Observations on Windows Vista,
Windows XP, & Macintosh Computers
Charles Bartlett is one of many who have written about problems with Microsoft Vista.
Charles itemized a list of complaints about his recent purchase of a Vista-equipped Dell computer...
Here are some of the things Charles wrote in one of his emails to me:
I'm so digusted with my new Dell E520 I could scream!!!!!
#1 - I cannot get Office 2003 removed from my machine!
#2 - I cannot get Windows uninstaller installed!
#3 - Sonic will not uninstall!
#4 - after 5 weeks I still can't get McAfee to install and I'm totally without protection!
#5 - God, I wish I had kept my old Dell 4600 XP!
#6 - If I can't get these issues solved I will want to return the entire unit and get my old XP back!
#7 - I've been through hell over this unit, and can't take it anymore!
#8 - Incidentally, the Belken transfer data system was a failure also, even though their Tech Support tried to help. I spent over $1300.00 on this system which I think was too early to have Vista installed on! I am considering a Small Claims Court suit in Vista, CA. BUT, hope I can avoid this thru Dell.
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When Charles tried to exchange his Vista computer for a WinXP model, Dell replied that XP computers were no longer available.
When Charles threatened to sue, Dell decided he could exchange his Vista PC for an XP model after all. As a side note, I've heard that Dell has since decided to offer XP models along with Vista PCs — at least for a while.
The only pro-Vista user I know is Carl Von Papp, who teaches it at Bellevue Community College, WA. He has installed Vista as a dual-bootable second OS on his WinXP computers, and did the same with his Macintosh Mini. The latest generation of Macs have Intel processors and are capable of running both Mac and Windows software on the same machine.
Although I was a Macintosh instructor at Fallbrook High, I've always dedicated this column to Windows, since that's the OS about 95% of the world has been using. However, I find owning a Mac with both operating systems to be very appealing. I plan on buying one soon and will write here about how it works out.
Personally, I have always preferred Macs but, like most folks, have stuck with Windows-based PCs because of the Mac's historic over-pricing. However, in recent years Apple's pricing has become much more competitive, which means they have finally begun to chip away at Windows' percentage of overall computer sales.
Another thing worth noting about the Mac is that there is only one OS, whereas Vista buyers must try to determine which of five versions would be best for them.
Another thing a new computer buyer should consider, however, is the fact that Windows users have always been able to easily find others to help them get started. Windows computer clubs are everywhere, whereas Mac computer clubs have always been few and far between.
Speaking of computer clubs, Hank Presutti called recently to ask if I knew of one dedicated to learning how to use eBay and other e-commerce sites advantageously. I said no, but suggested maybe he should start one. Hank laughed and said he would keep looking. Later, however, he called to say he decided it might be a good idea. He then researched setting up a non-profit organization and went on to make arrangements to hold meetings at the Vista Public Library.
Anyone interested in Hank's idea can email him at luigibeethoven@cox.net or check my home page for information.
Regarding my recently recommending AVG's free anti-virus program, Al Roller called to say he could find no free program on the company's site. Well, the link is there but somewhat obscured by all the other products the company has for sale. Details on finding the free link can be seen here.
© - Donald Ray Edrington - 2007 - All Rights Reserved
Email & Phone Information on Don Can Be Found Here.
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