Some questions on buying a new computer

Hello there.

Because of the trust I place in all of you, and due to my recent nightmare with my computer, I'm ready to buy a new one. I had some questions that have come to mind in an attempt to avoid being in this position (with my other computer) again.

What do you think of purchases by (OEM) vs Retail Package ?

Preinstalled OS or Should I insist on having control (by doing my own) ?

Forget bundle packs and internet packages I've got all the software I need in order to start over. Have you ever said this and regretted it ?

What should I be paying attention to with the choices in power output ? It's never occured to me, and I know PART of the problem I'm having with the troubled puter has to do with power supply. (only 4 years old)

I'd like to start out @ 512 mb ram or higher. Don't wanna be crawling in five years (again). I'm at 256 on the troubled computer (like that helps me) and 92 mb ram on this one, and 256 mb ram on the one I discovered to have only a 166 mhz processor (another story). What's your opinion on mhz / mb ram ration that optimizes the desire to optimize speed w/o wasting funds, overcompensating. I have been told a million opinions about this by as many people, and I trust YOUR insights.

I'm not going for peripherals, or even a monitor. Don't need a gaming system, as I use the computer for work. I'm going for a high quality performance PC at an affordable price. I've found a couple of companies that offer what I'm looking for, but their choices in "customizing" have brought all these questions to mind.

Your opinions and points are greatly appreciated, and I will take your ideas very seriously. I figure it's best to ask those who've been in my boat (and recovered) and your experience is invaluable.

Elsie

 

Ooops I almost forgot !

What are your thoughts on MoBos ?

Elsie

 

Elsie
Why not build your own, this way you will get what you want exactly.
Not sure what was wrong with your old one but you will be able to salvage parts such as CD Rom, Floppy, HDD if big enough, possible even the case. I recently built one for my children (my first time) and it runs a dream. Dont get me wrong it won't win any awards for speed and power but it does the kids just fine. Salvaged parts from a 6 year old comp so in the end only spent about £150. Obviously this would be more for you if you are going high spec but its a great feeling when you get it up and running. I am now waiting delivery of some parts to build another for me to just put windows on so that i can learn more about it (windows that is). Go to www.dabs.com and have a look at what they have. if your unsure about what parts go together post them here and someone will let you know if they gel.
Stitch