I am planning on purchasing a computer from HP on-line. What features do I need?

Question

I use Itunes, have a lot of mp3 files, I download movies & TV shows and upload pictures. I want something that can handle media functions quickly. Should I get the upgraded processor or the extra memory?

Also I will need to transfer my files from my old computer (windows XP) to the new one (Vista), so should I buy the transfer package or is there another way?

Is paying $150 for the Microsoft Office suite worth it or should I just use the preloaded Microsoft Works? I would use Word and maybe Outlook but I don't need exel or powerpoint. Can I get it cheaper elsewhere?

Sorry for the length of this question but I am really not computer savvy (obviously).

Thanks!

Answer 1

Well 1st For what your are doing, I would make sure that the processor is a Intel, class cause AMD is more geared towards gamming. Not sure what Intel choices you have but try for speeds around 2.8ghz+

Make sure you have enough memory 1gb but try for 2gb, Make sure to call or ask if the memory is running in dual channel mode and not single. Makes a very big difference.

Will need a decent size HD. 400GB+ or lower if you choose, but downloading movies and shows can quickly fill a lower HD up very fast..

This is an option,, since it sounds like you like to watch TV, see if you can get a TV tuner card along with it, You can record and watch shows on the PC and edit them, and all kinds of things.

Does the PC come with a monitor???

As far as transfering files over, just back your files up on a disk. Shouldn't have any issues putting that stuff on the Vista OS.

I wouldn't pay for the Office suite, just use what Vista has preloded. WARNING just letting ya know that Microsoft Word has changed on Vista Allot. Leave it to Microsoft to mess that up. I liked Word 2003, 2007 is not that great.

Good LUck


PS If you will try to install XP on this new system, you might have deivces that can only be supported on Vista and therefore will make it impossible to install XP.

Answer 2

Extra RAM is always worth it. A faster processor isn't really going to be noticed all of the time unless you encode your video/music.

Transfering files from one computer to the other is most easily done with a USB flash drive, or maybe a usb hard drive. Copy files from the old system to the flash drive/hard drive, then attach the drive to the new system. From there, just copy them over to the new system. There are other ways, but that's the easiest. It's a great way to keep critical backups too.

I would not switch to vista. It is designed to prevent you from using your media and does not have good peripheral/software support. (ex. printers/scanners/cameras) If you can buy the laptop with XP do it. If not, buy the laptop, reformat the drive and install XP. Linux is a great alternative too. Total media freedom with a Linux laptop. http://www.emperorlinux.com/

Microsoft Office is a total rip off at this point. Either install your old, legitimate copy of Office or install openoffice.org. Openoffice.org does it all and it's free. No nagware, no strings. Just Open Source goodness. http://download.openoffice.org/2.3.0/index.html (click on the green box to download)

Answer 3

I would not recommend going Vista, stay with XP Pro for now, do you know if your iPod (iTunes) software is compatible with Vista?
Easiest way to transfer files is to put them on a flash drive from your old computer, then load them onto your new one. Just do it yourself.
If you are into lots of media, I would recommend 2gig RAM and 150+ gig disk space.

Be very careful when changing from XP to Vista. Some of your older software might not work at all.

Answer 4

With downloading tv show make sure you get at least a dual core processor. Also, get at least 2 GB of ram, but I'd go with 4 gb. Get over a 300 gb hard drive. Make sure you get a tv tuner so you can hook up cable or satelite right to your computer. Make sure you get a dvd rewrite drive. If you get an external hard drive you could transfer your files over that way. If all you use is works, don't mess with office. A email program should come with your new computer.

Answer 5

dsedarisfan,you claim you are "not computer savvy",SO! all the answers you get here you will not remember when you get to purchase time.Go to a reputable computer store(don't go alone bring a friend),ask the salesperson to be honest and to fullfill your needs and to explain in detail what she/he is selling you.At the store is wear you want your question answered.Good Luck,try to bring a friend that has some internet knowledge.

Answer 6

Please listen to all the other answers. I haven't much to add except that, when I chose my HP, I was VERY glad I chose one that had the maximum number of USB ports they offered and the maximum wireless capability they offered and a card reader capable of handling smart cards/SD cards!