Responses to this will come from those of you with the most patience. I am a smart guy (college grad, mech. engineer, etc.), with very little computer knowledge. I think the most tech savy computer task I've completed was setting up a wireless network in my home...ooooohhh...following directions!
Anyway, I'm in the market for a new PC...here's my situation. I currently have a 5 year old Compaq Pressario 7600. It's stock except for a Seagate 160GB slave harddrive. I would like to spend $1500 or less.
What I need. Something to game with, but not too hardcore. For example, I'd like to play the new Civilization IV (which my current machine does not even qualify for its minimum requirements). I also want a laptop for basic at-home use (browsing the net, checking email from the comfort of my couch).
There are many ways to go about this. Upgrade current PC for gaming use, and purchase a cheap laptop for browsing...toss the old PC and spend it all on a multi-purpose laptop. So many options, and me with so little knowledge. I'm not necessarily looking for any specific answers here, but suggestions as to where to start would be appreciated.
Anyway, I'm in the market for a new PC...here's my situation. I currently have a 5 year old Compaq Pressario 7600. It's stock except for a Seagate 160GB slave harddrive. I would like to spend $1500 or less.
What I need. Something to game with, but not too hardcore. For example, I'd like to play the new Civilization IV (which my current machine does not even qualify for its minimum requirements). I also want a laptop for basic at-home use (browsing the net, checking email from the comfort of my couch).
There are many ways to go about this. Upgrade current PC for gaming use, and purchase a cheap laptop for browsing...toss the old PC and spend it all on a multi-purpose laptop. So many options, and me with so little knowledge. I'm not necessarily looking for any specific answers here, but suggestions as to where to start would be appreciated.
