If the donation is from someone you know, convince the person to throw in operating system software. Make sure the computer comes with an ink-jet or laser printer. It's not a steadfast requirement, but it will save you time and money. That said, most churches can afford to buy a less expensive Hewlett-Packard model. Direct purchase .
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With a 466MHz Celeron processor and a 10Gb hard drive, the computer will run any software. He recommends that all small churches invest in a quality soundcard. It has replaced several components of the sanctuary sound system. Nowlen also recommends purchasing RealPlayer and RealJuke box for playing digital songs. His church has purchased all of this plus a video projector, without a major dent in its budget.