[RESOLVED] Seeking computer purchase recommendations

[CompCues]

Our Compaq Presario 5400US has very limited HD space, and I'd like recommendations for sources of discount pricing (up to $300) on a new computer. It should include at least:

Windows XP (the users are most familiar with this version)
AOL 9.0 (if not, I have the installation disk)
Internet Explorer
100 G HD
DVD ROM
Ethernet
Graphics capability
Adobe Reader

We already have the keyboard, LCD monitor, speakers. However, if anyone can advise on a full system, I'd appreciate it.

[photolady]

Why not just add a bigger harddrive? And an AGP card, and a PCI NIC card (Ethernet card). Would all be cheaper and you get to keep your XP. Most new computers come with Vista and some that do, won't have drivers for XP if you buy one then decided to install XP.

That computer has an AGP slot where you add a different card other than the onboard.

I'm not trying to talk you out of this, but you're not likely to find something for up to $300 for what you want.

Specs on your computer are here.

[wonderinguy34]

As Photolady says ,a new computer is gonna be hard to find running XP,have you looked at used?

Windows XP (the users are most familiar with this version)

what do they do with it?,most programs will look and run the same under Vista .If they are only surfing the Net ,its not necessary to keep XP in my opinion.

[bugspop1]

If you are able to build your own this would be your best option. If not here are a few $300 or under computers but they come with Vista installed. You can always buy an XP copy and install it yourself.

Here is a link to a Compaq Computer. Sorry, but it doesn't come with Windows XP but does come with Windows Vista Premium. Price good Thru 09-26-09
http://www.officedepot.com/a/product...Computer-with/

Dell offers a budget system for $269 and you can get it with WinXP but it costs an extra $150 for that. So now your up to a total of $419.
http://www.dell.com/us/en/home/deskt...cs=19&ref=dthp

This one at Best Buy comes with a monitor too, but still has Windows Vista:
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/olspage....rd116000050005

You might also look at Ebay. I know you can pick up a Refurbished Single-Core for well under $300. If you play your cards right you might also be able to pick up a Dual-Core with Windows Xp installed for under $300. Be careful when buying on Ebay. I did notice when I looked for a computer for you, but there were a couple of Barebones systems (you purchase then finish building with other parts you must purchase).

It's not totally impossible to find a computer with Windows XP but with Windows 7's release in about 1 month it is becomming more difficult to find one. If you really must have WinXP you could pickup a copy for about $60 and install it yourself. The problem will be with Drivers for any Brand Name Computer (Compaq, Dell, HP, Sony, etc...).

Here is a bit of reading if you're planning to ever upgrade from WinXP to Win7:
http://www.htstechtips.com/2009/07/0...ndows-7-ships/

[Shinma]

There are a number of systems with WinXp available
but those are typically corporate models
and definitely exceed stated budget.

[wonderinguy34]

There are a number of systems with WinXp available
but those are typically corporate models
and definitely exceed stated budget.

Or emachines * I was bored and went looking

http://www.ncixus.com/products/40790/PT.NAM05.028/Acer%20-%20eMachines/#Specifications



Emachines http://www.emachines.com/products/ *This is not an endorsement ,I have no experience with them

[CompCues]

Thanks to all- I appreciate the suggestions. The current Compaq is mainly used for surfing, occasional word processing and photo viewing. But the users aren't really into patiently learning new stuff, so I'd have to teach them. But the choices look great. Thanks again!!!