Random thoughts:
1) What are you trying to get from the mfg "support"? Hardware repair, or software support?
Hardware only.
If the latter, you are sort of hosed. Keeping Windows happy isn't something easily done over the phone, and you aren't going to be able to afford to have them simply send out a PC guy to do the day to day stuff.
If the former, I suggest you stick with Dell and buy their 4 year extended warranty and get all your hardware through them.
If you take care of the backups, and make frequent disaster recovery backups you should be set.
Basically, they'll send someone out, replace bad parts. Don't expect them to make your software work or deal with the backups -- just leave you with working hardware. Then, you restore your disaster recovery disc, restore backups, and you are on your way.
Unfortunately, it doesn't always work that way because I can assure you that the folks they contract to run the gamut from good to worse that incompetent. I won't bore you with the disaster, other than to say Dell won't win any awards from me.
Got real excited about Drobo a few months back, did my research and discovered a LOT of continuing horror stories of total data loss and zero customer service. When it works as advertised, its' great. When it doesn't you are thoroughly screwed.
Currently looking as unRAID as a possible solution. Similar concept, perhaps better implementation. Could start off by re-purposing my existing computer as an unRAID server. Just started researching it.
5) If you aren't doing disaster recovery backups, start.
yep
6) Make sure you get the Windows media with your system.
Always
7) If you aren't getting sw support from the vendor, re-install your machines from disc as soon as you get it. They install lots of random junk and it will decrease performance and possibly increase your potential for sw issues.
Normally my resident geek does that we we set up a new computer.
8) Reset your expectations. Keeping these systems working well can be a challenge for professionals, and if you are not, and are getting part time support over the phone, it isn't going to be wonderful.
I am lucky to have some good friends who are geeks. One or the other can usually rescue me, sooner or later.
9) Install the absolute minimal amount of software possible.
<g> Easier said than done. I do a lot of different things, many of which require somewhat specialty software. Just the nature of what I do.
10) Avoid Norton and McAffee virus checkers and get something more light weight like Vipre from Sunbelt Software.
Been very happy with avast! for my AV needs, plus Spybot and Adaware
Thanks!
Previous Topic
Index
