Thread: Everex Computer ?

Oh dear, I hadn't thought of the points you mention. Thank you! Maybe the refurbished ones on Ebay aren't such a bad deal, they at least have XP.

Back to the drawng board....the Power Point is not the first assignment where a computer was required, mainly it has been research. He does need one but I thought not until at least junior high.
Sue

In defense of the system you linked: You can always get a cheap CRT monitor off CraigsList or some such locally. You don't need Windows to use programs similar to Office, but most people prefer a Windows OS.

But, the system is spec'ed quite low, and I think you could do better elsewhere. Personally, I would never buy any prebuilt system because I know I could build something better for less money, but I do understand that not everyone can do the same.

Personally, I would pass on that system. In my opinion, option number 1 is to try to find someone to build your computer for you. Option number 2 is to use a reputable hardware forum (I like hardforum.com and 2cpu.com) to find a full system. Option number three and four are a tie: buy a Dell directly from them or find someone selling a full system on Craigslist.

you can get a very cheap laptop these days (don't need a monitor) for less than 300 bucks. the asus eeepc http://eeepc.asus.com/global/
can be had for less than three hundred bucks, if you get the linux version you won't need to buy MS office, you can use OpenOffice which will do almost everything MS office does, but is free.

Yes if I was really looking for a budget solution, I'd go for a cheap laptop, and use linux and OpenOffice.
If I recall correctly, OO can make Microsoft compatible powerpoint and word docs.
And laptops have the additional advantage that he can use it wherever convenient, instead of being tied to his desk.

Along with the eePC from Asus, Walmart also carries a decent laptop in the $300 range that is larger and has windows XP on it. I don't recall exactly what it was, but I remember it being decent for what it was.

Don't forget: Black Friday is next week- there might be some good deals then too!

Yeesh... linux, freeware, monitor somewhere else, have someone build it... I got the impression that an inexpensive turnkey system might be more in order here. Sounds to me like Sue would like to buy something you can take out of the box, plug it in and use it. And have one place to call for questions.

First I'd call the school. It is likely they have a recommended setup. For example, a PC running XP with this software suite on it and a printer. Something like that. Then I'd call Dell (personal preference) and talk to someone there. Read them the list and have them give you options and the bottom line price.

For a kid I'd recommend a laptop. They're going to want to connect to the internet so I'd recommend getting the wireless option (probably included anyway). If you get internet access in the home a wireless access point is not an expensive option and allows using the laptop anywhere in the home. Also allows one to access the internet at the "hotspot" access points that are cropping up everywhere. Depending on the cost of the machine their warrantys aren't bad either (accidental damage might be appropriate for a kid). $650 would get you a 15" laptop with Vista, MS Office word, excel + powerpoint (wireless built in). One stop shopping and and support and you know you'll have everything you need.

Originally Posted by jockeys

you can get a very cheap laptop these days (don't need a monitor) for less than 300 bucks. the asus eeepc Eee PC | Easy to Learn, Work and Play
can be had for less than three hundred bucks, if you get the linux version you won't need to buy MS office, you can use OpenOffice which will do almost everything MS office does, but is free.

Can you guys get open office to talk to powerpoint which the kid might have to use when presenting his presentation?

I've had problems doing this. Their Word format and their Excell format work fine but for some reason the lasat Impress presentation I put together wouldn't run with powerpoint.

Otherwise I love Openoffice.

Yea, but for a kid you're going to want to use the exact same package they're using in class or that the all the other kids are using and the teacher has some probability of being familiar with.
"How did you do that?" or "How do I fix this?"
"You click on this, then click on that, then pick from this list"
"Oh, but I'm using OpenOffice and Linux"
"...ummm..."

Originally Posted by Wildtim

Can you guys get open office to talk to powerpoint which the kid might have to use when presenting his presentation?

I've had problems doing this. Their Word format and their Excell format work fine but for some reason the lasat Impress presentation I put together wouldn't run with powerpoint.

Otherwise I love Openoffice.

I've never had a problem with it, but I don't do very complex presentations. There are some known bugs with animations and dynamic images (like graphs) that I have heard of.

Great suggestions everyone...thank you! School contact is now a must and and a laptop may be the way to go too. Sometimes a good deal can be found with an open box at Best Buy or Circuit City. I hadn't even considered one. I am happy that I posted this.
Sue