By Kyle Thompson
kylet@newsroom.byu.edu
PC World has just released their rankings of the top 100 computer products.
How relevant are these rankings for the average college student?
Provo School District Technical Specialist Berne Broadbent said students should not get caught up in buying the 'best' computer system.
'One of the things that is tough on college kids today is that the life of a computer is only two to three years,' Broadbent said.
Students who stick to basic computer tactics such as word processing, research and e-mail may stretch the life of their computer to four years. However, an expensive computer system will not last any longer than a basic system, Broadbent said.
Broadbent recommended choosing a computer with at least a Pentium II processor. He said good systems with Pentium II and III processors are available for less than $1,200.
When it comes to computers, Broadbent said choosing a brand name is not the most important consideration, customer service is.
'For example, IBM is not cutting-edge, but it is a good, well-supported machine,' Broadbent said.
As far as operating systems go, Broadbent said he would advise students to stay away from Microsoft's new Windows Me.
'There has not been enough time to get the bugs out of it,' Broadbent said.
An alternative is Windows 2000.
'It is great. It is mostly targeted towards businesses but has many other applications as well,' said Jeremy Mangelson, manager of Burgoyne Computers on Redwood Road.
Mangelson also said he would recommend looking into custom built and used computers before buying a new, name-brand computer.
'Custom-built computers are usually easier to upgrade and get parts for,' Mangelson said.