Making A Desktop Computer Decision
Here's an article by someone who grew up exposed to a desktop computer (just slightly younger than me ;-) I started with IBM mini computers. Familiar with those? -Ed
I belong to the first generation that literally grew up with desktop computers. I first remember using them in third — or was it fourth — grade. We had an Apple IIE back then, which ran on those enormous floppy disks which ground away in the disk drive if we inserted them wrong. They were useful tools though; besides Number Munchers and Oregon Trail they taught us how to type efficiently and to find our way around the operating system. While my parents were leery of computer technology, my generation jumped right in, never afraid to go digging around in the operating system to find what we needed.
My family purchased our first desktop computer when I was in middle school, and though it wasn't much more advanced than the Apple IIE it was enough to keep me occupied. I used it for typing up school essay papers and, of course, playing a few games. We were introduced to the World Wide Web when I was in high school and by the time I attended college just about everyone had a desktop computer of their own.
It is now hard to imagine myself being without a computer, as I use it almost every day (Guess what I'm using to type this article?). Through the information superhighway I'm able to access almost any type information I need. I create all of my documents on my desktop computer and I check my email a few times every day. My computer also came equipped with a DVD drive and since I don't own a television, I watch movies from the comfort of my couch, which I keep in plain view of my desktop.
Entry-level desktop computers used to start at approximately $1500, but you can now get a decent computer for just a few hundred dollars. On which, you can do just about everything the high-end computers can do. You can play most games and use good graphics programs. You can buy a computer tower for even less if you've already got a monitor and printer.
If you don't have a desktop computer yet — you're reading this on someone else's — it’s high time you break down and get one, especially now that desktop computers have become so cheap. Laptops are still expensive by comparison and a low-end desktop will still allow you to surf the Internet, create letters and other documents, manage your money or other data, play most computer games and even play music or videos/DVDs. It’s definitely a smart investment, since it’s something you can use every single day.