Help me decide what PC?

K

Kiotegirl

New Member
Hi,

I am looking at a Gateway 835GM and a HP a1130n. I like the Media Center OS from what I have seen and read. Does anyone have any pro's and/or cons about this OS system? Pros and/or cons about the computers I mentioned?

I will use the computer for just about everything, but to give you more of idea here is what I know I will use it for at this time:

Finances, Invoices, Wordprocessing, Spreadsheets, Databases, Internet, games (not to heavy with graphics at this time), recipe program, GPS program, scrapbooking, Desktop publishing programs, watching DVD's, genealogy research and programs, photo and video editing, burning cd's and dvd's that can be viewed on stand alone dvd players.

I would like to also be able to copy video tapes of my family reunions to a DVD, but not sure either of these are capable of doing this. Do you know if this is possible with either of these computers? Or do I need to add something? If so what?

I would like to be able to network my home computers together in the future. I would also like to be able to watch and record television programs.

I know I want at least 1 GB ram, and 250 GB HD.

The Gateway has the dual core processor and the new airflow technology, that maybe something that will help the computer run more smoothly and not freeze up or run slow do to overheating. Any pros/cons about the dual core processor and new airflow technology with the Gateway?

I would have to add a tv tuner to the Gateway if I wanted it. I would also need to buy and external floppy for it. With the HP I would have to buy and internal floppy for it, it apparently has a tv tuner.

I was told Pentium 4 or AMD Athlon 64 would be best for future upgrades. Is the Pentium D ready for upgrades in for the future to 64 bit?

I have also heard that Gateway maybe having some trouble and may not be around (read this by one person on the net) is this true?

So, I really need to know which computer will be best for my needs and for future upgrades?

Thank you in advace for your time and advice.
 
Both lack a tv tuner, so you have to buy separately. Pentium D is 64-bit and Dual-core which better than single core AMD Athlon 3500+, i say go for the dual-core if you're willing to spend money for it Gateway 835GM. No cons about the gateway, the btx is cool and quiet. Dual-core, i wish i had the money... Gateways are going to be around. Gateway and emachines are the only oems i actually like. Definitely gateway, as dual-core will be just as important as 64-bit in the future. The gfx aren't that good, but either machine has a pci-express slot for future graphics card upgrade. The integrated isn't bad either, both will handle your needs. But the additional $300 for the gateway is well worth it, especially when its in a package deal with 17in. lcd screen for $999, or was b4. I don't know current prices. Emachines t6522 is also in the category as this and has a smaller hard drive than the a1130n, but includes a tv tuner.

Roger
 
Roger - Thanks

Roger,

Thank you for your input. I found both computers in the 700's without monitor and after rebate. I already have a monitor and will deal without the joy of a new nice monitor and crisper pictures until a later time.

The sales person told me the hp had a tv tuner and I could buy one for the gateway for 120.00 installed. I had heard the hp did not have a tv tuner before, but the salesman said it did, that is why I also wanted to know for sure by asking in the forum.

A question: Will I need a tv tuner to hook up a vcr to record the videos to DVD?

Thanks, I believe I will be buying the Gateway, just as soon as payday gets here.

Rhonda
 
Thanks

Roger,

Thank you for the link to the tv tuner. I actually, think I can install it, I have installed a sound card and CD-rom and a hard drive, so I think I can handle a tv tuner. At least I hope, I don't want to mess up a new computer trying to save 40.00. LOL!!!

Have a great day,
Kiotegirl
 
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