Computers [Archive] - Intuitive Parenting

skn

19-10-2009, 02:10 PM

How long do you normally have your computer before buying a new one? We've bought two since 2002 or 2003.

The newest one we got back in 2007, but last year DP try to increase it's memory or something and killed the computer. We got it serviced, but it hasn't been the same.

Anyone know if ex-government ones are worth it? They get totally wiped don't they? So there are no programs on them?

Just trying to work out if we should get a new one or take our old one in for another service. I'm trying to justify a new one, but other than for me going back to study not sure if it's worth it.

I do have a Mac laptop, but will soon have to hand back because it's actually for my MC role, which I won't be continuing next year. I like the Mac, but the price...

What computers are good? We really just use them for internet and word document stuff...so pretty basic use I think.

soulmama

19-10-2009, 02:18 PM

I wouldn't go for a government one.. they have a 3 month warranty and friends who have bought them in the past complain at how slow they are.... and lack of memory etc. :(

Personally, I go for Asus but I currently have a Dell laptop but it's a business one, not a home one (Vostro series). I bought it new about 14 mths ago.
C has had 3 Asus' since 2002 and I haven't been able to fault them either considering how rough he is on his things. :rolleyes

Could you get by with a netbook? C currently has an Asus 1000HA Eeepc that he likes due to it's portability (I confess I use it in the kitchen when I need a recipe.. :rofl). I have seen a few good deals on them of late too so been considering getting one for H too in the new year....

I'm not a Mac fan but I do understand that they tend to be much better quality. :)

I tend to look at getting about 2yrs out of my computers. :D

Hope you find a solution soon!!

skn

19-10-2009, 02:34 PM

I have seen the Eeepc, would be great to take to uni, but for home I reckon it might get frustrating only having the one small one.

I don't really need to get a laptop, since there are computers at uni and in the past I've not had issues accessing them. So a pc would be fine. I really don't know much about computers and nor does DP (just don't tell him that LOL). We've had a Compaq and Packard Bell...they've been ok. I just really don't know what to expect of them and how long they last (or should).

I wonder about rentals as well....hmmm.

Rinelle

19-10-2009, 02:39 PM

We got our last new computer for Christmas at least 3 years ago, and the one I'm using now would have been around that time too (but it was a cheaper computer). We just replaced the DVD, added more ram and a new hard drive to the work computer though, as it was a little slow for what I was trying to do. Luckily both DH and I are pretty good at repairing them, which really helps keeping them going.

I've never bought a brand name computer in my life. Always bought a put together one from a computer store. I much prefer this, as there is no proprietry software or parts, so they are much easier to repair. The trick is to make sure you have quality parts on the inside. I've found Asus parts good. And we always go for intel for chipsets. We have two dell monitors here, and I love them (most especially the USB ports and card readers on the side!), and our keyboards and mice are always logictech.

I would guess that the government computers are not worth the price. I've seen new computers, with monitor, keyboard and everything at places like officeworks for not much over $500. They might not play the latest games, but they would be fine for word processing/internet surfing.

ali_celt

19-10-2009, 02:42 PM

When my computer (I think it was about 8 years old LOL so OLD and SLOW) really started giving me the sh!ts last year I spent a little bit of time chatting to some friends and ended up spending about $390 on all the bits and peices (minus screen, printer, etc coz I already had one of those!) and I built it myself.

Its not that hard to do. I now have a nice size new HD, a working DVD writer (hallelujah!), a good speed CPU and enough RAM to keep me basically happy - although I do plan on buying another RAM stick sometime early next year just to ramp it up a little. I got most of the parts (motherboard, CPU, Ram etc) from Scorptec, an online store with a great reputation. I bought a new case from the local PC store in a non-trendy colour so it was cheap, I bought the DVD writer from Big W or something, and I put it all together myself. Then I bought a back-up USB HD, handed it to a friend who emptied the contents of my old HD onto it - and then I stuck all my files back onto the new one.

I'm happy anyway and it was cheap *grin*

I spent more on my new laptop that I bought from ebay a month or so ago, but it's a laptop and you kinda have to expect that. I got the Acer notebook and it's awesome LOL

mama_bel

19-10-2009, 03:13 PM

I have an external hard drive and I have got a new hard drive and a couple of other bits and pieces put into my 2006 computer. I just replace the worn out bits till the tech says 'no more' then we dodgy it up for the kids' use - they generally have a very good computer for some games and a dodgy made-up bitza one for easy (old) games. DH puts the old kids' one together from people's old computers - ours' and friends'. :)

My computers usually last about 5 years with a couple of upgrades in the meantime.

DH has a 2004 laptop and has just ordered a new battery for it, otherwise it's all good. I bought DD a 2006 laptop off eBay for about $300 and it had a new battery with it and is excellent.

We had an ex-govt one years ago and it was fine, but I wouldn't say it was a bargain or that we got good value. Our best buys have been computers built at the local computer store or by a known tech. If you have the screen, keyboard, mouse, etc - you can get a tower built for not too much for your needs (it's computers for gaming that are more exxy).

emd

19-10-2009, 04:58 PM

We're gadget whores, so we buy a new computer every couple of years. Currently we have three computers at home, one in my shop, a Palm that can do most of the stuff I do on the shop computer... and I'm thinking about buying an eepc laptop so I can IP from the couch while watching movies with The Minister for Household Finance.

What I like...
My shop computer is a Compaq mainly used for Skype, Twitter, email, web browsing, and Open Office (free and better than Microsoft Office). It cost me $537 without monitor (I had an old 17" from my last desktop) and takes up bugger all desk space. Works a treat!

My home computer is the biggest iMac the Minister for Household Finance could get. Great for editing photos and video, watching movies, but way overkill for email and web browsing.

We have a Mac Mini connected to the TV & stereo for watching movies, listening to music, looking at photos on the big screen, web browsing etc. With remote keyboard and mouse for sitting on the couch and controlling the computer. It rocks!

We have an ancient laptop PC which is only good for using eTax (which doesn't work on a Mac). Not a fan of big, clunky laptops. But an eepc would be nice and small - too small for editing photos, but great for reading email, Twitter and IP.

SeaStar

19-10-2009, 09:53 PM

I dream of a laptop I can use while on the deck in the afternoon, watching tv and then think i wouldn't be actually doing those things. Our pc is nearing 5 and had had some upgrades/repairs. Probably time for a new one.

SpringMumma

19-10-2009, 10:04 PM

skn

19-10-2009, 10:13 PM

In May I got an Acer netbook (10 inch)...the hard drive's died on me twice, so I've sent it back. It was quick to start and easy to use, but the small screen drove me a bit crazy. Last week I got a MacBook (13 inch) and it's FABULOUS! I'm totally in love.

Good luck with your search - choosing a computer is hard. Or maybe that's just because I'm so not techno-savvy :2lol.

I'm not very techno-savvy either (umm...at all). Everything computer sales people tell me sounds impressive...

I do love how easy Macs are to use...program-wise they're amazing.

SpringMumma

19-10-2009, 10:16 PM

Exactly! They babble all this crap to me, and it just sound so *impressive* that I believe it all, and then get so confused by what I actually need. And of course I don't want to miss out on any cool features, so end up with stuff I don't need (not talking about my Mac though).

Oh, I'm hoping this will last me 5 years at least. I'm hoping to start uni next year and am planning for this to see me through!

Kathryn

19-10-2009, 10:27 PM

I'm *not* a fan of Asus (which is the laptop I'm currently on - my home one). The work laptop is a Dell, which is pretty good (but heavy) and my old old old one is a Acer, which is still doing pretty well after 6 years, although the battery is shot so needs to be plugged in constantly. DH *loves* his mini-laptop. That's an acer too.

For a middle-of-the-range computer, I would expect pretty good performance for about 2-3 years, then you would need to upgrade the RAM, and get another year or two of it. For basic web, word processing, IM etc, that is, rather than gaming or development.

To be honest, I would get a laptop rather than a desktop every time, especially for study. I think there will be plenty of times when you want to take yourself off to another room. Even being able to sit on the sofa and work feels a bit nicer than being at a desk all the time! I have a keyboard and a screen for if I need to work for a long time on the laptop. It's not too good for your back/neck to be looking down at the screen for long periods.

Rinelle

19-10-2009, 10:30 PM

You're in Brisbane aren't you SKN? We get all our computers from Computer Alliance over at Mt Gravatt. They're really great, and we have never had any problems with comptuers from them. If you like, I could help you look around for something that would suit your needs?

Just offering because it bugs me when salespeople try to talk people into buying something that is far more expensive/not what they needed.

skn

19-10-2009, 10:42 PM

Rinelle, yep I'm in Brisbane. Thank-you for the offer! I should write down what we need (DP may want to use it for his music stuff...so I'll ask him). But I'll definitely let you know what we kind of things we need it to do :)

I'm keen on a laptop because of the space thing (our desktop takes up heaps of room....well, not really, but it has one of those old screens- the big chunky ones) and I like the portableness of a laptop...I suppose I just worry that laptops are somehow limited in their capabilities.

Rinelle

19-10-2009, 10:53 PM

I think a laptop would be totally suited to what you're looking for. These days, they're really nearly as powerful as desktops, just usually a little more expensive for the same power level. Just PM me with what you're needing to do, and I'll see what I can work out for you.

skn

21-10-2009, 10:14 PM

I'm just wondering, what are the reasons people don't like Macs? I'm just trying to consider everything here...I'm pretty new to Macs, but haven't had a problem. I know some people really don't like them and I'm just wondering why.

random

21-10-2009, 11:46 PM

hey skn

I know almost nothing about computers but I did ask DH for his opinion and he emailed me the following...

I would recommend a Dell Inspiron Laptop - same one that we have. It
is $750 delivered, and comes with a 12 month warranty.

http://www1.ap.dell.com/au/en/home/notebooks/laptop-inspiron-1545/pd.aspx?refid=laptop-inspiron-1545&s=dhs&cs=audhs1&~oid=au~en~39102~simplified_s510918au~~ (http://www1.ap.dell.com/au/en/home/notebooks/laptop-inspiron-1545/pd.aspx?refid=laptop-inspiron-1545&s=dhs&cs=audhs1&%7Eoid=au%7Een%7E39102%7Esimplified_s510918au%7E%7 E)

You could get a refurbished laptop from the computer market, but they
start at $499 anyway, and only come with a 3 month warranty.

Macbook's are great, but new they start at $1299.

....

random

21-10-2009, 11:48 PM

just realised he was just talking about laptops, let me know if you're leaning more towards a pc and I'll ask again. Was going to email you soon anyway, maybe you can write some stuff down and I'll pass it on to him next time we catch up?

Rinelle

21-10-2009, 11:55 PM

I'm one of those who is anti-mac, but to be honest, I think the line between mac and PC is becoming pretty blurred these days. I always disliked the software available for Mac's, but most software comes for both these days. I also disliked the one button mice, but I'm not sure that they are anymore? My biggest gripe has always been though that macs have traditionally not been upgradable (no idea if this is still true or not?), so no chance to upgrade your ram, hard drive etc. When that one gets too slow, you need a whole new machine. I'm not sure how much of that is true anymore though, because macs have changed a lot since I last used one...

skn

21-10-2009, 11:59 PM

Thanks Random!

At the moment we seem to be leaning towards a mac...I think they seem to be almost 'fool-proof'. But not sure...

So much to think about...looking at some sites now.

zookeeper

22-10-2009, 12:04 AM

We love our Macs - so worth the extra money in my opinion. Have had no trouble with ours at all and never any virus worries unlike PCs.

I think people who've never used Macs are the ones that don't like them! Ben said that it's because there's not as many programs for them but not really an issue if you're using it for browsing and Uni stuff.

And I agree that a laptop would be best. They aren't limited in their capabilities at all - only issue is if you want a bigger screen but they can be plugged in to a bigger screen anyway.

You could look into second hand Macs. IMO they last a lot longer and with a lot less maintenance than PCs - we've had our desktop for 5 years and have never had to have it looked at or anything go wrong (unlike when we had PCs). I think it's totally worth spending a little bit more for a Mac.

zookeeper

22-10-2009, 12:06 AM

All those things that Rinelle mentioned - one button mouse, not being able to upgrade - aren't so anymore.

skn

22-10-2009, 12:18 AM

Where would I find 2nd hand macs?

Yeah, I'm not too worried about the lack of programs...there is one that DP uses on the PC, not sure it would work on a mac (I suppose I could try it on this laptop).

laptop....desktop....laptop...desktop...I don't know.

Harmony

22-10-2009, 01:00 AM

Looks like we'll have to do something sooner rather than later - the desktop has a dead network card, so can't get it on the internet at all until that's fixed. Sooo glad I have the laptop! It's a Toshiba basic one and it does everything I need it to do (just the basics). Anyone know how much a network card is? I'm not game to go googling at this hour...

Kathryn

22-10-2009, 01:04 AM

DH refuses to be my IT support for a mac. :2lol And we have a complex geeky network blah blah blah set up here that I have no interest in working out or faffing with.

DH worked in hardware many moons ago and doesn't like them because he sees the whole point of a computer as being able to put what you want on it, build it how you want etc, but with macs you are stuck with what they have available and you have to buy stuff and bits from them so they have built their own little monopoly for support etc. No idea of the reality of it, or whether there are third parties you can go to for parts and support now, but that's his main reason! You can get a much more powerful PC (on paper) for the money you would spend on a mac. No idea about efficiency etc though.

Kathryn

22-10-2009, 01:08 AM

Harmony, I've just asked DH and he said they are only about $10. He probably has one hanging around somewhere that I could send you. He'll have a look in the morning.

Harmony

22-10-2009, 01:13 AM

Ah cool! That would save me $$$ for the computer guy and eke the old machine out a while longer :) I have been in the guts of computers putting RAM in from time to time so I'm sure I'd work it out :D Thanks so much (I'll be out all day tomorrow though). :hyper

skn

22-10-2009, 01:16 AM

Kathryn

22-10-2009, 01:21 AM

Prolly comes down to your budget hon. You can get a pretty good laptop for about $750, but if you are drawn to a mac, you're looking $1599 for a basic macbook (http://www.apple.com/au/mac/whichmacbook/compare.html).

Of course you could spend far more on either option, but since you said you were looking for basic features... Like everything else, isn't it? No one right answer! :)

skn

22-10-2009, 01:29 AM

I think we may go desktop...they seem to be better value for money?

Harmony

22-10-2009, 09:07 AM

my dad always maintains this is so - more bang for your buck is his way of putting it - never buy a laptop unless you neeeeeed portability. But this is the man who was complaining about how sloooooow my mum's old laptop was, when I always found it really fast compared to my desktop because it was older :lol I say, if you want to be able to move around your house with your computer, get a laptop and wireless router and go for it :) Great for lazing in bed when you are sick or nursing a wakeful baby rather than being chained to your desk ;)

skn

22-10-2009, 09:33 AM

I'm thinking desktop now. I really do like the idea of a mac, but then for that price we could get a PC and something like an Eeepc.

DP thinks we should just go into a shop, tell them what we need and take it from there. As I mentioned earlier though, I'm sold on virtually anything I'm told computer-wise.

moo

22-10-2009, 10:35 AM

As far as OS go, a friend installed linux on my laptop for me. I really like it.

Whatever you end up going for be aware that VISTA FUCKING SUCKS!!! If you can't get XP, I'd really look at other os options.

These days you really need to look at your RAM (from my basic understanding of putes)........especially if you are getting evil vista. Make sure you get a good virus checker if you go windows too.

Kathryn

22-10-2009, 11:25 AM

If you buy from today, you would get Windows 7 rather than Vista. I agree that Vista sucks. DH has been trialling Windows 7 and he likes it. That's quite something coming from my grumpy old man. :2lol

You don't need to pay for anti-virus software. I use AVG free, which is great, but there are other free ones around too.

littlemissnaughty

22-10-2009, 07:36 PM

We upgrade every 2-3 years but use laptops so also keep the old one so now have 3 laptops. We have an acer, a toshiba and an compaq. 1 we bought for $499 from dealsdirect then got a $150 rebate. The acer we are leasing and that just sucks away money compared to buying for $500.

skn

23-10-2009, 10:43 AM

This is quite embarrassing to admit, but we've never looked into computers when we've bought in the past. Computers have slowly died on us and one day we wake up and decide to buy a computer and do the impulse buy :blush.

How does the free virus software work? These are the ones you download? DP is paranoid about viruses now and is convinced that's why our last computers have died and he doesn't want to download anything when we get the new computer...Might not be a problem since a lot of computers come with a year 'free' security.

I think we are looking at Dell desktop now. Macs are just a little more than we'd like to spend.

I'm impressed with how much I'm learning about all this stuff like RAM, processors and all the numbers associated :)

Rinelle

23-10-2009, 11:06 AM

I'm so behind on all the processor stuff! It has become so much more confusing, LOL. Ram, hard drive, all that I get, but processors, ugh.

The AVG software is apparently really good. My sister uses it, and hasn't had a problem. We have Norton, which we've always been happy with, but it does cost.

Kathryn

23-10-2009, 12:18 PM

Yes, AVG is very good. They make their money out of upgrades (as you can't set timers for downloads and stuff on the free one) and selling it to business (the company I work for uses their business software), so as long as you are only using it for personal use, it's free. It updates automatically daily if it needs to and scans your computer too.

And you can just change your internet settings to request permission for cookies, disallow automatic downloads etc.

skn

24-10-2009, 09:28 AM

I'm so proud of DP and I! We actually looked around and did a bit of reading up for something that would suit us, rather than buy whatever.

We've gone with a Dell.

Next step is to get rid of our dial-up and enter the 21st century! We've got that one all sorted, just need to make the call.

soulmama

24-10-2009, 10:11 AM

Go Sarah!! :yipi

All it takes is a little research.... ;)

Good luck with the "smooth" transition! :heart

Rinelle

24-10-2009, 02:40 PM

Congratulations! Hope you love the new computer!

Kathryn

24-10-2009, 11:31 PM

Yey! Enjoy! :)

Harmony

15-11-2009, 11:50 AM

Update - Kathryn and her lovely DH gave me the network card (some weeks ago) and I finally made it a priority to put it in this morning - managed to open the computer, find the right part, remove it (had to remove another part to get to it), put the new one in, put it all back together, plug it all in, tried it, didn't work, changed where I plugged in the network cable - hey presto! It WORKS!!! Hooray!

Thank you so very much :D