Thanks! (was Re: buy or build computer?)

["Peter Christensen" <christenpet@snip.net>]

The replies to this question have been so helpful!  Also, the discussion on
quiet computer cases.  This is of concern to me because some of the new
computers I've seen are SO noisy that I hesitate to order one through the
mail.  I feel like I need to hear it first!  My old Gateway was extremely
quiet, so much so that I was not usually aware when it was on.  By the way,
I'm especially grateful to J. Lambrecht for suggesting that the battery
might be at fault.  I remember learning that the battery is needed for the
computer to keep the CMOS settings, but when mine started to fail I didn't
make the connection.  (The clock went way off a couple of times and before
it failed it couldn't access the hard drive once or twice.)  I've ordered a
battery (this particular one seems on the verge of being discontinued) and
am hoping that replacing it will give me more time while I decide which way
to go with a new computer...

Thanks again,
Peter Christensen