Yes. Go to your local independent computer store/tech. Have him/her build
you a "whitebox" machine. It will include (or not include) exactly what you
choose. It will be repairable and restorable. You will have the disks for
OS, drivers, and software in your possession. And when you have a question,
the answer is usually only a quick phone call away. You may pay just a bit
more, but then, was that HP really such a good deal?? :)
Jerome

>>>
>>>  ..I'm not buying another machine that has a "pre-partitioned,
>>>  pre-loaded" OS
>>>  with no way to re-install everything the way I want it, or to install a
>>>  different operating system.  Do any PC makers still include
>>>  separate CD's
>>>  for the OS and software that you are supposedly buying as part
>>>  of the deal?
>>>
>>>  I will appreciate any help you guys can offer.
>>>
>>>  Thanks,
>>>  AnnaSummers

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