David

The real question here is why should the average user buyer bother in such 
customization which is no more likely to work better with assistive 
technology than an off-the-shelf unit and makes servicing a heck of a lot 
more tricky.
If there is an overriding reason for a given individual to do so, sure; 
but, if someone has to ask the question, then perhaps they're already 
barking up the wrong tree.
Frankly, trying to do what the original poster suggests and doing what you 
suggest, David, sounds like a nightmare in the making.
With the availability of external components, the ever changing landscape 
of what's available out there, the ever changing needs of a user, and the 
cheapness of new machines, the chances are great that few folks would be 
happpy hanging on to a pc for 5 or 6 years these days
even if the pc didn't break down.
Buying new is often cheaper than attempting to upgrade internal components 
and certainly less of a hassle for average Joe or Mary.
And for me, and many others, time and frustration is money.
Sure, David, if attempting to get a Mac to work as a xp or Vista machine 
is your cup of tea and you enjoy that kind of tinkering,, great.
But don't expect many folks anywhere being able to give you guidance when 
things just don't quite handshake. 
You probably know what you are doing, but most of us wouldn't so we're 
better off keeping things simple.
And that's why there is software, plug-in usb cards, and all the rest.


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