Expert: Bobbert - 3/7/2007

Question
want to purchase new computer--price no factor.  can you recommend a computer for me    my work would be relatively simple and i would judge that i am still learning ,but hopefully this computer should last me at least 3 years    thanks very much  MIKE S

Answer
First I would say you need to be a little more defined in what your needs are, do you want to play 3D games? Watch movies? etc

Secondly, what exactly do you mean "lsat me at least 3 years", do you want a system that will still be near the top of the pack performance wise in 3 years, or do you want a system that will work for 3+ years (instead of something breaking within a year or two) ? Having a system stay "top end" for much more than 6 or 7 months is imposible, having a system stay working for even 10 years is quite possible and happens quite often. 3 years is about the max you'll want to run a desktop system, if you want to keep entirely up to date with modern software and hardware.

Personally I would suggest building your own system, as you'll get a much better deal than buying one off of the shelf. I'd also suggest not getting Windows Vista, contrary to what Microsoft's marketing literature says, it is in no way "the best" or "new and improved", its all hype with no real benefits, and quite a few downfalls, I'd suggest sticking with WindowsXP Professional or Linux, unless you want a Mac (which could be an option for you, assuming video gaming isn't a huge factor for you in buying a system, the same can be said for Linux platforms).

-bob