My $0.02 on buying a computer that is reliable.
1. Buy from a big name company. Right now, I see 2, IBM and INTEL. If
you get an IBM or any INTEL machine, you can be pretty sure to get help,
parts, service, etc., for some time to come, anywhere in the world. Also,
you know you will have no compatibility problems with peripherals and
software. You cannot say the same for the up-starts like Del, Compaq,
Compuadd, etc.
2. Buy local. You may save $50 or $100 by shopping mail order, but most
machines do need warrenty service in the first year. If you buy local, you
can get immediate help at no cost. If you buy mail order, you will have to
ship out your computer by UPS. This leaves you without a computer and costs
money. Probably more than the $50- you thaught you saved by going mail order.
3. Don't even think about wasting your money on an SX, or SLC, or a doubled
chip. You will regret in the long run. You will be better off getting a
beefed up 386DX than a whimpy 486SX, and a 486DX50 will do you better than
a 486DX2-60 (really just a 486DX30 that runs too hot for its own good).
4. Spring for a 256 color SVGA monitor with a monstor controler board. If
you pay for 486 power, don't let a cheap monitor become the slow link or
you might as well get a cheaper computer. Besides, much new software
requires the SVGA.
I suppose that's enough for one note. Good luck.
Dr. Leonard N. Bloksberg
PreissJ at clvax1.cl.msu.edu
Dept. of Biochemistry
Michigan State University
