Hey Alan,

I've used IBM, Dell, HP, Compaq and Gateway (and MAC) computers at work at various times over the past years. A few years ago, all the computers at work were all changed out to Dell's.

While at home I'm on my third Dell (25 MHz 486 SX, 200 MHz PII Pro and now a 800 MHz PIII). One thing that Dell has, that I've only had to use twice (once with each of the previous computers) and that is the 24 hr Next day service. Once a problem is entered into their system, a repair tech arrives at your house to fix the problem within 24 hrs. Yes this service is a bit expensive, yet worth every penny if you NEED to have your computer up and running in a very short order.

A comment about Compaq - they are NOT easily expanded - which means that if you want to add another card, memory or whatever - good luck...

Gateway does have a nice trade in program... Yet I have never used this...

HP's are solid.

Still if you can afford the Dell - you won't be sorry.

Dick