I'm an OTR Semi-Drvr & I'm looking @ purchasing a laptop/tablet pc for my truck and a replacement desktop or laptop for home use. My family already doesn't keep up with security issues (they have not updated any security tools I have installed & thus I'm working on removing spyware, repairing registry, etc since I've been home for the holiday). Since Microsoft no longer supports WinME & I don't believe my computer may be worth upgrading...I'm looking @ Vista or compatible. On-the-road I'd like to use the net as cheap as possible, email, talk to family using net, basic gaming, gps system (i.e. streets & trips), drivers log software, etc.
@ Home - I Have An HPXT858 Desktop
WinME
1GHz Intel Pentium Processor
192MB SDRAM Memory
60 GB Ultra DMA Hard Drive
A Few Questions:
1. Is there a list of much needed components I might want to consider, available in this forum (or others) or any suggestions on what & where to purchase? I haven't brought a PC since 2000. I know PC terminology just enough to get by, but not what's best, or what I really need. I hear about all these different cards & motherboards & processors (i.e. stay away from Celeron?)...well honestly now I'm just confused.
2. How concerned should I be about warranties for problems on the road? Dell for instance is said to have a good warranty/recovery (i.e. product gets dropped or something) package but is it really worth it? I've never built a PC? Can I build my own laptop too? I would love to be able to know my laptop from the ground up so I could feel comfortable making my own repairs.
3. Are there places to recycle or trade-in old PCs?
4. What do I need to make sure I have when going wireless? Especially security wise. I get the concept of WiFi & Wireless Cards, but what's best? Is there a way to connect to the internet no matter where I am in the country (HotSpot or not) cheaply?
OK, I'll stop here for now...mainly I just want to make the right decision - keep my home PC (WinMe) or move on to new - Is there a difference btwn a laptop & tablet (other than that tablets swivel)? I hope you don't mind I really wanted to get some expert help on what to look &/or watch out for. I Thankyou All In Advance For Your Advice &/or Comments. Happy New Year!