My last HP was my last HP. At 3 months I figured out there was something wrong and how to replicate the problem. As I had used HP products from about 1979 and onward I didn't think it would go so badly.
I called in and had no problem letting their support wipe the machine, update BIOS and more.
After over 8 hours (good thing I had set aside the entire day) they gave up and sent a box for repair.
The machine went to their service depot and was back in 7 days (so far so good.)
-> The machine promptly locked up in 5 minutes. The initial problem was still there so I made the call. Imagine my surprise as the support person said a few things like "We've done all we can" and "You should have bought an Envy."
That was at 3 months old. HP's rep also told me it can't be fixed because HP buys the BIOS. Incredibly. I really expected them to swap the model but that was never offered. 6 months of calls, surveys about my "experience with support" and in the ninth month the message was clear. HP was going to walk.
My last HP.
Bob
PS. There are many fine machines out there, just look on Amazon's best selling desktops.
I need to purchase a new computer for business use. I would like a good, reliable desktop that will handle typical business needs: web browsing, word processing, Quickbooks, etc.
I normally have always bought Dell and was thinking about an Optiplex. However, I saw the following computer at BestBuy for $249: http://www.bestbuy.com/site/hp-pavilion-slimline-desktop-4gb-memory-500gb-hard-drive-black/5815013.p?id=1219194065871&skuId=5815013
Is this a decent computer? I'd prefer to spend $500 or less, if possible. I have a 24" ViewSonic monitor, which I assume I can use with the new computer.
Can anyone give me any suggestions? I do often have a lot of windows open at one time, so I assume that extra RAM would be useful. I am also thinking about adding a second monitor, so I would like for the system to be able to accomodate that.
I appreciate any input!

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