[RandyL]

Great examples Saxon. I also agree with never getting extended warranties.

Chelle as to what type of computers you need is totally dependant on what you intend to use them for. Now and in the future.

Where you buy them is important but I think what brand you buy is important too. The first thing that comes to my mind is the level of support from the manufacturer.

Although I am not recommending any brand over another I've found some models totally lacking in support while others will offer support for quite some time when it comes to troubleshooting, driver updates and downloads etc.

I would also make sure you can obtain or make a set of recovery DVD's instead of just having the option to restore from a hidden partition on the hard drive.

[Dalo Harkin]

The worst one I have ever saw in person - was my old IT Director - he came in after 'shopping' for a new MOBO and CPU and he bought an AMD board and an Intel Processor - I couldnt help but laugh when the MD was slating him infront of my office lol
Just because people work in a specific sector does not mean that they know about all aspects of it

[Wolfeymole]

Well anyway I think Chelle has enough advice now to go on now so it's up to you Chelle.

If you get a few models in mind an can't decide what one you want we would be more than happy to assist with the decision making process.

Oh an randy thank's I have a ton of descriptions like that from that store, I had to go there very recently to get money back for a firend of mine who was ripped off by them as soon as they saw me they didnt argue it.

[chelle73]

Thanks guys for your help will be in touch no doubt when ready to buy as I have stated not very good with tech stuff so really dont know what im looking for would have probs gone retail for advice but dont think so now lol after u lot slating them hehehehe

[Plastic Nev]

And just a final note on the subject, Take the laptop you were given to one of your local computer repair shops, not just a dealer but one of the smaller guys who also does repairs, ask him if it is any use for spare parts, and if so what can he offer. Might as well get something from it eh?