Give E-Machines the Benefit Of The Doubt! One Success Story!
Written: Jul 22 '01
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Pros: Decent computer at a low price!
Cons: None on this machine!
The Bottom Line: Don't turn away from an E-Machine, if you are looking for a basic computer at a reasonable price.
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| sweetsue_98's Full Review: eMachines etower 400i PC Desktop |
Although there has been a considerable amount of bad press about E-machines, in all fairness to the company and the computer, for the money this has proved to be a decent
computer at a very reasonable price. No, it is not a fantastic piece of equipment, but with the price that was paid, counting all rebates you would be hard pressed to purchase a better machine for $150.
This particular E-Machine was purchased over two years ago when the gigantic rebates were flowing around like crazy. My son ask me what I thought about buying one, with the
only catch being the three year contract with Compuserve. Personally, I felt that since his old computer had died, and he would need Internet service anyway, that if it lasted for just one year he couldn’t go wrong. The computer has proved me wrong, as it still keeps on working for more than that short time frame.
Not to say that this computer was without its share of problems, but other than an initial issue when this E-Machine basically would not turn on, it has worked perfectly. The original computer did fail within the first month. One morning when the power was turned on, nothing happened. Obviously something was wrong, and after contacting E-Machines, the CPU was returned at the owners expense, and a new machine was sent as a replacement within two weeks. Personally, I would have found this rather frustrating,and wanted my replacement immediately, however, the new one did arrive within a reasonable amount of time. Since this initial problem, the new computer has operated
without any glitches!
So what does a consumer get for $150? Amazingly, quite a bit.
1. The processor is a 400 MHz Intel Celeron, which operates smoothly, and downloads quickly.
2. The computer came with 32 MB SyncDRAM/128 L2Cache, but was easily upgraded to 96 MB.
3. Although the hard drive is not enormous compared to the mega hard drives now available, at 4.3 GB, unless someone is playing a game, it is more than adequate.
4. The modem is a 56 K Data/Fax Modem, and operates well.
5. The CD-ROM is 32 X, and there is also one floppy on the front of the CPU.
The set up was easy, and came with understandable, color coded instructions. Frankly, simple is my middle name, and I always look at how effortless it this going to be for the
average user to get up and running. The directions were concise and readable. There is one USB port on the front of the CPU and one in the rear. This is more than adequate for
the at home user with moderate needs.
The instruction book that was provided with the computer had considerably more information that my Compaq. If you can follow simple directions you can install optional
drives and board options to this computer. With precise information on removing the cover to installing expansion cards and memory modules this is not going to require you
to take to the local “computer guru” for assistance. The memory can be upgraded to 256 MB. Additionally there a easy instructions for installing a ZIP drive, addition hard drive
and CD/DVD-ROM.
I guess the question about a computer is “how much computer do you really need”? No doubt if you are wanting one with every feature know to the computer world, this would
not be the one for you. However, if you are on a tight budget, need an extra one for your children, or just simply want a computer, then do not turn your head when it comes to an E-Machine. I have personally used this particular computer many times, and found that it operates well, and has no problems.
Maybe simple is better! It is worth a thought, and may save you a considerable financial outlay!
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 150
Operating System: Windows
Processor: Intel Celeron
Processor speed: 301-400
RAM: 96
Internal Storage: CD-ROM
Hard Drive (GB): Under 4
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sweetsue_98
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"Still More George W. Bushisms: 'Neither in French Nor in English Nor in Mexican'"
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