Hello List,
One item that I haven't seen mentioned is the processor type.  I have moved
up to a Dual Core processor.  One can get a Quad Core, but unless one needs
a very high level processor, it will not be worth the cost.  One other thing
to check on is What is the maximum ram that the motherboard can support.  If
the motherboard will only support 4 GB, then it can't be upgraded to 8 GB.
Another item is that changing the ram later may VOID the manufacturer
Warranty.  Just something to think about.  As is noted below in the email to
Deborah, doing some research on the Web and asking questions until you
understand what will be best for you is the biggest cost saving measure that
can be done.  Finding a computer that will do what you need today and next
year is a critical element in the decision.  I can't afford to buy a
computer today and then in six months to find out that it doesn't do what I
need, so another computer would be needed.  Foresight is a key
consideration.  

I would definitely go with a laptop.  Desktops are on their way out, as the
laptops have become just as powerful.  There a lot of good brands available.
I have purchased Dell computers for many years.  The VA is using the HP
computers, so I will be researching HP the next time I need a computer.
Windows 7 is fun to get started with, but there is a setting in JAWS that
will bypass the Ribbons so that is not an issue.  I would go with the  64
bit version.  It will still run 32 bit programs.  The cost is always a major
factor, but think about what you may need next month, next year.  One key
element to really think about is getting a 2 year warranty at minimum.  I
would also suggest at least 4 GB ram if not 8 GB.  The most cost saving
thing that you can do is go through the websites for the different
manufactures and then ask questions until you understand what will be best
for you.  Each of us have different needs and requirements, so what works
well for one, may be overkill or very lacking for someone else.  

You may also want to subscribe to the [log in to unmask] group.
I have also found this one to also be very helpful when dealing with Windows
7.  It is a little tighter on subject matter as it is limited to just
Windows 7 related issues.

I will be glad to be of assistance, if I can.  I am not a whiz kid, but I am
a striving protégé. I did months of research before I bought my last
computer.  It does take some work, but the return on your time spent will be
well worth it.
  

-----Original Message-----
From: Visually Impaired Computer Users' Group List
[mailto:[log in to unmask]] On Behalf Of Mike Pietruk
Sent: Friday, July 15, 2011 7:28 AM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Re: [VICUG-L] anyone responding to Deborah's question

Personally, my wife and I have had positive experiences from Dell both 
with pcs and their customer service which is second to none.
People are far too concerned with what preloaded software may be on a 
machine which can be easily ignored or removed if needed.
Space on a hd is so huge these days as this hardly matters in my 
estimation.

As for Deborahs asking about laptop vs desktop, I would only note that 
historically laptops don't seem to have the longevity as a desktop.
This may not matter much for the casual user; but if you work hours a day 
with a pc, I would consider this.
Personally, I like having both for different situations.

I'd be looking more at things like the types of connectors a pc has, how 
many, amount of ram, and things like that.
I make heavy use of an external drive so for me, at least, a huge hd isn't 
a key; but for others, it may understandably be.

As for Christopher's point of installing additional ram himself, that 
might work well for someone like him who is comfortable in doing so.  I am 
guessing that Deborah may not want to touch the inside of her pc; and if 
she goes with a laptop, additional ram may be not so easy to install 
later.

As for a laptop, consider battery life and whether or not an extended life 
battery is available.  If it is, it's probably worth the cost in the 
long-run.

There are no right or wrong answers to this whole purchase thing; just 
opinions.  more than likely, whatever she buys, she will be satisfied 
along with some post-decision regrets in the process.

Perhaps the best route to take is getting the greatest bang for the buck 
and convenient servicing if needed.
An extended warranty, particularly if supplied directly by the 
manufacturer and including on site service, may be a lifesaver.
This may be especially true for a blind person if quick transportation is 
an issue.

And, oh yes, one of the things we liked about Dell customer service is 
that when once we had an issue, a tech was able to remotely fix it thanks 
to some of their software.

Good luck, and more than likely, you will make a good choice and be 
satisfied.





When God does the work, nothing is impossible.
Pastor Chuck Smith, Calvary Bible Chahpel, Costa Mesa, CA


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