I continue to receive letters, voice and e-mails and calls on my radio shows from folks that are so confused and concerned about taking a plunge on their next computer purchase. And the fact that I survived buying a Betamax VCR back in the late 70s is proof that I've been down the road myself when it comes to making the wrong technology choice. If they are forced to send it away to a repair depot, you're asking for longer delays. Find out if free technical support is available.
Brand name computers many times design a machine for obsolescence.
Custom made clones give the consumer a chance to make a system specific to their needs. Custom made clones also give the consumer a chance to get quality, name-brand, FCC conforming parts throughout. Ask the computer salesperson about things like your sound card, your video card or the modem. No matter which direction you choose, I urge you to do your pricing and components homework ahead of time. A good starting place to research your purchase is the Personal Technology section every Tuesday in The Dallas Morning News.