I killed my PC this week.
5 years ago I built her myself.
Her name was Illusia...
...And now she's gone.
It all happened so fast. I noticed her running a little slow after downloading a pretty massive file, but I thought I'd clean her up and everything would be fine.
It wasn't.
She was dying right in front of me and I didn't even know it. Yesterday when I went to check my email she was unresponsive. I manually restarted her, but could not even get into my desktop. All I was seeing was DOS, and all I was hearing was a strange grinding sound coming in 3 short bursts.
Today Katie went with me to the repair shop and we waited our turn in line as I cradled her in my arms. After a few minutes of talking to the tech I mentioned the sound she'd been making and he nodded in understanding.
"You're hard drive is screwed." He said.
I could feel the blood draining from my face as my brain retraced all the pictures, songs, tv shows, and game saves I had packed in my precious Illusia. But it was the 100 pages of the new story I was working on that cut like a knife. My friend Anthony had already given me this unofficial diagnosis, but I didn't want to believe it's truth.
"Is there any way to salvage the information on the drive?" I asked.
"We could send it to forensics, but that's pretty pricey. Like, we're talking at least 800 bucks." He replied.
My heart sank. I held my tears in until we reached the car and then I just sat there, defeated and crying over a dead hunk of metal and plastic.
I've got my laptop up and running, but it's just not the same.
I am now faced with a difficult set of choices to make as far as the future of my desktop is concerned.
1. I'd like to get a Mac. Mac's rarely get viruses. It comes with the software I need to do my podcasts. It doesn't run Windows Vista. And I'm a big fan of how user friendly they are. The only thing is they are extremely pricey. I perused the Mac store a little while ago and found that the cheapest one I could get was $1199.00 and that is way more than I need to be spending right now.
2. I can buy a new PC unit. I've already got the peripherals I'd just need the tower. And if I buy one pre-built I won't have to load any software on it. The cons here are that pretty much all PC's out now come with Windows Vista, which I don't like.
3. I can buy a new hard drive and Windows XP (I lost my discs a long time ago) and install it into my current core system. This would be slightly cheaper than purchasing a new PC, but for just a little more money I could get a completely updated system. Another thing that worries me about shelling out 150 bucks for XP is that it's possible it could be obsolete for certain programs in a couple of years and I'd have to switch to either Mac or Vista anyway.
Now, I know the tone of the first part of this post was fairly sarcastic, but I really do need some advice about my next move here. So if I could get some help from my fellow geeks out there I'd really appreciate it.
Thanks guys!
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On what to buy, there are people who are a lot more knowledgeable than I am here on OS, but I'll suggest looking at a Mac mini, either new or refurbished. It doesn't come with a monitor or keyboard, but that might be just the thing...
Mac Minis are about 500-600 dollars and if you just surf the web and record podcasts, that should be enough for you.
Anyhoo, I've been where you are. IT SUCKS! When it happened to me, I lost EVERYTHING, work files, all my writing, illegally downloaded music and Anime . . LOL Photos, everything!
I actually cried . . . . . I bought a Dell laptop. :D Its less than a year old and its great.
I would get a Mac if you can or finish building the other one you have.
Rated!
Rob: I just checked out the Mac Minis and this seems like it may be a good fix. I need to look more into whether or not my monitor is compatible (It's an LG) but that may be the direction I head in. Thank you very much for the advice.
Jon: I basically just write, podcast, and download music/tv shows. As far as the expense I'd LIKE to spend 600 bucks tops. I am looking into the mac mini as a possibility, but it's pretty short on memory from what I've seen. Do you have any suggestions on the PC front as far as brands go?
Lady Miko: Oh don't worry, I tried to make the post funny. Don't get me wrong. I did cry earlier, but there's really nothing I can do about it now, so I'm just trying to figure out the next best thing. But I hear ya on losing all the stuff. It's heart breaking.
Also, I just looked at what my iMac model is selling for on Ebay and various other outlets, it seems the resale value of my computer is between $650 - $800. That's a good retention of value and if I wanted to sell this computer and apply that money to buying this year's equivalent-model iMac, I'd only have to come up with about 33%-45% of the cost.
It is pricey up front, but it's proven to be a solid investment and has retained its value. It could be worth it to save up a little and buy the Mac or even buy a used Mac. On the other hand, smart and patient shoppers can find excellent values in the less-expensive PCs.
If you opt for the either of the PC options, do not *buy* XP. Find some geek-type person and find out about the free Linux OSs like Ubuntu (especially if you choose option #3). Don't pay $150 for 9-year-old technology that soon isn't going to be supported by Microsoft.
I've fried a few hard drives. I back up stuff now!!!!
I've always had good luck with Compaqs (now owned by HP). You can get a new Compaq for around $400 (with free shipping and a free printer, here: www.shopping.hp.com/scat/desktops/SR5000_series/rts/3/computer_store)
Spend your extra money on an external hard drive backup system and maybe virus scanning software.
As for Vista, I have heard that "you'll never like it, but you will get used to it. Food for thought.
also, don't give up on the old hard drive yet. I've heard that putting it in a ziplock (suck out the air) and freezing it might get it to work long enough to get the info off. My dad once slammed a broken drive on the counter in frustration and it started working long enough for him to get the needed info
Without a Paddle: I'm browsing the macs. It's hard not to like them, I just don't know that I can justify spending over a grand on 120g of space when I can buy a pc and get twice that for half the price. Man I hate decisions.
catnmus: Yeah, I've used vista on my dad's computer and I am not a fan. I could get used to it, but I just hate having to 'deal' with something I have to use every day. Thanks for the comment.
Michael: True, but I appreciate the sentiment pal. Thanks for dropping by.
CB: Yeah, that's the problem I'm running into. I've got a Toshiba laptop that's under 2yrs old, but its super low on space. I really need a desktop with some room for all the porn I download.
;) Just kidding. About the porn, not the space. Thanks for commenting though!
Two things: Carbonite is meant to back up data, you can backup your program files but you have to have an operating system to access Carbonite. And, it is not meant for uploading and downloading, for that I use Jungle disk plus. The average user who wants to make sure all of her personal data can be recovered will be happy with Carbonite.
trish
Oh yeah, that's persuasive.
http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/electronics-computers/computers-internet/computers/computer-recommendations/desktop-computer.htm
Desktop computer
All are fine for routine work; differences among types are mainly in size or for specialized uses such as multimedia and gaming. Tech support was best for Apple; Dell's support was above average for problem-solving. We recommended some Compaq, Gateway, and HP models based on value, even though those brands' tech support has been disappointing. We don't have sufficient tech-support data for Sony desktops to rate that brand. Apple is the most reliable desktop brand.
Budget models should suffice for basic tasks. They include a DVD burner and two-piece speakers. Workhorse models are faster, more powerful, and better for serious multimedia uses. They include a DVD burner and three-piece speakers. High-end systems are best for graphic design and gaming. These include a Blu-ray drive, TV tuner, and three-piece speakers. All-in-ones are sleek, space-saving systems, with the drives, webcam, and speakers built into the display.
The Ratings rank models by overall score. ContractClose
Best low-priced desktops:
A slim computer, the Dell topped our list of budget models. An excellent performer, it has a 500GB hard drive, 2GB of memory, and very good ergonomics and features. For Apple users, there's the Mac mini, which had excellent performance. But its 120GB hard drive (and even the optional 160GB drive) is small for a desktop. With very good performance, ergonomics, and features, the Compaq packs a punch at an attractive price. ContractClose
RECOMMENDED
* Dell Studio Slim
* Type: Desktop computers
* Budget
* Price as tested:
* $640
Overall score
100
0
63
This model performed well in our tests and is recommended in its category.
CR Ratings for Computers
RECOMMENDED
* Apple Mac Mini
* Type: Desktop computers
* Budget
* Price as tested:
* $725
Overall score
100
0
58
This model performed well in our tests and is recommended in its category.
CR Ratings for Computers
RECOMMENDED
* Compaq Presario SR 5550F
* Type: Desktop computers
* Budget
* Price as tested:
* $530
Overall score
100
0
57
This model performed well in our tests and is recommended in its category.
CR Ratings for Computers
Best value in a budget system:
With a Pentium Dual-Core processor, 2GB of RAM, and 128MB of video memory, this budget desktop's performance was good and its ergonomics very good. It has a 250GB hard drive, five free USB ports, and a memory-card reader. ContractClose
BEST BUY
* Dell Inspiron 530 (Budget)
* Type: Desktop computers
* Budget
* Price as tested:
* $380
Overall score
100
0
55
This model performed well in our tests and is recommended in its category.
CR Ratings for Computers
For more features and performance:
The Gateway is loaded, with a 640GB hard drive, Intel quad-core processor, 4GB of memory, and 256MB of video memory. Its performance was excellent, and very good for 3D gaming. A Blu-ray player is built-in, making it a bargain. The HP has excellent performance and is well-rounded in features, with a 500GB hard drive and five free USB ports. It's good for light 3D gaming. With the Dell, you also get excellent performance, a 500GB hard drive, 128MB of video memory, and six free USB ports. ContractClose
RECOMMENDED
* Gateway DX442X
* Type: Desktop computers
* Workhorse
* Price as tested:
* $900
Overall score
100
0
74
This model performed well in our tests and is recommended in its category.
CR Ratings for Computers
RECOMMENDED
* HP Pavilion a6560t
* Type: Desktop computers
* Workhorse
* Price as tested:
* $770
Overall score
100
0
67
This model performed well in our tests and is recommended in its category.
CR Ratings for Computers
BEST BUY
* Dell Inspiron 530 (Workhorse)
* Type: Desktop computers
* Workhorse
* Price as tested:
* $630
Overall score
100
0
63
This model performed well in our tests and is recommended in its category.
CR Ratings for Computers
Best for multimedia and games:
With Blu-ray players and TV tuners, both provide a great multimedia experience. Each is excellent for 3D gaming, with quad-core processors, 3GB of RAM, and 512MB of video memory. The Dell has two 500GB hard drives. Its seven USB ports provide plenty of connections for peripherals and gadgets. The HP costs $500 less and has a free memory slot. ContractClose
RECOMMENDED
* Dell XPS 420
* Type: Desktop computers
* High End
* Price as tested:
* $1900
Overall score
100
0
84
This model performed well in our tests and is recommended in its category.
CR Ratings for Computers
RECOMMENDED
* HP Pavilion Elite d5000t ATX
* Type: Desktop computers
* High End
* Price as tested:
* $1400
Overall score
100
0
78
This model performed well in our tests and is recommended in its category.
CR Ratings for Computers
Best for tight spaces:
The Apple's performance and display were excellent, and its ergonomics were very good. The HP utilizes touchscreen technology, providing an alternative way to access programs and features. It had very good ergonomics, features, and performance. The 64-bit version of Windows Vista comes installed, so make sure your peripherals and software are compatible. ContractClose
RECOMMENDED
* Apple iMac 24-inch
* Type: Desktop computers
* All-in-one
* Price as tested:
* $1800
Overall score
100
0
68
This model performed well in our tests and is recommended in its category.
CR Ratings for Computers
RECOMMENDED
* HP TouchSmart IQ506t
* Type: Desktop computers
* All-in-one
* Price as tested:
* $1500
Overall score
100
0
63
This model performed well in our tests and is recommended in its category.
CR Ratings for Computers
trish: definitely gonna be backing my shit up from now on. The worst part isn't spending the money on new equiptment, it's losing the time I've put into it. Thanks for the info!
Robin: I haven't even looked at that one. Checked out Ubuntu and it didn't seem that bad. Thanks!
hyblaean: Definitely not TMI. Thank you very much for the info. Those are some great specs!