computer question

[CrazyGirl]

I am sure there are some very smart computer guys here , so my question is , I need a small lap top computer for my work bench, small being like 14 inch for under 250 dollars , a dvd player would be nice to have in it , along with the ups ports and junk , any ideas ??

[pharoah]

UPS ports? You mean so it will deliver packages right to your workbench? Cool!

[Quick GMC]

in that price range you're looking at a netbook, which does not have a cd drive in it. You'll either want to look for used, or up your budget to $350 or so, where you can get exactly what you're looking for. Best Buy has some around $350. You can go check them out.

[Guest G Holding]

Go look around the local classifieds for an older desktop...You should be able to get one with a dvd drive used for 100 bucks or less..make sure it does work and comes with the system disk...windows 7, xp , vista. by a new 17" flat monitor for another 100 bucks.

Spend left over 50 bucks on a couple of kits to build....

I have two laptops, just built a mini tower for all graphics and photo work....I like the LARGE view...

[JunkPile]

The further the computer is from your workbench the better. Note to self: move computer further away from workbench.

[Mooneyzs]

You can check out Tiger Direct for prices too. http://www.tigerdirect.com/

[High octane]

The further the computer is from your workbench the better. Note to self: move computer further away from workbench.

You said it and that IS something that I really should do. Thanks!

[Custom Hearse]

Newegg is also a good place to get a computer. I paid $300 for a Compac Presario gaming computer. Fastest computer I've ever owned. I just had to supply a monitor keyboard and mouse...

http://www.newegg.com/?nm_mc=KNC-MSNSearch&cm_mmc=KNC-MSNSearch-_-Branding-_-RAIS-_-Main

[Kaleb]

Take the other advise, and keep it away from the bench lol. Your first mistake is coming here, now you will never leave. Poor thing never started a build, or hope to finish one lol jk.

[charlie8575]

The further the computer is from your workbench the better. Note to self: move computer further away from workbench.

Agreed! Although like me, when the same tray table doubles as your computer desk and work-bench, it can be a little difficult.

Charlie Larkin

[zenrat]

The further the computer is from your workbench the better. Note to self: move computer further away from workbench.

About 60' works well for me.

[slusher]

Where you build and computer needs some distance Anne, but some guys have them on the same table. Best Buy has deals all the time on laptops..

[knarf]

i have my computer in a completely different room from my workbench...on purpose

[Harry P.]

ok, I'm confused. Why do so many of you say that your computer has to be far away from your work area?

[CrazyGirl]

That puzzles me too Harry ,, to have a computer on the bench with images of what your building is easier I think

[southpier]

The further the computer is from your workbench the better. Note to self: move computer further away from workbench.

this

[Guest G Holding]

I would never get anything built, with a computer to "help me"......I love good tunes, but no visual distractions!

[Harry P.]

That puzzles me too Harry ,, to have a computer on the bench with images of what your building is easier I think

Exactly! And a google image search for reference photos or other info is right there, handy. I would think that the best place for your computer would be either on or right next to your workbench!

[southpier]

ok, I'm confused. Why do so many of you say that your computer has to be far away from your work area?

it doesn't "have" to be, but i think sometimes production time is hampered by periferal pursuits. also, a mini fridge with Hagen-Daz withing arm's reach is a bad idea, too.

Edited April 18, 2013 by southpier

[Harry P.]

it doesn't "have" to be, but i think sometimes production time is hampered by periferal persuits. also, a mini fridge with Hagen-Daz withing arm's reach is a bad idea, too.

It's all a matter of self-control.

[wgflatliner]

i always have images up of what i'm working on - the internet is your best reference material. i use my computer for my tunes too, so it keeps me in the zone.

i mean, try google image searching: 53 hudson hornet undercarriage chassis

you'll find pictures that no reference book would ever have. brake lines, fuel lines, etc.. all of the pictures on the web should help make a build become more accurate to the real thing, if that's what you're aiming for. OH - and color matching things like the off-color engine blocks that aren't your typical chevy/ford/dodge colors. The internet is a beautiful tool.

[crazyjim]

Although my situation may be different form others, I keep a notebook computer out of the way. My situation is a 10' x 20' room. I have separate areas for assembly, dry sanding, painting, wet sanding, cutting, and casting. Another area for WIPs.

[Rob Hall]

Exactly! And a google image search for reference photos or other info is right there, handy. I would think that the best place for your computer would be either on or right next to your workbench!

In my current house, my hobby room is my home office, have a hobby desk and a work desk, but only laptops. I haven't used a desktop computer in about 5 years...don't like being rooted to one spot in the house. My next house will have a dedicated hobby room.

[crazyjim]

Since it's Friday, all this discussion about computer location is up for grabs. Friday means pizza, popcorn, and WWE Friday Night Smackdown. Worry about computer placement tomorrow.

[wgflatliner]

i'm probably going to get a new desk tonight so i can actually move the computer tower, modem and router out of the location of where they currently are, and re-arrange my work space.