Is this good enough?

Getting a New Computer Soon

Published on April 14, 2008 By Xiandi In Personal Computing

I need some advice. I know next to nothing about computer specs, but I'm planning on getting a new computer soon. I realize that it will probably have Vista on it so it will need lots of RAM, but thats about all I know.

My son was looking up different computers and comparing prices, etc. This is one of the options he came up with.

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Hp s3400z Computer

Windows Vista Home Premium w/Service Pack 1
2.3 GHz AMD Athlon 64 X2 4400+ dual-core processor
3GB DDR2-800MHz dual channel SDRAM
256 MB NVIDIA GeForce 8400-HD, DVI, VGA adapter, HDMI video card
No Modem (not sure if important info)
320 GB 7200 rpm SATA 3Gb/s Hard Drive
LightScribe 16X max. DVD+/- R/RW SuperMulti drive
15-in-1 memory card reader, 2 USB, headphone port
Integrated 5.1 Capable Sound w/front audio ports sound card

price includes free shipping

$539.99

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Do you think this is a good deal? Is it going to be good enough for what I want to do? Would you change anything on it?

I have specs on a more expensive computer too but was wondering if this one would *do it* for me. Most of the time I use it for skinning and web surfing, but I would like to be able to play games and watch movies on it too (not something I can do with my current computer).

Comments (Page 5)

kona0197

on Apr 17, 2008

I still fail to see why anyone needs more than 2 GB if all you are doing is web browsing, email and some PS.

Xiandi

on Apr 17, 2008

Thanks for the link Starkers. I've bookmarked it in case I need it.

I still can't decide if I want 32 bit or 64 bit. 64 seems like it would run better (with lots of memory). I've been reading some of the forums here at WinC, and it seems like 64 bit has some compatibility problems with some Stardock products. I love my Stardock products and don't want to give any of them up because they dont work on my computer.

So, I guess my next questions should be..what programs are still having issues with 64 bit systems? Does Stardock always make the 32 bit compatible first, and then 64 bit? About how long of a time difference is there between 32 bit and 64 bit updates?.....Am I even asking the right questions?

MadDeez

on Apr 17, 2008

i'm sure i'll enjoy the 8 gigs of ocz reaper pc2 8500 i have sitting on the shelf behind once i get the new mobo next month, kona. until then, i'll make do with 4 gigs of reaper pcs 9200. i could get by with 2 gigs but i like having more. when i click on the icon, i want the app to open NOW, not in 3 seconds.

as for which stardock apps in odnt that don't work with vista 64, IP is the only one i want to work and doesn't. there's supposed to be an update in the next few days to rectify that issue tho.

Bebi Bulma

on Apr 17, 2008

Xiandi, if you're only going to be web browsing, checking email, maybe watching some movies or whatever else...go with 32bit.

kona0197

on Apr 17, 2008

Funny. All the programs I have open when I ask them to. No waiting. And all I have is 2 GB of RAM.

Sounds like someone is over compensating for something...

Xiandi

on Apr 17, 2008

I still fail to see why anyone needs more than 2 GB if all you are doing is web browsing, email and some PS.

Can you do all that at the same time with 2GB? I find that sometimes thats exactly what I'm trying to do.
Example: I'm creating a skin in SKS6 so that's open, have GIMP open because I'm editing an image, yahoo IM is open and I notice an email come in, I go to that to see what was sent, and my brother sends me an IM right then....this senario happens to me alot and it usually jams up my computer to a dead stop for about 10 seconds, then I have to close most of those programs before my computer will start to respond again.

Is that just a bad processer or does that have to do with RAM?

Xiandi

on Apr 17, 2008

Three posts in the time it took me to make one.....

Bebi Bulma

on Apr 17, 2008

From the MS page:

In the consumer market, Windows Vista 64-bit editions are for serious gamers, high-quality media creators, and enthusiasts who demand the most from digital media and are running computer systems with 64-bit processors.

The 64-bit editions of Windows Vista are not for everyone, and require a system with a 64-bit processor and 64-bit system drivers. Please confirm that your system, applications, and devices are compatible with a 64-bit edition of Windows Vista before installing.

Xiandi

on Apr 18, 2008

OK, Bebi, I'm comvinced now. 32-bit it will be. I have been doing a bit of research on my own and realize that I really dont need 64-bit at all. (like you've been saying all along)

MadDeez

on Apr 18, 2008

never mind. i may end up regretting what i originally posted.

starkers

on Apr 19, 2008

Thanks for the link Starkers. I've bookmarked it in case I need it.

Not a problem, if it helps then I'm happy that you're happy.

Xiandi

on Jun 18, 2008

Hey everyone, I just thought I'd update you. I ordered my computer today!! I should be getting it in about a week!

There were a few of things I changed with the set up I first posted:

*I went with 2 gigs of ram instead of 3 gigs
*I got a video card with its own memory, not integrated.
*I got a slightly better processor
*I had them include a Data/Fax modem (just in case I might need it)
*I got a 19" wide flat panel monitor to go with it!

I think I got a pretty good deal, after all those changes and adding the monitor, it's only $100 more than the set up I posted in this thread.

Thank you all for taking the time to educate me. I think I got a better deal and a better computer because of your help and advice!

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