There's lot of good information here, but I would just mention two
things. Although I suppose it's possible, I've never seen a warranty
invalidated by swapping ram in a laptop. I guess you should keep an eye
out for that, but to be honest with you, I never would have even thought
to look for something like that. It's probably moot though, since I
don't think Deborah will be swapping out ram herself.

I also wouldn't say that desktops are on their way out. It's true that
laptops are out selling desktops and that tablets are becoming more and
more popular, but just because there is a smaller market for desktops
doesn't mean they're on their way out. I'd focus more on what you'll be
using your system for and buy the system that best meets your needs.
Desktop systems will be around for quite a while.

On 17/07/11 12:07, Michael D. wrote:
> 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
> 
> 
>     VICUG-L is the Visually Impaired Computer User Group List.
> Archived on the World Wide Web at
>     http://listserv.icors.org/archives/vicug-l.html
>     Signoff: [log in to unmask]
>     Subscribe: [log in to unmask]
> 
> 
>     VICUG-L is the Visually Impaired Computer User Group List.
> Archived on the World Wide Web at
>     http://listserv.icors.org/archives/vicug-l.html
>     Signoff: [log in to unmask]
>     Subscribe: [log in to unmask]


-- 
Christopher (CJ)
[log in to unmask]


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