Computer advice -- what features do I need?

[rickjames]

Originally Posted by LostMind

5 - 10 years? I honestly can't see any pc being able to do that anymore.HTH

Personally I think that computers are lasting longer now... i remember it was max 4 years on a computer before, but with Microsoft stalling on releasing a new OS (almost 4 years now) there really isn't a big push to replace something that isn't broken... unless you are a gamer.

I personally run an AMD chip, some people hate them, some people love them.

Are you comfortable tearing into a machine? If so then you will definitely want to go and piece a "clone" together. A few good BC companies to check out for parts are:

www.atic.ca
www.anitec.ca
www.ncix.com

*edit* I realized that my post didn't mention which components. LostMind's list is on the mark. As for hard drives I have seen many, many, of them die, but they seem to be getting more reliable. It doesn't really matter, just get one that spins 7200rpm.