where to buy a new system.

[Ben Scott]

On 11/28/05, Paul Lussier <p.lussier at comcast.net> wrote:
> A colleague at work just asked me what internet site I would recommend
> for buying generic PCs.

  What kind of "generic PC"?  That could mean:

  * Whitebox PCs that arrive with a working install of Windoze but may
have components of rather dubious origin, poor docs, and little to no
support beyond hardware replacement.  You can get these from any local
mom-and-pop shop.  Trustworthy[1] mail-order companies include
SystemMax (DBA TigerDirect, GlobalComputer, InfoTel, and about 10
other names), NewEgg, CDW, Insight, and PC Connection[2].

  * Whitebox PCs that include mainly name brand components, with some
attempt at an integrated design, and technical assistance that goes
beyond issuing RMAs.  Some well-known names include PenguinComputing
and PogoLinux [3].  Some local vendors aim for this, too, with varying
degrees of success.

  * Whitebox PCs that are carefully engineered, built from premium
components, and tuned for high performance.  Falcon Northwest,
Alienware, etc.  Expensive, but very nice[4].

  * Some models of some major brands could probably fall into this
category, too.  The simpler Dell Dimension models, for example, aren't
really much more then a glorified whitebox.  ATX case, Intel
motherboard, LG CD drive, Maxtor HD, etc.  Sure the case says "Dell",
but my home PC's case says "Antec".

  * Build-it-yourself from parts.  I assume that's not what the guy is after.

Footnotes
--------------
[1] "Trustworthy" meaning they will ship you what you paid for, and
will provide good warranty replacement service.
[2] I haven't bought from PC Connection or Insight in *years*, but
they were pretty good circa 1997.
[3] I haven't actually bought anything from either of these guys, but
they maintain a good rep.
[4] Also no personal purchases, but both are practically worshipped in
some circles.

-- Ben "This is a disambiguation page..." Scott