The biggest battery on that page is 3 kilos -- so it's more like 7 pounds. My bad. Docking stations. Or even just a USB hub -- Apple doesn't make docking stations. When I plug in my MacBook at work, I have just four cables and they're already in position on my desk. Power, DVI, ethernet, USB and I'm in business. (I used to plug in the speakers too, but for office needs the internal speakers are sufficient.)

I keep a power adapter at home and at both of my day jobs, so all I have to move is the laptop. Makes setup/breakdown very easy.

But I do need to buy a fourth power supply for the road, because I forgot to bring one with me to a client's site yesterday. :rolleyes: Fortunately, I knew what I was doing and had a full charge, because it was a very time-consuming and CPU-intensive process. If I wasn't prepared it would have been a very near thing.

Randall

[Wassercrats]

http://images.google.com/images?hl=en&rls=com.microsoft:en-US&resnum=0&q=laptop+%22adjustable+screen+height%22&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wi

[Jeff]

And probably add three pounds to the weight of the machine. It would be just our luck if the manufacturers went back to all-steel cases, too.
I like the all-metal cases :)
Loaded up with drives and a pair of mobile racks, I think my supermicro 942 chasis (http://supermicro.com/manuals/chassis/tower/SC942.pdf)weighs in at 70 lbs. It's not going to tip over, and someone won't break in and steal it :)

Why don't manufactures make desktops with a built in UPS
One concern would be the additional heat generated - my APCs do put out some heat; it's probably better to have that on the floor vs. heating up the computer.
I do appreciate the idea though as I also dislike all the "extra" power bricks, etc. that modern devices have. As things get smaller, it seems manufacturers put more in the power brick to make it seem sleeker, but then you end up with all these power bricks all over now for flatscreen, usb drives, usb hub, phone, etc. It probably makes sense to move the heat and bulk away from the device on the desk, but you end up with much more clutter on the outlet strip/wall/floor now.

[Andilinks]

...but you end up with much more clutter on the outlet strip/wall/floor now.Now there's an opening for a gadget master entrepreneur, how about a power brick caddy? It could include its own UPS and cooling fan.

[Randall]

Now there's an opening for a gadget master entrepreneur, how about a power brick caddy? It could include its own UPS and cooling fan. An open-topped basket with holes for the cables to pass through might help reduce the clutter, and hopefully not act as a mutual overheating society.

Those old metal cases remind me of file cabinets, just smaller and (slightly) less heavy.

Randall

[Jeff]

When I put all my statements and papers in cardboard boxes, they crush over time though. I like the feeling of security that American steel gives me :)

I like the fact that metal dissipates heat well for a computer case. And I like the fact that it won't crack or break if someone leans on it.

[Randall]

When I put all my statements and papers in cardboard boxes, they crush over time though. That's why they invented milk crates. :wink:

I think the ideal (desktop) computer would have no case at all. The motherboard and other components would be mounted on a wall individually for easy removal, and you would have some kind of decorative wall-hanging thingy to cover it it up. With plenty of decorative (and mostly unseen) vents on the bottom and top, you might not even need fans.

Embed the LCD and keyboard into a piece of furniture, and the whole idea of a computer-in-a-box goes out the window. That would motivate designers to hide the cables in the furniture.

Think about it: What other home appliance goes to such great lengths to not fit in with its environment?

Randall

[Wassercrats]

Vacuum cleaners and space heaters.

[Randall]

Vacuum cleaners and space heaters. Mobile/portable appliances don't have to fit in. They're designed the way they are because you move them to wherever they're needed at the moment.

I wouldn't put desktop PCs in that category. If they were intended to function like a space heater, they wouldn't have so many @#$% cables. And that's why they invented laptops. :wink:

Randall

[Wassercrats]

The Groovy Chick Personal Water Dispenser (http://www.amazon.co.uk/Groovy-Chick-Personal-Water-Dispenser/dp/B0006IRYDC/ref=pd_sim_dbs_kh_title_4).