PC: In a nutshell, no. Don't bother going with a brand name - you are paying for the name, and likely support that you won't ever use. If you do as much technical support as you say, then that would not be a problem for you. I build computers, and I would not recommend getting a pre-made PC if you have the knowledge that you say, to build your own.

I do recommend that you look into individual components -- the money isn't going to go bad, or burn a hole in your pocket -- do your research first. Look at the individual components (motherboard, memory, processor, etc.). Browse computer forums for both positive and negative experiences with the hardware you are looking for. Take your time and do it right, and you will have a better item for your money. Here are some examples of pre-mades at Tiger Direct - also cheaper, and does ship if you are going that route. They also sell individual parts, or will build you a custom for those parts.


Vista: In a second and larger nutshell, no. NO NO NO. I've used vista, i've tested software and hardware against vista, and my personal recommendation is that it sucks. hard. But thats just me. Do your own research first - a GIS for Vista Problems, Vista Issues (hey look, an entire forum just named that --- http://www.vistaissues.org/ ) and, just for fun, Vista Sucks. Don't get it in hopes that MS will fix it by the time you get it, thats just shooting yourself in the foot.


In regards to budgeting and your pet: Think VERY strongly before pouring out every last dollar into this. Christmas is coming up, will you have money for something under the tree for your parents and pets (if you do that kind of thing that is)? Even if you set aside $100 for a rainy day, thats better than nothing. From what i've seen in your posts, your family comes and goes with money -- it happens. But, its naive to believe that everything in the future will work out roses after you've spent all your money. What happens, when theres no money, and something bad happens with your dog again, and your parents don't have the money either because its all been spent? Then, having spent the full $500 on a new computer will leave you looking back and feeling like an a##hat. Trust me, i've seen my sister go through that.

I think that all people want you to do is seriously and objectively THINK it through, before jumping into it. /soapbox