Getting new computer, suggestions?

[Feba]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

Jei: if you're running it in 64 bit mode, yes, but you could do the same thing with a 64 bit copy of XP, and probably have better luck with drivers while you're at it (64 bit OS are still somewhat painful in that regard)

[Lunaryn]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

Might depend on the distro, I always advise against resizing existing partitions.

The ideal order would be:
1) Use a GNU/Linux rescue disk to create the partitions you intend to use.
2) Install Windows
3) Install GNU/Linux

However, I've had good enough results installing Slackware first, even though I don't actually boot to it until after I've installed Windows, usually. If I do need to boot to it first, I'll use the install CD as a temporary bootloader.

Of course, Slackware is firmly aimed at people who have a decent idea what they're doing or how to read a manual, and want the software to largely behave itself and do what it's told. I tend to get annoyed by software making too many assumptions about what I want, and the only really annoying part of Slackware in that regard is the bootloader install (I've had to open another terminal window and use sed substitutions on the lilo.conf file because there's no way to tell setup I want to install lilo to the boot sector of a partition other than the root partition...)

[Mhurron]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

Partition -> Install WIndows -> Install Linux.

Safest process.

[Malevolent]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

Check out Alienware for build ideas...or for purchase...nice computers and laptops.

[Murphie]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

By nice you mean overpriced for what you get, right?

[Feba]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

I'd recommend against Alienware. I think I figured up that I could build something equivalent to their $3000 boxes for around 1200-1500. Alienware you're paying more for the brand than the performance, at least with their desktops.

[Malevolent]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

Thier a buisness...don't you think they mark up their product? I suggested build ideas over purchasing one for a reason.

The best componets they use on their machines are the BFG motherboards and videocards.

[Effedup]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

I'd recommend against Alienware. I think I figured up that I could build something equivalent to their $3000 boxes for around 1200-1500. Alienware you're paying more for the brand than the performance, at least with their desktops.

I agree, Alienware are ridiculously overpriced. I had a friend buy a laptop from them about 4-5 years ago, and while the thing was pretty well spec'd, it didn't "feel" like a $3500 laptop, if you know what I mean. They neglected to mention when she bought the thing that the battery topped out at about 45 minutes of use (due to their usage of actual desktop GPU's in their notebooks), the fans sounded like an F16 taking off, and the freaking thing got WAY HOT when using it plugged in.

Honestly, it seems like the big draw for Alienware is because it's Alienware, kinda like how most Mac people are always OCD for Apple, like "OMG Apple rulz", and will buy anything with a lowercase "i" in front of it. Seems like in Alienware's case, you're paying that extra $1000 for a really neat case with light up alien eyes. Personally, I could care less if my computer was in a garbage can, as long as it did what I wanted it to.

[Feba]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

Thier a buisness...don't you think they mark up their product?

They are, yes, but most computer companies are at least competitive. Alienware doesn't have to be, because again, you're buying a brand, not actual computing power.

When I built my computer, it cost $1500. A prebuilt system would've cost around 1800-2000, but it would've included a monitor, accessories, OS, and of course the labor to put the parts together. Not a bad deal.

When I look at cheap computers, ones in the $300-500 range, I know there's no way I could build cheaper than them keeping the same specs, especially if you include accessories and software.

[Caramis]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

Yeah I would agree with Feba also and have to vote against the alienware option unless you were just using their specs as a basis to build your own.

HyperSonic is the same way your paying a ton for a brand name and only cool option you get from getting a HyperSonic pc is personalized graphics and a car quality paint job. You could get cameleon paint job if ya wanted to sink in another 400.

If your wanting something out of the box ready to run no strings attached walk down to your nearest walmart and pick up one of their boxed Dells. (and if you know someone workin there borrow their discount card.)

I “think” the other day I was in the one down the street that had an athalon dual core, 1 gig ram, standard integrated graphics, 100something gig hd, 19” lcd monitor for I believe 848. which is enough to run FF fairly easily.

Then take the left over cash ya got and go get a decent graphics card and toss in it.

But honestly, build one.. you can get a lot more for your money honestly and its not as hard as you may think.

Like another suggested earlier.. do some research go to nearby mom and pop computer shops talk to them that’s what they are there for, then go so far as looking into the PC World archives, they have tons of stories / suggestions on building your own systems.

You could honestly go around one morning from shop to shop getting the parts you need. Be home by noon.. have it together in two to three hours, couple hours for loading os, drivers, games and such, then an hour or so depending on connection speed for FF update and be playing on it by 8 or 9 in the evening.

You will have a lot more pride and sense of accomplishment building your own system than an out of the box one.

Well, that’s another couple of cents from me hope it helps.

[DakAttack]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

Alienware can give you a good direction if you're looking to build your own computer.

[Shadowneko]

Re: Getting new computer, suggestions?

mostly: Don't buy a Lenovo!

I'm on the tech support line for those and they totally stink...