Which computer for a small business?

KG

My aunt runs a small hotel and needs to buy a new computer to replace her current 7-year-old one.

My husband has said that a Dell would probably be the best option but hasn't recommended any particular set-up.

She's not sure about budget because she's not sure what's available, but needless to say, she can't spend mega-bucks.

Her requirements are:

• Ability to run word processing / spreadsheets (though Word / Excel don't have to be included as I can download open source stuff for her).
• Ability to run dreamweaver as that is what her website is managed in.
• Ability to run an accounts / wages package (recomendations welcome).
• Ability to use the internet (dial up) and run AOL.

She mainly uses the computer for the internet, printing out menus, making posters and doing the accounts.

She really needs to update her screen too, and a flat screen would be good if possible because of the lack of space.

If there are any packages which come with a printer or similar included then she might consider these as I think she is considering replacing other hardware.

Does anyone have a couple of options that I could present to her?  What are the best buys around.

KG

cobden

I would recomend a Tiny preinstalled with Linspire 4.5 operataing system it comes with open office, mozilla browser, can be used either on dial up or broadband and you can download an AOL connection. It is a Linux operating sytem but very easy to use, and with a built in firewall. i use Linspire myself and have done since getting rid of microsoft since the beginning of 2003 and I have been very satisfied. There is also a Click and Run software warehouse where you can get a choice of free software for a small anual fee which once you have got what you require you keep and store online. There are also some very good quick start audio tutorials installed in the system and a very friendly help forum. before you do anything look at the Tiny website at

https://www.tiny.com

and look at

http://www.linspire.com

Also if your present computer is capable from booting from a CD and most are and is a minimum of 800mhz I will send you a Linspire Live CD it install's nothing on your computer but runs from the CD and that way you can a least get the feel of the system, if you would like to try this approach first ring me on 01282 711875 any day except Monday or Evenings and I will send you a CD. I have no connection with either of these firms, but just a very satisfied customer
you may in fact be able to install the system on your present machine. You can do a diagnostic test with the Live CD


Regards,Arthur Wilkins

cobden

I would recomend a Tiny preinstalled with Linspire 4.5 operataing system it comes with open office, mozilla browser, can be used either on dial up or broadband and you can download an AOL connection. It is a Linux operating sytem but very easy to use, and with a built in firewall. i use Linspire myself and have done since getting rid of microsoft since the beginning of 2003 and I have been very satisfied. There is also a Click and Run software warehouse where you can get a choice of free software for a small anual fee which once you have got what you require you keep and store online. There are also some very good quick start audio tutorials installed in the system and a very friendly help forum. before you do anything look at the Tiny website at

https://www.tiny.com

and look at

http://www.linspire.com

Also if your present computer is capable from booting from a CD and most are and is a minimum of 800mhz I will send you a Linspire Live CD it install's nothing on your computer but runs from the CD and that way you can a least get the feel of the system, if you would like to try this approach first ring me on 01282 711875 and I will send you a CD. I have no connection with either of these firms, but just a very satisfied customer
you may in fact be able to install the system on your present machine. You can do a diagnostic test with the Live CD

The machines you need to look at on Tiny are Tiny omega 42400 £269 inc vat
Tiny omega LX3200 £369 inc vat

and when you go on the Linspire site look n the left side and click on flash demo gives you a good insight at just what the operating system can do.


Regards,Arthur Wilkins

Tony_H_3

The current pc is 7 years old, so it's likely to be <200mhz & will require replacement.

What operating system is currently in use?

KG

Not sure, but one that can't support AOL 8 anyway.

KG