Currently have a old IBM brand, Pentium II. I think it's time for a new one. If I could ask, Where do you suggest buying one and what do I need? I mostly surf the net, want to be able to do things with digital camera photos, and some document work. I would like something I can upgrade later, but want plenty of power now and I also am wanting to learn more about working on computers, the deeper things down the road (I'm a firefighter and 50 years old, need something to do down the road when I can no longer fight fires). Any suggestions on printers and monitors (19") would also be appreciated. A list of what I need would be great, I don't want the Dell type of computer, I would like to order it from a good company. Price up to $1200 or $1300. Again, thanks for all the help so far and keep up the great site.

Could you be alittle more clear about the Dell type computer? Do you mean you want to build your own computer (which is an excellent idea) or do you just not like Dells?

BRFD Engine 6, 26yrs.

If you are thinking about getting a computer shop to build you a computer for 1200 I say you can get a half ass machine with a Pentium 4, 512 mb of ram, integrated graphics, sound card and LAN onboard DVD drive screen, cheap ass speakers, keyboard and mouse and printer.

I know a guy that got that for 1200$CAD.

I've heard bad stories about packages from Dell and their support is bad. We have them in our firehouse. Just looking for a reliable company with good support.

We also have Dells in house. I also have severl at my house. Wehave never had any outstanding issues. I am buying four as Christmas presents for Claire and the kids this year.

i had system probs with dell - had to pay £60 to fix my partitioning thingies...
They called me from india though ! and im in london uk lol