The Cheapest Computer is the One You Already Own!

If you are like I, you haven't yet set aside the cash for a NEW COMPUTER. So, the only way you would be able to obtain one is if -

a. You go into Debt. But this is a bad idea, as debt is what is contributing to our current economic crisis. Why continue to feed this unsustainable Machine?

b. Someone gifts it to you. While this is a great idea, it doesn't hurt to save some money up (details coming below.)

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So, here is my quandry. I'm running a machine that was custom built in 2001. Since then, I've had to change the memory once (still running Sdram here) - and the Hard drive failed once (because of my bios, it stopped booting the computer, and I had the drive ghosted to a new drive).

Future Plans? Upgrade memory to 512mb (that's the max this machine will hold). And leave the operating system somewhat what it is (Win 2k Pro). While the upgrade of memory comes first, I am also saving up for a newer Computer - Internet Only system, to tie to this computer via my router.

P.S. - I STRONGLY advocate a non-wireless router - such as Linksys, because it runs ZoneAlarm separate from the computer. I don't believe firewalls are best on the computer, they are best before the bad stuff hits the computer - and this also saves computer resources.

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Current problems and work arounds? IE isn't really supported for systems below XP anymore, so my best IE browser is version 6. A LOT of websites are not really developing for this browser anymore (I am having problems with EBay for example). Solution, download Mozilla Firefox. This browser is NOT tied to your operating system, and the add ons are great. Plus its FREE. Downfall, some released plugins (like Media Player), are not supported for systems below XP.

Another, which came up over the weekend (and halted by writing) - Anti Virus Support. I tried the free McAfee, which comes with my Internet provider for free - and my system slowed to a crawl (that was Anti Virus only - and a few years ago - don't even want to try it now). I had loaded System Works 2003, and later upgraded to Norton AntiVirus 2005. Now, Symantec has stopped supporting systems below XP and Vista also (can you say, everyone wants you to buy a new computer? In this economy?) So, they allowed me to purchase a subscription to 2005 - BUT - they sent me 2006 (which caused all sorts of Havoc on my Computer).

Later, we removed the 2006, I was refunded my money (we'll wait to see how that turns out) - and downloaded 2005 (which later it turned out we didn't need to do - I already had a copy on my hard drive). Now - apparently - we have a corrupted file somewhere - because it will no longer let me download the Trusted Application List (needed for Internet Worm protection - which I wasn't running - due to system resource hogging again).

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So, with a little research - came up with some GREAT freebies for Anti Virus. AVG free IS available (version 7 is better) for win 2k via Cnet downloads. Also, Avast supports many platforms, and has some great reviews via Cnet. Now, I also visit the websites to see what they have to say - and I've chosen to try Avast. Haven't installed yet - but am looking forward to it (lets see if I need the pro version). AVG has been noted as having FALSE POSITIVES, but that's the newer version 8.

So, we have FREE web browser with lots of functionality (love it much better than IE, looking forward to try Google's offering), not targeted by scammers, spyware, etc., because its not linked to your operating system. Free anti virus tools not targeted by trojans, etc - because they are not mainstream (Norton is the MOST attacked system out there), supports multiple platforms, and use less resources than those that are most common AND cost money.

Also, save up for a new computer - look at options like Dell Outlet for refurbished items. Bet by next Jan, Feb - the prices will go down.

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My First Post - Love Coffee? Its On! Save Money!!

With this tough economic climate - who is NOT cutting back on their grocery bills? I learned this little technique in the early 90's, when we were again facing the economic climate of Trickle Down economics.

I, like my sister, enjoy the fresh ground coffee (or as in my case, specific gourmet blends found at the grocers, and then ground.) Savings here - fresh coffee ground, kept in refrigerator - no Coffee Grinder to Maintain. Another note: Where to Buy Your Coffee. I use Winco. 1 lb. is 5.98. That's right. I DO pay attention to the sales (such as for Tullies prepacked at Safeway, and note not only the price, BUT THE PRICE PER POUND - matters in a 2fer sale). $5.98 per pound is AWESOME for fresh coffee beans. Look for similar discount, big box stores that offer that same kind of pricing (up to $4 or more from other Stores and Brands).

Use a 10 - 12 cup coffee maker. You can then tailor the amount of coffee you want to make. You don't need Starbuck's latest equipment to make your coffee. Over the long haul - the imported Coffee Makers work well, and need to be replaced every year or two (I use mine daily).

However, here is the meat of the savings. Use TWO coffee filters, yep that's right, TWO. This strategy is 2 fold. For 10 cups, you can use 3 scoops (hint, the finer the grind, the better this works) of coffee. Experiment with 3 cups if you like. You will get the gist of the amount you want, to the strength you want. Now, you have the additional quality of Starbuck's coffee. Add on with your favorite creamers (I use International Delight - was 2.59 in August, went up to 3.10 in September, but still cheaper than Safeway, Albertson's). And you have coffee you can take anywhere, for MUCH CHEAPER.

But wait - there's more. Don't throw the coffee from Day 1 away. The next day (assuming you have a moderately clean household - no mold flying around) - for 10 cups, add 2 or so scoops to the preexisting coffee. You get the same strength, have saved a scoop of Coffee, and used the same amount of Coffee filters. Its the TWO coffee filters that makes this system work.

You can add cup differentials by using the smaller filters for 3 -4 cups or the larger filters for 8 - 12 cups. I've actually made the mistake of buying the smaller filter, and using it for the larger size (but they cost the same - so it doesn't really matter).

They are out competing for your dollars. They are creating smaller packages AND increasing prices to hide the TRUE cost of inflation. Using common sense - you can still get some of the luxuries in life you crave, for over HALF THE COST. Vote with your Pocket Book.

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Copyright © 2008 (FIH) FutureInsights All Rights Reserved

Please feel free to Talk Back!!

Jump to: Cats Rule - The Sister Site